By Los Angeles County Politics (LACP)
In a packed auditorium at Avalon Gardens Elementary School last night, the Avalon Gardens Community Association celebrated its annual Night of Thanks, bringing together residents, elected officials, and community leaders in a testament to grassroots political engagement in one of South Los Angeles’ most historic neighborhoods.
John Davis, president of the Avalon Gardens Community Association, described the event as an opportunity to give back to a community that has sustained itself for over half a century.
“It was giving back to the community. Having a time for community. Just take a break. Come out, relax, have some catered food,” Davis said. “I’m very grateful for the community, for the job they have done, supporting people, doing the things, keeping their community intact.”
But the event was more than a celebration. Davis made clear that maintaining strong relationships with elected officials remains crucial to addressing the neighborhood’s most pressing concerns.
Among those in attendance were representatives from Supervisor Holly Mitchell‘s office, Assemblymember Mike Gipson‘s office, and State Senator Laura Richardson‘s office, as well as officials from the sheriff’s department, public works, regional planning, and parking enforcement.
“I don’t want them politicians coming in November asking for votes. I want them in the community, be active in the community on a daily basis,” said Davis. “The politicians here, they’ve been here more than one time, and they get involved in the community that they serve.”
Top Community Priorities
When asked to identify Avalon Gardens’ most pressing issues, Davis outlined three clear priorities:
Infrastructure: Street repaving remains the top concern. “Getting these streets done and street lighting repaired,” said Davis, referring to deteriorating roadways throughout the neighborhood.
Economic Development: Davis stressed the importance of creating local employment opportunities. “Making sure that folks can live in the community but work in the community, and bringing jobs in the community,” he said, citing workforce development programs including AI training as potential solutions.
Homelessness and Services: Addressing the needs of unhoused residents with comprehensive support remains critical. “Making sure the folks who are unhoused are housed. And also, when I say unhoused, I mean making sure that while we get a house, we have the resources to get jobs so they can work. And for those who need mental health support, we provide solutions. And for drug abusers, those who are on the street with drugs, make sure they can go and get the help they need to fight that addiction,” said Davis.
Assembly Candidate Emphasizes Grassroots Engagement

Also in attendance was Dr. Ayanna Davis, a candidate for Assembly District 65. Born and raised in nearby Compton in a single-parent household, Davis has deep roots in the community she seeks to represent.
Davis earned her doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership from USC’s Rossier School of Education, and currently serves as a public school principal at LAUSD and sits on the Compton Unified School District Board of Trustees.
“I feel it’s important to be on the ground in the district and attending these kinds of events,” Davis said, explaining her commitment to grassroots engagement. “I’m an integral part of this district. I grew up here, I’ve worked here, and I understand the challenges families face every day.”









