Community-Based Hydro-Wild Initiative Addressing Food Insecurity and Climate Crisis Through Innovation

Los Angeles, CA - Wild Elements is teaming up with Support + Feed and Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles (BGCMLA) to launch a new community and education initiative – the Hydro-Wild Lab is a working hydroponic farm nestled in a shipping container as a learning and innovation hub for young people starting Tuesday, July 12th, 2022. Through classes, community building, and hands-on sustainable agriculture experience, the Hydro-Wild Lab will deepen the connection between personal and planetary wellness while restoring food-growing power back to a Los Angeles community.   

 

Starting in July 2022, students at the Watts-Willowbrook Clubhouse, located in Watts on the border of Compton and one of four clubhouses within the BGCMLA region, will have access to a multi-week curriculum developed in coordination with Support + Feed and Wild Elements that teaches them the science behind their favorite veggies, the connection between personal wellness and food advocacy, and the cultural significance of gardens and growth in their own neighborhood and beyond.

The Wild Elements Hydro-Wild Lab, an innovative indoor hydroponic farm, brings together agriculture and technology to increase direct access to nutrient-dense food in an eco-conscious way while simultaneously providing students with hands-on farming experience and training.


This unique program developed in partnership across all three organizations is tailored specifically for the Watts-Willowbrook Clubhouse students and community to address the nexus of food insecurity and the history of food systems, healthy eating, and climate change.

Hydroponic farms are superstars of sustainable agriculture and are quickly emerging as an important pathway to increase access to produce in both urban and rural environments farming provides communities with a mechanism to farm in controlled environments indoors, while in rural settings, hydroponic as they require fewer natural resources.


 In urban areas where there is no land or healthy soil to grow food, hydroponic farms use less land than conventional ones, which helps overused fields regenerate. Hydroponic farms use up to 10 times less water than conventional farms, a benefit in drought-prone areas like California. Growing produce locally is also important as food begins to lose its nutrient-density once it’s harvested. In short, hydroponics is one key way to grow food so it benefits people and the planet.


“At Wild Elements, we’re working for a regenerative future where all living things can thrive. We can do it with innovative programs like the Hydro-Wild Lab, which merges tech, agriculture, health, education and community empowerment, all in one shipping container. By growing fresh produce while using less water and less land, the Hydro-Wild Lab promotes food equity, plant-based nutrition, and sustainable agriculture, all while investing in one vibrant neighborhood and its urban ecosystem. Wild Elements is thrilled to partner with our friends at Support and Feed and BGCMLA to bring this transformative pilot program to the BGCMLA students at the Watts-Willowbrook Clubhouse,” says Nikki Eslami, Founder & CEO, Wild Elements.


Support + Feed, a non-profit organization created during the pandemic by Maggie Baird (Lifetime Climate Activist, Screenwriter and mother to Billie Eilish and FINNEAS), is partnering with Wild Elements and BGCMLA to introduce the Hydro-Wild Lab, bringing plant-based food and educational resources to today’s youth and local community organizations without access. They focus on working with community innovators that have been doing the work in their city to provide tailored resources that will be most impactful.

“Through the power of partnership, we can work together, providing strategies to address existing problems and help change the futures,” says Maggie Baird, Founder & President, Support + Feed. “This exciting step (the Hydro-Wild Lab) goes back to our mission, to support organizers and nonprofits that are already doing great work. When we pool our resources, together we can uplift the community.” 


Committed to sustainable impact, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles is the result of a partnership unifying Los Angeles’ Boys & Girls Clubs that have been serving youth in the region’s most vulnerable neighborhoods since 1960 including Challengers, Watts/Willowbrook, Bell Gardens, Jordan Downs, and Jordan High School sites. Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles offers nationally recognized programs in three core areas to ensure the achievement and empowerment of youth and their families: Academic Success, Good Character and Citizenship and Healthy Lifestyles.


