El Pollo Loco® Partners with WNBA Star Arike Ogunbowale to Support School Sports Teams Nationwide

Core Insights - El Pollo Loco is collaborating with basketball star Arike Ogunbowale to support school sports teams through the "Bring the Fire" contest, aimed at providing essential equipment to young athletes [1][3] Group 1: Contest Details - The "Bring the Fire" contest, funded by the El Pollo Loco Foundation, will award five school sports teams with $2,000 each to enhance their gear, equipment, or facilities [2] - The contest is open nationwide and will run until February 19, 2026, with winners announced in mid-March 2026 via El Pollo Loco's Instagram [2] Group 2: Community Impact - Arike Ogunbowale emphasized the importance of school sports in building confidence and community among young athletes, highlighting that lack of resources should not hinder participation [3] - The initiative was inspired by a recent visit to Lancaster High School, where Ogunbowale and El Pollo Loco surprised the girls' basketball team with a $10,000 donation to support their program [3] Group 3: Company Overview - El Pollo Loco is recognized as the leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant chain in the U.S., operating over 500 locations across nine states and internationally in the Philippines [5] - The company has been awarded by USA Today as a "Best Restaurant for Quick, Healthy Food" for two consecutive years, reflecting its commitment to quality and inclusivity [5] Group 4: Foundation Mission - The El Pollo Loco Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity focused on providing food and necessities to those in financial need, reinforcing the company's commitment to community support [6]