Welcome to Villa!
Villa Esperanza Services is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children, adults, and seniors with special needs. Our mission is to provide love, care, and hope for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. We create a transformative environment to empower neurodivergent individuals to reach their fullest potential and lead fulfilling lives.
At Villa, we are passionate advocates working to forge pathways to a lifetime of independence and hope for people with I/DD. Villa offers a wide range of programs for individuals with I/DD in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Our range of services for children includes The Villa School, the Hjelte-Phillips Speech and Language Center, an Occupational Therapy Clinic, and a Behavioral Therapy Center. For adults, we offer "Person-Centered" services, including Adult Day Programs, a Community Integration Program, Employment Services, and our Residential Program, which encompasses group homes and an Independent Living Skills Program.
Founded in 1961
Celebrating 64 years since a dedicated group of Pasadena mothers founded Villa to provide quality education and support for children with Down syndrome.
School for Ages 5-22
We serve individuals ages 5 to 22 through our school programs—Elementary, Middle School, High School, and Transition—and adults 18 and older through our Adult Day and Residential Programs.
6,750 Therapy Hours
Therapy hours received throughout our Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language, and Behavior Therapy.
11 Programs for
Children & Adults
Including a non-public school, three adult day programs, adult residential services, and adult employment services.
13 Homes
Apartments and houses located throughout Pasadena for adults ages 18 and up.
Hear It from Them
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"Villa has changed our family's lives by encouraging our brother to progress in ways we always hoped for."
Hugo Nuño, Villa’s Board of Directors Chair
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"CIP is lots of fun and I love Fridays and all the activities we do."
Nicolas, CIP Pasadena Participant
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"Inside the blue door, despair turned into a whole new world, one with love, caring and optimism for the future for our child with Down syndrome. For me as a mother, I found my voice and the confidence I needed to sustain our family and within the community."
Irene Albeck, Villa Parent
CEO Message
Dear Family and Friends,
At Villa Esperanza Services, every day we are driven by one unwavering belief: that every individual, at all levels of abilities, deserves the opportunity to thrive. From early intervention to senior care, our programs support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) across the lifespan—and we see the power of those supports in action every day.
Whether it’s a child taking their first steps in communication, a young adult gaining independence through employment, or a senior finding joy in community connection, Villa’s programs are changing lives. We’re proud to offer a continuum of services that not only meet critical needs but also celebrate every milestone—big or small—with heart and purpose.
Over the past few years, we’ve made tremendous strides. Our new campus expansion has provided state-of-the-art classrooms, therapeutic spaces, and inclusive environments where potential can flourish. We’ve launched innovative training programs for our staff, deepened family engagement, and broadened access to services for those who need them most.
Now, we are moving forward with even greater ambition. Our 3-year strategic plan is our roadmap for impact, guiding us as we grow our services, invest in our people, and advocate for sustainable support. With a focus on quality and innovation, we are preparing for a future where every individual we serve has the tools and opportunities to live their fullest life.
This work doesn’t happen in a vacuum. The future of services for individuals with I/DD depends on strong advocacy at both the state and federal levels. That’s why we’re actively engaged in policy efforts—to ensure that funding, support systems, and protections remain in place for generations to come. Together with families, partners, and champions across our community, we are raising our voices so that the needs of those we serve are never forgotten.
Our mission is made possible by the incredible generosity of our donors. Your support allows us to dream big, act boldly, and expand what’s possible for the individuals and families who rely on us. And at the heart of it all is our exceptional team—compassionate, skilled, and deeply committed to making a difference every single day. Without them, none of this would be possible.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Your belief in our mission fuels the progress we’ve made—and the dreams we’re still working toward. There is much more to come, and with your continued support, we’ll keep building a world where every individual is seen, valued, and empowered to shine.
With gratitude,
Kelly White
Chief Executive Officer
Villa Esperanza Services
Kelly White, Chief Executive Officer
