2022 ECF Legends Gala Tribute Journal

CELEBRATION WEDNESDAY | JUNE 15 6-9PM

LEGENDS GALA

ECF L EGENDS GAL A

WELCOME

HOST COMMITTEE

Josh Haskell, ABC 7 Master of Ceremonies

Nancy & Leslie Abell

Scott D. Bowling, Psy.D. Departing President & CEO, Exceptional Children’s Foundation

Azita Karimkhany Fatheree

Veronica Arteaga, LCSW President & CEO, Exceptional Children’s Foundation

FUND A NEED Monty Zimmerman, ECF Board John Jarjoura, ECF Associates Board Nick DiNieri, Auctioneer

LIVE AUCTION

Cameron Garemani Kristin & Noyan Garemani Monica M. Jaramillo Mary Kayne Deven Kumar Karen & Peter Locke

Nick DiNieri, Auctioneer

Lynne & Larry Rabineau

LEGENDS OF IMPACT RECOGNITION

Kim Shore

ENTERTAINMENT Kevin Nealon

Shelley & Grady Smith Jocelyn Tetel

ECF L EGENDS GAL A

ENRICHING THE LIVES OF CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH LEARNING DIFFERENCES SINCE 1946 ECF was founded in 1946 by a group of parents and community activists seeking to create a day training program as an alternative to institutional care for their children and other individuals with developmental disabilities.

Over the years, ECF’s services expanded to meet the changing needs of its target population, developing early intervention programs for infants and toddlers as well as residential, work and day programs for adults. In 2008, ECF merged with Kayne Eras Center, adding a K-12 school and a comprehensive Mental Health Program to its services.

Today, ECF has become the only organization of its kind in California, offering a continuum of lifespan services for children and adults with developmental disabilities and other special needs.

As a regional service provider, ECF supports more than 5,000 children, adults and their families at 15 service sites, in clients’ homes and in community settings throughout L.A. County. We are dedicated to providing a lifetime of services for clients so that they can live as independently as possible. Our clients are proof that with the right support, anyone can grow and succeed.

MISSION The mission of ECF is to provide the highest quality services for children and adults who are challenged with developmental, learning, and emotional barriers — empowering them to reach their greatest potential.

VISION ECF envisions a society in which people of all abilities are valued and included in educational, social, employment and residential settings.

BOARD OFFICERS Steven P. Beltran, Esq. Senior Partner, Beltran Smith, LLP Chairperson Anil Ranavat Chief Financial Officer, Homebound, Inc. First Vice Chairperson/Vice Treasurer Malcolm McNeil, Esq. Partner, Arent Fox Second Vice Chairperson/Secretary Thomas Hopkins Vice President, U.S. Bank Treasurer Ellen Turner Principal and Vice-President – Operations, Turner Techtronics, Inc. Assistant Secretary Leslie B. Abell, Esq. Attorney, Leslie B. Abell, A Professional Corporation Immediate Past Chair

BOARD MEMBERS Fred Alavi Managing Director, EH National Bank Lisa C. Anderson Client Advocate Russell Ching, Esq. Attorney, Stonesifer & Chong Scott Cooper, CMC Principal, Pegasus Squire, Inc. Azita Karimkhany Fatheree Monica M. Jaramillo Co-Founder, The Label Agency Mary Kayne Community Volunteer Kimberly Lewis, Esq. Ervin, Cohen & Jessup, LLP Larry Rabineau, Esq. Attorney, Law Offices of Larry Rabineau

Eugene Siciliano President, Western Management Associates Shelley I. Smith, Esq. Consultant, GrayShell Consulting Ralph Walter, D.Phil, CFA Visiting Fellow, Kellogg College, Oxford Leonard Washington Digital Media and Business Operations Consultant Montgomery Zimmerman Vice President, Client Strategist, BNY Mellon Wealth Management Paul K. Zimmerman Independent Businessman, Imperfect Partners

BOARD DIRECTOR EMERITUS Suzanne Kayne

BOARD OF GOVERNORS Barbara Cull Founder, Kayne Eras Center Monte Markham Jerry Moss SHARE, Inc. Honorable Dickran Tevrizian Robert D. Shushan, Ed.D. President Emeritus — In Memoriam

EXECUTIVE STAFF Veronica Arteaga, LCSW President & CEO Paige Newbold Chief Administrative Officer Erin Goldfarb Chief Development Officer Sonhui “Sunny” Robilotta Chief Financial Officer Maryam Hamedaninia Chief Programs Officer ECF L EGENDS GAL A

WELCOME FROM THE BOARD CHAIR Dear Friends, Welcome to ECF’s 2022 Celebration of Legends Gala! This exceptional evening, we gather to celebrate our 76th year of impactful service to our mission – advancing and empowering the lives of generations of children and adults challenged with developmental, learning, and emotional barriers.

