About Los Altos Auxiliary of Sycamores

For over 67 years, members of the Los Altos Auxiliary of Sycamores have worked with the youth of Sycamores’ El Nido residential campus in Altadena—and now we also volunteer with the young adults in Sycamores’ Transition Age Youth (TAY) programs—offering unwavering care, compassion, and hope. Many of these young people have endured trauma and multiple foster placements. At El Nido, they find stability, individualized education, and critical mental health services in a nurturing environment where healing can truly begin. The TAY program provides a safe, subsidized apartment living environment with access to wrap-around services such as education, health care, therapy and other services to build an independent future. 

While Sycamores’ professional staff provide expert therapeutic care, Los Altos members bring heart and home to those served by Sycamores. 

At El Nido, we've funded campus improvements, educational initiatives, and enrichment programs that build confidence, life skills, and a pathway to lasting independence. We’ve created vibrant spaces for growth, including a library, computer lab and welcoming outdoor gathering areas. But just as meaningful and effective are the personal touches our members provide all year long at El Nido—celebrating birthdays, fulfilling holiday wish lists, and hosting special events with the youth including paint parties, ice cream socials, cooking classes, magic nights and more that remind each young person they are seen and valued.

For those in the TAY programs, we look forward to becoming "natural supports", voluntary relationships that provide emotional, social and practical support to the young adults.  We have begun by providing grocery staples, life skills kits, holiday gifts for their apartment and sharing life “hacks” and advice in one-to-one conversations over home-baked desserts! Our efforts will expand over time.

Together, we are restoring hope, strengthening futures, and helping every young person believe in the possibility of success.