LA84 Foundation Invests $1.7 Million in 16 Organizations to Expand Youth Sports Opportunities for Over 122,000 Youth Across Southern California

Grant awards put new resources behind girls participation, inclusive and adaptive sports, and community programs in six Southern California counties

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 10, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The LA84 Foundation, a legacy of the 1984 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles, has awarded $1.7 million in grants to support 16 school- and community-based organizations that bring sports, play and movement to more than 122,000 young people across Southern California.

The LA84 Foundation Board of Directors approved the docket of grants to fund programs in adaptive sports, golf, multi-sports leagues, skateboarding, soccer, surfing, tennis and wrestling. Collectively, these investments advance play equity for youth in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Ventura Counties.

This work advances the LA84 Foundation’s mission to ensure youth across Southern California have access to physical activity, encourages the essential values and joy that can come from sports participation, and can inspire communities to build lasting connections.

“The LA84 Foundation continues to invest in the meaningful work of grassroots organizations that are creating pathways for youth to experience new opportunities, greater connection and well-being,” said Renata Simril, President & CEO of the LA84 Foundation. “These investments reach communities across the region to bring kids from all backgrounds the benefits of sports, play and movement for an enriched life.”

Girls and young women make up 47 percent of the youth that these grants will reach, as several of the organizations in this docket have girls as a focus. Four organizations – Black Surfers Collective, Concrete Queenz, Downtown LA Soccer Club and Legacy LA – received LA84 Foundation grant awards for the first time.

Concrete Queenz received a grant award for its “LA Girls Next Gen” afterschool skateboarding program, which reaches 100 girls from West Athens, Watts, Willowbrook and Compton.

“We want every girl to know she belongs in skateboarding and has the power to shape her own future,” said Audrey Vargas, Founder and Executive Director of Concrete Queenz. “This grant from the LA84 Foundation allows us to provide free skateboarding instruction, mentorship, and travel opportunities directly on school campuses, removing barriers that often prevent girls from accessing and benefiting from sports.”

Football for Her received an investment to support its girls soccer program. Downtown LA Soccer Club received funding for its “She Came to Play" program, which serves nearly 200 girls.

“A guiding principle of the ‘She Came to Play’ program is creating a safe and supportive environment where young Latina athletes can play the game they love while building friendships and connection,” said Mick Muhlfriedel, President of the Downtown LA Soccer Club. “The enthusiasm and commitment of the girls on the field has inspired many of our graduates to return as coaches and mentors. The LA84 Foundation provides resources to grow this program, so it is available to all girls who share a passion for the beautiful game.”

Black Surfers Collective received a grant award to support Pan African Beach Days, which provide youth water safety and surf programming for 1,750 young people.

“This grant will help us to continue breaking down barriers, expanding opportunities, and ensuring that more young people in our communities experience the ocean in a safe, welcoming, and empowering environment,” said Gregory Rachal, President of the Black Surfers Collective.

Volo Kids Foundation will expand its free afterschool programs for 2,169 youth in San Diego County.

“The LA84 Foundation grant award is a powerful investment in our mission to provide free, high-quality sports programming to girls and all children across San Diego,” said Jen Rifkin, Executive Director of Volo Kids Foundation. “This support will allow us to expand our reach in San Diego and continue building safe, inclusive spaces where all kids can access the power of play.”

With participation in youth sports, play and movement enriching the lives of youth – and uniting communities – the LA84 Foundation continues to take meaningful action. To build a future where play equity is a reality, with every child having the opportunity to benefit from the joy, social connection, and confidence that can come from physical activity. Organizations interested in applying for a future grant are encouraged to visit LA84 Grants & Programs for guidelines.

About the LA84 Foundation
The LA84 Foundation is a national leader in support of sports in positive youth development. As a legacy of the 1984 Summer Olympic Games, LA84 has supported thousands of organizations in Southern California for over four decades by awarding grants. It has funded infrastructure in communities, trained coaches and commissioned research. The LA84 campus includes one of the world’s best sports libraries, with a digital collection documenting athletics history and the value of physical activity. The LA84 Foundation addresses critical issues by elevating youth sports and play as a pathway to lifelong well-being for all kids. Visit la84.org, and follow @LA84Foundation.

Media@LA84.org

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/64edb8c6-cfab-423d-bb3e-e415fcd24d1d

Volo Kids Foundation

Volo Kids Foundation started a formal soccer program in San Diego County with support from the latest LA84 Foundation grant funding. The LA84 Foundation is a legacy of the 1984 Olympic Games.