“Our Watts community has been long challenged by lack of access,” states Patrick Mahoney, President & CEO Boys & Girls Clubs Metro Los Angeles. “The Hydro-Wild Lab will provide an opportunity for BGCMLA youth to grow and consume healthy foods but will also serve as a critical tool for community and family dialogue around creating healthier eating habits. In a community where diabetes has a 72% higher mortality rate than the average community, the Hydro-Wild Lab will serve as a great education and awareness tool that can help save lives.”


The Hydro-Wild Lab is a pilot program that Wild Elements, in partnership with Support + Feed and Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles, plans to scale and utilize as a model to bring innovative solutions to other communities nationwide. This educational and collaborative initiative unites the strengths and networks of all three organizations and further expands critical conversations about nutrient dense food access in urban communities.

 

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ABOUT WILD ELEMENTS

Wild Elements is an ecosystem of content, community and collective impact building a regenerative future where all kind can thrive. Aiming to reconnect people with nature – to protect biodiversity – Wild Elements champions innovation solutions and inspires our community to take small steps toward personal and planetary wellness. Central to Wild Elements' mission is its work to shift power and vital resources to women-led environmental solutions driving change. Today's global traditional philanthropic model only grants .2% of funds to women-led environmental work, yet women are disproportionately impacted by the climate crisis. To change the game, Wild Elements distributes over 88% of its philanthropic dollars to women-led organizations. Wild Elements believes and invests in shifting narrative through inspiring storytelling to impart empathy and let good grow wild so the whole world will follow. To learn more visit wildelements.com.

 

ABOUT SUPPORT + FEED 

Support + Feed is an intersectional nonprofit organization dedicated to creating an equitable, plant-based food system and combating food insecurity and the climate crisis. Founded in Los Angeles by Maggie Baird, Support + Feed has expanded to ten US cities, worked with over 80 community organizations, and supported local economies across the country. Currently Support + Feed is part of the Happier Than Ever Global Tour which will enable them to expand globally including in the UK and Australia. For more information, visit supportandfeed.org.

 

ABOUT BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF METRO LOS ANGELES

The mission of Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles (BGCMLA) is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Committed to sustainable impact, BGCMLA is the result of a partnership unifying Los Angeles’ Boys & Girls Clubs that have been serving youth in the region’s most vulnerable neighborhoods since 1960 including Challengers, Watts/Willowbrook, Bell Gardens, Jordan Downs, and Jordan High School sites. BGCMLA offers nationally recognized programs in three core areas to ensure the achievement and empowerment of youth and their families: Academic Success, Good Character and Citizenship and Healthy Lifestyles. For more information, please visit our website at bgcmla.com.

DreamBuilders Gala 2024

September 25, 2024
September 16, 2024 (Los Angeles, CA) - Get ready for a night of celebration, inspiration, and unforgettable experiences! On Saturday, October 26th, we're hosting the DreamBuilders Gala at the stunning Audrey Irmas Pavilion. This special event is dedicated to honoring the incredible achievements of our youth and the generous supporters who make it all possible. What to Expect: Inspiring Performances: Enjoy captivating performances by our talented youth, showcasing their skills and passions. Star-Studded Emcee: Darren M. Haynes, a renowned sports anchor/reporter from KCBS/KCAL, will be our dynamic emcee for the evening. Generous Giving: Join us in raising funds to support our programs and provide life-changing opportunities for the youth of Metro Los Angeles. Exclusive Experiences: Enjoy a cocktail reception, silent auction, and a vibrant afterparty. Honoring Our Partners: We're thrilled to recognize the Ralph M Parsons Foundation and Sony Music Publishing for their invaluable contributions to our mission.

