Community
Impact

Throughout The 3252's history, being a supporters' union extends beyond attending games, and includes representing the city and giving back to the people who make it up. The union has worked with several non-profits in the past, but one has remained a frequent collaborator since its inception. Athletes in the Making, a small “mom-and-pop” organization dedicated to teaching the basic fundamentals of sports to children and creating sporting opportunities for kids across Los Angeles, was founded by Victor Murillo in 2014 and has hosted several fundraising events alongside the union.  

It all began when Victor received an Instagram message from Josef Zacher, the first President of The 3252, who wanted to organize a kickball tournament as one of their first community events. What was once a direct message became a lasting relationship between both organizations as the two host several events each year throughout several Los Angeles neighborhoods. 

"There's 3,252 people all with the same mindset to keep giving back. So, it's kind of…I mean, it's ridiculous," said Murillo.

For Murillo, it remained clear that this group had a genuine desire to make an impact, and as time progressed, The 3252 has continued their work with Athletes in The Making, hosting several events such as casino nights, 5k runs, and free soccer clinics for children in neighborhoods ranging from Exposition Park to the Inland Empire. Despite changes in leadership over the years, as well as the coming and going of new fans, the union continues its mission statement of giving back to the community. 

"The same passion that they exhibit right there at a game is the way they feel about giving back and everything like that. It’s just who they are," Murillo said. 

For many supporters, remaining involved within the community has since become a second nature as their participation in events remains just as important as gameday attendance. Outside of their work with Athletes in the Making, each supporter group has hosted their own community events dedicated to assisting a dedicated cause. In the past, groups have hosted several timely events such as backpack drives for young students during back-to-school season and toy drives during the holidays. With members dedicating their time towards giving back to the city, it has created a new sense of family for many as they continue to work together to create something much bigger than traditional sports fandom.

“So we have different committees, we have a community, we do like a lot of like fundraising or events, you know, the outside of just tailgating that kind of brings us all together and drives us closer. So again, it gives you more the sense of family and purpose,” said Black Army Member Refugio Ortiz.

What once began as a group of tailgating fans has since grown into a community, where members both young and old can create a greater impact on the city they represent, adds longtime Cuervos member Ramon Ruiz. He was initially attracted to the club for its welcoming environment, but what kept him involved was the driven push to embrace the Los Angeles community. 

“Once you become a supporter, you're not only supporting your team, you're supporting your city, you’re supporting your neighborhoods, and you do what you can.” Said Ruiz.

Community service remains an essential part of the union's mission statement, a quality proven within documented Form 990 filings as all leaders, both past and present, received no compensation for their efforts. With several events held each year, what started as an Instagram message would later become a lasting relationship where fans can give back out of the goodness of their hearts and a love of their city.