South Coast AQMD’s Working with Communities volunteer program partnered with Habitat for Humanity Greater Los Angeles for an initiative that warmed hearts and brightened futures: the Playhouse Build Program.

Over three days, South Coast AQMD’s headquarters buzzed with the enthusiasm of more than 150 staff volunteers. These individuals came together to build and decorate 11 children’s playhouses, demonstrating their commitment to community engagement. Each playhouse, crafted with love and care, was destined for an environmental justice community in South Coast AQMD’s jurisdiction.

The recipients of these playhouses were eager to share them with the children in their communities. At Warwick Square Preschool in Santa Ana, the delivery of the playhouse was perfectly timed. Their previous playhouse had been damaged by high winds and the children were ecstatic to receive a new colorful one. In Los Angeles, the Foundation for Early Childhood Education, Inc. witnessed a heartwarming scene as children lined up, cheering with excitement as their playhouse was delivered. L.A. Care in Wilmington also received a playhouse just in time for a holiday party, where it was unveiled with excitement from the children and celebrated with a social media post.

Other playhouse recipients included Monte Vista Elementary School, Stanford Avalon Community Garden, Plaza de la Raza, City of Cudahy, City of Coachella, Akoma Unity Center, and El Jardín de la Salud (Garden of Health) Community Garden.

To learn more about our Working with Communities program and stay updated on upcoming events, please visit South Coast AQMD's Working with Communities page.