The effort to complete funding, planning and eventually construction for a Ray And Joan Kroc Corps Community Center (Kroc Center) in Long Beach took another step forward this week with the unveiling of a new website in support of the project, which is also being run with help from the Salvation Army. The site is longbeachkroc.org, and includes videos, renderings and tons of information about the upcoming project.
Currently, the project is still vying for funding in this tough economic climate. The planning has been completed and organizers hope to break ground soon. The project has drawn passionate support from very visible members of the community, including the continued support of 6th District Councilmember Dee Andrews – the Kroc Center will be constructed in his jurisdiction.
In April, Long Beach’s three most visible education leaders – LBUSD Superintendent Chris Steinhauser, LBCC President Eloy Oakley and CSULB President F. King Alexander – spoke in staunch support of the project and the effect is will have on the community, providing valuable learning resources to Long Beach youth. And in June, Councilmember Andrews brought in professional football player Willie McGinest and rapper Snoop Dogg to publicly lobby for the project. Both grew up near the proposed project site.
Kroc Center organizers have organized several “listening tour” stops throughout the community to spread information and receive feedback from residents. The next stop will occur on October 1, with the Central Long Beach Project Area Committee) at the Union Bank on Atlantic Avenue. The session will begin at 6:00pm.