Friends Outside of Los Angeles County

Friends Outside in Los Angeles County (FOLA) is a non-profit organization that provides essential support services to incarcerated individuals, formerly incarcerated people, and their families. Operating at the intersection of social services and public health, FOLA offers comprehensive re-entry programs, including case management, employment assistance, and navigation for mental health and substance abuse resources. The organization is a significant partner for the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services, particularly within the Office of Diversion and Reentry, where it helps manage the social determinants of health for justice-involved populations. By addressing systemic barriers to reintegration, FOLA aims to reduce recidivism and improve community stability and health outcomes. Their work is centered on advocacy and direct service delivery across multiple locations in the Los Angeles area.