In their words
Partnering with LA Strong is deeply personal to me. It’s about showing up for our neighbors, lifting people through difficult moments, and turning compassion into meaningful action that strengthens our entire community.
As someone who’s lived on the Westside of LA for 13+ years, this community is incredibly special to me and my family. LA Strong’s determined, resourceful, and fast-acting grassroots approach to genuine care, connection, and support quickly resonated with the kind of network we want to cultivate. We’re honored to stand along LA Strong’s mission to upholding this beautiful city we know and love.
When the fires hit, the calls didn’t stop coming. People needed to know where to find a bed, a meal, a form, a phone number — and there was no way a handful of volunteers could answer every call, let alone tell each person which door was actually open to them. Most organizations would have accepted the busy signal as a fact of a crisis. Drew asked a different question: could something pick up every call at once?
At the time that wasn’t an obvious idea. Voice AI was not what people reached for when they wanted to help their neighbors. But the need was immediate, and Drew and Maxi have never been interested in waiting for a solution to become fashionable.
That question is where Fast Response AI came from. Drew named the company. What began as a way for LA Strong to answer every call and point people toward the resources they could actually access turned into a business — one that exists because a foundation needed it to exist first. Ask Maxi answers in English or Spanish, finds what’s closest to you, and hands you to a person when a person is what you need.
I support LA Strong with the technology and the answering service because I’ve seen what happens on the other end of the line: someone in the worst week of their life getting a real answer in minutes instead of a voicemail. Everything I’ve built started with a problem Drew refused to accept. I’m proud that it did.
LA Strong believed in me and Pali Trading Post, providing support and encouragement as a resident and a business owner. From donating goods and services to me, to sponsoring events at my store, they’ve been amazing through this difficult chapter.
LA Strong shows up for Malibu when our community needs it most. Their compassion, responsiveness, and commitment to helping families through a difficult time made a meaningful difference. They didn’t just provide essential resources, they reminded us that we aren’t alone. We are incredibly grateful for their support.
Thank you, LA Strong, for believing in Sole Support from the beginning, inspiring us to make a difference, and helping us turn our vision into meaningful impact.
LA Strong’s matching grant helped make it possible for the Seed Bomb Project to grow its impact and bring our community together around restoring our environment. Their grant directly funded our making and distributing 500 native wildflower seed bombs to burn zones in Malibu and Pacific Palisades. Beyond funding, the support was a vote of confidence in our vision and in the power of community action. We’re incredibly grateful to have LA Strong alongside us.
I’ve known Drew and Maxi Koven for many years, and we’ve done several business ventures together. When you do deals with someone, you learn who they really are, how they handle pressure and how they treat people when there’s nothing to gain. Drew and Maxi are the real deal. Everything they do comes from purpose first.
When the fires hit Los Angeles, they didn’t form a committee or wait for permission. They got to work. Within days, they had products coming in from all over the country and needed to move them quickly to families who had lost everything. Through AVID, we helped with warehousing and distribution, and saw up close how the LA Strong Foundation operates: no red tape, no ego, just getting the right things to the right people as quickly as humanly possible.
I’ve also been part of the events they put on, and what stands out is that Drew and Maxi are there in person, doing the work and connecting with everyone who walks through the doors. That’s not a photo op. That’s who they are.
I have a lot of respect for people who show up when it counts. Drew and Maxi show up, every time. I’m proud to call them friends, and proud to support what they’re building with the LA Strong Foundation.
LA Strong genuinely cares about the people and communities they serve. I’ve seen their heart and impact firsthand, and I’m proud to partner with an organization committed to making Los Angeles stronger together.
LA Strong has been an amazing supporter of Beach Life Sorrento. Their generosity, encouragement, and commitment to our community mean so much to us. They are more than a sponsor — they are part of our Beach Life family. We’re truly grateful for their continued support and friendship.
LA Strong has been an incredible partner to the Wins & Lessons Foundation. Their genuine commitment to collaboration and community has helped us expand our impact, provide meaningful resources, and create opportunities for youth and families. We’re grateful to have LA Strong standing alongside us.
From the very beginning, LA Strong believed in Miracles in Motion and stood beside us as we grew our mission. Their generosity and unwavering support have helped us bring hope, dignity, and love to families throughout our community. We are beyond grateful and blessed to call LA Strong a true partner.
