Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the launch of LA Rises, a private-sector initiative aimed at supporting the rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles following one of California’s most severe natural disasters. The initiative is led by Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and Casey Wasserman, President and Chairperson of LA28.
Mark Walter, along with the Mark Walter Family Foundation and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation, has committed up to $100 million to kickstart this effort. LA Rises plans to raise further funds through private donations to assist communities heavily impacted by recent fires in areas such as Altadena, Pasadena, and Pacific Palisades.
Governor Newsom emphasized the collaborative nature of the project: “Los Angeles will rise again — stronger, more united, and more resilient than ever.” He praised the leadership of Walter, Johnson, and Wasserman for their dedication to leveraging private sector resources alongside public efforts.
Walter expressed his commitment: “The LA fires have wreaked havoc on LA’s neighborhoods. It’s time for those with means to come forward and make a positive impact.”
Johnson highlighted the importance of inclusive recovery: “We’re bringing together the best resources…to ensure that every Angeleno…has a chance to rebuild and thrive.”
Wasserman spoke about his admiration for Los Angeles’ resilience: “There’s nothing Los Angeles can’t achieve.”
Kathryn Barger from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors welcomed the support from both state and private sectors. She stated it would complement local recovery efforts especially for marginalized populations in Altadena.
Mayor Karen Bass acknowledged that this initiative would be vital for comprehensive recovery efforts in Los Angeles. She thanked Governor Newsom for his continued partnership during these challenging times.
LA Rises aims to facilitate collaboration between various sectors, enhance access to capital, formulate financing strategies for rebuilding costs, collaborate with other organizations to maximize impact, and maintain unified communication efforts for providing factual information about rebuilding timelines and available resources.
Financial backing also comes from California Rises—a statewide recovery initiative established after the 2018 Camp Fire—to aid communities affected by fires and support firefighters.
