difficulties with the local school setting. In 1972, the Home began a major capital project; its own high school to provide classrooms and vocational training for its youngsters. The Campus program expanded to accommodate 87 boys during this period. In 1974 the Home undertook the development of our first Group Home located in Altadena for six boys. Since this was such a successful concept, today the Home operates a total of six group homes, located in Los Angeles, and Orange counties. Four of the homes house boys and in response to a growing need, two accommodate girls.
             Optimist Youth and Family Services has been important part of success for the city of Highland Park, since the large number of immigrants that entered the community. The mission for the facility has expanded since the chicken ranch days and now it's the largest operating youth home in North East of Los Angeles. After Speaking with Silvio Orlando, executive director of Optimist Youth and Family Services, he advised that the facility has needed to adjust to the large number of mental illnesses that has increased since the 1990's. Optimist Youth and Family Services mission statement is: Optimist Youth Homes & Family Services provides culturally sensitive, comprehensive treatment, specialized education and support servic
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