LA Strong Foundation is the kind of partner that’s one call away. When we had almost nothing for our South LA youth last Christmas at the Sheriff Youth Activities League, they provided gifts and support when it mattered most. Their generous product donations have helped us put products in the hands of those who truly need it. Thank you, LA Strong, for making our youth feel valued and celebrated!
The LA Strong Foundation has been a true blessing to Sisters of Watts. They stepped up when we needed help, by providing a split unit to keep our community house cool, an electrician to help us right away, when no one else would step up. They provided us with backpacks and school supplies for our youth. Their support goes beyond donations; they help us continue creating a cool and welcoming space and meaningful opportunities for the youth and families we serve. We are truly grateful for LA Strong and the difference they make in our community.
LA Strong has been a vital partner in supporting the Altadena community. We were proud to host our first Christmas celebration together for local residents, creating a special moment of hope and connection after the Eaton Fire. Since then, LA Strong has continued to show up, delivering essential supplies almost weekly and helping ensure affected families receive the support they need.
The LA Strong Foundation understood that keeping alive the stories of what happened to our community in the wildfires was a powerful way to heal and learn from the disaster. Their support of our documentary film, WINDSWEPT, which follows four teens displaced in January of 2025, came at a vital time. Without Drew and Maxi’s early and enthusiastic support, we wouldn’t have been able to complete the filming. Now we are nearing the finish line on a story that will ensure that the LA wildfires and what resilience looks like won’t soon be forgotten.
LA Strong showed up when our community needed it most. From January through March 2025, Safe Place for Youth served as a disaster relief distribution hub, reaching more than 700 people and families affected by the crisis. Together, we provided essential supplies while creating a space grounded in dignity, compassion, and care.
What made this partnership especially meaningful was seeing SPY’s own youth — many of whom have experienced homelessness themselves — step forward as volunteers to help others. Their resilience and compassion transformed the distribution center into more than a resource hub; it became a place where neighbors supported neighbors and our entire community could take part in healing.
We witnessed firsthand LA Strong’s commitment to efficiency, dignity, and genuine care. Their partnership represents the very best of community-driven disaster response and long-term resilience building.
For me, the LA Strong Foundation is much more than an organization we work with. They have become part of my circle, part of our community, and truly part of the family. These are people I know I can count on when it matters. They show up, they support, and they genuinely care. I’m very grateful to have LA Strong close to us and to be able to do meaningful work together. Together, we make Los Angeles and the world a little better and create a positive impact on the people and communities around us.
We recently faced a critical shortage with just days to spare for our 6th annual Back-to-School event in Houston, Texas. I called on my community partners in Los Angeles, California. The LA Strong Foundation didn’t just answer the call — they moved mountains. At a time when our Houston at-risk youth needed us most, they stepped up without hesitation and delivered over 500 backpacks in just 72 hours. That’s not just responsive service; that’s true partnership and unwavering commitment to underserved communities. LA Strong proved they’re not just words, they’re action, reliability, and genuine hearts in motion. We’re forever grateful to Drew and Maxi!
Having known LA Strong’s founders for over 15 years, I wasn’t surprised that when LA needed them most, they sprang into action. The LA Strong Foundation embodies the best of our city, working at a truly grassroots level to deliver essential supplies, uplift communities, and help Angelenos recover and rebuild with dignity and hope. At Pledge, we couldn’t be prouder to power donations for an organization that brings people together and turns compassion into immediate, meaningful action.
LA Strong has become so much more than an organization to me — they’ve truly become family. Drew and Maxi have believed in me, encouraged me, and shown up for me in ways that mean more than they realize. They’re incredible supporters of my stand-up comedy, regularly coming to shows and sponsoring tickets for others. They’ve also helped with animal rescue, something deeply close to my heart. I love being around Drew and Maxi because they are truly beams of love and light. I love doing charity events and fundraisers alongside them, especially giving out toys and bringing joy to families. I’m beyond grateful for LA Strong.
LA Strong’s extraordinary support is vital to our Disaster Recovery Program. We are proud to do this important work together, restoring comfort, dignity, and hope to wildfire survivors rebuilding their lives.
One thing I truly appreciate about LA Strong is that they always show up. No matter where we’re serving across LA, Inglewood, Compton or Watts, they have been there with resources that make a real difference, whether that’s food, school supplies, educational resources or simply helping us fill a need. We’re so grateful to have them as a partner.
