MacArthur Park Community Initiative (MPCI)

Funded by the Sierra Health Foundation, MacArthur Park Community Initiative focuses on reducing the use and exposure to tobacco and marijuana secondhand smoke among youth between ages 12 to 26 at MacArthur Park. By establishing a community council comprised of youth and adults, MPCI will advocate for a stronger smoke-free park policy at MacArthur Park. The community council will participate in the Changing Communities Series, an 8-week civic engagement and leadership curriculum that focuses on advocacy, community organizing, and public speaking. In addition, the community council will also participate in substance-free engagement activities, such as community clean-ups, positive messaging murals, and arts showcase event. Through youth leadership training, advocacy, and community enrichment activities, MPCI aims to mitigate the substance use issue faced by the Westlake community and promote a safer, cleaner, and more vibrant MacArthur Park.

MacArthur (Park) Youth Protecting And Reviving Community (MYPARC) is our youth community council that meets virtually every Monday at 4:00-5:00 p.m. to discuss ways to make MacArthur Park a better environment for the community. Participating youth will gain advocacy, leadership and research skills, as well as participate in community clean-ups and fun virtual group activities. Youth can earn community service hours, as well as promote a healthier environment for the Westlake community.

If you are interested in learning more about the project, please feel free to reach out via email at MPCI@kyccla.org and follow us on Instagram @mpci.myparc