Our history of impact has been made possible thanks to the commitment of our inspired, innovative and deeply dedicated staff leadership, and our ever-expanding network of individual supporters, and community partners. Together in mission and service, ECF has grown from the vision in 1946 of a group of concerned parents into California’s most comprehensive provider of services for children and adults living with learning and developmental challenges. As ECF has grown, so, too, has our service impact throughout the Los Angeles community, as our programs and supports help thousands each year discover and develop their potential, increase their independence, and live enriched lives.

This evening, joined in celebration by our friends new and old, we honor and induct our exceptional ECF Legends of Impact – benefactors, staff and ECF service recipients who have had legendary impact on our mission progress. We look forward to recognizing these beloved foundational members of our ECF family with the second annual ECF Legends of Impact Awards this evening.

I thank all of our special honorees, and all of you gathered with us tonight, for joining with us on this ongoing journey – advancing the torch of compassion, respect, empowerment and inclusion that illuminates pathways of possibility and transforms lives.

Steven P. Beltran, Esq. Chairperson

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PRESIDENT & CEO

VERONICA ARTEAGA LCSW, PPSC, President & CEO

Veronica has more than 15 years of experience leading and providing social services.

As ECF’s third President and CEO, she is responsible for a complex nonprofit organization with a $27 million operating budget, 15 service sites throughout Los Angeles County, 375 employees, a 20-member board of directors and the provision of service to more than 5,000 children and adults with special needs and their family members annually.

Veronica is a licensed clinical social worker and is pupil personnel services credentialed (K-12 counseling), and is a graduate of the Executive Leadership Institute. She holds a Master of Social Work from University of Southern California, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz.

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GALA SPONSORS ICON

Miriam Muscarolas & Grant Abramson

Nancy & Leslie Abell

Lynne & Larry Rabineau

Helen & Jack Nethercutt

U.S. Bank

Paul K. Zimmerman

TABLE SUPERSTAR

Armanino LLP

Suzanne & Ric Kayne

California Wellness Foundation Catherine Brown & Michael Brost EH National Bank

LUMINARY

Faros

Shelley & Grady Smith

Azita & George Fatheree Insperity

IDOL Kristin & Noyan Garemani Hollywood Park Casino Kazanjian Jewelry Gallery

Mary & Stephen Kayne Karen & Peter Locke Ralph Walter Jeffrey Wilson & Deidre Powell

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EMCEE

JOSH HASKELL Josh Haskell is a general assignment reporter for ABC7 Eyewitness News.

He joined the ABC7 team in July 2017 and was born and raised in Los Angeles.

Josh came to ABC7 from ABC News in New York, where he worked as a reporter and field producer for six years. Josh spent 18 months on the 2016 campaign trail, first based in Iowa for the caucus and then part of the ABC News team following Hillary Clinton’s campaign. While at ABC, Josh also covered the 2012 presidential election and breaking news stories including the Boston Marathon terror attack and the Newtown school shooting. Josh was part of the team who earned a Peabody Award for the network’s coverage of Superstorm Sandy.

Before joining ABC News, Josh served as a general assignment reporter for KSNW-TV, the NBC affiliate in Wichita, Kansas. Josh is a graduate of the University of Michigan and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

Josh loves covering his hometown of Los Angeles, a city he has so much passion for whether it’s exploring and eating his way through every neighborhood or cheering on his beloved Dodgers/Lakers.

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ENTERTAINER

KEVIN NEALON

Emmy and SAG-nominated actor, comedian, and author Kevin Nealon is best known for his nine-year stint as a cast member of NBC’s Saturday Night Live, and has received critical acclaim for his role in the Showtime series Weeds.

Kevin most recently starred on the CBS-TV comedy series Man With A Plan, produces and hosts digital series Hiking with Kevin, and tours his stand-up globally.

Nealon’s self-produced, edited, and hosted web series Hiking with Kevin is exclusively available on his YouTube channel of the same name. In the series, Kevin interviews his A-list celebrity friends on hikes throughout the country.

Most recently, Nealon starred in CBS’s Man With a Plan during all four seasons. Kevin’s extensive television credits include Globen Globe and SAG-nominated Weeds, the titular voice role of Glenn Martin, DDS, two critically acclaimed stand-up specials for Showtime, and a number of appearances on Monk, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Still Standing and more. His extensive film career includes projects such as Anger Management, Eight Crazy Nights, The Wedding Singer, Happy Gilmore, Just Go With It, You Don’t Mess with the Zohan, Joe Dirt, Daddy Day Care, Roxanne, and Grandma’s Boy. As one of the longest running cast members on NBC’s Saturday Night Live (1986-1995), Nealon created some of the show’s most memorable characters; his recurring role as an anchor on ‘Weekend Update’ helped make the sketch a show staple. In 1988, he earned an Emmy nomination as part of the SNL writing team.

