Los Angeles might be the center of the sports universe. In the coming years, L.A. is set to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2027 NFL SuperBowl and the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. That’s not to mention the Los Angeles Dodgers, who brought the World Series back to L.A. again this year, and the Los Angeles Rams, who won the Super Bowl in 2022 on their home turf in Inglewood, Calif.
That makes the city a fitting place to discuss the impact that these major events can have on civic pride, economic vitality and community wellbeing. The USC Center on Philanthropy & Public Policy, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, recently convened leaders from sports, business, nonprofits and philanthropy for a series of discussions ranging from what it takes to land and deliver successful global sporting events to the life changing benefits of youth sports.
The event – Sports, Community & Philanthropy – was held at L.A.’s recently opened Intuit Dome, and featured speakers and trailblazers included leaders from Angel City Sports, the LA28 Olympic & Paralympic Games, the L.A. Rams, Halo Sports & Entertainment – and more.
“Los Angeles dazzles as the stage for all-star games, Super Bowls not to mention the World Cup and the Olympics and will write the next chapter in L.A.’s rich legacy,” noted James Ferris — Center director and the Emery Evans Olson Chair in Nonprofit Entrepreneurship and Public Policy at the USC Price School — in his opening remarks. These global gatherings “inspire us and help to drive the economy,” while philanthropy ensures that sports also expand everyday opportunities for youth, families and neighborhoods, he added.
The morning session focused on how Los Angeles has become a hub for world-class sporting events and the impact such events can have on the region.
“We have the opportunity to use sports and entertainment events to change Los Angeles for the better,” said Bob Graziano, Chair of the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission.
Take, for example, PlayLA, a $160-million regional youth sports program made possible by an investment from the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organizing Committee. Erikk Aldridge, Vice President of Impact for LA28, also spoke about LA28’s collaborations with colleges, small businesses and other organizations working with teens, young adults and transitional workers to get them ready for the employment opportunities arising from the games.
The day’s final session showcased a variety of local partnerships and collaborations, which focus on the broader benefits for youth development through access to sports.
Renata Simril, president and CEO of the LA84 Foundation, traced her organization’s origins to the surplus from the 1984 Games, which has seeded decades of youth programs across Southern California.
“Sports is a gateway to opportunity,” she said.
You can read more about the discussions, and watch videos from the event.
