Watts/Century Latino Organization

The Watts/Century Latino Organization (WCLO) was founded in 1990 by community activist Arturo Ybarra in response to rapidly changing demographics in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Watts. As more Latino families moved into the area, community leaders believed that it was necessary to establish an institution dedicated to empowering and amplifying the voices of Latino residents.

In addition to increasing Latino involvement within Watts, WCLO works to build relationships between the city's Latino and African American residents, despite long-standing cultural and linguistic barriers. WCLO offers extensive and comprehensive programs, including homeownership and foreclosure counseling, leadership training, community and immigrant empowerment, adult ESL classes, adult high school diploma classes, and school safety initiatives. Additionally, WCLO is home to a thriving community garden that provides area residents with access to free, organic produce. With its wide range of programs and projects, WCLO works to uplift the community, encourage civic engagement, and build cultural bridges.