Why is El Centro de Amistad needed?

Since its inception in 1977, El Centro de Amistad, Inc. (ECDA) has provided comprehensive and culturally competent services for "at risk" youth and their families. ECDA has provided mental health services, case management, medication and educational support to over 100,000 individuals.

ECDA is concerned about the lack of mental health and social services to the low-income residents of the San Fernando Valley. It administers a comprehaensive range of services, including individual, family and group therapy, referral services, case management, medication support, after school tutoring and homework assistance, computer literacy classes, arts and crafts, recreational activities, community mobilization and mentoring. El Centro de Amistad also provides information and referral services as needed by its clients.

El Centro de Amistad's programs and services are particularly suited to the Latino population of the greater San Fernando Valley. The main goal at ECDA is to reduce risk factors that lead to violence, school failure, gang affiliation, and child abuse.

Mission Statement

El Centro de Amistad, Inc. is a multilingual, cross cultural organization providing a comprehensive range of services, anticipationg the ever-changing needs of families and individuals in the San Fernando Valley. El Centro de Amistad, Inc. is committed to assisting children, youth and their families.