July marked our busiest and most inspiring month of the year, packed with powerful moments of connection, service, and celebration. From uplifting youth across Los Angeles to honoring first responders, and community heroes, the energy and engagement around LAFC in the community were undeniable. We're proud to share the stories and impact we’ve created together—on and off the pitch.
A Month of Unified
The LAFC Special Olympics Unified Team, in partnership with BMO, participated in a variety of scrimmages, off-field activities, and matches alongside various MLS teams.
- Unified Team vs. Front Office Scrimmage:
For the second year in a row, members of the LAFC Front Office faced off against the LAFC Unified team at BMO Stadium. The Unified team defeated the Front Office in another memorable match. - FC Dallas Home Match Weekend:
We welcomed the FC Dallas Unified team to Los Angeles for a weekend of connection and competition, starting with a beach night at Dockweiler State Beach. After the first team’s match, the Unified squads took the pitch to play in front of fans. The weekend ended with a private pre-screening of The Smurfs Movie for the LAFC United team, friends, and family. - El Trafico:
To kick off El Tráfico week, LAFC and LA Galaxy Unified competed in a friendly match at BMO Stadium. Max Bretos, the voice of Black & Gold, provided live match coverage for all spectators in attendance. - Cali Clasico Tournament:
LAFC, LA Galaxy, San Jose Earthquakes, and Sac Republic FC came together for a round-robin style tournament at Jesse Owens Stadium on the campus of Cal State LA. - MLS Special Olympics All-Star Weekend:
Unified players, Jayden Carbajal and Hailey Camacho, represented the Black & Gold in Austin during All-Star Weekend for the 10th annual All-Star Game, competitions, and activities.
It’s been an exciting start to the season, and we look forward to cheering on the Special Olympics Unified Team in the months ahead.
LAFC x Drew League Clinics
More than 200 LAUSD students engaged in the Beyond the Bell's summer programming participated in two dynamic multi-sport clinics hosted at Drew and Edwin Markham Middle Schools. Presented by Metro by T-Mobile, the clinics featured afternoon soccer and basketball drill sessions led by the Drew League and LA Active Sports. LAFC players Maxime Chanot, Nathan Ordaz, Carlos Díaz, and Tommy Mihalić joined participants as they rotated through different activities to offer guidance and encouragement.
Move Your Body, Calm Your Mind Yoga Event
Mental health is a key priority for our LAFC community. Ahead of a recent match, we welcomed 30 middle school students for an interactive session on how physical activity supports mental well-being. The workshop offered practical tools for daily movement, mindfulness, and self-care.
A special thanks to Move Your Body, Calm Your Mind, and the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health for helping us provide essential resources to local youth. Together, we’re empowering the next generation to build healthier minds and bodies.
We also had a special appearance from our Falconer, Jason!
CHLA Match Access
In partnership with BMO, we welcomed 40 patients and representatives from the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles’ CATCH program to BMO Stadium for the match against the Colorado Rapids. The group received LAFC gear, meal vouchers, and after the match, had the opportunity to take penalty kicks alongside LAFC player Denis Bouanga.
Teacher Appreciation Home Match Celebration
At LAFC, honoring the incredible work of our teachers goes beyond Teacher Appreciation Month. In May, we proudly hosted a special luncheon to recognize outstanding LAUSD educators for their dedication and impact. This July, we continued the celebration by welcoming them onto the field during a home match. A heartfelt thank you to our teachers and educators for inspiring and supporting the next generation of leaders.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Soccer Clinics in the City of Cudahy
We celebrated the grand opening of the Lugo Soccer Field in the City of Cudahy! In partnership with the city, we hosted a series of youth soccer clinics to kick off this new space and inspire young players.
We’re excited to continue supporting communities and ensure kids across the region have safe spaces to play!
Habitat for Humanity Playhouse Build
In July, BMO Stadium’s Pepsi Plaza became a place to build something meaningful together. In partnership with Habitat for Humanity LA, Chick-fil-A, and Call Jacob, we built two custom playhouses that will soon bring joy to local children and families. Thanks to the work of our volunteers, these playhouses will be donated to Habitat LA partner families and community partners that serve children most in need. Thank you to all the volunteers and partners who made this possible!
Purple Lily Award Recognition
LAFC was proud to be honored at the 10th Annual Purple Lily Awards, a gala presented by Latino Equity Alliance that signifies resilience and visibility for the Latine/x LGBTQ+ community. The community team was joined by Pride Republic President Melissa Sanchez, Co-President Larry Freedman, and Chief Business Officer Stacy Johns, to accept the award.
Fire Station 20
LAFC and DoorDash hosted an event at Fire Station 20 to support local firefighters impacted by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. The event included dinner, a kitchen restock courtesy of Melissa’s Produce, and a tour of the fire station to show appreciation for the firefighters. LAFC goalkeeper Thomas Hassal joined us for the evening and even went on a team run, adding to the spirit of camaraderie. It was a powerful reminder of LAFC’s year-round commitment to honoring first responders and strengthening ties with our local community.
Pasadena Pal Tour
We were honored to host 75 students from the Pasadena Pal Program at BMO stadium. The Pal Program is a year-round opportunity designed to give children a safe program to attend after school and during the summer. We were fortunate enough to take the group around BMO stadium and share insights and experiences around what it is like to work at LAFC.
LA Active Sports Youth Futsal Tournament
LAFC and BMO partnered to support LA Active Sport by hosting a futsal tournament for over 150 students at John Adams Middle School. The event included player appearances by Adam Saldaña, Adrian Wibowo, and Maxime Chanot, who helped award medals to the young athletes and pass out Melissa’s Produce snacks. Big thanks to BMO for providing jerseys, soccer balls, giveaways, lunches, and their ongoing support of the program.
Back-to-School Fire Relief Fair
At the end of the month, we were honored to host 300 LAUSD children and families, who were affected by the fires, to attend our first League’s Cup match vs. Mazatlán F.C. A special thanks to our partners, BMO, DoorDash, Zelle, Metro by T-Mobile, University of Phoenix, Melissa’s Produce, Bandai Namco, Rockview Farms, LACDMH, and more for providing, resources and products to ensure children are ready for the upcoming school year. With the support of our partners, we were able to provide iPad tablets, school supplies, backpacks, and more to our students.
Thank you to everyone who was able to attend!
July Community Spotlight: Latino Equity Alliance
Latino Equity Alliance’s mission is to advocate for the equity, safety, and wellness of the Latine/x community. The organization focuses on building power within the Latinx LGBTQ+ community and advocating for systemic changes that promote healthy and safe environments in schools, homes, and neighborhoods for LGBTQ+ youth and families. Latino Equity Alliance grounds its work through public education, organized actions, coalition building, and leadership development.
WHAT’S TO COME:
Bresee's Annual Backpack Giveaway Event:
Join us in supporting Bresee's Annual Backpack Giveaway event. The event provides over 300 students in the Central Los Angeles area with the confidence and materials needed to create a positive learning experience.
- When: Thursday, August 7th | 8am-12pm
- Where: Bresee Foundation; 184 S. Bimini Place, Los Angeles, California 90004
- Sign Up: HERE
