Advocacy in Action: Empowering Teens in Foster Care

McKinley, a beacon of hope and compassion for children, youth, and families across Southern California, proudly marks its 125th anniversary in 2025. This momentous milestone reflects more than a century of dedication to transforming lives through innovative education, counseling, and social services.

From Humble Beginnings to a Legacy of Impact

McKinley’s journey began in 1900 when retired minister Reverend Uriah Gregory and his wife Alice established the Industrial Home Society on their 33-acre estate in Artesia, California. Their mission was simple yet profound: to create a sanctuary for orphaned, abused, and homeless children. In honor of President William McKinley, the home was later renamed the McKinley Home for Boys.

Over the decades, this modest initiative blossomed into a dynamic organization that now serves children, youth, and families across Southern California counties. While McKinley has evolved to meet the growing and complex needs of its communities, it has remained steadfast in its founding vision of compassion and care.

“Our 125th anniversary is a celebration of McKinley’s enduring history, growth, and the countless lives transformed through our services,” said Anil Vadaparty, CEO of McKinley. “What began as a refuge for children in need has grown into a multifaceted organization empowering individuals and strengthening families for generations.”

Transforming Lives for Generations

Over the years, McKinley has expanded its services to address the complex and ever-changing needs of the communities it serves. Today, McKinley offers a diverse range of programs, including:

• Foster Care and Adoption Services: Helping children find safe, nurturing homes and supporting families through the adoption process.
• Mental Health Services: Providing trauma-informed care, therapy, and counseling for children and families in need.
• Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Programs: Creating safe, structured environments for children aged 10-18 to heal, grow, and thrive.
• Unaccompanied Children’s Shelter: Offering temporary housing, education, and reunification support for minors.
• Educational Services: McKinley’s Canyon View and Desert View Schools provide holistic education for students facing academic and behavioral challenges.
• Family Resource Centers: Supporting communities through self-care programs, life skills classes, and essential resources.

Looking Ahead to the Future

As McKinley celebrates this extraordinary milestone, it remains steadfast in its mission to inspire hope, foster resilience, and empower youth and families to thrive. “As we honor 125 years of service, we also celebrate the incredible resilience and strength of those we serve,” said Chuck Coyne, McKinley Chairman. “The future is unwritten, and we are excited to build on this legacy, creating an even brighter future for children, families, and communities across Southern California.”

About McKinley

Founded in 1900, McKinley is a nonprofit organization dedicated to compassionately transforming the lives of youth and families through innovative education, counseling, and social services. Guided by its HUMAN principles—Hopeful, Understanding, Moral, Awesome, and Nurturing—McKinley inspires hope and empowers individuals to achieve success. Serving Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange Counties, McKinley’s programs provide a foundation for youth and families to thrive in their communities.