Renata Simril on Rebuilding Joy: The Vital Role of Parks and Playgrounds in Healing Los Angeles

With thousands of families across LA County experiencing loss of homes, schools, communities, and beloved places, VX News shares this piece by Renata Simril, President & CEO of the LA84 Foundation who serves as President of the LA City Recreation and Parks Commission. Here, Simril addresses the emotional and mental health impacts of the Eaton & Palisades fires and the sanctuary offered by parks and playgrounds as Angelenos undertake the hard work of not just rebuilding physical infrastructure, but healing from widespread trauma.

In the wake of the devastating wildfires that ravaged Pacific Palisades and Altadena, Los Angeles is faced with more than just the challenge of rebuilding physical structures. The trauma left in the wake of such destruction runs deep, affecting the mental and emotional well-being of individuals and communities alike. Yet, amidst the ashes, our parks and playground stand as beacons of hope and healing, especially for our children.

The sports and play we find in parks and on school playgrounds have a unique power to lift our spirits, reconnect us with one another, and remind us of the resilience we share. Whether it's a game of soccer, a group yoga session, or simply a walk through the trees, these spaces offer much-needed moments of release, grounding, and laughter.

But these spaces are more than just places for recreation; they are sanctuaries where connections are made, where joy is found, and where we can collectively heal. In a city that often feels defined by its hustle and bustle, parks provide a rare and invaluable sense of calm, offering a place for reflection, connection, and renewal. In the aftermath of disaster, we need these spaces now more than ever.

As Los Angeles moves forward, the importance of investing in these shared spaces cannot be overstated. LA84 Foundation and Play Equity Fund is committed to ensuring that rebuilding efforts focus not just on infrastructure, but on our collective well-being. We will continue to be champions of the idea that parks and playgrounds are vital to both physical and mental health, and that they serve as a lifeline in times of recovery.

As we all catch our breath and shift our efforts on rebuilding these two communities, let’s remember the power of parks and playground in bringing us together—whether for a quiet walk, or a joyful game. The process of healing is long and complex, but parks offer us the simple, profound promise of joy, connection, and hope.

 Join us in this important work—because together, we can rebuild not just our parks and playground, but our sense of community and resilience.

Renata Simril is President and CEO of the LA84 Foundation and also President of the LA City Recreation and Parks Commission