Local Hearts invited to be grand marshal in Long Beach Martin Luther King Jr. Parade

This past weekend, Local Hearts Foundation had the privilege to participate in the 32nd Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade in Long Beach! We are incredibly grateful to Vice Mayor Dee Andrews for inviting us to be one of the six grand marshals. To be considered alongside the other invitees who share the same passion for community service as we do was an honor.

The Vice Mayor and Sixth District Councilman was also in the parade and marched down Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue with other participants. While passing our part of the crowd, he shouted over the music to some young children “I told you I wasn’t going to let it rain on your parade!” and shook others’ hands, wishing them a “Happy MLK day!”

It was an unforgettable experience to be among so many individuals representing many different cultures in the audience as well as in the parade. Other highlights of Saturday included band performances from a few local high schools, and the open air celebration at Martin Luther King Jr. Park. Attendees enjoyed live entertainment, food/merchant vendors, and informational presentations about the history of civil rights.

Everyone joined together to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy of “peace, freedom, and community building,” things we strongly stand for at Local Hearts as we continue to put our mission into action.

A very special thanks to our donors, volunteers, and sponsors. Thank you to Nick Diamond for his support, attendance, and providing his 1977 Bronco - allowing us to ride in style. Special thanks to Long Beach local, Professional Skateboarder Boo Johnson, for his attendance and support. We would especially like to thank Vice Mayor Dee Andrews and his office staff for the honor and for all of their help. This would not be possible without the ongoing support of those who believe in us!