Over a thousand Los Angeles residents braved the rain to join Mayor Karen Bass and city council members in a city-wide initiative called Shine LA. Aimed at revamping neighborhoods throughout the city, the inaugural day of service took place on multiple sites, with volunteers participating in a host of community improvement activities. The event was part of a larger effort to prepare the city before it steps onto the world stage soon.
"I am grateful to each and every Angeleno who took pride in their City today and came out even in the rain to ensure that LA is at its best and ready to welcome the world," Mayor Bass said, according to the official mayoral announcement. The rain didn't deter residents from coming out in full force, engaging in everything from tree planting to community gardening and litter removal across 16 different locations.
Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson echoed the importance of community effort, saying, "Shine LA proves the power of community—neighbors uniting to welcome the world and show what Los Angeles can do when we come together with purpose." Council members participated at multiple sites throughout the day, engaging with volunteers and highlighting the local significance of the initiative.
Councilwoman Heather Hutt explained that the collaboration with community organizations served as a powerful reminder of the city's unity. “I was honored to partner with the Mayor for this year's celebration, which not only reignited our City's collective dedication to our environment, but also created a beautiful and unifying moment for everyone who attended," she told the mayor's office. Activities ranged from street cleanups to tree plantings and even included a community festival hosted by Fire Station 27 in Hollywood with food and performances.
Angelenos interested in participating in future Shine LA events are encouraged to RSVP through the mayor's website. The initiative was supported by a variety of local businesses and organizations providing tools, supplies, and volunteer assistance. Among the sponsors were Athens Services, American Beverage Association, Reyes Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Netflix, Starbucks, Clean California, Chick-fil-A, Smart Water, Portillo’s Hot Dog, the ANE Foundation, and more. Highlights and media from the event can be viewed here.
