Our History

The problem we have today arises as a result of changing trends in this fast-paced life. Our youth today are experiencing high levels of academic problems, peer pressure, bullying, parental pressure, and/or poverty. All of the above can result in depression, dropping out of school, juvenile delinquency, health problems, drug, and alcohol abuse. It is our duty as adults to play a positive role in the lives of children and it is our responsibility to protect them.

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In 1929, the Salvation Army established a community playground and it was heavily used by the neighborhood youth.

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In 1942, seeing that the growth of the community and the increase in crime warranted a larger program, the L.A. Red Shield Boys Club was organized and set up in a small wooden building at the rear of the playground. By 1947, the program was flourishing and had far outgrown its small facility on Ninth Street. 

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Red Shield experienced tremendous growth and in 1950 opened its first building on a pair of lots on 11th Street. With the collaboration of radio stations, newspapers, donors, and the community, Red Shield was able to build a gymnasium, game room, weight room, cardio room, swimming pool, computer lab, library, dance studio, art room, and performing arts theater.

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In 2008, with the help of talented and gifted volunteers, L.A. Red Shield was able to offer the first music classes focusing on guitar and voice. Over the years, new classes in piano, violin, and drums were added to the curriculum. Today, the trumpets, violins, guitars, vihuelas, guitarrones, and voices of Mariachi Rayos del Sol fill our hallways with traditional and modern melodies of cultural music. With your collaboration, we plan to continue improving the community, connecting people, and creating a positive impact on the lives of thousands of people who pass through our doors.