About The Award

OUR MISSION

The Anne & Kirk Douglas Playground Award supports and encourages Los Angeles public school communities in creating playgrounds that will be the keystones of campus revitalization and give the city's children the fulfilling experiences and opportunities they deserve.

HISTORY

In 1997, learning of the deplorable condition of Los Angeles' public school playgrounds, Anne Douglas saw an opportunity. She discussed her desire to fix the problem with her husband, legendary actor Kirk Douglas.  The Douglases soon enlisted the help of Anita May Rosenstein, a fellow philanthropist and lifelong friend, then-Mayor Richard Riordan, and their foundations.  Together, they established the Anne & Kirk Douglas Playground Award to provide assistance to the Los Angeles Unified School District to enhance their schools' outdoor and recreational spaces.

Reaching Our Goal!

On May 28, 2008 we reached our goal of renovating 400 playgrounds. The dedication took place at Lillian Street Elementary School where we celebrated with the Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenneger, Superintendent of Schools, David L. Brewer III, as well as School-Board members and long-time supporters of the Award. We want to thank all the parents, teachers, administrators and LAUSD Maintenance and Operations personnel who made these playgrounds a reality for so many children of Los Angeles.