The Lakers Youth Foundation, the Los Angeles Lakers and OneWest Bank joined the Children’s Institute, Inc. (CII) for the grand opening of a new Sports Court at CII’s headquarters, just west of downtown Los Angeles. Generous support from the Lakers organization and OneWest Bank helped make the new, much needed recreational space a reality. Their $200,000 gift helped fund a wide range of health and fitness activities for families, including basketball, volleyball, exercise classes and more. Check out the Photo Gallery from the event
The Lakers Youth Foundation began the day by hosting a Junior Lakers basketball clinic with the children who receive services from CII. CII is a nationally recognized organization that helps children and youth affected by community and family violence. 40 kids participated in the Junior Lakers clinic which strives to enhance teamwork, sportsmanship and to develop fundamental basketball skills. From defense drills to shooting techniques each Junior Laker was given individual attention on how to perfect their game. The participating athletes had the opportunity to compete in a shooting contest where they could win Lakers prizes. Each Junior Laker left with t-shirt, Chick Hearn jersey and a delicious lunch provided by Jersey Mike’s Subs as a thank you for their hard work and participation in the clinic.
While the kids were enjoying lunch they were greeted by some special guests; Steve Nash and the Laker Girls. Nash and the Laker Girls were on hand to talk basketball, sign autographs and take photos with all of the Junior Lakers. After lunch everyone headed over to the new Sport Court and as Nash and the kids came on to the court they were greeted by cheers and high fives from the dedicated staff and supporters of CII. To officially open up the court for the kids of CII Steve Nash and 11 lucky sharp shooters were each given a basketball to shoot the inaugural “first shot.” The group headed over to the 3-point line and as each ball made its way to the basket there were many cheers from the crowd as the court was officially opened up for the kids to enjoy.
The Lakers Youth Foundation, the Los Angeles Lakers and OneWest Bank hope that the children of the Children’s Institute, Inc. enjoy their new sport court for many years to come. Thank you to Janie Drexel, Steven Mnuchin, Steve Nash, Roberta Mariani, Daryl Roper, the Laker Girls, Jersey Mike’s Subs and the team at CII for their continued dedication to bettering the Los Angeles community.