A woman and several children stand and crouch in a dirt playground, with trees in the background. The scene has a vintage, nostalgic feel.

A Legacy of Care

Over 125 years of helping youth and families heal, grow, and thrive.

Transforming Lives for Over a Century

Since our founding, McKinley has supported children who are survivors of trauma—many from homes impacted by abuse, neglect, or instability. From the beginning, we’ve provided safe housing, education, and care to help each child feel valued and capable of healing.

What started as a home for boys has grown into a far-reaching network of services. Today, McKinley continues to serve some of Southern California’s most vulnerable youth and families with compassion and consistency.

Five young men relax in a sunlit dorm room. Two sit on beds, three perch by a window. The scene feels casual and timeless, with subdued tones.

McKinley Through The Years

By inspiring hope, McKinley helps youth, families, adults, and communities aspire to their highest potential through impactful services provided by a team of compassionate professionals fueled by our HUMAN values.

A historical black-and-white portrait of a solemn older man in a suit. He has a serious expression, indicating a sense of authority and focus.

1900

The Industrial Home Society is founded by Reverend and Mrs. Uriah Gregory and named in honor of President William McKinley.

1923

A new 200-acre campus in Van Nuys opens, increasing capacity to 250 boys.

Aerial view of a small town with gridded streets, surrounded by fields and distant mountains. The scene conveys a sense of tranquility and rural life.

A black-and-white watercolor depicts a modernist building with vertical lines and a flat roof, surrounded by trees. Two people walk toward the entrance.

1961

Today’s McKinley campus opens in San Dimas.

1985

McKinley earned a psychiatric rating from the State of California in 1985. This new rating set into motion the significant expansion of treatment programs and services.

Three friends walk outdoors, two girls and a boy, smiling warmly. The boy holds notebooks. They are casually dressed, conveying happiness and friendship.

1994

After 20 years as a public program operated by the Los Angeles County School System, McKinley’s Canyon View School became a direct component of the agency’s service spectrum

1995

The center becomes McKinley Children’s Center, expanding services for both boys and girls.

Four women stand with their backs to the camera under a wooden archway, raising their arms. They're dressed in colorful outfits, conveying a joyful mood.

A woman in casual clothes sits on a chair, holding a tablet, smiling at a young girl on a sofa. They are in a cozy room, conveying a warm, friendly atmosphere.

2001

Through a contract with the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health, McKinley began providing mental health services to minors who are Medi-Cal recipients and who meet medical necessity to obtain treatment.

2007

McKinley attains accreditation through the Council on Accreditation, which affirms their commitment to providing the best possible care and services.

Seal with "Council on Accreditation" and "COA Accredited" text encircling a book emblem, symbolizing accreditation, set against a black background.

2010

McKinley’s Training Services becomes accredited by the International Association of Continuing Education and Training

2017

McKinley opens Desert View School to provide for the educational needs of the High Desert Area of San Bernardino.

The image shows a sunny exterior of a modern building with stone and white walls, red-tiled roof, and landscaped greenery, under a clear blue sky.

A suburban street view featuring two houses under a clear blue sky. The foreground shows dry trees and well-kept lawns, creating a peaceful neighborhood scene.

2018

McKinley begins the Full Service Partnership program, providing mental health services to adults in Palmdale who are at risk of homelessness.

2019

McKinley starts providing mental health services to youth and families residing in Riverside County

Real Stories, Lasting Impact

McKinley has made a lasting difference in the lives of thousands of individuals. For some, it was a safe place during a difficult time. For others, McKinley’s support became the foundation for a brighter future. These are just a few of the stories shared by those who’ve been part of the McKinley journey.

“The main thing that I enjoyed about being a McKinley was the exposure to a variety of activities.”

Mr. Stanley, 1953

“McKinley was a safe haven for me during a very difficult period of my childhood.”

William E. Rogers, 1970-1971

“McKinley was the first time I’d ever have consistency in my life, a place to call home, a school with people that I would see day after day.”

Bill Sklut (Ingham), 1969

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Join the Legacy

McKinley’s legacy is only possible because of the continued support from community members, partners, and donors. Your involvement helps shape the next 100 years of life-changing care.

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