Operation Bootstrap LA is a community development organization founded in 1965 following the Watts Riots to help provide job training and resources to assist South LA residents in the aftermath of the civil unrest that greatly impacted the community.

Watch : The Story of Bootstrap (PBS - Lost LA - Season 4 Episode 6) The traditional narrative of the Watts Uprisings suggest that businesses fled from the chaos, but the story of Operation Bootstrap suggests a wholly different story. Through their work, Operation Bootstrap uplifted the community and played into a larger narrative of the national civil rights movement. Host Nathan Masters speaks with activist Marva Maxey, Lou Smith's wife, and David Crittendon.  https://www.pbs.org/video/operation-bootstrap/

Watch :   Lost LA  (Complete Episode) (PBS - Season 4 Episode 6)  - The story covers the The Watts riots (also known as the Watts Rebellion or Uprising) left South Los Angeles in social and economic distress. In its wake, Operation Bootstrap, a non-profit community-based organization was formed, with hopes of facilitating change through community empowerment. This episode explores the lasting impact of one Operation Bootstrap initiative, the Shindana Toy Company. https://www.pbs.org/video/shindana-toy-company-changing-the-american-doll-industry-sjf4ow/