Leveling the Playing Field: Expanding Safe, Equitable Lacrosse and Play Opportunities for Compton Youth

Community safety

South LA

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

Compton youth face limited access to safe, structured recreational opportunities and supportive environments, contributing to increased risks of involvement in crime and violence. The city experiences a violent crime rate of 1,142 per 100,000 residents, significantly higher than the national average of 331 per 100,000 . Many neighborhoods lack quality green spaces or after-school programs that keep youth engaged during critical hours. Without positive outlets and mentorship, young people are more vulnerable to negative influences, which undermines their potential and community well-being. Harlem Lacrosse–Los Angeles addresses this gap by providing free, year-round lacrosse programming that combines physical activity with mentorship, fostering a sense of safety, belonging, and positive community connection that helps divert youth from crime and promotes healthy development.

This grant will support Harlem Lacrosse–Los Angeles’ year-round lacrosse programming for Compton youth in grades 5 through 12, designed to provide safe, structured recreational opportunities during critical after-school and weekend hours. Our program combines skill-building in lacrosse with mentorship, leadership development, and academic support to keep youth actively engaged and connected to positive adult role models. By activating underutilized school and community spaces as accessible hubs for sport and personal growth, we create environments that foster belonging, reduce youth exposure to unsafe situations, and promote community safety through crime diversion. The funding will expand capacity to serve more youth, provide necessary equipment, and enhance transportation options to remove barriers to participation.

If Harlem Lacrosse–Los Angeles’ work is successful, Los Angeles County will see a significant increase in safe, accessible recreational opportunities for youth in underserved communities like Compton. Our program’s proven impact on youth engagement and crime diversion will contribute to lower youth involvement in violence and delinquency, fostering safer neighborhoods. Youth participants will develop essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience, which translate into better academic performance and post-secondary success. Moreover, the transformation of schoolyards and community spaces into vibrant hubs for play and connection will strengthen community ties and promote a culture of belonging and wellness across the region. Ultimately, our work will model how sports-based youth development programs can be a powerful tool for building healthier, safer, and more equitable communities throughout Los Angeles County.