MISSION
Through a holistic approach to emotional well-being, Wellnest offers hope, healing, and opportunity to the children, young adults, and the families we serve. Our commitment remains steadfast as we enter our second century of service.
CORE VALUES
EXCELLENCE AND INTEGRITY
We uphold a well-established standard of excellence and accountability by using best practices and engaging in continuous quality improvement. Our staff acts with personal and professional integrity so that every client is provided the highest level of care available.
INTEGRATED AND ACCESSIBLE
We strive to offer a comprehensive and growing array of services readily accessible to children, young adults, and their families whenever and wherever they are needed. We believe that an integrated approach to care is critical to creating positive outcomes that support long-term growth.
LIFE-LONG WELLNESS
We focus on a 360-degree view of wellness, offering life-long skills for improving and maintaining emotional and physical health. We offer tools for children, young adults, and their families to help improve the quality of all aspects of their lives from social, educational, and financial to intellectual, physical, and spiritual.
EMPOWERMENT AND RESPECT
We respect the culture and individuality of those we serve. We encourage the expression of their preferences, goals, and aspirations and value their input regarding decisions about the services and support they receive.
FROM OUR PRESIDENT & CEO AND CHAIRPERSON
Dear Friends,
As we celebrate 100 years of Wellnest, we reflect on a legacy of courage, vision, and commitment to the most vulnerable children and families. A century ago, our founders reimagined mental health care for children, challenging stigma and creating a foundation for compassionate, professional services that address emotional and psychological needs with the same urgency as physical health.
While we take pride in how far we have come, we are deeply mindful of the responsibility to continue building on the work of our founders. From those early days, Wellnest has grown into a thriving, dynamic organization meeting children and families where they are—in schools, homes, and communities. Today, we deliver accessible, trauma-informed mental health and housing services, continually expanding to meet the evolving needs of those we serve (pgs 4-8.)
Our impact is exemplified by transformational projects like The Nest on Exposition, a 24-unit interim housing development for young adults ages 18-25, many who are aging out of foster care and at risk for homelessness (pg 11.) The Community Wellnest Center will integrate mental and physical health care under one roof, ensuring holistic, streamlined services for those who need it most. (pg 16.)
VISION
To ensure that everyone has access to the support services needed to achieve the emotional well-being critical to reaching their full potential.
FAMILY-FOCUSED APPROACH
We offer a family-centered approach to care that addresses the unique circumstances of those we serve. We provide services and support that focus on each person’s needs in the context of family, community, and other key influences.
PRODUCTIVE PARTNERSHIPS
We responsibly steward donor support and facilitate partnerships with agencies, community resources, schools, and families to deliver the highest quality services. By linking constituents with the appropriate forms of assistance, we expand and amplify our impact on those in need.
As part of the centennial celebration, we are privileged to honor several outstanding individuals who are champions, and embody the spirit of Wellnest. We are especially grateful to have welcomed U.S. Secretary of Health & Human Services Xavier Becerra to our Centennial Gala (pg 19.) His presence underscores the critical importance of mental health and housing services in building healthier, more equitable communities. Secretary Becerra’s lifelong dedication to public service, his advocacy for health equity, and his leadership on behalf of underserved communities resonate deeply with Wellnest’s mission. We are proud to recognize his contributions and to have his partnership as we expand access to care for children, young adults, and families.
We also celebrate the Louchheim Family, whose remarkable dedication to Wellnest spans four decade and four generations of board service. Their unwavering commitment speaks volumes about the power of multigenerational leadership and the profound, lasting impact on both our organization and the communities we serve. Their legacy is an enduring reminder to what is possible when people come together with a shared purpose.
As we commemorate this monumental milestone, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advancing social justice and equity. With guidance from our board of directors, staff, and community partners we will ensure that every child and family—regardless of background—receives the care and support they deserve.
Thank you for being part of this extraordinary legacy. Together, we are building a brighter future for generations to come.
