Welcome to the Pico Union Project
Building community that feeds the mind, body, and soul.
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Our Vision
To love our neighbors as we would wish to be loved.
Our Mission
Housed in Los Angeles’s oldest synagogue building, the Pico Union Project is a vibrant community center fostering health, resilience, and neighborhood revitalization. We unite people across cultures, faiths, and generations — bringing hope and equity through free, fresh produce, healthcare, creative expression, and meaningful work.
A Snapshot of Our Mission
Like many of us, I support organizations every year with an end-of-year gift—even when I don’t know every detail of the work they do.
I realized recently that some of you receiving this note might feel that way about the Pico Union Project. So—we made it easy.
Here’s a two-minute video that gives you a quick, honest crash course in what PUP is, who we serve, and why this place matters so deeply to so many people.
And if you’re in L.A., come by sometime.
Stop in. Lend a hand. Say hello.
Or say hello and lend a hand, and stay for lunch!
Impact Report
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2026
Contact: jeremy@10thstcomms.com or (323) 632-2492
Pico Union Project Founders Announce Transition After 13 Years of Community Impact Serena Oberstein Named Interim Executive Director to Lead Daily Operations
LOS ANGELES – After thirteen years of leadership, co-founders Craig and Louise Taubman will transition from day-to-day operations of Pico Union Project, the organization they founded in 2013.
“From the beginning, Louise and I have been guided by the simple but powerful call to love your neighbor,” Craig Taubman said. “This transition reflects the strength and maturity of the organization. What has grown here belongs to the community, and we are excited and confident in what comes next.”
The Board appointed Serena Oberstein as Interim Executive Director. A seasoned nonprofit executive with decades of experience in human and civil rights leadership and deep roots in the Jewish communal sector, Oberstein co-founded 10th Street Strategies, a social impact firm of experts who know how to turn vision into momentum. In partnership with the Board and staff, she will guide the organization through this transition and ensure continuity of services while strengthening the organization for its next phase of growth.
“Pico Union Project is proof that when you center love and dignity, real community takes root,” Serena Oberstein said. “Craig and Louise didn’t just build programs. They built trust. My role is to honor that foundation, support this extraordinary staff and Board, and expand our impact while remaining deeply rooted in the neighborhood we serve. The work continues, and the heart of Pico Union Project remains the same.”
Serena Oberstein, MPA
Interim Executive Director
(818) 674-2836
News & Events
A Glimpse of Pico de Mayo 2025
Check out what’s happening at Pico Union Project this weekend! (June 6, 2025)
This Weekend at Pico Union Project – June 6, 2025
Check out what’s happening at Pico Union Project this weekend! (June 6, 2025)
Angeles Chorale Golden Jubilation
Celebrate 50 years and counting of the angeles Chorale on March 29th at Pico Union Project!
Coming Up
Pico Union Project Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement
The Pico Union Project is dedicated to providing a welcoming and caring community that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive. We are proud of our commitment to inclusion and diversity and strive to foster a safe, welcoming, and just space that meets the needs and celebrates all members of the community.
We strive to ensure each member is seen and accepted, regardless of skin color, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, family make-up, political affiliation or life stage.
We hold ourselves accountable for upholding practices that are equitable and just, and expect our leadership, volunteers, employees, and guests to be welcoming and supportive of all diversity. We recognize that this practice is evolving and will require ongoing reflection and adaptation.