USC Trojans Inspire Young Minds

September 24, 2024
September 24, 2024 (Los Angeles, CA) - In a heartwarming display of community engagement, USC Football players recently hosted a special tour of their state-of-the-art facilities for young members of the Challengers Club from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles. The event, organized through the NIL initiative House of Victory , provided a unique opportunity for these aspiring athletes to experience the world of collegiate sports firsthand. "Seeing the practice field and fully equipped fitness gym was eye-opening," said Karen Quiroz, Director of Athletics and Health at the Challengers Clubhouse. "These resources are not available at every school, and it's inspiring for our kids to see what's possible." The Challengers Clubhouse, a part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro LA, has been serving underprivileged youth in the community since 1968. By providing access to educational programs, sports activities, and mentorship opportunities, the club aims to empower young people to reach their full potential. "For kids who haven't seen what college can be like, it's good for them to get this experience at one of the best universities," said Eric Gentry, a senior linebacker and House of Victory student-athlete. "It's about more than just football; it's about inspiring the next generation." The USC football players were more than happy to share their experiences and answer questions from the young visitors. From discussing their training routines to offering advice on balancing academics and athletics, the players served as positive role models. "This tour was a dream come true for our kids," said Quiroz. "Interacting with the USC football players was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will inspire them to strive for greatness." As Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro LA continues to provide essential services to the youth of Los Angeles, partnerships with organizations like House of Victory are crucial in helping young people reach their full potential. By providing opportunities for mentorship, inspiration, and exposure to new experiences, these collaborations are laying the foundation for a brighter future. For more information about events like this one, follow BGCMLA on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn and X . If you’d like to make a charitable contribution to support youth programs and initiatives like this, you can make a tax-deductible contribution here .

BGCMLA Receives $10,000 Grant from Women's Sports Foundation

July 30, 2024
Los Angeles, CA - The Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Women's Sports Foundation (WSF) as part of their Sports 4 Life program. This prestigious grant will support our efforts to provide sports and physical activity opportunities for young girls in our community. The Sports 4 Life program aims to empower Black, African-American, Hispanic, and Native American girls through sports. By participating in these programs, girls can develop essential skills such as perseverance, leadership, and teamwork, which will benefit them both on and off the field. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment where all children can thrive. Through our sports programs, we strive to inspire girls to reach their full potential and become confident, successful individuals. For more information, follow BGCMLA on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn and X . If you’d like to make a charitable contribution to support youth programs and initiatives like this, you can make a tax-deductible contribution here .

Rhythm In Action: SiriusXM & Cricket Wireless Empower BGCMLA Teens for Music Industry Careers

July 1, 2024
JULY 1, 2024 (LOS ANGELES) - On June 25th, the SiriusXM LA studio transformed into a hub of music education and inspiration for local teens from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles (BGCMLA). The event, aptly named "Rhythm In Action," was sponsored by Cricket Wireless and offered a unique opportunity for young music enthusiasts to dive into the world of audio entertainment. The day kicked off with a behind-the-scenes tour of the SiriusXM studios, giving students a peek into the magic of radio broadcasting. This was followed by a series of engaging activities designed to spark their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Interactive workshops and roundtable panels brought together industry leaders from across SiriusXM's departments, who discussed the ever-evolving music industry and its exciting future. But the learning didn't stop there! Students even got the chance to flex their marketing muscles. After an exclusive performance by talented artist Kalan.FrFr, the students were presented with a challenge: develop a marketing strategy for the artist's next single! This unique opportunity allowed them to put their newfound knowledge to the test and receive valuable feedback and advice directly from a panel of SiriusXM experts. This wasn't just a fun day trip for the BGCMLA students. It marked the second year in a row that SiriusXM, in partnership with Cricket Wireless, presented the organization with a generous donation. These funds will directly support BGCMLA's mission of empowering the next generation and fostering a vibrant community. "Rhythm In Action" was a resounding success, offering BGCMLA students an unforgettable experience that blended education with entertainment. By fostering a love for music and igniting their entrepreneurial spirit, SiriusXM and Cricket Wireless are helping to pave the way for the future stars of the music industry! To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles, visit www.bgcmla.org .

