The pandemic has shown us that community is more important than ever, and for the past 60 years, Villa Esperanza Services has been proudly serving the community by providing diverse programs for intellectually/developmentally disabled children, adults, and seniors in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Villa is a unique service provider, offering individualized programs and a continuum of care over the course of a lifetime. We change lives-from teaching a child with autism how to say "hello;" to giving an adult with Down syndrome the skills to earn a paycheck and the pride of having a job; to providing an intellectually disabled senior the opportunity to give back to the community through volunteering and helping others.

The need for Villa's services remains unchanged as we have pivoted to providing a mix of in-person and virtual services for all of our programs. We are delighted to have the students join us back on campus receiving educational and therapeutic services full time. Our adult day programs are thriving with clients receiving a combination of in person and remote learning opportunities based on the needs of each person. Our dedicated staff continue to provide care every day for all our adults living in our seven residential homes. In addition, services for individuals in our Independent Living Skills and Employment services are still in progress.

Villa's annual Blue & White gala raises funds so we can continue this important work. All proceeds support Villa's programs for children, adults, and seniors with intellectual/developmental disabilities. With every day bringing a new challenge, we will continue to do our best to safeguard the health of our clients and staff while still providing the support required by our individuals with special needs. Together, we will ensure that Villa can continue providing and caring for our children, adults, and seniors, and their families when they need us the most.