On Tuesday, MacKenzie Scott’s Yield Giving organization announced it was donating a total of $640 million to 361 nonprofits across the country. Amongst those who received grants are InnerCity Struggle (ICS) and Legacy LA, both Boyle Heights-based organizations.
The philanthropic organization launched an Open Call in March of last year for community-led and -focused organizations to apply for 250 available awards of $1 million each. Later in the Fall, an evaluation panel reviewing the 6,353 applications that were received decided to expand the total awardees and grant amounts: the 279 ranked highest would get $2 million, and the next 82 would receive the original amount planned. ICS received $2 million, and Legacy LA received $1 million.
“After 8 months of awaiting a decision, we were recently notified that we have been selected to receive the award. Especially as this year marks our 30th anniversary, I am beyond excited for this special opportunity that ICS has been blessed with,” said Henry Perez, Executive Director of InnerCity Struggle. “I look forward to working with our staff and Board to ensure that we maximize this opportunity and invest this award in a manner that will make the strongest impact for the organization and the Eastside.”
Both organizations are well-known in the neighborhood for their multifaceted work to uplift local residents:
- Now in its 30th year, InnerCity Struggle has helped build stronger schools, grown civic engagement, and advocated for housing rights and youth leadership on the Eastside.
- Nearing nearly two decades, Legacy LA has helped to uplift the community of Ramona Gardens and surrounding neighborhoods through mentorship, case management, workforce development, and more.
“At Legacy LA, our mission has always been to make positive interventions in the lives of young people by offering alternatives to gangs and violence,” says Lucy Herrera, Executive Director at the nonprofit. “Legacy LA is committed to building the capacity of youth to reach their full potential and equip them with tools to transform their lives and community.”
In total, 25 organizations from Southern California received $47 million. About a fifth of the $640 million total went to California nonprofits.