The staff at Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA) believe that every child deserves a chance to pursue their education and develop to their potential within a safe, nurturing environment. To that end, they provide a home away from home for thousands of kids who attend inner-city schools and live in dangerous neighborhoods with prevalent gangs and drug use. At its campus, located in and around Lafayette Park, HOLA's professional staff and volunteers provide free afterschool programs that include academics, arts, and athletics for youth aged 6–19.
HOLA also partners with the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks to supply young people with much-needed activity space and a safe environment. Together, the organizations set aside a turf soccer field, outdoor basketball courts, plus a brand-new gym for youth to use.
