Welcome to ECF
In 1946, a group of parents, driven by a vision and love for their children who were born with developmental disabilities, created the Exceptional Children's Foundation (ECF). Since then, ECF has helped tens of thousands of children and adults with special needs live with dignity, self-respect and happiness.
ECF's mission is to provide the highest quality services for children and adults who are challenged with developmental, learning and emotional disabilities - empowering them to reach their greatest potential.
ECF provides programs and services to over 2,600 infants, youths, adults and their families each year. Clients served include people with learning and emotional disabilities, mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. ECF has 15 program sites located throughout Los Angeles County.
ECF is proud to display seals of approval and accreditation from the following agencies:

GuideStar publishes information on nonprofit organizations that advances transparency, enables donors to make better decisions and encourages charitable giving.
The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), a health and human services accreditor, promotes the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services that center on enhancing the lives of the persons served.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) recognizes schools that meet an acceptable level of quality in accordance with established, research-based criteria.