
In 1980, Para Los Niños was founded with the simple idea of creating a safe space for the children of Skid Row to “just be a kid.” Building on the importance of a healthy, stable home and idea of education as an equalizer, Para Los Niños has since become a leading organization serving thousands in Los Angeles.
Celebrating its 40th anniversary, Para Los Niños now serves over 6,000 children, youth and families annually across Los Angeles County through seven early education centers, three charter schools, two youth source centers and three mental health offices.
Meet some of our dedicated staff
With more than 400 dedicated staff members, Para Los Niños continues to place education at the core of its work to ensure children and families have the tools, resources and support needed to reach their full potential and thrive.
Eddi
When you talk to Eddi about his work with Para Los Niños (PLN), he has no shortage of stories and memories to share about the students and families he’s worked with over the past 15 years. He knows about the unique challenges that low-income parents can face when providing for their families, and the struggle students can experience having to navigate a complicated education system, often self-guided as first-generation children whose parents do not speak English. He understands it all because he was once one of those kids.

Stories from our Community

Joseline
Joseline was first introduced to the Para Los Niños (PLN) family before she could even talk or walk. Her mother placed her in a daycare program at the Salvation Army in front of 9th Street elementary school, where Eddi Ortiz was the supervisor for the after-school program.
Our History
For the past four decades, Para Los Niños has worked to create effective, culturally appropriate programs for low-income, primarily Latino children and their families. Drawing on decades-long partnerships in the community, Para Los Niños provides an unmatched comprehensive social services model that incorporates high-quality education, family support and mental health services, parent engagement and community building to families across Greater Los Angeles.