All Peoples Community Center

History of All Peoples Community Center


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Tune into this episode to delve into the remarkable history of All Peoples Community Center, a cornerstone institution providing "Real Solutions. Real Heart. Real Service" in South LA since 1942. Discover how All Peoples was founded on the site of a former Japanese-American institute during World War II by Reverend Dan and Frances Genung, with a revolutionary vision to create a safe haven and unifying place for people of all ethnicities, races, and religions in a segregated era.

Learn how the center adapted over 80+ years of continuous service to meet the changing needs and demographics of the South LA community, from serving over 500 Japanese-American families returning from internment camps to becoming a welcoming hub for Mexican-American immigrants and adapting to a largely Latino neighborhood. Hear about its crucial role during times of crisis, remaining open as an emergency relief site and distributing food during the 1965 Watts Riots and the 1992 Civil Unrest.

Explore key milestones that shaped its growth, such as the formal separation of the church and center in 1964, and its designation as a City-funded FamilySource Center in 2016. This designation doubled its annual revenue and fueled significant programmatic growth, allowing it to serve over 6,000 to 6,600 people annually in its 20,000-square-foot center through comprehensive, integrated programs. We'll also touch on the inspiring 40-year leadership legacy of Saundra Bryant, who began at the center as a child program participant and went on to become its Executive Director.

Join us to understand how All Peoples, through its enduring mission of empowering individuals and promoting community, respect, and self-determination, has remained a trusted pillar and beacon of hope, proving that "Real Solutions, Real Heart, and Real Service" build a stronger community across generations. 

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All Peoples Community CenterBy All Peoples Community Center