Think Together Celebrates Significant Partnership with LA84 Foundation
The valued partnership between Think Together and the LA84 Foundation has positively impacted over 60,000 students, providing them access to competitive sports every year. This collaboration has greatly benefited 7,000 middle school participants annually from various programs.
A Recognition of Change Makers
Recently, Think Together honored the LA84 Foundation with its prestigious Champion of Change award. This event took place at the newly remodeled Arts & Learning Conservatory. The award acknowledges the impactful contributions that organizations like the LA84 Foundation make towards enhancing educational and developmental opportunities for their students.
Celebrating the Moment
The award ceremony featured delightful performances, including a children’s choir and an exclusive documentary screening. It also included a panel discussion with experts in youth development and sports, further enriching the event with valuable insights on the importance of active lifestyles and education.
Importance of Physical Activity
Randy Barth, Think Together's Founder and CEO, highlighted the critical relationship between physical activity and learning, emphasizing that active participation is essential for students’ growth, both mentally and physically. This partnership aims to ensure that the minds and bodies of students are engaged and nurtured.
Expanding Opportunities in Sports
Since 2008, this partnership has expanded access to team sports across numerous middle schools, from the San Fernando Valley to the Coachella Valley. Each year, this initiative provides over 7,000 students access to various competitive sports, such as volleyball, basketball, and soccer, through the LA84 Foundation’s support.
Commitment to Play Equity
Renata Simril, the President and CEO of the LA84 Foundation, expressed gratitude for being recognized with this award. She emphasized the organization’s dedication to ensuring play equity for every child, highlighting the need to remove obstacles that prevent access to sports and physical activities.
Legacy of the LA84 Foundation
The LA84 Foundation has been a transformative force in promoting organized sports for youth, a legacy that stems from the 1984 Olympic Games. The foundation has committed decades to enabling access to sports through supportive grant-making and community outreach, advocating for vital values such as friendship and equality in youth sports.
Support and Funding
Think Together’s afterschool offerings, funded by respected grants like ASES and 21st Century Community Learning Centers, receive augmentation from partnerships with organizations like the LA84 Foundation. This support fortifies their programs and ensures students’ equitable access to essential academic and extracurricular opportunities.
About Think Together
Think Together is dedicated to educational equity and excellence, partnering with local schools and communities to create transformative educational opportunities. Their broad range of initiatives spans early learning, afterschool care, and professional development for educators, making a difference for hundreds of thousands of students.
About LA84 Foundation
The LA84 Foundation stands as a national leader in advocating for youth development through sports. Their influence ensures that all children, regardless of circumstances, have the chance to participate in team sports, fostering growth through engagement in physical activities. Their comprehensive work establishes a pathway to health and well-being for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Champion of Change award?
The Champion of Change award is presented by Think Together to organizations making significant contributions to education and youth development.
2. How many students are impacted by the partnership?
Over 60,000 students have benefited from this partnership, with 7,000 students participating annually in sports programs.
3. What sports are offered through the programs?
The programs provide access to various competitive sports, including flag football, volleyball, soccer, and basketball.
4. How does Think Together promote educational equity?
Think Together collaborates with communities to create innovative educational solutions that serve all students, ensuring equal access to quality learning experiences.
5. What is the focus of the LA84 Foundation?
The LA84 Foundation focuses on promoting play equity and access to organized sports for every child, ensuring that opportunities are available regardless of income or background.
