June 1^st, 2020

Dear Westside Community,

I wanted to reach out to our community during this time of ongoing uncertainty and instability.  Working within a community that supports many individuals that are often disenfranchised and subjected to intolerance and discrimination it is difficult, if not impossible, not to hear the resounding sentiment of the current protest.  It is disheartening to contemplate that this country remains so entrenched in a culture that tolerates, and even condones, racism and discrimination.

Meanwhile, as a backdrop, we have the lingering threat of a virus that further threatens the fabric of our society.  As I have stated, this is likely to be a long journey and we will have to remain strong and cohesive as a community.  We, WRC staff, service providers, individuals served and families, will need to support one another to ensure our fortitude so that we can continue to support a potentially vulnerable population during this time.

With all of this in mind, Westside Regional Center continues to be mindful of the curfews and protest activities in neighborhoods of our staff and community. Westside Regional Center remains open for assistance and services, but the WRC office continues to be closed to visitors due to COVID 19.  Many staff are working remotely and are available for phone conversations, Zoom meetings, email and other types of communications.

Please contact us if you are in need of supports.  Staff will continue to reach out to families and individuals served frequently, and welcome your calls and emails.

Please stay safe and stay well.  Please remember Westside is here for you!

Thanks,

Thompson J. Kelly, PhD

Interim Executive Director/ Director of Clinical Services

(310) 258-4171