VISTAS - HAWTHORNE

About VISTAS - HAWTHORNE

VISTAS Hawthorne first opened its doors in 1988, in the city of Inglewood, then called the Inglewood program. In August 2000, the program site was relocated to the city of Hawthorne. You may contact the program at 310-675-5995. We are currently located in St. George's Church at 4679 W. El Segundo Blvd. This program is vendored by Westside Regional Center, however many South Central Regional Center consumers are served there due to the program's proximity to the SCLARC catchment area. The facility is licensed by Community Care Licensing. The program has been directed by Kelly McKenna, PsyD since 1997. Kelly does an outstanding job of leading the program with her dynamic style and high energy. The program is highly involved in the welfare of their consumers, and has often arranged for food baskets during the holidays for consumer families that are in great need. This program supports individuals with developmental disabilities and who may also have emotional, behavioral or psychiatric challenges. The age range is from the early twenties to our most senior consumer, a lady in her early sixties. The emphasis at this program is participation in community work. Consumers participate in an array of activities, classes and pre-vocational/volunteer sites. These sites include the Inglewood Senior Center (serving lunch), The Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (maintenance and animal care) and maintaining a community garden (just across the street from the program). During summer months, trips to Venice Beach, and San Pedro, which often includes a boat ride, are part of the recreational activities. While not in the community a variety of classes are being taught such as: anger and stress management, money management, safety and healthy eating. Consumers participate in tasks at the program to gain work skills and experience. These tasks include making coffee, dish washing, sweeping etc. Counseling is a vital component of the VISTAS program, both individual and group rap sessions are provided on a regular basis.