Following the containment of three wildfires, sports titans around Los Angeles have been called on by California governor Gavin Newsom to lead rebuilding efforts in the city. As of today, the Palisades Fire was 96% contained and the Eaton Fire was 99% contained.
Following the containment of three wildfires, sports titans around Los Angeles have been called on by California governor Gavin Newsom to lead rebuilding efforts in the city. As of today, the Palisades Fire was 96% contained and the Eaton Fire was 99% contained.
As a part of the philanthropic organization, LA Rises, NBA star Magic Johnson, Dodgers chairman Mark Walter and organizer of the 2028 Olympics Casey Wasserman will lead a ‘swift and unified’ wildfire recovery. The group also includes city business leaders and elected officials.
According to ESPN, “Mark Walter Family Foundation and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation have committed up to $100 million to the effort.” Johnson has committed to rebuilding the Altadena neighborhood.
Related: Los Angeles Sports Teams, NFL Foundation Donate Millions to Wildfire Victims
In a press conference at Dodger Stadium, Newsom said, “Los Angeles will rise again — stronger, more united, and more resilient than ever. Just as California came together to fight the fires, we’ll work together to rebuild. With Mark, Earvin and Casey’s proven leadership and deep commitment to Los Angeles, we’ll tap into the enormous creativity, experience, and resources of the private sector, alongside local, state, and federal efforts, to deliver a recovery that benefits all Angelenos.”
LA Rises will tap into private sector funds that local, state and federal officials do not have access to for faster rebuilding. Some of the group’s main goals include fundraising, financing strategies, creating philanthropic partnerships and spearheading communication with residents for transparent timelines and resources.
At the same press conference, Johnson added, “This is a time for bold action. We’re bringing together the best resources and biggest hearts across California to ensure that every Angeleno — no matter their race, socioeconomic status, or neighborhood — has a chance to rebuild and thrive. This isn’t just about recovery; it’s about restoring communities while also making them more resilient and better than before.”
