Celebrate with Us
For 100 years, El Nido Family Centers has empowered thousands of Angelenos to break cycles of poverty and achieve their dreams. Established in 1925 by the National Council of Jewish Women as a small program providing meals and respite care for undernourished girls, El Nido has evolved into a cornerstone of community support.
Today, we offer over a dozen holistic, wraparound services that help young people and families thrive—from cradle to career and beyond.
Since 1925, we have stood by our clients through the numerous crises that have shaped Los Angeles—from civil unrest, wildfires, and earthquakes to economic downturns, a global pandemic, and shifting government policies. No matter the challenge, we have shown up for those who depend on us and remain steadfast in our commitment to continue doing so for the next century. You’ll find us wherever we’re needed most. We work across Los Angeles County, with current programs focused on high-need communities in South LA and the San Fernando Valley. As Los Angeles evolves, so do we, ensuring our services and programs meet the changing needs of the communities we serve.
A Legacy of Impact
For a century, El Nido Family Centers continues to be at the forefront of transforming lives in Los Angeles, empowering young people and families to overcome challenges and achieve their dreams. Our programs address the root causes of poverty and instability, offering pathways to lasting change. Take Jacqueline’s story:
“My son and my community fuel my passion for service—both have given me so much, and I want to give back. With the unwavering support of my El Nido family, who believe in me every step of the way, I’m on the path to becoming a licensed social worker in California.”
Jacqueline joined El Nido as a teen mother determined to finish school. Through our Teen Family Services and educational resources, she graduated, pursued higher education, and today, with the help of an El Nido scholarship, is on track to earn her Master of Social Work. She also manages a resale shop at Pacoima’s Farmers Market—a project launched by El Nido in 2023 to address food insecurity and foster economic opportunity.
Stories like Jacqueline’s reflect our broader impact:
Career Support:
Training academies, mentorship, and career exposures prepare youth for success
Scholarships:
Since 1992, we’ve awarded 670 scholarships—including 28 in 2024—to help youth achieve their educational goals.
Innovative Programs:
Initiatives like our certified farmers market and vocational kitchen create economic opportunities and life skills.
Resilience-Building:
98% of at-risk teens in our programs remain gang-free, and 85% of clients report reduced trauma symptoms.
Centennial Events
Celebrate with us all year long at a series of special events honoring 100 years of impact and community. Stay tuned for new events as we continue to commemorate this milestone!
Centennial Gala
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2024
Location: Vibiana’s, Los Angeles
Join us for an unforgettable evening of elegance and inspiration. Celebrate 100 years of El Nido’s impact with dinner, entertainment, and stories of transformation.
Join Us: The Centennial Campaign
As we look ahead to our next century of service, El Nido Family Centers is proud to launch the Centennial Campaign. This historic initiative will empower us to expand our programs, invest in our facilities, and create even more pathways to opportunity for young people.
Your support will help us pilot proven workforce development programs, strengthen our partnerships, and create welcoming, future-ready spaces for our clients.
Thank You to Our Centennial Supporters
Contact Us
To learn more, discuss giving options, or make a gift, please contact: Carter Calhoun, Development Director,
at 818-830-3646 or ccalhoun@elnidofamilycenters.org
For media inquiries, please contact:
Carter Ashforth, Communications Manager, at cashforth@elnidofamilycenters.org
The Vision Forward
We are proud to be launching an ambitious Life & Workforce Readiness Initiative—putting young people on the path to success. By helping youth discover their potential, acquire critical skills, and access life-changing opportunities, we are creating pathways that will help build a stronger Los Angeles for generations to come.
Our vision includes:
Providing More Pathways
Scholarships, vocational training, and career exploration programs that open more doors.
Building More Partnerships
Collaborations with community colleges, employers, alumni, and community organizations to expand workforce opportunities.
Breaking Down More Barriers
Connecting youth to certifications, apprenticeships, and trade programs that remove obstacles to success.
Fostering
Well-being
Comprehensive wraparound support, including mental health and family resources, to stabilize lives and ensure growth.