Michelle Grunyan
Crimson Chronicle Reporter
LA Kids 4 LA Kids, a nonprofit organization run by junior Genesis Ortiz-Donis, has recently gained traction across the school community.
The first meeting, which took place on Feb. 25, marked the beginning of a huge project in the works.
Ortiz-Donis has prior experience in leadership positions, including her ongoing participation in the Hollywood Police Activity League (PAL). The Hollywood Police Activity League prioritizes bringing unity and safety to children using the principles of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
The organization plans to develop a hands-on approach to directly address issues that affect Los Angeles’s youth population. Events such as volunteering at hospitals or soup kitchens are being discussed as potential plans.
“I’ve always had an idea to help kids,” said Ortiz-Donis, “But with the recent LA fires, seeing a lot of people come for their community really inspired me.”
The recent schoolwide student walkout, which occurred on Feb. 11, further fueled Ortiz-Donis’s drive towards founding her organization. She recalled many students citing their inability to participate in the walkout due to strict parents or safety concerns.
“I wanted to create something that will allow others, especially students, to show their support without having to put themselves in danger,” Ortiz-Donis said.
In addition to her work with Hollywood PAL, a collaboration with the organization’s director helped Genesis receive resources to start and support LA Kids 4 LA Kids. The LAPD is also in alliance with LA Kids 4 LA Kids by providing financial support.
Though in its infancy, the organization is prioritizing widening its scope of members and participants.
“I really want this to be a bigger organization … I mainly have people from Hollywood High School,” said Ortiz-Donis, “I want this to be more open to any kind of school … more schools in LA County.”
Recent events may have empowered students to become motivated to step up and start initiatives that benefit their community. Ortiz-Donis notes that students should seize this feeling of empowerment in order to step out of their comfort zones and work towards their own plans.
“If you have an idea and you’re really, really passionate about it, you should really just do it,” said Ortiz-Donis. “Expect to either be disappointed or for something good to happen.”
If you wish to find out more information regarding LA Kids 4 LA Kids and details regarding upcoming events, you can follow them at @lakids4lakids on Instagram.
