Texas native Athena Hayley, commonly known as “Hayley,” has garnered her roots in Los Angeles, CA. Many people know her as the talented woman with a caring heart. Similar to many non-native Californians, Hayley came to Los Angeles to pursue her career in the entertainment industry. At the tender age of 11, she was immediately smitten with the “acting”and her journey took taken off from there. Initially wanting to share her talents in entertainment as an actress, Hayley began creating work for herself when she found it difficult to find work that truly highlighted her unique skills and talents. Hayley wrote, produced and starred in her first film, "I Was Her," which addressed relevant topics such as abusive parents, drugs, prostitution, rape, homelessness and teenage runaways.

​

Realizing challenging aspects of life existed beyond the silver screen, Hayley, turned to providing services for  individuals who actually encountered these situations daily, thus, Love My Neighbor Foundation was formed, an organization to help feed & clothe the Skid Row Homeless community every Thursday from 12pm to 2pm. For nearly five years Haley has dedicated much of her time, collecting & distributing food, clothing, shoes & toiletries to countless homeless men, women & children in Los Angeles.

​

After living in her car with her dog, Mr. King, Hayley understands, firsthand, the emotions surrounding homelessness. Because she felt she got herself into her situation, she didn’t want to depend on anyone to get her out. She continued going to church, reading her bible, praying, and telling herself that God wouldn’t put her in a situation that she could not handle. Her tenacity gave true meaning to the phrase, “What doesn’t kill you, will make you stronger.”

​

The trials and tribulations that Hayley faced, from losing her 29 year-old brother to leukemia, abusive relationships and overcoming the fear of abandonment, gives her the energy, passion, wisdom and strength to boldly lead the Love My Neighbor Foundation.

​

Love My Neighbor Foundation, is not just another foundation giving away food, clothes etc. This 501(c)(3) is establishing a viable and respectable means for homeless individuals to receive the necessities of life as they regain their way back into society.

​

Love My Neighbor Foundation's diverse volunteers are individuals in the community who realize the plight of the homelessness in Los Angeles, who give countless hours to ensure they are positively impacting their community.

​

Hayley considers herself a better person, for having had such profound experiences. She is assured and faithful knowing that she can overcome just about any obstacle. She is a woman who knows how painful life can be and wants to inspire other young women, men, and children to achieve their dreams, while being a beacon of light by giving back and paying it forward for the next generation.