In Community,
Charlene Dimas-Peinado President & CEO, Wellnest
Gail Kennard 2023-2024 Board Chair, Wellnest
DARLENE AND JACOB’S PATH TO INDEPENDENCE
”I love seeing the engagement with my son Jacob and his peers. I love seeing him make good choices. Wellnest’s Day Treatment Intensive Program has definitely boosted his confidence.“ – Darlene
Darlene came to Wellnest as a homeless, single mother, pregnant with her first child. Her husband, her sole provider, was incarcerated, and her family was either out of state, or absent. Alone and in crisis, Darlene slept in her car. After Jacob was born, she struggled with postpartum depression, malnutrition, and exhaustion.
Wellnest gave Darlene a safe space to heal, providing therapy, along with the Day Treatment Intensive Program for Jacob, who would often show signs of aggression and had limited self-awareness when interacting with other children. Wellnest Family Resource Center helped Darlene with essential items like clothes, diapers, and other support services.
Thanks to the caring support from Wellnest, Jacob began using his words and making better choices. Darlene and Jacob have made incredible strides, and are now living independently and continuing to grow and thrive!
Wellnest’s Day Treatment Intensive is a therapeutic program for children ages 2-5 struggling with aggression, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and emotional regulation in childcare or school settings. Through music, movement, art, and play, the structured environment encourages self-expression and helps reduce challenging behaviors. Active involvement of parents and caregivers in family therapy and support groups is key to the healing process.
Our Early Intervention Outpatient Services program strengthens the child-caregiver bond while helping manage challenging behaviors. Families often face issues like separation, loss, school difficulties, relationship challenges, community violence, poverty or other trauma. Children may struggle with hyperactivity, inattention, temper tantrums, depression, or anxiety. Sessions use play and art to match the child’s developmental stage and encourage emotional expression. Case management connects families to resources like childcare and recreational activities.
Home Visitation is a free, accredited program serving prenatal families and families with children ages newborn to five years in Metro, South, Central and East Los Angeles Los Angeles. Wellnest’s trained Home Visitors engage families in parent-child activities, educate them on healthy development, and provide referrals to critical community services. The program also offers families infant massage, and lactation support.
”
With Wellnest’s Early Intervention Program
I
was able to grow as a parent and help my child grow in controlling his emotions.“ – Monique
MONIQUE AND ELIJAH’S ROAD TO PROGRESS
Monique and her son Elijah first came to Wellnest during a challenging period when Elijah was struggling with his behavior at school. He had difficulty following directions and often found it hard to get along with other students and his teachers. Monique, unsure of how to support him, turned to Wellnest for help.
Through the Early Intervention and Day Treatment Intensive program; a therapeutic environment helping children ages 2-5 years old who have challenges managing their behaviors or emotions in a traditional childcare or school setting, Monique was able to grow as a parent while Elijah learned skills and tips to manage his emotions.
Together, they practiced breathing techniques like “Rainbow breathing” which helped Elijah calm down and express himself through color. Now, instead of screaming or crying, Elijah can use the Rainbow breathing technique to reset, and use his words to communicate his needs.
Monique also attended a group parenting class, where she learned how to create a routine for Elijah, helping him balance activities at home and limit his screen time. These changes not only improved their daily lives but also strengthened their mother and son relationship. Monique now feels more confident in guiding Elijah, helping him communicate his feelings, and encouraging him to take breaks when needed.
During this time, they were living in an unsafe environment where violence was a constant concern. But with the support of Monique’s provider Beatriz at Wellnest, Monique was able to move to a safer apartment, providing Elijah with a better environment to grow.
Today, Elijah has made tremendous progress and is ready to attend traditional kindergarten! The bond between Monique and her son has never been stronger. Wellnest has been a lifeline for their family, and Monique is deeply grateful for the support that has helped Elijah to thrive!
