Cleaner Streets. Safer Neighborhoods. United Compton.

Green space, park access, and trees

Gateway Cities

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

At the heart of TCI’s mission is a desire to address not only the visible signs of urban neglect, such as graffiti and deteriorating infrastructure, but also the deeper systemic issues contributing to disinvestment and community disconnection. We address the lack of green space, unsafe public areas, visual decay, and limited local engagement by helping to organize community beautification projects. Neglected properties and streets lower civic pride and increase psychological stress. By mobilizing thousands of volunteers to paint, landscape, clean, and plant trees, we restore dignity and inspire ownership.
Green space isn’t very common in Compton, the city has a few parks but most are in need of maintenance. TCI is seeking to address this issue by organizing community-led projects to make the parks more inviting for all people. Our work also promotes community safety, recognizing that well-maintained environments deter crime and build trust.

Bright Lights Of Compton (BLOC), a newer grassroots initiative of TCI, addresses the multifaceted challenges of urban neglect, disengagement, and disinvestment by equipping local residents, churches, block clubs, schools, and organizations to take ownership of beautification efforts in their neighborhoods. While TCI has long mobilized tens of thousands of volunteers to restore public spaces and private properties, BLOC deepens this impact by shifting from a centralized model to a community-empowered one.
Through BLOC, local leaders are encouraged and equipped to identify areas of need such as graffiti removal, overgrown lots, damaged walls, dilapidated parks, or lack of greenery. Next, they submit project proposals through an online or physical form. Once approved, TCI provides paint, tools, materials, and supplemental volunteer support to complete the project. This process removes financial and logistical barriers, allowing citizens to become agents of restoration in their neighborhoods.
BLOC doesn’t just address visual blight and lack of green space—it transforms the culture of a neighborhood by restoring dignity, building trust, and reinforcing a shared sense of responsibility. With each completed project, community pride grows, relationships are strengthened, and a deeper narrative of hope takes root. As neighbors work side-by-side, perceptions shift from isolation to connection, and from neglect to stewardship—laying the groundwork for lasting transformation and safety.

If our work is successful, Los Angeles County—especially cities like Compton—will experience renewal. Blighted neighborhoods will transform into vibrant, well-maintained spaces filled with color, greenery, and community pride. Residents will feel a stronger sense of ownership, belonging, and connection to their neighborhoods. Beautified spaces will foster safety, reduce stress, and uplift mental and emotional health. We know that community parks are an important gathering space. When they are clean, maintained, and beautiful then many people of all backgrounds want to gather there to exercise and enjoy nature. This community investment will inspire more civic engagement, creating a positive feedback loop of care and stewardship. Most importantly, a culture of hope, service, and shared responsibility will replace cycles of neglect and disinvestment. When residents lead transformation, dignity and resilience are restored—building a stronger, more vibrant Los Angeles County for all.