The YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles recognized Rancho Palos Verdes residents, Dr. James and Mrs. Patricia London, with the 2013 YMCA Brotherhood Award for their decades-long work to strengthen Dr. King’s legacy of compassion and commitment to equality and social justice.
The award recognizes the London's innovative efforts in education through their nonprofit, the South Central Scholars (SCS) Foundation. SCS assists motivated and talented students from disadvantaged communities in Los Angeles through scholarships, jobs, internships and mentorship. SCS also is based in Rancho Palos Verdes.
Founded in 2001, SCS has supported 770 students who have either recently graduated from college or are pursuing advanced degrees.
“What started out as an effort to help one student has grown into a daily mission to help as many students as we can,” said Dr. London. “The Foundation works to fill a profound gap in resources and opportunities that often prevents gifted students in inner-city schools from going to their dream college, and developing the kind of skills they need for lifelong achievement.”
“We truly appreciate this recognition by the Los Angeles Y, and it is a privilege to work with such young talent,” added Mrs. London. “These high-achieving students are the next generation of leaders and the future of this country.”
The Los Angeles Y also honored Supervisor Ridley-Thomas with the 2013 YMCA Human Dignity Award for his leadership in improving the quality of life, health and wellness of disadvantaged individuals. California Attorney General Kamala D. Harris delivered keynote the event.
For more than 130 years, the YMCA of Los Angeles has been making a positive impact in communities across Los Angeles County. Its 25 branches, stretching across 100 miles of the County, serves more than 264,500 members. The Y focuses on programs that promote youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. More information available at YMCALA.org.