I met Drew in 2015 in what I thought was going to be a throwaway meeting. The big-time executive coming to my overpacked warehouse, I don’t have a chance. Boy was I wrong, Drew gives everyone a chance, and that’s what makes him so special. And from that moment a bond was formed.
We’ve worked together in many capacities, and with every chapter lessons are learned. He’s been a customer, a partner, an advisor, and most importantly a friend. A friend who’s always challenging himself to find new ways to make an impact, make a difference. And it’s that drive that he shares with his amazing wife Maxi, that led to the formation of LA Strong.
Of all the ventures we’ve been through together, allowing AVID to be a part of LA Strong is the one I’m most proud of. It’s been a true honor. And a journey I don’t take for granted. The love and hope Drew and Maxi have been able to spread throughout the community has been inspirational not only to the fire victims, but to everyone who’s been part of the effort.
On behalf of AVID Logistics, my family, and myself, thank you, Drew and Maxi, for creating the LA Strong Foundation and reminding us all what it means to not only give, but to give with grace.
LA Strong is an invaluable NGA partner, bringing collaboration, responsiveness, and a shared commitment to supporting communities across Los Angeles.
LA Strong Foundation is a true champion for families, showing up when they need the support most. Led by the extraordinary husband and wife dynamic duo of Drew and Maxi Koven, their generosity has touched vulnerable women and children, domestic violence survivors, foster youth, and Santa Monica PAL families. From providing school supplies and essential items at PAL’s Back-to-School event to making the holidays brighter, hosting parties at our center with incredible gifts, LEGO sets, NBA apparel, food, and more, LA Strong Foundation has consistently turned compassion into action. We are grateful for their partnership and their unwavering commitment to bringing hope, joy, and support to families in our community.
Partnering with LA Strong has been an incredible and meaningful journey. We’re truly grateful to work alongside an organization so deeply committed to serving our community and supporting our first responders.
We’re inspired by the impact they’re making and honored to stand alongside them in creating meaningful change and making a difference where it matters most. Together we are stronger and together, we can make an even greater impact!
The LA Strong Foundation has been an incredible partner in helping us make youth sports more accessible to local families. We are lucky to have their support which allows us to give more kids the opportunity to play, build confidence, make friends, and feel part of their community. We’re grateful to be part of the LA Strong community.
Working with The LA Strong Foundation, I see how Drew and Maxi pair extraordinary warmth and generosity with true business acumen. They listen to what people need, connect them with the right partners and resources, and move quickly to deliver meaningful support. Our masterclass wellness event was a beautiful example. And we look forward to doing more together.
Partnership is how we make a bigger impact. We joined forces with The LA Strong Foundation this back-to-school season to make sure kids have the tools they need to succeed.
It’s bigger than backpacks and school supplies, it’s about helping kids walk into school feeling prepared, confident, and excited for the year ahead. When nonprofits come together, our communities get stronger and our kids get more opportunities. It takes us to save us.
Having known Drew and Maxi for years, I admire their big hearts and bright minds. The LA Strong Foundation acts as a hands-on first responder for local nonprofits, and people in need, supporting them directly with essential products. Drew’s relentless drive to answer every call, text and DM inspires me, and I proudly support them.
The LA Strong Foundation gave us more than backpacks and supplies, they trusted us with the resources to bring our own vision to life. They support the organizations and people closest to the community who know what is needed. We’ve been able to apply their support beyond just an event, creating more opportunities for our neighbors to gather, create, access resources, and connect.
Serving the community alongside The LA Strong Foundation has inspired me to find ways to make a lasting impact on our neighbors in any way I can. LA Strong’s work has grown deeper in its mission statement and I’m driven more now than ever before to serve our communities in need.
There are many people who talk the talk, but not many who also walk the walk. The LA Strong Foundation happens to do both. Having been on both ends of giving and receiving, I’ve personally witnessed Drew and Maxi do the incredible, helping organizations and communities receive a variety of products when they need them most. Their dedication, generosity, and commitment to helping others truly make a difference.
Last year, during the holidays, Drew and the LA Strong Foundation answered our call for help in our community. He stepped up and offered NELA Food Distribution the support we needed. Since then, LA Strong has made a meaningful impact on our organization and the families we serve. From providing 200 Christmas gifts for children to supporting our community with food and clothing throughout the year, LA Strong has truly stood beside us in our work. We are incredibly grateful for their partnership, generosity, and commitment to our community. Having LA Strong standing with us in our movement means so much, and together, we will continue making a difference for families in need.
