Just Us & Peace: Census 2020
The Prelude
After raising $818k for the National Urban League & NAACP LDF, SJL Co-Founders Max & Alex were introduced to MLB Pitcher Keone Kela by a mutual contact who saw shared passion for social impact between them. Instantly, Keone partnered with the SJL to begin planning our 1st ever community initiative focused on Census 2020.
Our SJL team had no prior event experience, budget, funding, product inventory, or sponsorships. Further, we faced a tight 6-week Census deadline & extensive COVID restrictions.
Our Approach
We partnered our initiative with a South LA Census Support event hosted by Bobby Kobara, Deputy Director for Census 2020 at the LA Mayor's Office. Working with Bobby, we confirmed a location in South LA, city permits, and COVID-safety guidance/services including Free COVID testing through CORE.
Given budget & timing constraints, we focused on connecting Non-Profit & Corporate organizations who were able to add value as event partners/sponsors. Working with Keone, we learned the value of working with athletes/artists to channel their influence into impact by securing contributions from the many brands, teams, and organizations who already invest in their talent.
Through Keone's network/agency and our value-driven delivery model, we were able to far exceed the expectations that we had set at the start of our 6-week journey.
Our Impact
- Free COVID Testing
- Census 2020 Devices & Support
- Voter Registration & Education
- 250 Clippers Drawstring Swag Bags with PPE Masks & Hand Wipes, Jump Ropes, Earbuds for Virtual Learning, Gatorade Sports Bottles, Pittsburgh Pirates Hats, Pencil Packs, Water Bottles
- SJL x Cote Ouest Collab Socks & Shirts
- Hand-Written Inspirational Message from SJL
- 250 Clippers Drawstring Family Bags
- Packaged Rice & Beans
- Protein Bars
- Energy Drinks
- Free Haircuts & Braids from Local Barbers
- Free Hot Meals from Local Caterers
- Free Professional Photos