EPFC Misson and History
Mission Statement
Echo Park Film Center is a non-profit media arts organization committed to providing
equal and affordable community access to film/video resources via five channels:
a neighborhood microcinema space, free and nominal cost education programs,
a comprehensive film equipment and service retail department, a green-energy
mobile cinema & film school, and a touring film festival showcasing local
established and emerging filmmakers. We feel it is imperative that more members
of marginalized and underserved communities become active, empowered participants
in the creation and dissemination of experimental, documentary and narrative
film in order to truly reflect the many voices and visions that make up the
fabric of contemporary American life. With a special focus on “at risk” neighborhood
youth, the Echo Park Film Center programs and services are positive catalysts
for opportunities and interactions though the medium of film.
Description of Organization
Since moving into the Alvarado Arts building at the busy intersection of
Sunset and Alvarado on January 1, 2002, we have:
- screened over 750 independent documentary, narrative and experimental films from all over the world in our on-site microcinema and video art gallery
- hosted a wide array of political, literary, cultural and arts events, providing a forum for discussion on issues of importance to our community
- offered 19 free filmmaking classes for more than 250 neighborhood youth, 20 free classes for neighborhood seniors and 50 low-cost workshops for adults
- produced more than 200 individual and collaborative short films by EPFC students, many of which have been featured in local, national and international film festivals, alternative media programs and museums
- developed the Echo Park FilmMobile, a green-energy school bus equipped to bring films and film education to underserved communities
- formed EPFC Films to distribute works by student and independent filmmakers
- instigated a guest lecture/workshop series focusing on the technical aspects of independent filmmaking and exhibition
- created, curated and hosted annual Youth Film and Human Rights Film Festivals
- become a valued information and technical resource for established and beginning filmmakers and one of the premier sources of small format equipment supply and services in North America
- supported an array of local community groups via free and low-cost audio/visual technical support for fundraisers, presentations and celebrations
- acted as advisors and consultants for budding community film programs
- curated and facilitated a series of touring festivals showcasing the work of local and student filmmakers
- received recognition and praise from community leaders, arts groups, filmmakers, film educators and media outlets around the world
- implemented a wide array of grassroots fundraising strategies in order to improve and expand our programs and services
We are proud to have met and surpassed our goals for our first six years of operation and look forward to serving our community for many years to come.