The LA Strong Foundation really helped me get my back-to-school event in order. They were super helpful, very gracious and helping us give back to the community. They even gave us more than we expected and just the fact that they were willing to do it with open arms, no questions asked, ready to go and move forward, just made it so much easier. If anybody needs any kind of help I recommend the LA Strong Foundation. We love you and look forward to doing more great things together.
The devastating fires that impacted Los Angeles and Malibu were an incredibly difficult time for so many of us, both personally and as small business owners. In the aftermath, Drew and Maxi Koven and the LA Strong Foundation stepped forward and provided the kind of genuine support that makes a real difference.
Drew and Maxi have been incredibly generous supporters of Sea N Soul and our recovery. They have invited me to LA Strong events that have given Sea N Soul valuable exposure, introduced our brand to new people, generated positive PR, and helped drive customers to our store here in Malibu.
Their support has also been very tangible. They generously donated a brand new refrigerated display case and ice maker for our café, two significant pieces of equipment that have helped us grow our grab-and-go food and beverage business. They have also continually supported and promoted Sea N Soul through their social media channels, helping us reach a much larger community.
What has meant the most to me, however, is knowing that Drew and Maxi genuinely care. Their support goes far beyond a donation or a social media post. They understand how difficult it can be for a small business to recover after a disaster, and they have consistently looked for meaningful ways to help Sea N Soul rebuild, grow, and move forward.
I am incredibly grateful to Drew, Maxi, and the entire LA Strong Foundation for everything they have done for Sea N Soul and for the greater Los Angeles and Malibu community. Their generosity, compassion, and commitment to helping local businesses recover is what being LA Strong is truly about.
I love so many things about The LA Strong Foundation, most of all they do the work! They get the food and supplies out to the people in need and are able to accomplish this quickly by working with smaller nonprofits who have programs in the neighborhoods they target. LA Strong is “boots on the ground”. They are there when you need them and have also been instrumental in helping inner city youth skateboarding programs with events and back to school supplies. I love that Drew, Maxi and their whole family is involved in giving back. When you need help, you just call them. They’re accessible and accountable. No bureaucracy, no hoops and hurdles. A breath of fresh air.
We Love LA Strong!
I’m writing to share how much The LA Strong Foundation has meant to me and to our organization. From the moment I first learned about LA Strong’s work, I’ve been struck by the genuine dedication behind everything they do. Beyond the programs themselves, it’s the people, the staff and volunteers alike who make this organization special. Their compassion, professionalism, and willingness to go above and beyond speak to something rare. Thank you for the work you do. I’m proud to support LA Strong and look forward to seeing your impact grow in the years ahead and our partnership growing together.
Drew and Maxi were one of the first people, supporters and responders. They showed up with so much energy and heart. They made putting in events to advertise our local business’s FUN. We actually had many laughs. We got to see our community and friends and share and be seen. Drew and Maxi asked what we all needed and they listened. They organized intimate events for our women to come together like we used to in our local tea and coffee shops. They reached out to us checking in and sharing their smiles. They are our community.
They are a silver lining to this whole wild fire journey. I’m grateful to share this path with Drew and Maxi and THANK GOD! They brought the LOVE and they keep bringing it.
Heart, Commitment and Continuing to be a huge support to keeping our community TOGETHER! I love and adore them! They are the real deal. They are truly LA Strong.
I’ve had the privilege of supporting the LA Strong Foundation in its relief efforts following the devastating Malibu and Altadena fires. I have seen firsthand how hard-working, compassionate, and devoted this organization is to helping people and communities during incredibly difficult times.
The LA Strong Foundation doesn’t just talk about making a difference — they show up, put in the work, and remain committed to the people who need them most. Their dedication to supporting families and rebuilding communities is truly inspiring.
I’m proud to support the LA Strong Foundation and highly recommend this organization to anyone looking to contribute to a group that genuinely cares about Los Angeles and turns that commitment into meaningful action.
The LA Strong Foundation continues to show up and support our fire-impacted community. Their generous donations provide meaningful resources to those in need, while their continued promotion of recovery events and resources helps keep the spotlight on the ongoing needs of our community’s recovery. We are sincerely grateful for their energy, generosity, and dedication in supporting us through recovery and beyond.