Game On with LA Sparks & Girls Got Game

June 24, 2024
June 24, 2024 (Los Angeles, CA) - The Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles (BGCMLA) recently hosted a groundbreaking program called Girls Got Game, in partnership with the Black Collegiate Gaming Association (BCGA) and the Los Angeles Sparks. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap between the esports and gaming industry and Black students and young women of color. The Girls Got Game program offered a unique opportunity for middle and high school girls to explore their passion for gaming and learn valuable skills for the future. Through a combination of curriculum, competitions, and internships, the program provided participants with the tools they needed to succeed in the esports and gaming industry. As Natalie White, VP Community Relations for the LA Sparks, states: "We are thrilled to join the Black Collegiate Gaming Association for the Girls Got Game initiative. This community partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to empower and inspire young girls." This program is all about fostering confidence, leadership, and a sense of belonging within the gaming world. It's a safe space for young women to learn, grow, and become future leaders in esports. Alejandra Liera, Site Director at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles - Challengers Club, echoes this sentiment: "We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible partners... Their commitment to empowering young women in the gaming community is inspiring and instrumental in fostering a more inclusive and diverse future in esports." Head over to Girls Got Game to learn more and secure a spot in this exciting new program.

Exploring Equity: Pilot Smithsonian Program at Watts/Willowbrook Club

May 29, 2024
May 29, 2024 (Los Angeles, CA) - We're excited to announce the launch of a brand new program here at Watts/Willowbrook Club: Exploring Equity! This initiative is a collaboration between the Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) and the Smithsonian Institution, and it's designed to empower our teens through social-emotional development, civic engagement, and a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Exploring Equity builds upon the incredible BGCA Youth for Unity program, which equips young people with the skills and knowledge to be responsible citizens. This new addition adds a specific lens of equity to the program, tackling social issues, civic engagement, and environmental awareness in a way that's relevant to our teens' lives. The program is a result of collaboration between Smithsonian educators and our very own youth development professionals here at Watts/Willowbrook Club. This means the curriculum is informed by the real-world experiences and interests of our teens. After this pilot program wraps up, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Smithsonian will gather feedback from us and other participating Clubs. They'll then refine the program and resources, making them available to over 5,000 Boys & Girls Clubs across the nation! We're proud to be a part of such a wide-reaching initiative, and we can't wait to see the impact it has on young people everywhere. Follow us on our Instagram , Facebook , and Linkedin for more updates on Exploring Equity as the program unfolds here at Watts/Willowbrook Club.

Venice Club's Luz Alvarado Celebrated at the 14th Annual WAVE Awards

May 9, 2024
May 9, 2024 (Venice, CA) - The Venice Chamber of Commerce hosted the 14th Annual WAVE Awards at Westside Vineyard on May 9, 2024. Educators from thirteen local schools and organizations were honored for their outstanding accomplishments, reflecting this year's theme of "Inspiring Unity." LAUSD board member Nick Melvoin, Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci Park, and Venice Chamber President Sunny Bak opened the event, joined by representatives from various governmental offices. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Joëlle Award to Tim Rudnick, founder of the Venice Oceanarium, recognizing his exceptional contributions. Chantel Hunter Mah, Chair of the Education Committee at the Venice Chamber of Commerce, described the event as filled with memorable moments, including speeches, laughter, and tears of joy.

