In the summer of 1984, Los Angeles became the epicenter of global unity and sporting excellence as it hosted the Games of the XXIII Olympiad. Beyond the athletic feats and international camaraderie, the 1984 Olympic Games left an indelible mark on the city and its people, shaping a legacy that continues to inspire and uplift communities around the world. At the heart of this remarkable achievement were visionary leaders, dedicated volunteers, and the transformative work of the LA84 Foundation.
Led by then-Mayor Tom Bradley, the City of Angels welcomed the world with open arms, showcasing its rich cultural tapestry and vibrant spirit. His vision for Los Angeles as a city of diversity and tolerance laid the groundwork for an event that transcended cultural and geographical boundaries.
Mayor Bradley’s unwavering belief in the potential of Los Angeles propelled the city to pursue the Olympic bid, rallying civic, community, and business leaders alike in a shared vision of greatness.
Under the stewardship of Peter Ueberroth, the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee introduced an innovative financial model that would redefine the way Olympic Games were funded. Leveraging corporate sponsorships and television rights, Ueberroth and his team turned a profit of over $232 million – a remarkable feat that set a new standard for Olympic success.
Their entrepreneurial spirit and strategic foresight not only ensured the financial viability of the Games, but also laid the foundation for the sustainable growth of future sporting events.
Yet, behind the scenes, it was the tireless efforts of the LA Olympic Organizing Committee staff and 33,500 volunteers that brought the vision of the 1984 Olympics to life. From coordinating logistics to providing hospitality, these unsung heroes worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth operation of the Games, leaving an indelible impression on athletes and spectators alike.
As the world marveled at the athletic prowess of Carl Lewis, Mary Lou Retton and Joan Benoit Samuelson, the cultural impact of the 1984 Olympics was equally profound. Los Angeles, with its diverse communities and rich heritage, took center stage, celebrating its unique identity on a global platform.
Through vibrant performances, art exhibitions, food and cultural events, the Games became a melting pot of creativity and expression, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
Yet, perhaps the most enduring legacy of the 1984 Olympics lies in its commitment to building a better world through sports. A portion of the surplus funds generated from the Games was reinvested in the local community through the establishment of the LA84 Foundation.
Founded by esteemed civic leaders including Yvonne Brathwaite Burke, Maureen Kindel, Rafer Johnson, Gil Vasquez, and Ueberroth, the foundation embarked on a mission of helping youth become “life ready through sports.”
For nearly four decades, the LA84 Foundation has been a beacon of hope for millions of young people, providing access to sports programs, coaching clinics, fields of play, and leadership initiatives. By harnessing the power of play, the foundation has transformed countless lives by instilling values of teamwork, perseverance, and resilience in the next generation of leaders.
As we look to the future the LA84 Foundation is committed to deepening its impact and modernizing its Olympic legacy. By building a movement for play equity, the foundation is ensuring that all young people have equal access to the transformative power of sports, play and movement, regardless of their background or circumstances. By breaking down barriers, providing opportunities and expanding resources, the foundation will continue to serve as a champion for equity and justice.
And as we pause to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the 1984 Olympics, it is a moment to thank and honor the visionaries, leaders, and volunteers who made it all possible. Their dedication and passion left an indelible mark on the City of Los Angeles and beyond, shaping a legacy of unity, inspiration, and hope that will endure for generations to come.
Renata Simril is President & CEO of the LA84 Foundation
