TL;DR - Scouting Report
Governor Gavin Newsom has unveiled 'LA Rises,' a private-sector-driven recovery initiative led by Magic Johnson, Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, and LA28 Chair Casey Wasserman to help rebuild wildfire-ravaged communities across Los Angeles, backed by an initial commitment of up to $100 million from the Mark Walter Family Foundation and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation.
Start the Rally: Tweet This Now!LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom has unveiled ‘LA Rises,’ a private-sector-driven wildfire recovery initiative to rebuild communities devastated by recent fires across Southern California. Spearheaded by Magic Johnson, Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, and LA28 Chair Casey Wasserman, the initiative will supplement state and federal recovery efforts with financial and logistical support from business leaders.
$100M Commitment from the Dodgers Foundation
The Mark Walter Family Foundation and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation have committed up to $100 million to jump-start the initiative. LA Rises will focus on rebuilding homes, infrastructure, and essential services while ensuring long-term resilience in fire-affected areas such as Pacific Palisades, Altadena, Pasadena, Sylmar, West Hills, and Castaic.
“The LA fires have wreaked havoc on our communities, and it’s time for those with means to step forward and make a real impact,” said Walter. “This initiative ensures that all Angelenos—regardless of their background—have a fair chance to rebuild and recover.”
Magic Johnson & Casey Wasserman Lead Private-Sector Support
Johnson, a longtime community advocate, emphasized the importance of equity in recovery efforts.
“We’re bringing together the best minds and biggest hearts across California to rebuild stronger and more resilient communities,” Johnson said. “This isn’t just about recovery—it’s about restoring neighborhoods and ensuring no one is left behind.”
Wasserman highlighted LA Rises’ long-term vision. “This process isn’t just about the next few months or years,” he said. “It’s about what Los Angeles will look like for the next 50 to 100 years.”
Ensuring Equitable Recovery: Focus on Altadena & Pacific Palisades
The initiative comes amid concerns over equitable rebuilding. While Pacific Palisades, a wealthy coastal neighborhood, suffered significant losses, Altadena’s diverse, working-class community faces additional challenges due to fewer resources and limited political influence.
Johnson directly addressed these concerns, pledging to prioritize Altadena’s recovery to ensure no community is overlooked.
“My focus will be on Altadena, because those people may be left behind, and I want to make sure that doesn’t happen,” he said.
LA Rises & Government Collaboration
Mayor Karen Bass and Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger welcomed the initiative as a vital component of the city’s broader recovery efforts.
“The number one question on the minds of Angelenos is about rebuilding,” Bass said. “I’m grateful that the Governor and LA Rises will be there to partner with us.”
Barger praised the public-private collaboration, stating it will fill critical funding gaps for communities most in need.
What’s Next for LA Rises?
The initiative aims to expand private donations, coordinate relief efforts, and streamline rebuilding to bring displaced residents home faster. Additional contributions from the Latino Community Foundation and the California Community Foundation have already supplemented the initial funding.
As LA Rises mobilizes resources, volunteer and donation opportunities will be announced in the coming weeks.
“Los Angeles will rise again—stronger, more united, and more resilient than ever.” – Gov. Gavin Newsom.
