Los Angeles, California
Before conversations about leadership, innovation, and the future of the utility industry began, attendees at a Utility 2030 Leadership Collaborative (U2030) gathering started their day in a different way—by serving breakfast at The Midnight Mission in Los Angeles.
Located in the heart of Skid Row, The Midnight Mission has provided food, shelter, recovery programs, and pathways to stability for individuals experiencing homelessness for more than a century. The organization serves thousands of meals each week while also offering housing support, counseling, and job training.
U2030 volunteers joined the mission’s staff early in the morning, stepping into the kitchen and dining areas to prepare and serve hot breakfasts. Aprons on and trays in hand, participants greeted guests, served meals, and helped keep the dining service running smoothly.
But the experience was about more than food service. Volunteers took time to speak with residents, listen to their stories, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing individuals in the Skid Row community.
Community service is intentionally woven into U2030 programs. While the organization focuses on leadership development for utility professionals, it also emphasizes empathy, humility, and connection.
Moments like these serve as a reminder that the infrastructure leaders manage—electric grids, water systems, and communications networks—ultimately exists to support people and communities.
Learn more:
https://www.midnightmission.org/
