In a city that thrives on movement and momentum, The Impact Foundation LA stands out as a beacon of calm, care, and connection. At its core is Executive Director Victoria Marie Malone — a certified life and wellness coach whose mission goes far beyond event planning or community service. With a passion rooted in personal healing and professional purpose, Victoria has led the foundation to become a vital source of mental health support, resources, and wellness education for underserved communities. In this exclusive interview, she opens up about the foundation’s beginnings, its transformative work, and the highly anticipated CV Care Wellness Fair — an event set to empower, uplift, and bring healing to the heart of Los Angeles.
About the Foundation
Q.Can you tell us about the founding story of The Impact Foundation LA?
Victoria: Behind a son’s vibrant, charismatic presence was a young man quietly battling profound struggles with anxiety and depression. To so many, Chace Taylor Malone was the go-to friend — the one people leaned on for support, encouragement, and connection. Yet while he gave so much of himself to others, he shared only pieces of his own pain with a small few.
As his mother, I saw each episode of anxiety or depression as something situational — something he would eventually move past. But I’ve learned that hardships don’t simply pass through our system and disappear. Like many young people navigating life, Chace kept much of his struggle internal, and over time, that hidden pain festered, leading him to try to relieve it through self-medicating.
The start of 2021 held so much promise — we were looking forward together as a family, hopeful for what was ahead. But on New Year’s Eve, Chace found himself separated from his family and those who loved him, spending that significant moment with people he didn’t know well. As the celebration passed and the new year began, Chace became isolated. On January 2nd, in a moment of deep struggle, he reached out in a way he thought might ease his pain. Tragically, that decision led him to take something laced with fentanyl, which took his life.
Chace’s story is a painful reminder that mental health struggles often run deeper than we can see — and that connection, understanding, and support are not just helpful, they are lifesaving.
What inspired its creation?
In the wake of our collective devastation after Chace’s death, his friends came to our family with a powerful message: ‘We want to honor our friend and brother not just with a scholarship. We want to carry his impact forward in a positive way. We want you to create a foundation.’
From that heartfelt call, The Impact Foundation LA was born. It emerged from the deep belief that meaningful change begins at the local level — in the very neighborhoods and communities where people live, work, and dream. The founders, many of whom had witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by young people like Chace — from limited educational resources to social and economic barriers — were determined to transform grief into action.
Together, we formed the foundation with a shared mission: not just to offer support, but to empower individuals and organizations to create lasting, positive change. At its heart, The Impact Foundation LA is a catalyst — connecting passionate changemakers with the tools, funding, and networks they need to amplify their work and uplift communities across Los Angeles. It is a living tribute to Chace’s spirit, carrying forward his light, his compassion, and his deep capacity to connect with and lift othersQ. What is the core mission and vision of The Impact Foundation LA?
Victoria: Our mission is to serve individuals and families in our community struggling with anxiety, depression, and isolation — challenges that too often lead to self-medicating and substance use. Through a strong network of established partnerships, we connect individuals withprofessional resources and supportive services. Our focus is on providing a comprehensive, wraparound plan that addresses the complex intersection of addiction, mental health, and social issues, driving meaningful, life-saving change.
Our vision is a safe, healthy community where every person has the opportunity to live free from the tragedy of addiction.
Q. How has the organization evolved since it first launched?
Victoria: Since launching in 2021, The Impact Foundation LA has grown significantly by building a coalition of 12 key stakeholders and organizations to strengthen support and advocacy across our community. On behalf of the coalition, with the professional help of a grant writer, we successfully applied for a Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant, which we were awarded in 2023 to help mobilize the La Crescenta Valley–Montrose area in reducing overdose deaths from substance misuse.
Our work has also expanded to raise awareness of the closely connected issue of mental well-being. We focus on building strong collaborations aimed at reducing key risk factors for drug misuse — including high rates of youth depression and limited coping skills — while increasing protective factors such as alternative activities, local support systems, and opportunities for empowerment. The coalition, representing 12 distinct sectors, plays a vital role in advancing the mission and impact of The Impact Foundation LA.
Q. What communities or groups does the foundation primarily serve, and why?
Victoria: The Impact Foundation LA primarily serves the youth of our community, recognizing that young people are both deeply affected by and uniquely positioned to address issues of substance misuse and mental health. What began as a conversation between two local high school students has evolved into one of La Crescenta Valley’s most effective youth-driven initiatives: the CV Youth Ambassador Program.