”I learned that I am a lot stronger than I believe. I was able to face my biggest fears and came out the other side a champion.“
– Sofia
SOFIA’S STORY OF HEALING
Before connecting with Wellnest, Sofia’s life was filled with anxiety, depression, and feelings of worthlessness. She faced ongoing battles with toxic stress, stemming from childhood trauma. “I struggled a lot with how I felt about myself,” she recalls. This led her to develop an eating disorder (ED) as a way to cope from the fear of constantly needing to perform, provide and escape the toxic stress around her.
Sofia’s relationship with food became a form of control in a world that felt out of control. “I would restrict food,” she explains, “but it only made things worse, as I became anxious about how much I was eating. Too much felt like a reward, and too little felt like punishment.”
Connecting with Wellnest services was a turning point for Sofia. With the support of therapists and holistic care, she began to work through her struggles. “They provided the necessary support and care to learn how to love myself despite feeling worthless,” she shares. Therapy helped Sofia confront feelings that she wasn’t good enough, and she slowly replaced them with self-compassion.
One of the most transformative aspects of Sofia’s journey was realizing her strength. “I learned that I am a lot stronger than I believed,” she says, realizing she had already begun to overcome these challenges. “I faced my biggest fears at 13 and 14 and came out stronger,” she reflects.
Today, Sofia’s life is dramatically different as she developed self-compassion and patience for herself. She recently graduated from Vassar College with a full scholarship and is pursuing her master’s degree in Social Welfare from University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Sofia’s journey is a testament to hope and resilience—a reminder that even the darkest battles can lead to the brightest victories.
Outpatient Services provides culturally responsive services onsite at our facilities, as well as in schools and homes or anywhere in the community our clients need us. Behavioral Health Services — provided in English and Spanish—encompass individual, group, and family therapy, along with case management and psychiatric services. In group work, our clients are guided in using art, music, and other modalities to encourage healing and growth.
Intensive Services provides a higher level of behavioral healthcare, for families with children who have severe emotional or behavioral difficulties. Wellnest provides individually designed services in their home, at school or in the community.
”Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Be persistent and never give up. Wellnest was the critical change that put me on the path to success.”
– Tyler
TYLER’S JOURNEY TO STABILITY
Tyler’s life was a constant struggle. Homelessness disrupted his schooling and stability, and the passing of his best friend deepened his mental health challenges. Without a stable place to call home, his future seemed bleak.
Connecting with Wellnest became the turning point. Tyler describes Wellnest as “the critical change that put me on the path to success.”
Wellnest provided him with a safe place to live at The Nest on Florence, a home he could truly call his own, along with case management services. These services helped him navigate permanent housing, including rental assistance and managing finances.
“Without that support, I believe I would still be homeless,” Tyler reflects. Having his own apartment gave him the foundation to focus on his future.
An unexpected benefit of stable housing was setting new goals. He found a job that led him outside the country for the first time — to Costa Rica. The experience was empowering, offering a sense of possibility for his life.
Another positive change was getting a dog, who provided comfort and companionship. “My dog helps with my mental health and anxiety,” Tyler shares. “He makes me feel happy.”
Today, Tyler’s life is completely different. The chaos of uncertainty is gone, replaced by stability and hope.
Tyler’s advice to others is simple: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Be persistent and never give up.” His story shows that with support and perseverance, it’s possible to transform your life.
Wellnest provides permanent and temporary housing for individuals who are aging out of foster care, formerly from probation or, at risk for homelessness. Housing plays a critical role in determining health outcomes in communities. Safe, stable and affordable housing provides a foundation for physical and mental wellbeing. When individuals have access to quality housing, they experience lower stress levels, improved mental health and better overall physical health outcomes.
MIND, BODY AND HEART
INTEGRATED SERVICE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
This program combines support for mental and physical health through a holistic model of care.
It allows participants to access comprehensive healthcare services in one location and often on the same day through our partnership with Adventist Health White Memorial. Participants can also take advantage of non-traditional wellness offerings, like yoga, stress relief, art classes and healthy cooking sessions.
