By Anuoluwapo Bamiro, Contributing Writer
On August 21, 2024, the LA Rams hosted a charity event called Kickoff for Charity. The event was organized by two beneficiaries of the LA Rams’ charity organization, who shared their inspiring stories about how the organization had positively impacted their lives. They expressed how, despite their circumstances, they believed they could succeed in both their sports endeavors and in life, with the LA Rams cheering them on and helping them along the way. The event was truly inspiring and highlighted how much the team is giving back to the community they chose to join.
As someone who wasn’t initially a fan of the Rams moving into my neighborhood, it was eye-opening to learn about the significant efforts they are making to become active members of this community rather than simply taking it over. The team has been working with and hosting events for schools in Inglewood, South Central, and Watts, pouring resources into communities that have often felt forgotten or left out.
With SoFi Stadium located in Inglewood, I initially harbored negative feelings toward the Rams, believing they had transformed my city into an overly trafficked downtown extension. However, after attending the event and witnessing how much the Rams give back to the community surrounding the stadium, I was impressed by the team’s commitment to Inglewood and the neighboring cities of LA.
The Kickoff for Charity event provided players the chance to interact with fans, offering them a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Attendees also had the opportunity to see the team members off the field, including some they may not have previously known.
Kyren Williams and Kobie Turner stopped by for brief interviews before the team boarded the plane for their final preseason game of the year.
Kyren Williams stated, “This day is great, this organization is great, and you know, for us players, this is our third year doing it. Just being around the people of Los Angeles Rams, the efforts in the community, on the field, and whatnot—personally, it’s something I look forward to. Being able to meet new people, new businesspeople, and the people that support everything we do.” He added, “This is when I know the season’s close—when this event kicks off, I know we’re only a couple of weeks away from starting the whole thing.”
Kobie Turner remarked, “It’s really cool to be able to kick off LA Rams’ fundraising for this year. To see firsthand the impact of the efforts that we, as players and the organization, are making in the community—it’s truly encouraging. Listening to the stories shared by the two hosts of the morning was really inspiring. It’s great to see the work we’re doing as players and the work that the organization is doing outside in the community. It’s making a real difference.” He also emphasized, “The community is a very important piece, and the organization makes sure we understand that, ensuring players are actively involved. While we’re all, of course, excited for the season, this event allows us to focus on the community, hear their stories, connect with different sponsors, and understand their perspectives as well.”
The event was well-organized and raised several thousand dollars for the Rams and their non-profit efforts. I’m excited to see how much more the LA Rams will contribute to the community and what they will bring to the city this season.
