My Time at Watts 

Avery F., Fall 2023 

This semester, I remotely interned for the volunteer coordinator of the Watts Labor Community Action Committee (WLCAC). I specifically worked in their Environmental Justice branch, the Better Watts Initiative (BWI). I have been working extensively on the WLCAC’s illegal dumping campaign. This has taken the shape of researching dumping’s impact on public health and crime, attending community meetings, working with council members, talking to LA department of Sanitation, and developing marketing strategies. I have helped coordinate community clean-ups as well as formulate long term preventative measures. I have also used my skills in GIS to develop dynamic maps of current illegal dumping spots in Watts, as well as an app that Watts residents can submit points to ensure accuracy. On a broader level, I have used spatial analysis tools to research and better understand the connections between pollution, lead levels, cancer rates, asthma rates, and educational attainment in Los Angeles. This research has given me a much deeper insight into how environmental racism manifests itself in underserved communities. I was also able to leverage the positions I have at USC to teach students about environmental justice, and the specific work of the WLCAC. I have been able to network with researchers, politicians, activists, and so many others. Moreover, I was given the opportunity to attend the Solutions for a Sustainable Future Conference where my boss was able to connect me with professionals making incredible changes in their respective industries. Overall, I am beyond grateful for my time at the WLCAC and am excited for the opportunities that arise from the skills I have gained here.