SHAPING THE THERAPISTS OF TOMORROW
COMPREHENSIVE CLINICAL TRAINING FOR MASTERS’ STUDENTS
The Clinical Training and Intern Development Program at Wellnest offers Master’s-level social work students a supportive, hands-on learning experience.
We train well-rounded, culturally responsive therapists ready to serve diverse communities in various mental health settings. Interns receive best-practice training focused on client engagement, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment skills. They gain experience in individual, family, and group psychotherapy, with supervision provided in both individual and group formats. We currently have partnerships with University of California, Los Angeles; University of Southern California; Cal State University Dominguez Hills; Azusa Pacific University; Cambridge College and Columbia University.
PROGRAM IMPACT
202,842
Wellnest has more than 200,000 client engagements in Los Angeles County annually.
Program Accomplishments
(Total number of clients served)
24
Early
21,630
95,400
ANNUAL WELLNEST GOLF
TOURNAMENT
FRIENDLY HILLS COUNTRY CLUB, WHITTIER,CA
On Monday, August 23, 2023, Wellnest hosted its annual Golf Tournament at Friendly Hills Country Club raising $115,738 in support of The Community Wellness Center at The Nest on Jefferson.
The tournament began with refreshing traditional Micheladas at registration, setting the tone for a fun and lively day! Our first-ever putting green, “bottle contest” was a huge hit—golfers eagerly contributed to take aim at bottles of wine and spirits on the green, with winners taking home their prize.
Despite the soaring 96-degree heat, spirits were high as nearly 140 golfers teed off for a sold-out tournament. The day concluded with a delicious dinner, an exciting raffle and silent auction, followed by two inspiring mothers who shared their powerful stories.
PIONEERING PROGRESS
GROUNDBREAKING CELEBRATION OF THE NEST ON EXPOSITION
This pioneering housing development, The Nest on Exposition, created through modular design, represents a forward-thinking and innovative approach to fulfilling the housing needs of young women and men in the community who are filled with hope and promise.
On Thursday February 29, Wellnest held its groundbreaking ceremony for The Nest on Exposition. This event not only marked the physical start of construction, but also symbolizes the start of a transformative journey that will change lives, strengthen communities, and set an example for future housing initiatives.
The Nest on Exposition advances social justice, so that young people can live with dignity, and have the access to support services such as mental health services, education and career planning. Wellnest
President & CEO Charlene Dimas-Peinado welcomed the more than 100 guests to the ceremony, including The Honorable Los Angeles County Board Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, Chief of Housing and Homelessness Solutions, Office of Mayor Karen Bass, Lourdes Castro Ramirez, Director of California Department of Housing and Community Development Gustavo Velasquez (each photographed below), along with esteemed members of Wellnest including Board Chair, Gail Kennard and Wellnest client Laquiesha McQuarters.
Left to Right, Wellnest Board Members DaJuan Bennett, Gail Kennard, Wellnest President & CEO
Charlene DimasPeinado, Board
Chair Carrie Hidding, Alicia Jacobs, Board Emeritus Wayne Moore and Margo Kaatz
Thank you to our donors whose generosity give hope, healing and opportunity to the individuals and families
Wellnest supports.
VISIONARY
$2,000,000+
Los Angeles Department of Mental Health
DIAMOND
$1,000,000-$1,999,999
Los Angeles Department of Public Health
PLATINUM
$250,000- $999,999
Los Angeles Department of Health Services
Los Angeles Department of Children and Family Services
Healthy Families of America
EMERALD
$100,000-249,000
QueensCare
Good Hope Medical Foundation
The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation
UniHealth Foundation
GOLD
$25,000-$99,999
AEG Community Foundation
The Atlas Family Foundation
Baron’s Second Chance
Bridge Builders Foundation
California Community Foundation
Eugene Friedlander
George Hoag Family Foundation
Henry L. Guenther Foundation
Carrie Tsang-Hidding & Harry Hidding
David and Susan Hirsch
S. Mark Taper Foundation
SILVER $5,000-$24,999
Anonymous
AEG
Avina Financial Group
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Agustin Bucio
Charlene Dimas- Peinado & Epifanio Peinado
Carrie Estelle Doheny Foundation
Citizens Business Bank
Community Impact Arts Grant Program
East West Bank
Donna Gallagher & James Gallagher
In- N- Out Burger Foundation
Kaiser Permanente
Gail Kennard
LA5 Rotary
Lon. V. Smith Foundation
M Hodgett Foundation
Mata Construction Services, Inc.