These two students helped shape the foundation’s official youth ambassador program, and after two years of dedicated leadership — and following their high school graduation — the program has since expanded to include eight new youth leaders who carry the mission forward. The 8 took the program to the next level and it has become an official on-campus high school club. Through this program, students educate their peers on the risks of substance misuse, lead monthly discussions, and organize community events focused on prevention and awareness. Regular meetings with groups of 20–30 students foster dialogue, peer support, and community engagement, making youth voices central to the foundation’s impact.
Above and beyond shaping the foundation’s official youth ambassador program and club, they have also offered valuable guidance: “Meet your child where they are.” This means that as adults, we must learn to perceive, identify, and show up for young people in the ways they need — without expecting them to simply “get over it,” “fight through it,” or “move on.” This philosophy has become the guiding path for all our programming, activities, and events.
Leadership and Qualifications
Q. As the Executive Director, what inspired you personally to take on this role?
Victoria: As Executive Director, my personal inspiration comes from deeply understanding how our individual perspectives, upbringings, social norms, and life experiences can leave so many of us feeling unseen, misunderstood, and alone. I had a strong, loving relationship with my son, Chace — he knew how much I loved him, and I did everything I knew to help him with the tools I had. Yet after his death, I was left asking myself: How did I not meet Chace where he was?
The truth is, I didn’t yet have the understanding or skills to fully support him in the way he needed. I believed that if I motivated him, if I showed him how good life could be, he would follow that light. I tried to pull him toward where I was — at 54 years old, with a life shaped by trials, triumphs, and the knowledge that hard work leads to achievement. But what I learned is that we cannot pull others to where we are; we must meet them where they are.
I took on this role because I want to help others — parents, children, families — avoid the heartbreak we endured. I want to help transform uncertainty into possibility, insecurity into personal strength, and isolation into a safe space where someone can say, “I need support and guidance.” Most of all, I want to end the stigma around mental health. Every human being wrestles with some form of anxiety, depression, or self-doubt — but not everyone has access to real support, empathy, or guidance.
In a society as advanced and connected as ours, we should be creating environments where people of all ages feel seen, heard, and safe. This foundation, the coalition, and the community connections we have been building offer a meaningful pathway toward that vision.
Q. Can you share a bit about your background in life and wellness coaching and how it informs your work at the foundation?
Victoria: As a Life and Wellness Coach, I was trained that my work is to hold the light to illuminate my clients path. It is not my job to tell them what to do, but to draw out of them what they feel aligns, supports and inspires them to move from where they are to where they want to be. Identifying how 1 thing each day, week or month will inevitably step you forward. And in time you can turn your face back to see how far you have come.
I work with those seeking to put life into a context that they can connect with their own wisdom. Through the coaching , we work on identifying the challenges a person may be dealing with AND to identify synchronistic opportunities to expand & transform. Instead of settling for the old paradigm of believing “that is just how my life works out”.
My work had focused on enabling people to progress in ways that draw on their inner resources that they have yet to realize & utilize.
This was a mirrored inspiration for me to really take the level in which I coach, to share it publicly and hopefully give way to the evolution I hope to participate in through our foundation’s vision.
Q. What qualifications and experience do you believe are essential for leading a nonprofit focused on wellness and mental health?
Victoria: My life path naturally led me to this role. I began in the corporate world, working internationally with businesses, and later transitioned to open a mindfulness-focused boutique which lead to my pursuit of training as a Life and Wellness Coach. During that time, I was invited to help at a local chamber of commerce — something I hadn’t initially envisioned, but nonprofit work aligned deeply with my values and my care for the community.
That experience, the connections I built, and the unexpected skills I developed ultimately prepared me to answer the call to start The Impact Foundation LA.
Above all, I believe the most essential qualification for leading a nonprofit focused on wellness and mental health is genuine care. You can learn strategy, management, and fundraising — but you cannot fake a true desire for people to feel seen, cared for, and heard. Without that, we lose our humanity.
Programs and Impact
Q. What are some of the key programs or initiatives that the foundation has implemented in recent years?
Victoria: One of our key recent initiatives is the Youth Ambassador Program. Through this program, high school students educate their peers about the dangers of substance misuse, lead monthly discussions with groups of 20–30 students, and organize community events to raise awareness and promote prevention.