Currently, Kevin resides in Los Angeles with his wife and son.

JACK & HELEN NETHERCUTT ARE PROUD SPONSORS OF THE

EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION

Nethercutt FULL PAGER

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ECF PROGRAMS

YOUNG CHILDREN

The Early Start program provides early intervention and educational services for children from zero to three years of age who are developmentally delayed or disabled, as well as support for their families.

We serve children challenged with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, speech and language impairments, traumatic brain injuries and many other disabilities or delays.

Our center-based services offer an inclusive, enrichment-based program for both children with special needs and typically developing children in a warm, family-friendly preschool setting at two licensed centers. We support each child’s individual needs in a blended classroom where they learn and play with children with diverse needs and abilities. Much like a traditional preschool, our program provides socialization activities, outdoor play, healthy meals and field trips, along with occupational, physical and speech therapy for children who qualify. With the help of our licensed therapist, we integrate language enriched and functional skill activities into our classroom curriculum.

Educators in our home-based services provide early childhood education along with parent education in the home on a weekly or monthly basis. After assessing a family’s needs, our staff creates a personalized service plan that can include early education, parent education, occupational/speech/physical therapies, medical assessment and medical services.

We also provide speech and language therapy for children with language processing disorders, hearing loss, language delays, stuttering and voice or articulation disorders. licensed speech therapists help each student learn to communicate more effectively in all areas of their lives.

To help ensure each child’s success, our family support services teach families how to better advocate for their child and how they can participate in the services their child is receiving from ECF. Services include parent support groups, legal aid referrals, social work support, immigration assistance, crisis counseling, marriage and family counseling, mental health and medical care and on-site emergency food pantries.

All Early Start services are provided by culturally competent and bilingual staff who can effectively work with families speaking Armenian, Farsi, Russian, and Spanish.

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ECF PROGRAMS

K-12 STUDENTS

The nonpublic ECF Kayne Eras School (KES) helps K-12 students develop the social, intellectual, emotional and academic skills they need to learn at their fullest potential.

From elementary school to high school and beyond, our programs empower students to explore and achieve, increasing their academic and social skills and helping them find joy in learning.

Each classroom is staffed by a credentialed teacher and highly skilled assistant. Our selfcontained elementary and middle-school classrooms vary by student need in order to effectively service students with emotional/behavioral challenges and specific learning disabilities, as well as students with autism spectrum disorder.

High school students work toward earning a high school diploma. Classes follow common core standards for academics, with individualized instruction to meet each student’s ability level. Homeroom teachers serve as case managers who communicate with families and

members of each student’s educational team of teachers, therapists, administrators, service providers and support staff, who collaborate to help students meet graduation requirements and provide transition planning, college readiness and vocational preparation.

KES’ excellent Enrichment activities provide opportunities for students to succeed and express themselves both in and outside of the classroom. Activities include performing and visual arts, technology education, financial education, culinary education, vocational training, self-defense, team sports and community service.

ECF’s Therapeutic Services program offers a range of interventions and treatments to encourage the healthy development and growth of students and their families. Students receive counseling to help them manage their emotional and psychological challenges so that they can reach their highest academic potential, improve their social relationships and learn to feel good about who they are.

KES also provides speech/language and occupational therapy, as well as mental health services to both KES and non-KES students and families.

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ECF PROGRAMS

ADULTS

ECF provides an array of programs and services to help adults with special needs reach their personal, residential and employment goals.

ECF believes that every adult who wants to work deserves the opportunity to earn a paycheck.

Too often, adults with developmental disabilities face barriers to employment due to lack of experience and specialized training.

Exceptional Works is a continuum of employment services that help adults find employment in the community. Participants in our Exceptional Packaging Solutions program gain paid work experience with packaging and assembly contract work. Exceptional Employment Solutions helps participants prepare for and find community-based employment. Once hired, they can receive ongoing job coaching from ECF to support them in their new role. ECF proudly partners with over 70 local businesses to provide a wide variety of employment opportunities in industries including retail, computer software testing, clerical, warehouse operations, culinary services and janitorial.

ECF also partners with NTMA Training Centers of Southern California to give adults the opportunity to become Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machinists, learning how to

program, set up and operate CNC machines to produce complex precision parts and tools for the aerospace, military, medical and other industries.

Our renowned Art Centers Program provides fine arts training in a variety of mediums, combined with case management and life skills training, at five locations throughout Los Angeles. Art produced by ECF adult artists is showcased at our Downtown Art Center Gallery as well as juried art shows and is also available for purchase at www.artecf.org.

