From Football to Philanthropy: How the Chargers Give Back to Southern California

The Los Angeles Chargers aren’t just any ordinary football team; they stand as a true pillar of Southern California. Through philanthropy, community outreach, cultural initiatives, and player engagement, they display how the power of professional sports can unite and uplift an entire region. Susie Spanos, wife of Chargers controlling owner and chairman Dean Spanos, put it best when she said, “We’re so fortunate at the NFL… we have such a bright light, and our light shines all over the world.” The Chargers have embraced that vision by turning words into action through programs and partnerships that support youth, families, and those in need across California.

Building Strong Communities in Southern California

At the heart of the Chargers’ community work is the Chargers Impact Fund, founded in 1995 by the Spanos family. Giving back is a family mission, not just a team initiative. The fund has invested over $12 million in schools, parks, and community centers. As they revamp their community, they strive to bring new innovative locations where children can learn, play, and grow. Through partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles, they have created teen centers and athletic spaces in underserved communities to guarantee that young people have third spaces where they can socialize, connect, and build confidence.

Additionally, the Chargers Impact Fund reaches older members of the Southern California community. Bolts safety Derwin James, a beloved teammate, has led activities with youth at the Boys & Girls Club and hosted “Derwin’s Disco” at Wallis Annenberg GenSpace, with more than 120 seniors in attendance. They promote adults getting involved through fitness, entertainment, and human connection. They aim to foster community across all ages by including seniors alongside younger participants.

What Are the Four Pillars the Chargers Promote?

The Chargers Impact Fund focuses on four central pillars: youth empowerment, supporting families, animal welfare, and emergency response. On and off the field, they give students upgraded opportunities through mentorship programs, school upgrades, and free J.R. Chargers Training Camps. These initiatives not only provide safe spaces but also foster life skills, resilience, and teamwork among students. For instance, Elijah Molden runs clinics and academic mentorship programs for high school kids, while rookie Ladd McConkey has encouraged healthy behaviors in nearby schools.

The Chargers place equal emphasis on emergency response and animal welfare. Many substantial aid efforts were donated by the team after recent wildfires in Southern California, with targeted financing for Team Rubicon, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, the American Red Cross, and local pet rescue organizations that provided care for animals displaced by the fires. As a part of this practical assistance, "doggy draft" pet adoption events took place, and revenue was obtained via auctioning off game-worn jerseys and related memorabilia. It was stated from the beginning that all earnings were donated to local shelters and relief groups. The Chargers' well-coordinated crisis response and continuous assistance provide safe havens to distressed families and pets. Overall, their impact and empathy stretch well beyond the gridiron.

Embracing Diversity and Celebrating Minorities

Embracing multicultural Los Angeles, the Chargers run programs like Latino Heritage Career Pathways, guided by Cultural Affairs Director Liliana T. Pérez, to connect Latino youth to sports and career mentors. Using her personal experiences as a Mexican immigrant and a leader in the Pico-Union community, Pérez ensures that the Los Angeles Chargers' outreach initiatives are genuine, approachable, and culturally inclusive. Through her efforts, the organization's fan base and leadership have become more representative of young Latinos. Her presence has inspired media relationships with Spanish-language outlets and has reinforced the message for young Latinos to see themselves in leadership roles.

The Chargers highlight the accomplishments of Latino and other minority student-athletes who thrive on the field and in their community during Hispanic Heritage Month. Events, forums, and mentorship sessions highlight pioneering individuals such as LAPD Deputy Chief Ruby Flores, as well as young people who prioritize athletics and academic success. Furthermore, the group honors finalists in the NFL Latino Youth Honors, which celebrates outstanding high school seniors from club markets for their leadership, academic achievements, and athletic excellence, in collaboration with the NFL and the Hispanic Heritage Foundation. By sponsoring initiatives like these and taking part in celebrations like Long Beach Pride, the Chargers promote a sense of community while inspiring others to pursue greatness, while being proud of their individuality and identity.

Players Leading the Change

As previous player Sebastian Joseph-Day of the Chargers once said, “I’ve been able to play the game that I love. Accomplish a lot of my dreams; why not give back as well?” The Chargers are the epitome of those who give back to those in need through any means. Quarterback Justin Herbert partnered with the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank to provide meals to those in need by donating $25,000 to supply 100,000 meals. He is notable for speaking about how important it is to give back during his time with the Chargers. Kicker Cameron Dicker distributes tickets so that more families can attend games and supports charities like The Friendship Foundation, which support individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Derius Davis, a rookie, motivates young players just by putting forth effort and maintaining a positive outlook. The Bolts Book Club distributes books, and players read with children to encourage literacy and reading comprehension. Players like Tyler Conklin who is known as a former tight end for the New York Jets, engage with local fans by attending community events and schools.

Championing Hope and Opportunity for Generations

The Los Angeles Chargers have a quantifiable, direct influence on the lives of Southern California's adolescents and families, setting the bar high for community service. With a year-round calendar of charity, academic investment, direct guidance, and family support activities, the Chargers create growth, perseverance, and belonging in their local area. Season after season, the Chargers continue to be a lighthouse of opportunity, bringing about positive change and elevating the communities that support them as they grow their relationships and programs. Their ongoing dedication ensures a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come.