Alicia Minana
Montage Insurance Solutions
Pacific Western Bank
PFS Advisors
QDG Architecture
Quality Comp, Inc.
U.S. Bank Foundation
USC Civic Engagement
Vanguard Charitable Whittier Trust
Virginia Wilson
BRONZE $1,000-$4,999
Adventist Health White Memorial
Monica Alfaro Welling
Laura Alvarez
Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
AvidX Change
Jim Balla and Family
Frost Brown Todd Attorneys
Mark Fischer
David Hirsch IV
Shelly Holmes
Honeysweet Creative
Alicia Jacobs
Jewish Community Foundation
Kofile
Lucille Ellis Simon Foundation
Levente & Michelle Orosz
Outshine Talent
Pfizer
Carlos Perez
Andrea Salazar- Garcia & Carlos Garcia
Savills Inc.
Sterling Search, Inc.
Tzunu Strategies
Voya Financial
Elana Wien
PATRONS $500-$999
American Fidelity
Bank of America
Best Choice Painting/ SK Global
Dajuan Bennett
Doug Camphuis
Carmen Torres of My HR Specialist, Inc.
Connextions Foundation
Margaret Howe
Elaine Moore & Wayne Moore
Impact Sciences
Albert Kadosh & Lois Kadosh
Corrine Kane
Marvin Karno
Kennard Kennedy Family Fund
Kleen Play Playground Construction, Inc.
Jennifer Louchheim
Elaine Moore & Wayne Moore
Dr. Raymond & Joseph Perry- Moore
National Office Liquidators
Epifanio Peinado Consulting
Paco Francisco Retana
Nancy Sorenson
Adam Sternberg
Valero
DONOR HIGHLIGHT
Community Foundation, a leading sports and live entertainment company, in support of our mission to provide health and wellness services to children, young adults, and families. Through its sports franchises, AEG supports initiatives that prioritize children’s well-being, particularly in under-resourced communities.
In April, members of AEG’s executive team and foundation visited The Nest on Florence, Wellnest’s housing project for young adults who are at risk of homelessness or are transitioning out of the foster care system. During their tour, Wellnest showcased the comprehensive services offered at The Nest, including intensive case management, on-site therapy, substance abuse counseling, and—most importantly—a safe place to call home! We are thankful for the support from partnerships like AEG Community Foundation, and together, we are making a positive difference in the lives of our most vulnerable community members!
AEG attendees: Dan Beckerman, CEO & President, AEG Office of the Chairman; Ted Fikre, Vice Chairman Chief Legal & Development Officer, AEG Office of the Chairman; Rob Reed, Chief Financial Officer, AEG Office of the Chairman; Martha Saucedo, Chief External Affairs Office, AEG; Anette Padilla, AEG Director Community Foundation & Social Impact and Irene Camarena, Sr. Program Manager, Community Affairs. Wellnest Attendees: Charlene Dimas-Peinado, President & CEO; Paco Retana, Chief Program Officer; Andrea Salazar, VP of Advancement & External Affairs; Crytal McNeal, Director of Housing and Life Learning Center and Ciara Villanueva, Program Manager.
Mel Jackson joined Wellnest (formerly the Los Angeles Child Guidance Clinic) in July 2014, initially heading up the compensation committee for six years and serving as a member of the Board of Directors. Drawn by the organization’s dedication to high-need, low-resource communities in South and Central Los Angeles, Mel’s passion for these areas, combined with Wellnest’s leadership in mental health and community improvement, made it a natural fit.
