History

YPO began in 1950 by Ray Hickok in New York. In 1951 YPO expanded to form four chapters located in Chicago, Metro New York, Pittsburgh and the Twin Cities. The unique value of YPO caught on quickly and the following year, seven more chapters were formed including; Cincinnati, Indiana, New England, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Wisconsin and Southern California.

The Los Angeles chapter today started as the 1952 Southern California Chapter and changed its name to the Los Angeles Chapter in 1960. The growing business community in Southern California prompted the formation of more chapters including; the San Gabriel chapter in 1960 and a chapter that took the retired Southern California name was formed in 1969.

Today the Los Angeles Chapter is the oldest and largest of 13 Southern California chapters.

YPOLA is made up of a diverse range of leaders who operate businesses of all types and sizes. YPOLA alumni are far too many to mention and many of the greatest contributors to our chapter are business leaders you may not have heard of. This brief sampling of current and past YPOLA member companies shows the diversity and strength of our membership.

Bobrick Washroom Equipment, Inc.
Brighton
Cushman Realty Corporation
First Interstate Bank
Franklin Mint
Guitar Center
KB Homes
Mattel
Northrup Grumman Corporation
Paramount Studios
Telemundo
United Online
Wells Fargo Bank