Message from the President

Welcome to the April issue of ECF IMPACT!

This is a busy month at ECF! We have a lot to celebrate, many activities across our programs, and much work ahead as we kick off a most important Annual Campaign to ensure the ongoing success of our service participants.

ECF friends know of our mission and commitment over 78 years to provide the highest quality services to young children, students, and adults with special needs, but many may not realize that our ability to provide these transformative services relies upon meeting our Annual Campaign and other goals throughout each year.

While the state and regional centers provide some funding for services for individuals with developmental disabilities, ECF must fill a challenging gap of $2 million each year to provide the quality services we pledge to our clients that make a critical difference in their lives That’s why your gift to our Annual Campaign is so important; it is an investment in the future of every one of the nearly 4,000 clients we serve each year.

This month we are also celebrating some ECF VIPs—Very Incredible People--our Direct Support Professionals, who work skillfully with dedication and passion every day in service to the children and adults who rely on us.

We are once again this year thrilled by the announcement of a national prestigious and well-earned recognition for one of our exceptional direct service professionals, ECF Work Readiness Specialist Mark Wong Campoy. Read on for the exciting details!

We are also honoring another group of incredible people this month—our ECF business and community partners, at the 8th Annual Exceptional Partners Luncheon. This event recognizes partners who are creating opportunities for individuals with special needs that advance a more inclusive and empowered community.

Talented and highly skilled staff; innovative and committed partners—along with all our dedicated donors, volunteers, and passionate advocates—this whole group together powers our programs and makes the difference that transforms lives.

On behalf of the families and individuals we serve, I honor all of you, with deepest thanks.

Warmly,

ANCOR, the leading advocacy voice nationwide for providers that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has announced the winners of the 2024 Direct Support Professional of the Year Awards, the premier recognition for professionals in the field.

ECF is thrilled that Mark Wong Campoy, Work Readiness Specialist for ECF Exceptional Works, has been honored with the 2024 DSP of the Year Award for California.

ECF Supporters Tee Off to Raise Funds for Children and Adults with Special Needs

The California sun smiled on golfers at the 2nd Annual ECF Golf Benefit held on March 19th at the beautiful Oakmont Country Club! 

Golfers enjoyed a beautiful day on the green with lots of fun contests and prizes, followed by a lively cocktail hour, auction and dinner—all raising critical funds for ECF’s programs and services for children and adults with special needs.

You can make a difference by donating to our Annual Campaign!

For 78 years, ECF has changed the lives of thousands of people with special needs. To honor our exceptional history, our generous board of directors will match every Annual Campaign gift. Your gift will go twice as far to help young children, students and adults with special needs learn, grow and succeed. Take advantage of this special opportunity to double your impact -- give today at www.ecf.net/donate.

Triplets Enzo, Liam and Zoe Navarro donned adorable caps and gowns recently to celebrate their graduation and successful transition from ECF's Early Start program in Arleta.

The triplets joined ECF’s family when they were approximately 8 months due to premature birth and overall developmental delays with sensory issues. They received in-home child development services, occupational therapy services and physical therapy services from Early Start Arleta therapists. They also joined ECF’s center-based program at 2 years of age.

Shop For a Cause! Jenni Kayne Shopping Day to Support Students with Special Needs

Save the date! On April 25th, Jenni Kayne is hosting a shopping event for Autism Awareness month at her store in the Brentwood Country Mart from noon to 6 PM. When you purchase her modern luxury essentials for your wardrobe and home, Jenni will donate 15% of your purchase amount to help students with special needs at the ECF Kayne Eras School. Spend $500 and you’ll receive a gift from Jenni. Purchases are in-store only. RSVP to brentwood@jennikayne.com.

ECF Art Centers San Pedro Gallery May the 4th Tribute Show

Calling all Star Wars fans! Join us for a special art show and tribute to a galaxy far, far away! View artwork by ECF artists April 29-May 4 at ECF Art Center San Pedro Project Space gallery, 1125 S. Gaffey Street and join us for a Closing Ceremony on May 4th at 10 am – Noon. Hope to see you there, and . . .  May the 4th be with you!

ECF IN THE COMMUNITY

Join Us at the 2024 Epilepsy Walk, April 28^th!

ECF will be at The Epilepsy Community Fair—part of the Epilepsy Walk Los Angeles Sunday, April 28th at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena from 8:30 am – 12:30 pm. It’s a great event raising awareness and providing information and resources for families affected by epilepsy. We hope to see you there! For more info visit EpilepsyWalkLA.org..

EXCEPTIONAL PARTNERS

ECF is grateful to The IMA Foundation for their generous support for the objectives of our ECF Kayne Eras School and the Experiential Learning Program.

VISIT US!

Want to learn more and see our programs in action? If you would like to visit and tour one of our program sites, please reach out to Lauren Rayner, Chief Development Officer, at lrayner@ecf.net or 310-773-9410 to schedule.

We look forward to seeing you!