In Los Angeles, California, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the communities and environments that help support and uplift individuals who have a history of gang violence, incarceration, and homelessness.

Participants stay overnight at the Dolores Mission School, located in “The Flats” of Boyle Heights, and work closely with the Dolores Mission Church, operated by the Jesuits since 1980. This parish has given birth to numerous nonprofit organizations, including Homeboy Industries, founded and led by Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J. as the largest gang rehabilitation and re-entry program in the world. Students have the opportunity to listen to and form relationships with those involved at Homeboy. Additionally, students serve and witness the lives of those experiencing homelessness on Skid Row, the largest homeless population in the U.S.. Walking these streets allows students to speak with and provide free, necessary materials to those whom they encounter.

Students who have gone on the LA Immersion Service and Justice Trip in the past have commented on the transformative power of the conversations had with marginalized individuals while there. Additionally, students bring back a greater knowledge and understanding of the justice system and social justice issues that our country faces everyday.