The Developmental Activity Center help participants strengthen independence, social skills and self-determination, all with respect for each person’s ability level. On-site practice is reinforced through community integration experiences including volunteering, trips to grocery stores and cultural events.

Participants in Exceptional Community Connections enjoy meaningful volunteer opportunities while integrating into the community.

Individual Pathways provides in-depth transitional plans for adults, particularly young adults, to help them access community resources and gain more training and skill development to enter the job market, or engage in community volunteering.

The Residential Services Program provides housing, life skills training and support for adult clients, ranging from independent living with minimal assistance to fully staffed group homes providing medical care.

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BENEFACTOR

CATHERINE BROWN

Longtime donor Catherine Brown-Brost became connected to ECF through her late husband, David Brown. David’s younger brother, Wally, received services from ECF for many years before his death in 2008. Catherine and David, along with their company, Kingsbury Uniforms, were benefactors for more than 35 years before David’s passing in 2015.

After selling her company, Catherine and her husband, Michael Brost, are enjoying an active and adventurous retirement. They share a love for skiing, beach volleyball, scuba diving, sailing and travel, with plans for an upcoming trip to Croatia and Slovenia. They look forward to viewing the total solar eclipse over the ocean in Mazatlan in 2024.

In partnership with Michael, Catherine continues her generous tradition of helping children and adults with special needs. For her exceptional legacy of giving, we honor Catherine Brown-Brost as an ECF Legend of Impact.

BENEFACTOR

HELEN NETHERCUTT

Helen’s philanthropy originated for a very personal reason: Her son Trent was born with developmental disabilities. Because few educational options existed for children with autism in the 1970s, Helen decided that she would do whatever she could to ensure that Trent and children like him had opportunities to learn and grow with dignity.

Fortunately, her quest for quality special education ultimately led her to Barbara Cull, founder of ECF’s Kayne Eras School. Impressed with Barbara’s philosophy that every child can learn, Helen enrolled Trent in the school. Soon, he had gone from barely speaking to a vocabulary of 50 words. Helen expressed her gratitude in 1999 by helping fund the construction of the Kayne Eras School’s K-12 campus, which now includes ECF’s headquarters.

When Trent graduated from high school, he moved into ECF’s Residential Program to learn how to live more independently. Helen proactively supports the needs of Trent and his five housemates, from purchasing a van for medical appointments and community events, to providing meals most days, and catering holiday dinners. Helen quietly ensures that her son and the other residents can enjoy their home by maintaining the garden and keeping up with repairs.

Helen and her husband, Jack Nethercutt, have been able to make significant investments in ECF as a result of the success of Jack’s family business, Merle Norman Cosmetics. “We give to have the most impact on the most people,” she says. “All people should give back – whether they have money or time – to children and adults who need extra care. Being able to help others gives you a feeling of self-worth and accomplishment in life. ” We think Helen is the embodiment of her company tagline: “Take control of your destiny, love what you do, and look great while doing it.” For her unwavering commitment to promoting the welfare of others, we are pleased to name Helen an ECF Legend of Impact.

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BENEFACTOR

THOMAS SCHULTE

Thomas Schulte is a Senior Partner at Armanino LLP. One of ECF’s longtime business partners, Armanino has provided both financial and volunteer support for two decades.

Tom’s personal involvement with ECF began after meeting CEO Scott Bowling many years ago through the late Carl Terzian, a member of ECF’s Board of Governors. “Scott had recently joined ECF, and I was impressed by his leadership skills and his gravitas,” said Tom. “He also told a good story about ECF. Scott and I have sort of grown up together in leadership roles, and I am still impressed by him.”

For many years, Tom led Armanino’s Southern California Assurance Department as well as its Nonprofit Industry practice. Currently Armanino’s Southern California Growth Office partner, Tom serves clients and prospects in the Southern California Not-for-Profit wgroup.

Tom currently chairs the audit committees for the Grammy Museum, Our House, and the Santa MonicaMalibu Education Foundation. The former chairman and treasurer of Easter Seals of Southern California, Tom was also on the board of governors of UCLA Extension. He is a former member of the finance committee of GuideStar and has served as chairman or treasurer for the California Association of Nonprofits, the Los Angeles Business Council, the Los Angeles County and California chapters of Mother Against Drunk Driving, the San Fernando Valley Girl Scouts Council, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland).

A graduate of the University of California-Santa Barbara, Tom is a former UCSB Accounting Alumnus of the Year and has been named one of the “Most Influential People of Los Angeles” by the Los Angeles Business Journal every year since 2017.

Tom’s biggest enjoyment is his family. He and his wife, Shelby, have a 13-year-old daughter, Lilah (who everyone knows about as he talks non-stop about her). They live in Playa Vista with their two dogs.

Along with other Armanino staff, Tom recently volunteered for a day of painting at an ECF program site.

