Unity of South Central: Ex LAPD Officer Starts Daycare For Local Youth
LOS ANGELES, CA—Bernard Robins grew up amidst violence and gangs in L.A and joined the Los Angeles Police Department with the intention of effecting positive change as a Black police officer. However, his efforts to improve the culture of policing encountered significant pushback, especially from other officers. Frustrated with the system after being racially profiled by fellow LAPD officers, last year Robins’ abandoned his initial approach and decided to make a difference from outside the force.
In 2023, Robins launched a daycare, Unity of South Central, providing affordable childcare & summer programs for youth living in South Central and the larger South Los Angeles area. Inspired by his mother, an entrepreneur who had previously established her own daycare, his parents entrepreneurial spirit instilled in him a desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
Unity of South Central takes a unique approach to childcare, with a focus on empowering Black youth. The program not only highlights black historical figures on a weekly basis but also prioritizes mental health and incorporates meditation practices. Through an individualized curriculum, the dedicated staff aims to address academic and social struggles specific to each child, providing them with a more personalized learning experience and a less rigid classroom environment.
One of the biggest things that separates us from other childcare programs throughout the city is the emphasis we put on black excellence and black Unity. From the posters the children see on the wall to the lessons they learn and the overall culture, the children will have a deeper understanding of what it means to love themselves and our people collectively.
Bernard Robins
Robins believes that black children, and all Black individuals, possess unique gifts that, if nurtured and given the opportunity, can positively impact the world.
His dedication to helping young individuals find their identities has been evident throughout his career. Even during his time in law enforcement, Robins participated in backpack and toy drives, and mentored numerous young men in his free time.
Parents interested in enrolling their children in Unity of South Central can reach out by direct messaging the center on Instagram (@unityofsouthcentral) or by calling or texting (323) 940-9837.
The daycare center prides itself on cultivating a sense of Black excellence and unity among its young attendees. Furthermore, the staff creates tailored curriculums for each child, assessing their academic and social needs to facilitate their individual growth and development.
“Ultimately, because of my background and unique perspective, I believe I can help equip our next few generations with the tools they need to not only survive, but thrive and create better cultural practices and safer communities for our people.
Bernard Robins
