Mychal's Learning Place

Overview
Mychal's Learning Place is a nonprofit organization based in Hawthorne, California, dedicated to supporting youth and young adults with developmental disabilities. Established in 2002, it aims to foster independence and empower participants by offering a range of programs focused on social development, job training, and life skills.

History
Mychal's Learning Place was founded in July 2002, initially launching as an after-school program aimed at creating an inviting and educational environment for children with developmental disabilities. Due to the high demand for such services, a second site was opened in Culver City in 2006. In 2011, after years of leasing, the organization acquired a permanent facility in Hawthorne to provide a stable environment for its programs, officially closing escrow in 2015.

In response to community needs, the organization expanded its offerings by launching the Path to Independence Adult Day Program in 2013, helping adults develop essential life and job skills. Additionally, to promote job training, Mychal's Learning Place established Mychal’s Bakery & Coffee in 2015 and Mychal’s Print & Embroidery in 2019, both of which serve as social enterprises to provide real-world job experience to participants.

Mission and Goals
The primary goal of Mychal's Learning Place is to create a safe, supportive environment where individuals with developmental disabilities can thrive. The organization emphasizes building self-esteem and independence, championing the idea that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and challenged to succeed.

Programs and Services
Mychal's Learning Place offers various programs tailored to different age groups and needs:

• Youth Programs: Targeting individuals aged 13-22, these programs focus on developing social skills and fostering friendships in a safe space.

• Adult Programs: For young adults aged 18-30, the organization provides training in daily living skills and job readiness, aiming to help them live independently and meaningfully.

• Job Training Initiatives: Through its social enterprises, participants gain hands-on experience in areas such as customer service, food preparation, printing, and more, preparing them for future employment opportunities.

Impact
Mychal's Learning Place serves a diverse population, with a significant percentage of participants coming from low-income backgrounds and communities of color. The organization has successfully graduated over 125 students from its programs since 2016 and continues to plan for future expansions to increase its capacity and reach.

Mychal's Learning Place remains committed to addressing the challenges faced by people with developmental disabilities in the employment sector, providing critical support and resources that enable them to achieve their goals and integrate into the community.