Lead the Way
Founded in 1924, the Junior Chamber has spawned a legacy of influence and our members have been dedicated to improving the quality of life within the Los Angeles community. Throughout our longstanding history, the Junior Chamber has been instrumental in contributing to the economic, social and political clout of Los Angele s by successfully positioning the city as the mecca for tourism, hospitality and national events. Today, the Junior Chamber continues to power the future of Los Angeles by providing our members with a ready platform to lead the way.
Build a Legacy
The Junior Chamber established its Charity Foundation in 1949 to administer and expand our community-based programs that strive to build a legacy of success for future generations. Offering premiere programs with high impact – such as the Riordan Leadership Institute, The First Tee of Los Angeles and the LA Watts Summer Games – the Junior Chamber Foundation serves over 10,000 constituents throughout Los Angeles County each year. With the support of over 500 volunteers from all over Southern California, our members contribute more than 1,500 volunteer hours annually to make a difference in the communities where they live and work.
The 2012 LA Watts Summer Games
In summer of 1965, the City of Los Angeles erupted in violence as simmering discontentment over inequality perpetrated by divisions in race and economic disadvantages boiled. At the center of six days of rioting was the Watts community. Its commercial district was burned to ashes and more than 1000 area residents were physically injured. The Riots left the already disenfranchised community even more desolate than before.
In search of a positive response to the Watts Riots, members of the Los Angeles Junior Chamber of Commerce decided to reach out to the community. Together with the Watts Community they forged the LA Watts Summer Games in an effort to build bridges of understanding between communities and between young people.
The first Games were held in 1968 and since then nearly 300,000 student athletes and their families from all over Southern California have visited the Watts community and competed in the Games. Some of the area’s finest athletes have competed in the games including Florence Griffith Joyner, Lisa Leslie, John Elway, Michael Cooper, and DeMar DeRozan.
Be part of something special and see some of tomorrow’s stars today by making a donation, volunteering, or attending the games.
The LA Watts Summer Games take place on June 9, 10 and 16 at Ted Watkins Memorial Park, The Home Depot Center and CSU Dominguez Hills. E-mail us at lawattsgames@lajcc.orgor visit our website at www.lawsg.orgfor more information.
LAJCC Office: 244 South San Pedro Street, Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA, 90012
Main Phone: (213) 680-8000
