30-Day Challenge for Kids in Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, California, kids have the opportunity to earn Disneyland tickets through a 30-day challenge aimed at tackling crime in their neighborhoods.
The “ECMS Community Improvement Challenge” kicks off on Valentine’s Day. The child who reports the highest number of crimes will receive two complimentary tickets to Disneyland, along with a $50 gift card of their choice. According to FOX 11, participants can report suspected illegal activities using the Gardena CA app via Los Angeles’ MyLA 3-1-1.
This initiative was introduced in response to local grievances regarding issues like homeless encampments, illegal dumping, crime, and graffiti in the suburban areas of Harbor Gateway and Gardena. The program will serve as a pilot, with different local schools participating each month, beginning with 6th graders from Environmental Charter Middle School.
Students from the school shared their thoughts with FOX 11 reporter Hailey Winslow about the problems they’re eager to address.
One student expressed, “I want to deal with all kinds of vandalism.” Another chimed in, “I want to work on how to fix it and prevent injuries from potholes and broken cement.” A third participant noted, “I love research, so this challenge will help me learn more about issues happening around the world.”
An anonymous adult lauded this initiative, saying, “They’re superheroes and they don’t have to wait. They’ll understand the value of making a difference.” He added that, over time, such efforts would require less motivation, as individuals naturally remember the benefits of their actions.
Crime is not unfamiliar territory in Los Angeles. For instance, in January 2026, a group of thieves reportedly stole copper wiring from street lamps, resulting in an entire block going dark. The city also faces significant waste management challenges, with one resident mentioning to FOX 11 in December 2025 that she left her job to concentrate on cleanup efforts.
Attempts to reach the Los Angeles 311 call center and Gardena’s Department of Public Works for comments were unsuccessful.