Courtside with Stan Smith Ahead of Documentary Premiere

May 3, 2024
May 3, 2024 (Los Angeles) - The Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles (BGCMLA) welcomed USTA Foundation Incorporated (USTA Foundation) alongside tennis and cultural icon Stan Smith. This surprise visit was in anticipation of the Los Angeles premiere of UNINTERRUPTED’s documentary "Who Is Stan Smith?". The documentary not only to delves into the life of the legendary Stan Smith but also to contribute to a noble cause, with a portion of its proceeds set to benefit the USTA Foundation’s flagship National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) network. The NJTL network, established in 1969 by tennis legends Arthur Ashe and Charlie Pasarell, along with Sheridan Snyder, encompasses over 250 chapters nationwide, including BGCMLA. This network provides more than 150,000 under-resourced youth with access to free or low-cost tennis and academic programming. During the visit, the USTA Foundation also generously presented BGCMLA with a grant aimed at resurfacing tennis courts at its Challengers Club in South L.A. "Who Is Stan Smith?" chronicles the remarkable journey of International Tennis Hall of Fame member, sneaker icon, and humanitarian Stan Smith. From his illustrious career as one of the world’s greatest tennis stars to his impactful activism in civil rights and AIDS awareness, Smith's story resonates deeply. Ginny Ehrlich, CEO of the USTA Foundation, praised Smith as a role model for the thousands of young people involved in NJTL programs nationwide. "He is a shining example of the excellence, resilience, and determination that we aim to instill in the youth," she remarked, emphasizing the honor of being the documentary's official beneficiary. Through our partnership with the USTA Foundation, we are opening doors to the world of tennis for youth in ways previously unimaginable. At BGCMLA, we remain committed to offering unique programs and opportunities for youth who may have never had the chance to experience certain sports or opportunities. For those interested in learning more about the USTA Foundation, visit ustafoundation.com and follow @USTAFoundation on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. For more information on the life-changing programs offered at Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles, visit bgcmla.org and follow @bgcmla on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Boys & Girls CLubs of Metro Los Angeles 14th Annual Charity Poker Tournament

Over $52,000 Fundraised during 14th Annual Charity Poker Tournament

April 30, 2024
April 30, 2024 (Los Angeles, CA) - In the heart of April, Hollywood Park Casino was abuzz with the spirited energy of the 14th Annual Charity Poker Tournament: All in for the Kids. With over 60 avid participants and spectators, the event unfolded as a remarkable showcase of poker skill, all rallying behind a noble cause - funding vital youth programs. The generosity displayed transcended the gaming tables, as we collectively fundraised over $52,000 throughout the evening. "Each hand played at our tournament is a hand dealt towards brighter futures for the young people we serve," said Patrick Mahoney, CEO & President of BGCMLA. "Through the generous support of our participants, sponsors, and community members, we can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of those who need it most." Thank you to everyone that played, donated, and supported us from afar! A round of applause is due to our Poker Tournament champions: Jasmine Ali, Jonnie Kedj , and Mark Silverman , who clinched victory amidst stiff competition. Each victor was given the choice of our prizes - the SpeedVegas Package, LA Rams Package, or LA Dodgers Package. We are also so grateful to our incredible volunteers, Daria Hall , Luke Schlake , and Damien Tuffereau ! Their flexibility, quick thinking, and organization made our event a streamlined success. Together, we pulled off an fruitful event that shows just how dedicated our community is to supporting and empowering the next generation.

Empowering Youth Through Music with Sony Music & Notes for Notes

April 9, 2024
Febuary 1 , 2024 (Watts, CA) - As we commemorate our one year anniversary with Sony Music Group's Beyond The Instrument initiative and Notes for Notes, we are thrilled to once again swing open the doors of our recording studio at Watts-Willowbrook Boys & Girls Club. This collaborative effort, established in 2023, continues to serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for club members eager to nurture their musical talents and aspirations. At the heart of this initiative lies a profound commitment to nurturing the next generation of music creators. Through a year-round program, students are granted free access to musical instruments, instruction, and state-of-the-art recording equipment. This holistic approach empowers them to develop not only as artists but also as producers, engineers, and composers for film and TV. As part of our annual program, leading up to the 66th Annual GRAMMY Awards, we invited Sony Music Group artists, songwriters, producers, and composers to the Watts-Willowbrook Boys & Girls Club in Los Angeles. Here, they engaged with students, sharing insights and experiences while marveling at the diverse array of projects spanning podcasting, rock bands, film scoring, production, and songwriting. 
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