PLAYUrban Roots: Reclaiming Outdoor Space
Urban Roots: Reclaiming Outdoor Space will transform underutilized urban areas into vibrant, green community spaces that are accessible, welcoming, and actively used by residents. By planting trees, creating shaded gathering spots, and improving park infrastructure, the project aims to increase equitable access to nature and foster a stronger connection between people and their environment. This initiative will prioritize neighborhoods with limited green space and engage local youth in hands-on environmental stewardship.
What is the primary issue area that your application will impact?
Green space, park access, and trees
In which areas of Los Angeles will you be directly working?
Long Beach South Bay South LA West LA
In what stage of innovation is this project, program, or initiative?
Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)
What is your understanding of the issue that you are seeking to address?
Los Angeles faces a persistent and deeply rooted inequity in access to green space, particularly in low-income and historically underserved communities. Many neighborhoods lack safe, shaded, and inviting outdoor environments, which limits opportunities for recreation, social connection, physical activity, and mental well-being. This imbalance contributes to environmental and health disparities across the county, including higher urban heat, poorer air quality, and reduced quality of life. Our work seeks to address this gap by creating more inclusive, functional, and inspiring outdoor spaces where all Angelenos—regardless of ZIP code—can gather, grow, and thrive.
Describe the project, program, or initiative this grant will support to address the issue.
Urban Roots: Reclaiming Outdoor Space will revitalize neglected or underused public areas by transforming them into vibrant green spaces through tree planting, native landscaping, and community-led design. The initiative will focus on neighborhoods with limited access to parks and outdoor infrastructure, prioritizing shaded, safe, and welcoming environments. Through partnerships with local schools, community groups, and environmental organizations, the project will engage residents—especially youth—in the planning, planting, and maintenance process, fostering environmental ownership, education, and long-term sustainability.
Describe how Los Angeles County will be different if your work is successful.
If Urban Roots is successful, Los Angeles County will be home to more equitable, greener, and healthier neighborhoods—especially in areas that have historically lacked access to quality outdoor spaces. Communities will benefit from cooler, shaded environments that reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and offer safe spaces for recreation, relaxation, and connection. Residents, particularly youth, will feel a renewed sense of pride and stewardship in their neighborhoods, and the long-term impact will include stronger community bonds, improved public health, and a more resilient and inclusive urban landscape.
Approximately how many people will be impacted by this project, program, or initiative?
Direct Impact: 200
Indirect Impact: 1,800