The Dodgers and the Catching Hope Foundation will visit Marquez Charter Elementary School in Pacific Palisades Friday to unveil new art installations and host a “recess takeover” aimed at uplifting students as the campus continues to recover from wildfire damage.
Dodgers catcher Will Smith, co-founder of the Catching Hope Foundation, is expected to join team and school officials at the 10 a.m. event, which will include interactive activities for students designed to promote connection and community, organizers said.
The event will feature custom-designed artwork intended to “brighten the campus and restore a sense of community for students,” according to a statement from the team and Catching Hope Foundation.
The school was destroyed in the January 2025 Palisades wildfire, displacing hundreds of students, teachers and staff. Since returning in the fall, students and staff have been learning in temporary structures as rebuilding efforts continue.
Students will also take part in a “recess takeover” with Smith, featuring activities designed to “inspire connection and joy,” the statement said.
Participants are also expected to include Kristin McCowan, vice president of community and government affairs for the Dodgers, and Sadie Jefferson, executive director of the Los Angeles Unified School District Education Foundation.
The event will take place at the school, 16821 Marquez Ave.
The Catching Hope Foundation supports underprivileged youth by providing resources and programs focused on leadership, self-advocacy and self-sufficiency.