Some highlights of our recent work include:
- Youth-written articles: Each of our eight local Youth Ambassadors takes a turn writing a monthly article in CV Weekly, sharing their personal perspectives and advocacy work.
- Core measure data surveys: We’ve launched surveys to gather youth feedback on substance use and community support, helping us shape more effective prevention strategies.
Another initiative was last Summers Speaker Series: Last year, we hosted free public events with expert speakers, giving the community a chance to learn and ask questions directly from professionals.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about two upcoming initiatives:
- Parent Toolkit: A resource packed with information, tips, and articles to help parents support their children and navigate difficult conversations.
- Good Samaritan Law education: We’re working to raise awareness about this law so students and parents understand they can seek help in emergencies without fear of legal consequences — a key step in overcoming hesitation to call for help.
Q. Can you share a success story or a moment that stands out as especially impactful?
Victoria: One of the most meaningful success stories for me is about a woman who had been struggling for over 15 years. When she came to Impact Foundation LA, she was newly sober, living in her car, and unsure if we could help.
We worked closely with her, starting with open, authentic conversations to identify immediate needs and then mapping out longer-term goals.
Some key steps we took together:
- Housing: We reviewed options and helped her secure stable, affordable housing in a supportive environment for her sobriety.
- Therapy: She chose a therapist from our resource list, and the foundation covered the initial costs so she could start right away without financial stress.
- Employment: Within weeks, she found steady work that supported her stability.
With regular weekly check-ins, she made remarkable progress over the year. Eventually, she began volunteering at our events — and her growth was so inspiring that our board invited her to join our team, bringing her lived experience to help guide and improve our support for others.
Today, she leads AA meetings, is becoming a sponsor, and continues to be involved in our programs and activities. She still reaches out personally, and seeing her ongoing commitment to her sobriety is something that deeply impacts my heart.
Q. How do you measure the effectiveness of your programs?
Victoria: We measure the effectiveness of our programs in a few key ways.
First, by the continued growth and expansion — not just within our own community, but also through the organic, grassroots interest we see from outside organizations and groups who want to collaborate or join our efforts. That kind of external interest tells us we’re building something meaningful and resonant.
But most importantly, we look at the real-life impact:
- Watching the lives of those we serve change and flourish.
- Seeing the growth in our youth participants — not just in what they learn, but in how they experience the mission in action, shaping their mindset and resilience as they develop.
In short, effectiveness for us isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the visible, meaningful shifts in the people we touch and the growing ripple effect in the wider community.
CV Care Wellness Fair
Q. Tell us about the upcoming CV Care Wellness Fair — what can attendees expect?
Victoria: The upcoming CV Cares: Care Fair is a community-driven event focused on supporting Prevention and Early Intervention (PEI) by improving access to mental health and substance misuse prevention resources, offering educational talks, and building meaningful community connections.
Here’s what attendees can look forward to:
- Resource Fair: Connect with local mental health organizations, service providers, and advocacy groups to get information, support, and tools.
- Interactive Activities: Join in on yoga, meditation, and mindfulness sessions to promote well-being.
- The Community Tree: A hands-on art activation where attendees can add messages of hope, resilience, and gratitude, symbolizing collective growth and support.
- Art & Expression Rooms: Creative activities held in designated spaces on the St. Luke’s campus, offering
Q. What makes this event different from other wellness fairs or community events?
Victoria: What makes this event stand out is that it’s 100% free — not just an information fair, but an experience. We’re offering activities and workshops that people normally pay for, all brought directly to the community at no cost.
What also sets it apart is the comprehensive approach:
- We’re combining everything you’d typically find across separate wellness fairs and community events — all under one roof.
- The sessions are led by experts, certified professionals, respected organizations, and even first responders.
- Most importantly, we’re intentionally serving and representing every part of our diverse community — with Armenian, Korean, and Spanish-speaking ambassadors to provide translation and foster inclusion, plus food reflecting each culture.
It’s truly a space where we can nourish not just our bodies, but our minds, spirits, and sense of belonging — all together, as one community.
Q. Who are some of the featured participants, speakers, or vendors this year?
Victoria: Featured participants of The Impact Foundation LA’s CV Cares Wellness fair:
venue: St. Luke’s of the Mountain
First Responders from LACoSD, CHP and GPD Substance Abuse & Wellness Resource Program.
