Summerland 2025 brought together over 900 LA’s BEST staff for a powerful day of connection, learning, and inspiration. As we prepare to welcome students to over 160 sites across Los Angeles, Summerland set the tone with hands-on workshops, leadership development, and community building to ensure our teams are ready to make a lasting impact.

Over two unforgettable days, nearly 100 schools and more than 2,000 spectators came together for five high-energy sessions that filled the stadium with pride and support. Our students lit up the stage with the moves they’ve been practicing all year, showcasing their talent, confidence, and teamwork. This year marked our return to a full two-day experience, and it was a joy to celebrate together again—best of all, the event was provided at no cost to families.

For over 35 years, LA’s BEST has proudly partnered with the City of Los Angeles to uplift children and support working families. To celebrate this year’s LA’s BEST Day, 60 students from four of our sites visited City Hall, where they met with Mayor Karen Bass, Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, and Councilwoman Heather Hutt. Students shared what LA’s BEST means to them and personally thanked their city leaders for their continued support and investment in expanded learning.

Over 1,200 dedicated LA’s BEST staff came together for Pro-Day, a day filled with learning, growth, and inspiration. Through hands-on workshops and engaging sessions, our team gained new skills that will make a lasting impact at their sites and in the lives of the students they serve.

A huge thank you to our incredible staff and facilitators for their commitment to excellence and community. Your dedication doesn’t just shape afterschool programs—it strengthens the future of Los Angeles.

Mayor Karen Bass Visits LA’s BEST

We were honored to welcome Mayor Karen Bass to one of our LA’s BEST sites, where she saw firsthand the impact of safe, enriching afterschool programs on the lives of young Angelenos. The partnership between LA’s BEST and the City of Los Angeles is essential in fostering community engagement, expanding opportunities, and providing critical resources that help prevent homelessness.

Summerland: An annual event organized by leadership where site staff attend workshops and learn how to create fun and educational summer activities for our students. Over 800 site staff attended, choosing workshops from various topics including Ceramics with Clay, Decoding Emotions and Science in a Box.

Dance & Drill Team Showcase: Our 30th Annual Dance and Drill Team Showcase was a resounding success, with over 1,300 attendees and a special appearance by Senator Maria Elena Durazo.  Click here to see our Dance and Drill Team Showcase Album

Math Hoops: In partnership with the Los Angeles Lakers, staff implemented the NBA Math Hoops curriculum, making math engaging and fun for students. They learned fundamental math skills and social-emotional development through basketball-themed activities and even attended a Lakers home game!

LA’s BEST Board of Directors is thrilled to announce Michele Broadnax as the LA’s BEST incoming President and CEO. Michele was selected among a stellar group of candidates for her extensive leadership and fundraising experience, commitment to creating equitable opportunities across Los Angeles and accomplishments in the education field that mirror LA’s BEST’s foundational values and mission. Please read the announcement here.