Currently, Mel serves as Vice President of the Bridge Builders Foundation, which provides Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs through a culturally relevant lens to address unmet needs in communities of color. The foundation’s initiatives include mentoring, a year-round STEAM Academy, a Post-Secondary Scholars Program, youth employment opportunities, and community empowerment programs in healthcare and financial literacy— all fully aligned with Wellnest’s mission to provide emotional health and wellness services and to build partnerships that enhance the overall well-being of youth in the communities both Bridge Builders Foundation and Wellnest serves.
Melvin Jackson Jr.
FRIENDS $250-$499
Barbara Bacon
Mike Brandy & Sue Brandy
Christine Carrillo
Amanda De Loera- Morales
Eastwest Carpet Mills
Mike Flores
Cynthia Friedman
Reginald Gentry
Jose Gonzalez
Karen Gusdorf
Dan Hirsch & Mindy Hirsch
Josh Hyman
Kidder Matthews
Eric Moore
Douglas Morseburg
Matthew Lachman
Jacob Lane
Lauren Schlau Consulting
Bernardo Peinado
Regional Investment & Management
Sally Shaw
Ticor Title
Melissa Vassel
Jonathan Williams
ASSOCIATES $100- $249
Phil Albanese
Celina Alonso
Linda Miller & Peter Armstrong
Ron Banks
Eduardo Bucio
Albertina Chen
Areta Crowell
Reina Diaz
Benjamin Garbuio
Socorro D. Gertmenian
Give Lively
Lourdes Gomez
Timothy Hayes
Eliana Rocio Juarez
Maria Knox & Keith Knox
Jenna Haeflinger-Kurtz
Jack E- Jei Liang
Anthony Lockridge
Cecilia Magana
Dawn McDivitt
Betty Mendoza
Alina Molina
Ruthie Molina
Mutual of America
Angela Perez
Mario Perez
Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
Tanya Ramos
Michael Rizzo
Peggy K. Roland
Katherine Ross
Rotary LA 5
Michelle Salazar
Rick Saneda
SCFS
Steven M. Talavera
Patricia Taylor
2023/2024 SUPPORTERS
Robert Trebor
United Way California Capital Region
Lillian Van Dyke
Mayra Wiessner
SUPPORTERS $1- $99
American Online Giving Foundation
William Bennett II
Patrick Bonner
David Botello
Bobby Broukhim
Shelley Brown
Brown Winfield Canzoneri Abram Inc.
Zachary Novatt
Romalas Charlot
Christ Church
Citizens Business Bank
Mike Dunn
Courtney Greaux
Dunn Property Group
Bettye Edwards
Sylvia Ellenhorn
Carolyn Ferro
Sharyn Gertz & Walter Gertz
Wael Ghebrial
Charles Hamilton
Maria Hernandez
Steven Hernandez
Yesenia Felipa Hernandez
Louis Jasper
Austin Josiah
Ahmed Khan
Rob Kropfl
Los Angeles County
1st Supervisorial District
Lillian Laffitte
Joel Lara
Amarjit Marwah
Mata Construction Services, Inc.
Stuart Matsuda
Lan McGuire
Sylvia McKenzie
Tyson Moore
Richard & Kathie Nichols
Orinio Opinaldo
Pat’s Restaurant & Catering, Inc.
Hester Radford
James Reynolds
Michael Rhind
Gary Richards
Securitas Security Services USA, Inc.
