The Los Angeles Lakers and East West Bank kicked off their “Season of Giving” initiative last month by hosting a dinner for several non-profit organizations at Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center.
Former Lakers players Robert Horry and Matt Ryan were in attendance to pass out food to guests from The Boys and Girls Club of Pasadena, Mixed Roots, Watts Skills Academy, the Boys and Girls Club of West San Gabriel Valley, and HOLA.
“It was a no-brainer for me to come out here and give back some of my time,” Ryan said. “To have some of the community organizations here and be able to serve some kids and their families was a great opportunity.”
Along with eating a feast catered by Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que, there were several carnival games provided for the youth to participate in.
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“I think it’s important to do, I think it changes the world of these kids,” said Kimberly Perry who brought her two sons to the event. “A lot of these kids don’t have the opportunity to even participate in something like this.”
The Lakers also raffled off basketballs signed by Horry and Ryan. Along with carnival games, guests could take photos at a photo booth and take photos with one of the Lakers’ Larry O’Brien Trophies.
“I took some pictures with the trophy, played the games to win candy and I also took pictures with basketball players,” said Jayden Broussard,13, who is a member of HOLA. “I’m enjoying my experience.”
During the event, Horry joined the guests in the photo booth to take pictures.
“It’s really good because the kids love the Lakers, it’s Lakers city,” said Adrea Cifuentes of HOLA. “A lot of us can’t afford tickets, so this is super cool that they get to come and see some of the players and see a lot of Lakers stuff.”
Along with the meal, all guests received a free backpack and shirt.
“Everybody’s having fun, we had music playing, serving really good food,” Ryan said. “I’m with a legend right here Robert Horry so it’s a great night for everybody.”
