It is with great joy that we share our 2024 annual report with you!
In this year’s report, you will read about exciting updates to our work highlighted by stories of impact and data from last year. In addition, we are thrilled to share our new three-year strategic plan. It is rooted in our opportunity to deepen our work and in our ability to connect people to an array of essential services that offer holistic support.
As you will read on page 16, we have three main areas of focus. The first is to build stronger support for our communities with more integrated services. The story of Natasha on page 5 shows that when we take the time to really get to know one family member, we have the resources and capacity to support everyone in the family.
A second area will focus on impacting systemic changes through advocacy, thought leadership, and partnership. One policy example that Para Los Niños (PLN) has been drawn into is support for unhoused families on Skid Row. Currently, many services are set up to serve adults and are not inclusive of children and families—a major gap in the system. Another example is the digital equity work in which our youth advocacy council has been involved. Read about the genesis of the program on page 11.
A third area we will focus on is being a desired employer in education, youth development, and comprehensive family support services. We will provide more growth opportunities for employees and ensure equitable compensation. Each goal in our strategic plan is anchored in principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and belonging; it is what drives our work in this last goal to develop and nurture a healthy work environment for all staff at PLN.
This year’s report is just a glimpse of what is possible when the PLN team—teachers, therapists, advisors, administrators, support staff, and volunteers—helps connect people to life-changing services. We are truly grateful to our supporters who make it possible for PLN to continue partnering with families, today and into the future.
We hope you will join us at our 45th anniversary benefit dinner on May 8, 2025, as we celebrate the work that has been accomplished and look forward to continued success!
Drew and Marge