“Spend a day at any of the ECF locations, and you will walk away with a smile on your face and a renewed outlook on life,” he says.

For his exceptional service, both professional and personal, to ECF and other charitable organizations, we are pleased to honor Tom as a Legend of Impact.

BENEFACTOR

JOCELYN TETEL

Jocelyn Tetel is the Vice President of Advancement at the Skirball Cultural Center. Joining the Skirball in 1997, she oversees the Advancement Department which is responsible for advancing the Skirball’s mission through fundraising, strategic planning, government relations, membership, and public affairs. She works closely with the CEO to fundraise for Skirball’s general operations, temporary exhibitions, public program initiatives, and capital campaigns.

Jocelyn has been a long-time volunteer in the Los Angeles community and has focused on improving the lives of children at risk. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of Extraordinary Families and Women’s Reproductive Rights Assistance Program. She is a member of Visionary Women, Everychild Foundation, Fellows of Contemporary Art and the Photographic Arts Council and is involved with numerous other arts and cultural organizations. Prior to the Skirball, Jocelyn enjoyed a 14-year career as a sales executive in the insurance industry at Johnson & Higgins and Chubb LifeAmerica.

Jocelyn has a BA in psychology with minors in management and sociology from the University of New Hampshire.

Jocelyn has been involved with Exceptional Children’s Foundation for nearly 30 years. First as a volunteer for the ERAS Center before joining their board and then continuing as a Trustee of the Kayne ERAS Center, after its merger with Exceptional Children’s Foundation, she joined the board of ECF where she focused on fundraising initiatives and governance. She remains a steadfast volunteer to ECF and a committed donor and ECF Angel.

For her exceptional professional and personal commitment to helping ECF fulfill its mission, we are pleased to honor Jocelyn Tetel as a Legend of Impact

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BENEFACTOR

JOSEPH TILEM

During the many years he served as a member and officer of ECF’s Board of Directors, the Honorable Joseph N. Tilem watched ECF grow from its small beginnings on Martin Luther King Boulevard to the prestigious campus it now occupies on Machado Road.

Mr. Tilem’s initial involvement with ECF was inspired by his brother Allen, who participated in ECF’s Art Center Program for much of his adult life.

Mr. Tilem’s proudest accomplishment as ECF Board Chairman was his selection of Dr. Scott Bowling to succeed the beloved Dr. Robert Shushan, founder of ECF. “Dr. Bowling has successfully led the organization to its achievement as the leading institution of its kind in California,” said Mr. Tilem.

A graduate of the New York State Maritime Academy, Mr. Tilem served as an officer on American Merchant ships and as an officer in the United States Naval Reserve. In 1948, he came to California to attend UCLA. A member of the first class of the prestigious UCLA School of Law, he has practiced law in and around Beverly Hills for 68 years.

Mr. Tilem was elected to the Beverly Hills City Council and was Mayor of the City of Beverly Hills.

Over the many years of his long life, he also served as President of the Southern California Political Action Group; a member of the Board of Directors and President of The Maple Counseling Center in Beverly Hills; a member and Vice President of the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce; President of the Beverly Hills Municipal League; and a member of the Board of Directors and Vice President of Sinai Temple, among other positions.

Mr. Tilem was married to the late June Elden Tilem and the late Jean Berenson Tilem. He has three children, four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was an avid stamp collector and enjoyed skiing, whitewater rafting and traveling the world. He currently lives in Beverly Hills with his longtime friend and companion, Ann Saltzman.

For his years of board service and support, and his civic contributions to the Beverly Hills community, ECF is pleased to name Joseph Tilem a Legend of Impact.

LEADERSHIP

FRED ALAVI

ECF Board Member Fred Alavi was introduced to ECF about 20 years ago by his good friend and mentor, Carl Terzian, who was serving on ECF’s board of governors.

“I am truly passionate about ECF – its mission is very close to my heart,” said Fred, who is the managing director for EH National Bank. “My son, Alexander, encouraged me to be active with the special needs population. He is now a graduate of UC Berkley, living independently and employed in the tech industry.”

For the past 20 years, Fred has served on various ECF board committees and developed relationships with leadership and fellow board members, as well as ECF staff. “I admire their professionalism in providing the most innovative services for children and adults with developmental disabilities,” he says. “My goal is always to help make things happen and to bring new friends and supporters to ECF. I look forward to the next generation of leaders.”

We are pleased to honor Fred Alavi as a Legend of Impact for his years of dedication to ECF, for being a champion of ECF in the community, and for his commitment to introducing new supporters to our mission.

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LEADERSHIP

RALPH WALTER, D.PHIL.

Ralph Walter is a retired partner at Kayne Anderson, where he was chief operating officer and treasurer. His post-retirement ‘job’ is as a visiting fellow at Oxford College, where he researches parliamentary by-elections.

