This summer signifies a new beginning for South L.A. communities. With brand new swimming pools, day camps, and Movies in the Park every Friday, there’s something for everyone at South LA parks, according to Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson and his team, who have leveraged millions of dollars to ensure that families and neighbors can have an amazing summer at local parks.
“Our community deserves safe and fun outdoor spaces that are well funded and programmed, spaces for moms and dads, children and adults to play, learn, interact and succeed,” wrote the councilman in his newsletter. “This new beginning is an essential element in our comprehensive approach to community development. Everyone should have access to park space that is active and vibrant and we intend to preserve them as safe spaces for families to gather.”
Harris-Dawson’s office has worked with local residents, the Department of Recreation and the Bureau of Engineering to open pools at Algin Sutton and Van Ness Recreation Centers. The new pools offer swim classes for youth and adults. Additionally, kids can sign up for activities like synchronized swimming and water polo. Visit swimla.org for more information on classes and activities.
The new pools also mean new lifeguarding jobs are available for residents and since pools are open year round these jobs are as well. Visit https://bit.ly/3kiH3ta to sign up for the lifeguard program.
Additionally, South LA parks are fully staffed throughout the summer and are offering organized activities. Parents can get youth outdoors to participate in physical activities or arts and crafts each week at the District Eight parks: Denker Park, Mount Carmel, Saint Andrews Park, Harvard Park, MLK Park, Algin Sutton, and Van Ness Recreation Center.
Learn more about summer activities and register at summerplayla.org.
