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On August 8, 2016,
Korean Churches for Community Development (KCCD), with other local community organizations and leaders, attended the
Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors meeting for the first stage development of a community center in Koreatown, Los Angeles.
With more than 100 residents and community members attending, many were wearing T-shirts and carrying signs to show support.
Those present from KCCD and who spoke included
KCCD President Hyepin Im
,
KCCD Board Co-Chair Rev. John Jongdai Park
,
KCCD Board Secretary Sandra Ko
,
KCCD Board Member Daniel Lee
, and KCCD staff.
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Community Organizer
Caroline Sim
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Many within the local community commended the Board of Supervisors, most notably
Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas for listening to the community's advocacy efforts for a community center in Koreatown. "We thank you for your leadership in bringing these major redevelopment projects into reality - including the prospect of a community center, " said
Hyepin Im, KCCD President. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," organizer
Caroline Sim told supervisors.
The major planned development in Koreatown was approved during the meeting, with three county-owned sites to be redeveloped, in which one site will include the community center.
Hyepin Im, KCCD President, highlighted research that shows the positive impact and well-being recreational and social activities that a community center can provide and is so needed by especially youth and seniors in the community.
However, the community expressed their concerns regarding the allocation size of the community center, and felt that it was not enough for the residents of Koreatown, which has one of the densest populations in Los Angeles.
The current project has allocated 12,500 sq. ft., but community advocates have been pushing for a 40,000 sq. ft. development. Over 30 residents and local leaders shared their personal perspectives in bringing a larger space that will properly service the Koreatown area.
Rev. John Jongdai Park, KCCD Board Co-Chair stated, "Two years ago, YMCA opened their community center building with the goal to obtain 4,000 members within 5 years of opening. However, YMCA recently passed their 2 year anniversary with over 12,000 members! Such data shows there is a great demand in having more community space."
Several media outlets have covered the meeting, which include the
Los Angeles Times and Korean media. To view full articles, please click on the links below.
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