Prior to its merger with ECF, Ralph served as a board member of the Kayne Eras Center, as well as its interim CEO and President, and continues his board service on the ECF board.

Ralph is a founding member of the Research Centre in Victorian Political Culture at Keble College, Oxford. He has served on numerous non-profit boards, including his undergraduate college, Knox; CASA LA; California Historical Society; Zócalo Public Square; The Fulfilment Fund; and the Executive Dean’s Advisory Board at Indiana University.

For his decades of exceptional leadership and dedicated service, we are pleased to honor Ralph Walter as a Legend of Impact.

STAFF

KAREN GILMAN

For 33 years, Karen Gilman has worked as a social worker at ECF Early Start program, which provides early intervention services for infants, toddlers and their families. The core of her effort is individual, family and group counseling, with an emphasis on weekly parent support groups at each Early Start site.

Karen is proud of her advocacy work with families on behalf of their children, enabling parents to maximize their children’s rights, benefits and services. Her career has included memorable appeals won for Social Security benefits, in-home supportive services, Regional Center services and immigration cases. Karen is happy that collaborations with Big Sunday, Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration and the Skirball Cultural Center’s Noah’s Ark exhibit provided enhanced social and recreational opportunities for ECF’s youngest clients.

During her tenure, Karen helped expand the social work team by creating a field work placement for social work graduate student interns, which fulfilled goals of expanding the capacity of Early Start’s mental health program.

Karen says she is forever appreciative of the mentoring provided by ECF staff members Elinor Szekunda, Maryam Hamedenania, Gabriela Kayacan and Lori Sivazlian. “I’m grateful for my husband Mike’s support of my work throughout the years, and I’m looking forward to my retirement in August,” she said.

In her free time, Karen treasures spending time with family and friends. She cherishes her two grandchildren. She also enjoys volunteering with the Women of Temple Israel of Hollywood, the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council and the Larchmont Village Neighborhood Association. Karen is grateful to have been named Social Worker of the Year by the National Association of Social Workers, California in 2012.

“And it is an honor to be named an ECF Legend,” she said.

We are pleased to name Karen Gilman a Legend of Impact in recognition of her deep compassion and tireless advocacy for countless Early Start children and families.

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STAFF

HELEN LEWIS

In 1972, Helen joined the Exceptional Children’s Foundation as a rehab clerk at PAR Services for adults with special needs. She didn’t intend to stay – business was her passion, and she wanted a job in banking.

During her first week at ECF, she met a program participant named Early Davis. She quickly realized that he needed someone to listen to him. Early had lived in a series of foster homes in his youth, and he was looking forward to being able to make his own decisions about where he wanted to live, what he wanted to eat and what he wanted to wear. Early went into ECF’s Janitorial Training program, where he did well and gained independence.

After working at ECF for six months, Helen knew ECF was her calling. Throughout her career, she served in numerous positions ranging from executive assistant to the Director of Independent Life Skills to Manager of Adult Activities. Helen served ECF with tremendous grace, care and leadership.

Helen retired after 42 years of exceptional service. “ECF and the clients they serve taught me a valuable life lesson – people matter,” she says.

For choosing to devote her life to ECF and helping change the lives of countless adults with special needs, we are pleased to honor Helen Lewis as a Legend of Impact.

STAFF

FRANCZISKA STEAGALL

Over her 34-year career, Francziska Steagall changed the lives of countless students by developing a robust Enrichment program that continues to distinguish the ECF Kayne Eras School from other nonpublic schools.

Hired as a part-time art teacher in 1989, Francziska served as Assistant Principal, Interim Principal, Assistant School Director and Head of Enrichment and Special Projects during her tenure.

Under her leadership, Enrichment grew to include art, community service, culinary, dance, drama, library, music, physical education, science, technology/computer skills, team sports and monthly performances.

She established beloved traditions including letterman jacket awards and a holiday gift room, and implemented schoolwide thematic instruction to help students relate academic skills to real life.

“I led a world-class, multidisciplinary team of teachers who fostered incredible student achievement,” said Francziska. “The school’s partnership with the Kayne family was instrumental in helping my program blossom.”

Francziska received her BA in art education and general education credential from CSULB, and her MA as an education specialist and special education credential from National University.

The ocean is both her playground and artistic obsession. “I took my first step on a small sailboat going to Santa Catalina Island,” she said. “As a child in Santa Monica, playing in the ocean and pretending to be a mermaid was the thing I loved best. As an adult, I spend as much time in the ocean as possible.”

After falling in love with prone paddleboarding in the early 2000s, Francziska completed many channel crossings from Catalina Island to the Palos Verdes Peninsula. In 2004, she combined her sport with community service by volunteering for the Catalina Classic Paddleboard Race. She has been the race director since 2012.

