Jose Aguayo

The mission of the Exceptional Children's Foundation (ECF) is to provide the highest quality services for children and adults who are challenged with special needs – empowering them to reach their greatest potential. ECF was founded in 1946 by a group of parents and community activists who sought to establish a day training program as an alternative to institutional care for individuals with developmental disabilities. Over the years, ECF’s services expanded to meet the changing needs of its target population. The agency successfully developed and implemented 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 (KEC), adding a K-12 school and a comprehensive Mental Health Program to its services. Today, with an annual operating budget of $27 million and 375 staff, ECF serves over 4,800 children, adults, and their families at 15 ECF service sites, in clients’ homes, and in community settings throughout L.A. County.