Harish Sarin
Molly Sayers
Billy Scott
Nancy Signer
Alonso Silva
Tamara Silvera
Kala Sunshine
Robert Sutherland
Bob Sweetland
Allie Taylor
Rose Teti
Victor J. Bernstein
Tommye Williams
Dionisia Wilson
Beatrice Yotsukura
IN-KIND DONATIONS
Daisy Banuelos
Glen Bartolini
Chris Carrillo
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Isaak Cisneros
Krystal Cisneros
Christa Coleman
Davey’s Locker Newport Beach
Gina Davis
El Cholo Pasadena
Emerald Isle Golf Course
Nancy Escobar
Jose Everett
Beatriz Falcon
Fogo de Chao
Friendly Hills Golf Course
Uzzette Garcia
Fabby Garny
Courtney Greaux
Hollywood Wax Museum
In-N-Out Burger Foundation
Keith Knox
La Habra Children’s Museum
Martha Lira
Jennifer Louchheim
Maeve West Adams
Malibu Wine Tours
April McCullough
Michelangelo Ristorante
Raven Moten
Leslie Munoz
Kya Nichols
Epifanio Peinado
Raymond Perry-Moore
Tasmin Quintanilla Lopez
Raising Cane’s
Donna Ramos Sanchez
Patricia Rigney
Delia Ruiz
Andrea Salazar-Garcia
Santa Monica Pier
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Skirball Cultural Center
Kate Soldeña
Tatiana Tatsinova
The Huntington
Carrie Tsang-Hidding
Cynthia Valenzuela
Laquesha Webber
Wilson Creek Winery
UCLA Athletics
We apologize for any omissions inadvertently made and kindly request that you please reach out to the Advancement team so we can make the correction, at Advancement@WellnestLA.org or 323-545-4705 x3308
PARTNER WITH US AS WE CHANGE LIVES.
Consider contributing to Wellnest’s latest project, The Community Wellnest Center. Your investment will help transform the lives of children, young adults and families.
The Community Wellnest Center, located in the heart of Los Angeles, will be a vital resource for neighborhood children and families—a true community hub dedicated to addressing health disparities in an underserved area. With a focus on early intervention and prevention, the center aims to build a healthier future for children, families, and the broader community by fostering equitable health and mental health outcomes.
This innovative center takes a comprehensive, long-term approach, addressing the social determinants of health and prioritizing sustainable change over temporary relief. By offering a holistic and integrated model of care, the Community Wellnest Center is uniquely positioned to improve mental health and overall health outcomes through early and effective support systems.
Positive relationships formed during early childhood and adolescence have the power to transform life trajectories, particularly for those facing challenges such as severe mental health conditions or homelessness. It is during these formative years that mental health challenges and substance use often begin to emerge. Youth process trauma differently than adults, and it is critical to provide timely, developmentally appropriate care designed to meet their specific needs. The Community Wellnest Center will serve as a pillar of support, ensuring children, youth, and families receive the support they need when it matters most—laying the foundation for brighter, healthier futures.
Join us in making an impact in the future of the communities we serve. To learn more about this innovative project visit wellnestla.org/housing.
MAKE A ONE-TIME DONATION:
• Online
• By Mail Mail Checks to: Advancement Department
Wellnest 3031 South Vermont Ave Los Angeles, CA 90007
• Electronic Funds Transfer
MATCHING GIFTS
Many employers offer matching gift programs that match your charitable contribution!
MAKE A GIFT IN TRIBUTE OR MEMORIAL
Pay tribute to a loved one by making a gift in their name. A card will be sent to the person or family notifying them of your thoughtful donation.
BECOME A MONTHLY DONOR
Make a lasting impact all year round as a monthly donor by selecting the recurring gift option. Your credit card will be automatically charged once a month.
If you have any questions about supporting Wellnest, please contact the Advancement Department at advancement@wellnestla.org or call 323-545-4705
2023/2024 AUDITED FINANCIALS
In fiscal year 2023/2024, Wellnest had public and private contributions totaling $33 million and operating expenses totaling $30 million.
82% of funding went directly to our integrated mental health and supportive services for the children, young adults, families, and communities we serve.
HOW PROGRAMS USE RESOURCE
CREATING LASTING POSITIVE CHANGE IN OUR COMMUNITY!
