Friends of Third (FOT) is the non-profit fundraising arm that raises money to provide curricular enhancement programs for all students at Third Street Elementary School in Los Angeles's Hancock Park neighborhood. 

While most LAUSD schools receive Title 1 money because they have more than 40% of the student body qualifying for the free and reduced-price meal program, Third Street has significantly less than the required number of students, so the school receives no Federal Title 1 funds and consequently receives far less funding overall. Due to this, Friends of Third helps close the budget gap.

Through the generous contribution of time and money from our families, friends, co-workers and corporate sponsors, FOT is able to fund such programs as a fully equipped Computer Lab and full-time instructor, a Music Program and instructor, an After-School Librarian, a Physical Education instructor, Field Trips, Teacher Stipends, a Copy Center, and much more. None of these programs could be implemented without a strong army of hardworking volunteers. We hope you will join us!

Alongside FOT is the Parent Teacher Association.  PTA is a national organization with local school units whose mission is to provide a powerful voice for children, be a relevant resource for families and communities and a strong advocate for the education and well being of every child. Volunteers also staff PTA. By participating in the activities of both organizations, you will meet fellow parents united in a common goal.

Together, we prepared the school packet on the first day of school with information for the upcoming school year. Included are a Parent Check List, Volunteer Form, Calendar of Events, PTA Membership and FOT Annual Giving Information, as well as relevant contact information for each of our organizations. We would like to invite you to join us in whatever way you can in making Third Street a place where your child(ren) will thrive for many years to come.

If you would like to make a contribution to Friends of Third, the quickest and easiest way is via the Support Us link on this page.  Please note that, regardless of ability to donate, ALL students and families will be able to participate in all Friends of Third-sponsored programs and activities.

Please join us for monthly meetings on the first Friday of every month, at 8:10 a.m., in the Auditorium. We look forward to seeing you!

Very truly yours,

Jennifer Rissier & Roy Forbes
FOT Co-Presidents
friendsinfo@friendsofthird.org