IFLA Resource Partners: Couch Conversations Therapy & Given Guidance Therapy, along with Mindflow Hypnosis, Integrative Lifestyle,
Community Service Organizations/Resources: USC Verdugo Hills Hospital, Didi Hirsch, Ascencia & Salvation Army. Verdugo Jobs Center, The FireHouse Youth Center and Prom Plus
Businesses: Faced by KNA, Prestige Studio, Strut Fitness Training Center, and Your Life Nutrition.
Our Speakers are professionals in their field of expertise, and a majority of them will also have a booth on site of the event: Kristen Gilliland, PhD, Carmela Tunzi, Hypnotherapist, Annie Varvaryan, Psy.D, and Jamie Given LMFT.
Workshop facilitators: Elias Palacios -owner of Prestige Studio, Krissy Harb – owner & yoga instructor of Spiritual Heart Yoga, Kira Antuna – owner of FACED by KNA, Kriste Messal – mixed media visual arts, Annaliese Miller – owner of Raven Healing & Wellness and of course Sarah-Jane “SunJay” Mc Laren Owen – Artist, Teacher & Shamanic Healer.
Food: All food is brought to us by purveyors of the local Montrose Harvest Market. Papua Coffee, Aloha Catering, La Juguera Fresh Pressed Juices, Mom’s Products Mediterranean food, and La Papusas Mexican food.
Q. How does the event align with the foundation’s mission?
Victoria: The event aligns closely with the foundation’s mission because mental wellbeing is influenced by every part of our daily lives — from the food we eat and the conversations we have to the activities we engage in and the support we know is available when we need help. Our mission is to serve individuals and families in the community who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or isolation, which can often lead to self-medicating with substances. This event supports that mission by helping us strengthen connections, raise awareness, and guide individuals toward effective treatment options and services through our trusted network of partnerships.
Q. Is the event open to the public, and how can people register or get involved?
Victoria: It is absolutely open to the public. The public is who we aim to connect and build bridges of support. to participate, people can register or get involved on our website: https://theimpactfoundationla.org/850507783873 and follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/theimpactfoundation_la/ & https://www.instagram.com/cvcares/
Looking Ahead
Q. What are your long-term goals for The Impact Foundation LA?
Victoria: Our long-term goals for The Impact Foundation LA are to expand access to mental health resources and support services across the community, ensuring that individuals and families affected by anxiety, depression, isolation, or substance use can find the help they need. We aim to strengthen and grow our network of partnerships with local organizations, develop more outreach and education programs, and reduce the stigma around seeking help. Ultimately, we want to create a community where no one feels alone in their struggles and where mental wellbeing is prioritized as a vital part of overall health.
With that, we aim to not only be a trusted, go-to resource and connector for our local community, but also to expand beyond “-LA” and grow into areas to become The Impact Foundation… “-Kern County,” “-OC,” and beyond. Supporting our long-term goal by consistently expanding our reach, because we believe we can only make a meaningful difference if we continue to grow and serve more individuals and families in need. By building strong networks, expanding partnerships, and scaling our programs, we strive to create a broader impact across multiple regions, ensuring that no one has to face mental health challenges or substance-related struggles alone.
Q. How can the community support your work — either through volunteering, donations, or partnerships?
Victoria: All of the above — we welcome and deeply appreciate support through donations, funding, partnerships, and volunteers. Financial support is essential to sustain and grow our programs, especially as funding becomes increasingly competitive. Strong partnerships allow us to collaborate on initiatives, share resources, and amplify the reach and impact of our work. And volunteers are the backbone of our efforts, helping us bring activities, events, and programs to life. Together, these forms of support ensure we can continue making a real difference in the lives of those we serve.
Q. What message would you like to share with readers about prioritizing wellness in their lives?
Victoria: We cannot give from an empty well. With all the daily tasks, responsibilities, family, friends, and the pressures of the world around us, we often forget that we are not just part of the equation — we are the sum of it. Every aspect of your life affects, and is affected by, your wellbeing. Too often, we live like an upside-down pyramid, balancing everything — tasks, obligations, and people — on the narrowest point: ourselves. But it’s time to flip that structure. True wellness starts by building a strong foundation: the things we do, experience, and choose to take part in. From there, we build upward through the support of family, friends, and community. And at the very top, the point of it all, is you — your singular, irreplaceable wellbeing. Prioritizing yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. You are the foundation on which everything else stands.
About the Author
Motaz Alabade is a media producer, podcaster, and storyteller who conducted this interview with Victoria Marie Malone. With a passion for amplifying voices that inspire change.
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