Summer Night Lights is an annual program implemented by the Mayor's Office of Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD) that started in 2008. The program focuses on reducing violent-related crime in areas with high gang-related crime rates. Summer Night Lights hosts after-hour events in the city's 32 public parks. Park hours are extended until midnight from Wedneday to Saturday during the summer. Violence is reduced through programs such as mentoring, athletic activities, cultural enrichment and by providing meals to individuals who partake in the program. Athletic activities such as basketball and softball can be enjoyed at no cost. In addition, the program provides barbeques, music and even a skateboard ramp. 

At-risk youth are also provided with employment opportunities or professional development programs. These individuals undergo training during the program, which enables them to be away from gang-related crime. Summer night lights reduced about 47% of gang-related homicide in Los Angeles. The program usually run from late June to early August. Parks are open from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.  

 

 

 

 

For more information about LA's hazardous waste centers, please visit: http://www.lacitysan.org/solid_resources/special/hhw/safe_centers/