Revitalizing the Smith Park Aquatic Center: A Commitment to Community Wellness
As part of my commitment to supporting the families and children of Pico Rivera, I am proud to have led the development and implementation of the Pico Rivera “Play Pass” program. This innovative initiative was created to ensure that every child in our community has the opportunity to participate in sports, regardless of their family’s financial situation.
The “Play Pass” program offers a Registration Fee Subsidy for eligible Pico Rivera families, helping to offset the costs of enrolling their children in football, cheer, soccer, basketball, or baseball. The program provides up to $150 in subsidies for income-eligible youth, allowing them to engage in recreational and youth sports programs that are vital to their physical and social development.
I firmly believe that no family or child should have to struggle to afford registration fees. Sports play a crucial role in teaching teamwork, discipline, and resilience—values that benefit not just the individual
participants, but our entire community. It takes a village to raise our children, and through programs like “Play Pass” we can come together to support one another in that mission.
The success of the Pico Rivera “Play Pass” program has not gone unnoticed. It was recognized and awarded by the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) for best practices in sports equity programs. This accolade is a testament to our city’s dedication to making sports accessible to all children, ensuring that every young person in Pico Rivera has the chance to thrive, both on and off the field.
Through the “Play Pass” program, we are not just providing financial assistance—we are investing in the future of our community by fostering an environment where all children can succeed and grow.
Whether they dream of scoring the winning goal or simply making new friends, every child in Pico Rivera deserves the chance to play.
