How We Work: L3BA & L3UP

The Lex & 3rd Block Association (L3BA) The Lex & 3rd Block Association (L3BA) is a committed group of local residents dedicated to uplifting our neighborhood through cleanliness, community representation, and cultural preservation. As a community-led volunteer group, L3BA serves as the "boots on the ground," organizing neighbors to address local issues like safety, beautification, and grassroots events.

Our Partnership with L3UP While L3BA focuses on volunteer action and community advocacy—such as newsletters and petitions—larger projects require a professional administrative foundation. This is where the Lex & 3rd Unity Project (L3UP) steps in.

L3UP is a newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit [pending] that serves as the coordinating entity and fiduciary partner for our neighborhood’s charitable initiatives.

How Funding Works To ensure transparency and regulatory compliance, L3UP manages the formal funding and administrative oversight for neighborhood projects. This partnership allows our community to thrive in several ways:

• Professional Management: L3UP directly pursues grants and charitable donations to fund specific neighborhood improvements.

• Fiduciary Oversight: As the lead organization, L3UP maintains "discretion and control" over all project funds, ensuring they are used responsibly and exclusively for charitable purposes.

• Administrative Support: L3UP handles the "heavy lifting" of grant reporting and regulatory filings, allowing L3BA volunteers to stay focused on direct, on-the-ground community impact.

Current Status L3UP is currently in its initial launch phase. We are committed to building a transparent, professional, and lasting organization that will serve as a resource for East Harlem for years to come.