<p> NEW HORIZONS BACKGROUND INFORMATION</p><p>Mission Statement New Horizons empowers individuals with special needs to fulfill their dreams. Through partnerships, community outreach, and advocacy we create a brighter future in which the people we serve are accepted by, participate in, and add value to the community.</p><p>Services New Horizons offers a wide array of services for more than 1,000 adults with special needs each year, ranging in age from 18 to 85. These services include job placement and training through our Employment Services and Work Services programs; education and counseling along with arts and creative activities through our Achievement Center, Monarch Mobile Day Program, travel training, and Technology Media Arts Programs; and residential services through our Residential and Community Living programs.</p><p>Staff New Horizons employs over 350 staff members and consultants, in order to provide quality programs and services.</p><p>Volunteers A volunteer Board of Directors approves the direction of the agency, sets policy, approves the agency budget, provides administrative support and assists in raising funds. The Standing Committees of the Board are: Development, Programs, Audit, Finance, Governance, Strategic Planning, and Executive.</p><p>Funding Funding for programs is received from the State Department of Rehabilitation, North Los Angeles County Regional Center, Department of Health Services, and donations from private, corporate, and philanthropic organizations. Revenue from banquet sales and workshop contracts (community support), fundraising activities, and additional donations comprise almost all of our yearly budget.</p><p>History New Horizons was incorporated in 1954 as a 501(c)3 charitable organization. At the time, public education was not available for children with developmental disabilities. After the passage of the Lanterman Act, and other changes in the public education system, New Horizons began to provide services for adults rather than children. While the range of services has changed greatly throughout the years, the mission and spirit of helping people with special needs lead a full, more productive and independent life, has remained and is a source of agency pride and inspiration.</p>