The Dodgers Dreamfields unveiling hit home to the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation’s own Breanna Orozco, manager of grants and initiatives at LADF.
As an Inglewood native, Orozco’s roots run deep in the community. Her childhood home was located just a stone’s throw away from Edward Vincent Jr. Park. While she didn’t play softball or baseball, she fondly recalls playing soccer on the once timeworn “Champions Field.” It was there, surrounded by friends, that she found a sense of belonging. She also took ballet classes in the Veterans Memorial Building at the park.
However, she recalls a time when the park wasn’t the safest place to play, particularly during rainy days when the dirt field transformed into a muddy quagmire. Fast forward to Saturday and witnessing the extensive renovations and the dedication poured into the park filled her heart with joy.
Having the privilege of being part of the team that revitalized Edward Vincent Jr. Park and brought forth the two new Dodgers Dreamfields has been a life-changing experience for Orozco. As an Inglewood native, she knows the profound impact these spaces can have on the community. As a product of the opportunities provided to her, Orozco made it her mission to be part of a team that creates similar opportunities for the youth of today. The chance to witness firsthand the transformation of her childhood park with the Dodgers Dreamfields 59 and 60 into safe and inviting spaces for play is an experience she cherishes deeply.
Orozco sees the revitalization of Edward Vincent Jr. Park as a pivotal moment for the Inglewood community.
“Inglewood is rapidly becoming the epicenter for professional sports teams in Los Angeles, and it is crucial for the youth to witness investments being made in their own safe spaces, paralleling the glamorous stadiums just a short distance away,” Orozco said. “They deserve the same vibrant lights and pristine green grass that their sporting idols enjoy. Inglewood, known as the “City of Champions,” can begin molding those champions by committing to providing equal opportunities to play for all.”
The newly renovated Dodgers Dreamfields at Edward Vincent Jr. Park will cater to children aged 5–12 and teenagers from the Dodgers Dreamteam and local high schools. The upgrades are extensive, encompassing a new playing surface, grass, enclosed fields, upgraded dugouts, state-of-the-art irrigation systems, new pitchers’ mounds, bases, home plates, and LED scoreboards mimicking those at Dodger Stadium. These enhancements ensure that aspiring athletes of all ages can play the game they love in a safe and inspiring environment.
Funding for these two Dodger Dreamfields was provided by the City of Inglewood, Kershaw’s Challenge, Security Benefit, FundPlay/LeagueApps, Annenberg Foundation, NIKE, Delta Air Lines, LA84 Foundation, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Helen & Will Webster Foundation, and The Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Foundation. With the addition of Dodgers Dreamfields 59 and 60, four (4) Dodgers Dreamfields now exist in the City of Inglewood, serving the growing demand for baseball and softball in the area.
To learn more about the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation or to see how you can support visit Dodgers.com/Gala, or like and follow them on social media @dodgersfoundation.
