#la28

#la28

(Emma McIntyre / Getty Images for LA28) John Slusher shouldn't admit this. When the former Nike executive signed on to oversee LA28's commercial operations last year, he looked at the private organizing committee's lofty financial goals with some concern. Sales were "incredibly slow." There was momentum around the first Olympics in L.A. in more than 40 years, but not many results. Yet. Weeks after celebrating his one-year anniversary with the group responsible for organizing and delivering the 2028 Games, Slusher and his team delivered a $2-billion present.

"We are not waiting until 2028 to tap into Los Angeles' resilience, generosity and grit. This unique initiative channels the spirit of volunteerism long before the opening ceremony, and we have the chance to create a model for future host cities, as well as a legacy for Los Angeles and the Games," LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover said in a statement. "Our hope is that this program can be a catalyst for Angelenos to give back to the city they love, unite across communities and help build a stronger city together."