Wellnest joined the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce’s delegation visit to our nation’s capital for it’s annual federal advocacy trip.
Advocacy is essential to ensuring the children, young adults, and families Wellnest serves receive the programs and funding they need. By raising awareness and championing our clients’ needs, we amplify their voices and help create brighter futures.
In March 2024, Wellnest participated in the L.A. Area Chamber of Commerce annual federal advocacy trip to Washington, D.C., engaging with lawmakers on key issues central to our mission, including children’s mental health and housing issues.
LEADING THE NEXT CENTURY OF HOPE AND HEALING
2023-2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Carrie Hidding, CPA, MBA Chairperson
Alicia Jacobs, MBA Chairperson-Elect
Margo Kaatz, RN, MA, Esq. Treasurer
James Gallagher, Esq.
Secretary
Jessica Caloza
DaJuan Bennett, MBA, BBA
Jarrett Dube
Charles Hamilton
David L. Hirsch, Esq.
David Hirsch IV, CPA
Shelly Holmes
Gail Kennard
Alejandro Lara
Dae Levine
Jennifer Louchheim
Michael Okada
Levente Orosz
Patrick Pan
Raymond Perry, M.D., M.S.
Ronit Stone, Esq.
William Vasquez
Monica Alfaro Welling
BOARD EMERITUS
Quinton C. James, M.D.
Carlos Perez
Thomas F. Trott, M.D., Ph.D.
Melvin Jackson, Jr.
Wayne Moore
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM
Charlene Dimas-Peinado, LCSW, EML
President & Chief Executive Officer
James “Jim” J. Balla, MBA Chief Administrative & Business Officer
Jack Liang
Interim Chief Financial Officer
Paco Retana, MSW, LCSW Chief Program Officer
Laura Alvarez
Vice President of Human Resources
Andrea Salazar
Vice President of Advancement & External Affairs
Rebecca Haussling
Vice President of Communications & Public Affairs
Tanya Ramos
Chief of Staff
Thank You for Helping Us Raise $1Million!
On Friday, September 27, in a sold-out ballroom at the Skirball Cultural Center, Wellnest celebrated four remarkable individuals and one extraordinary family at our 100 Centennial Celebration Gala. Honorees included U.S. Secretary of Health & Human Services Xavier Becerra (Visionary Award), the Louchheim Family (Legacy Award, recognizing 80 years of family support), Grammy-winning producer Pablo Stennett (Ambassador Award), Everychild Foundation Founder Jacqueline Caster (Impact Award), and child advocate/ author David Ambroz (Champion Award). Proceeds benefited The Community Wellnest Center at The Nest on Jefferson, a groundbreaking housing project to support young adults at risk of homelessness and expanding its reach out into the surrounding community. Learn more at wellnestla.org/housing.
Photo courtesy of the L.A. Area Chamber of Commerce.
For the last 100 years, Wellnest has been driving change through advocacy and direct support for some of Los Angeles’ most vulnerable children, young adults, and families.
We continue our commitment to life-long emotional health and wellness as we lead the next century of hope and healing.
WELLNEST LOCATIONS
University Park Offices/ Administrative Offices
3031 South Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90007
323.373.2400
Early Intervention Outpatient, Day Treatment Intensive, Home Visitation and Family Resource Center
Exposition Park Office
3787 South Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90007
323.766.2345
Access & Wellness Center, Outpatient Services, Intensive Services (FSP, IFCCS) Wraparound
Leimert Park Office
4401 Crenshaw Boulevard Suite 300
Los Angeles, CA 90043
323.290.8360
Integrated Care Adventist Health White Memorial 1701 East Cesar E. Chavez Suite 532
Los Angeles, CA 90033
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Outpatient Services, Clinical Training and Intern Development
Life Learning Center
5054 South Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90037
323.373.2400
Outpatient Services, Housing
323.545.3522
Integrated Services Management Program
The Nest on Florence 410 East Florence Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90003
Integrated Services Supportive Housing
