#CommunityRestoration - Los Angeles

Event Day

October 21, 2017 at 8:00am - 12pm

Location

Kelly Elementary School
2320 Alondra Blvd
Compton, CA 90221
United States
Google map and directions

Host

Background

When many of us think of where we grew up, images of playgrounds, swingsets, green lawns and open parks might come to mind. Well, for many children in the US, this scene is much different. Instead, their communities are run-down and sometimes dangerous as vacant lots or abandoned homes get filled with garbage and other waste. Schools look more like institutions than places of learning and creativity and there isn’t a garden anywhere in sight. Does this sound like a good place to grow up?

Well the conditions in these communities  make for more than just an eyesore. Crime is higher and there are less jobs as businesses and real estate developers are much less likely to invest in this areas, which just contributes to the vicious cycle of poverty.

However, simple things like cleaning up vacant lots, removing graffiti, painting buildings and fixing broken windows can help communities regain that feeling of being a place to live and can go a long way towards helping residents improve their situation and make a better life. Some studies have shown that these improvements can lead to better physical and mental health. No one should suffer just because of where they are from.

Everyone deserves a place to call home, and in many communities across the country this simply isn’t the case, which has dramatic effects on the attitudes and psyche of those living there. It’s time to remind these people that they matter and that they haven’t been forgotten.

Purpose

By going to impoverished areas and improving them, we have two effects. First, volunteers have the chance to see how some of the nation’s poorer citizens live. This type of personal connection inspires action and reminds us that life can be crushingly challenging for many people.

Second, it instils a feeling of hope in the community. Everyone should be proud of where they are from and should not be ashamed of where they live. The work we do in these communities prevents this from happening and keeps people from getting discouraged. The world is full of opportunities, and it is important that no one forgets this, no matter where they live.

Event Details

Please dress in comfortable clothes that you won't mind getting dirty in. Please bring your own bottled water, minimal water bottles will be available. Limited street parking is available at all worksites. It's easy to CARPOOL or leave cars at the Compton Courthouse. When parking, please do not leave personal valuables in visible sight. The Compton Initiative is not responsible for any loss or damage.

Cancellation policy

RSVP slots are always limited and we make a minimum volunteer commitment to our partner organizations. If you believe you will not be able to make this opportunity, please cancel your RSVP, at least, 48 hours before the event, so we can allow someone else to participate. “No-shows” are strongly frowned upon :( and could result in you being removed from our database. Thank you for your compliance.  

Will you come?