Retired from special education in 2021, Francziska is now a graphic designer and fine artist available for commission working in the South Bay. For her exceptional legacy that continues to enrich and enhance the lives of all of our Kayne Eras School students, we are pleased to honor Francziska Steagall as a Legend of Impact.

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CLIENT LEGEND

TIFFINY BOYD

Tiffiny Boyd has worked at the ECF Art Centers since 1990 and currently works out of the San Pedro studio.

Tiffiny’s work is inspired by expressive qualities of color, the freedom of intuitive mark-making, and the self-exploration of creative processes. Boyd draws from her infinite imagination to create effervescent and abstract and floral designs that often play with conventions of spatial orientation.

Working primarily with acrylic paints on canvas, she paints with an energetic, determined hand using a variety of brushes, tools, and consistencies of paint. Her compositions culminate in layers of repetitive swirls, drips, swells, and gestural marks.

We are pleased to name Tiffiny Boyd a Legend of Impact in honor of her 32-year tenure in the ECF Art Centers program.

CLIENT LEGEND

FELICIA FRANKS

More than 30 years ago, Felicia became one of the first clients to move into ECF’s Fairbanks house – a home for a small group of adults who live independently with support from ECF’s Residential program staff.

During the week, Felicia participates in the Exceptional Community Connections program, where she enjoys outings, socializing and especially the opportunities to volunteer in the community.

Felicia is intelligent, smart and friendly and liked by all her housemates. She loves watching cartoons and other retro TV shows. Her favorite is Jeopardy – and thanks to her excellent memory, she answers many questions on the show.

For the many milestones she has reached over the years and for being a caring housemate, ECF is pleased to honor Felicia as a Legend of Impact.

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CLIENT LEGEND

SANDRA GILLEN

Sandra Gillen began her life in Torrance, CA, where she attended the Switzer School. She studied ballet for two years, then began a seven-year love affair with horseback riding. She rode Western, English, vaulting and jumping until she decided to switch to piano lessons.

She came to the ERAS Center (now called Kayne Eras School) at age 13, then transitioned to a Kayne Eras post-secondary program that later merged with ECF’s adult employment programs.

Today, Sandra works as an assistant at the Kayne Eras School, where she helps both school and ECF administration with a variety of projects. Her job means the world to her!

Sandra loves family get-togethers with her mom, stepdad and brother, David, as well as occasional trips to Maui, her favorite Hawaiian island. She has also enjoyed traveling to New York City, Washington DC, the Grand Canyon, and to Mexico on a cruise. Besides travel, Sandra’s favorite activities include shopping and video games.

Sandra is an avid reader. Her favorite authors include James Patterson and Dan Brown.

For proving that any young person can succeed with the right support and opportunities, we are proud to honor Sandra Gillen as a Legend of Impact.

CLIENT LEGEND

VANESSA MCCONNELL

Vanessa’s passion for painting is reflected in her intense brush strokes and aggressive mark making. She exudes confidence and swagger - her clothes and shoes are always covered in paint, as if she had just leaped out of her own paintings.

Vanessa started her practice at the ECF Art Centers Program in South LA in 1983. Today, she works from the program’s Westside studio in Inglewood.

Vanessa takes an almost geological approach to painting. By building up many layers of paint over time on canvases, paper and brushes, Vanessa creates work that is often highly textured and sculptural. She uses paint-encrusted brushes so saturated with acrylic that after completing a large piece, her brushes will often be unusable and are sometimes preserved as sculptures themselves.

She is always eager to shake hands with and hug others, even when she’s covered in paint.

To recognize her four decades of artistic development and excellence, we are pleased to name Vanessa McConnell a Legend of Impact.

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4 Arleta

15 Reseda

9

10

6

73

1 Downtown Los Angeles 11

Culver City

3

12

14 Whittier 5

13 2

Inglewood

San Pedro 8

HEADQUARTERS

CHILDREN’S SERVICES

YOUTH SERVICES

Kayne Eras Center Administration (1) 5350 Machado Road Culver City, CA 90230 (310) 204-3300

SHARE Building Early Start Adams (3) 2225 West Adams Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 735-1424

Kayne Eras Center Kayne Eras K-12 School (1) 5350 Machado Road Culver City, CA 90230 (310) 737-9393

Early Start Arleta (4) 14061 Terra Bella Street Arleta, CA 91331 (818) 830-6411

Mental Health Services (1) 5350 Machado Road Culver City, CA 90230 (310) 737-9393

ADULT SERVICES The Exceptional Building Work Readiness (2) Exceptional Training Academy (2) Exceptional Packaging Solutions (2) Exceptional Employment Solutions (2) 420 E. Hyde Park Blvd.

