A cross-sector group of leaders will help shape MLKCH’s community engagement and initiatives
LOS ANGELES (February 19, 2026) — MLK Community Healthcare is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Community Advisory Council (CAC), a milestone initiative that formalizes community leadership engagement and strengthens the hospital’s mission to advance health equity in South Los Angeles.
The Community Advisory Council brings together respected leaders from nonprofit, business, faith-based, education and media organizations to serve as trusted advisors to MLKCH leadership. The council will help ensure that community voices continue to shape hospital programs, outreach efforts and strategies to improve access, equity and health outcomes.
“This council represents a shared commitment of trust and community partnership,” said Dr. Atul Nakhasi, Vice President of Government and Community Relations. “I’m deeply grateful to the community leaders who are generously lending their time and expertise and to the partners who helped us reach this moment. Their leadership will play an important role in shaping our priorities and in advancing access to high-quality care for the patients and families we serve.”
Inaugural Community Advisory Council Members
- Liz Herrera (Co-Chair), President & CEO, El Nido Family Centers
- Sarah Harris (Co-Chair), President & CEO, Black Business Association
- Sonya Young Aadam, President & CEO, California Black Women’s Health Project
- Brandi Bakewell, Executive Vice President, LA Sentinel
- Leslie Cooper Johnson, Vice President of Programs & Organizational Care, Community Coalition
- Latricia Mitchell, President, Los Angeles NAACP
- Veronica Jimenez, Vice President, Boys and Girls Club of Metro Los Angeles – Watts Willowbrook
- Reverend Robert Taylor, President, Watts Area Ministers
- Brandy Muniz, Executive Director, All Peoples Community Center
- Lorna Little, President & CEO, St. Anne’s Family Services
“Health equity is not achieved by healthcare institutions alone—it requires strong cross-sector partnerships,” said Sarah Harris, CEO of the Black Business Association and CAC co-chair. “Through this council, community leaders can bring practical insights to the table that help guide MLK Community Healthcare’s priorities and impact.”
“Our organizations have deep roots in this community, and we see every day how access, trust and culturally responsive care directly affect families,” said Liz Herrera, CEO of El Nido Family Centers and CAC co-chair. “This council creates a meaningful opportunity for community leaders to work alongside MLK Community Healthcare to strengthen programs and ensure care is shaped by the real needs of South Los Angeles.”
The council will meet quarterly and serve as a vital bridge between MLKCH leadership and the communities it serves—providing insight on priorities, identifying barriers to care and helping strengthen trust and partnerships across South Los Angeles.
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ABOUT MLK COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE
MLK Community Healthcare is an award-winning nonprofit, safety-net hospital and health system serving 1.3 million residents in South Los Angeles. Since opening in 2015, MLKCH has offered emergency and inpatient services through its 131-bed hospital, as well as primary and specialty care through the MLK Community Medical Group, with practice sites in locations throughout South LA. MLKCH also offers community health education and outreach to improve the health of our community. Visit our website at www.mlkch.org to learn more about us, or visit our Linktree to find us on social media.