Inglewood, CA 90302 (310) 242-4423

Individual Pathways Services (5) 15141 Whittier Blvd. Suite 300 Whittier, CA 90603 (562) 378-5300

S. Mark Taper Center for Exceptional Citizens (6) Developmental Activities Center 1430 Venice Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90006 (213) 748-3556

Art Centers Westside Art Center at the Exceptional Building (2) 420 E. Hyde Park Blvd.

Inglewood, CA 90302 (310) 242-4423

Whittier Art Center (5) 15141 Whittier Blvd. Suite 300 Whittier, CA 90603 (562) 378-5300

Downtown Art Center (7) DAC Gallery (7) 431 South Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013 (213) 627-7590

San Pedro Art Center (8) 1125 S. Gaffey Street San Pedro, CA 90731 (310) 519-8527

South LA Art Center (9) 2616 S. Hobart Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 766-7503

ADULT RESIDENTIAL SERVICES Westington Complex (10) 1914 West Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90016 (323) 934-5265

Fairbanks House (13) 11124 Fairbanks Avenue (Culver City, CA 90230 (310) 915-6606

Whittier Springs House (14) 8218 Santa Fe Springs Road Whittier, CA 90606 (562) 698-4914

Valverde House (15) 7600 Vanalden Avenue Reseda, CA 91335 (818) 342-3826

Exceptional Community Connections Participants volunteer at sites in the community (310) 242-4423

Barman House (11) 10918 Barman Avenue Culver City, CA 90232 (310) 559-0922

Keystone House (12) 4215 Keystone Avenue Culver City, CA 90230 (310) 838-1109

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SMITH

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CHASER

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“...a society in which people of all abilities are valued and included in educational, social, employment and residential settings.”

- ECF Vision Statement

We’re proud to support the ECF mission and vision...now, more than ever!

® EH Private Bank is a Tradename of EH National Bank

Commercial & Personal Banking • Commercial Lending • Treasury Management

Fred Alavi Managing Director, Commercial Banking - EH Private Bank Board Member, ECF for over 15 years (310) 625-4262

EH Private Bank

8484 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 100 • Beverly Hills, CA 90211 (323) 602-2000 • www.ehprivate.bank

024-311-1.0 060122

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AUCTION DONORS

Leslie Adler

Jagermeister

Wendy Ordower

Daniel Baseggio

Victoria Kastner

Julie & Larry Blivas

Kazanjian Jewelry

Mark Pincus President, Rhino Records

Cliffs of Id

Jenni Kayne

Concord

Karen & Peter Locke

Scott Cooper

Los Angeles Football Club

Carla Fenner

Los Angeles Rams

Neal Fraser/Redbird

The Luxe

Gold Craft Jewelry Corp.

Sandra McClean

Goodyear

Soheila Namakian

Denise Gordon

Paige Newbold

Halper Fine Art

Merle Norman Cosmetics

Hollywood Park Casino

Davis Nguyen

In-N-Out Burger

Lan Nguyen

Michelle Ranavat Sauna Bar Kim Shore Steve Vai Tortugo Brewing UCLA Wooden Athletic Fund Glenn Ueda Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey West LA Art Studio YogaWorks

GALA DONORS Scott Cooper

Richard Frankel

Joyce & Bruce Pastor

Constance Abell

Wendy Garen

Jami Abell-Patterson

John Glynn

Jim Perkins & Deborah Shaw

Leslie Adler

Patricia & John Goldsmith

Jehan Agrama

Betty & Fred Goldstein

Alan Amirteymour

Sharon & Irwin Grossman

Andrews McMeel Universal

Karen Haltrecht

Frederick Ayeroff

Haya Handel

Janet Bangs

Steven Hogan

Patricia & Jeffrey Becker

James Korsen

Nancy Berman

Peter Lance

Dorothy Bernard

Erica Lowy

Jonathan Betuel

Steven McManis

Margaret Black

Kathleen Merrill

Brad Campbell

Charles Meyer

Sara Cannon

Ellen & Gary Michel

Francine Coeytaux

Maxine Moshay

Lawrence & Jane Cohen

Sandra Mosk

Ned Colletti

Vartan Nazerian

Isabell & Philip von Alvensleben

Patty Colman

Peggy Norris

Margie White

Mike & Nancy Coster

Jeffrey Ong-Siong

Susan Wytyshyn

Sue Ebner

Lois & Carl Orfuss

Geraldine Yumping

Nercy Ebrahimi

Maggie Parker

Dena Flekman

Christopher Paskach

Stacy Phillips Stephanie Ramer Elyse Rosenfield David Rosenthal Fran Morris Rosman Arlene Samek Christian Siegfried Sinan Sinanian James Smith Lori Soroko Ken Teasdale Marc Tetel Linda Thieben Melissa Torme-March Inna Tuler

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