Together California believes that unity empowers individuals and that standing together amplifies our collective strengths. As part of our commitment, we ensure that siblings entering the foster care system can remain connected and supported by each other’s presence. In doing so, we lay the foundation for rebuilding trust, confidence, and hope for each child in our care.
LA County has more children in foster care than anywhere else in America.
Children who have gone through the foster care system are 50% more likely to experience homelessness at some point in their life.
There is a 75% chance that foster children will be separated from their siblings.
Mission Statement
At Together California, we build homes that ensure children’s emotional and physical safety in foster care. Our unique approach keeps siblings together within the nurturing environment of a single-family home with full-time, professionally trained foster parents. We create an intentional village of compassion and care to maximize the potential of every child and strengthen families and communities.
Did you Know?
Los Angeles has the highest population of children in the foster care system in the United States, with over 30,000 kids in care at any time. Together California aims to change the foster care system in Los Angeles through its innovative child-centered programming.
The Vision for the First Together California Community
We are proud to announce that our first location in Los Angeles County will be in Palmdale, California on a 4.67 acre parcel. The village will offer 12 individual family homes to hundreds of children each year. An 11,000 square foot community center is also being built to serve the children and their families.
An essential and unique component of the Together California model is the full-time professional foster parent. These extraordinary individuals move into the village and solely focus on providing unconditional love and support for the children. Our foster parents work collectively with other staff and foster parents, all while receiving ongoing training and support to ensure each child’s and their family’s well-being. Together California foster parents are at the core of everything we do.
We are proud to have AC Martin Architects, a notable firm with many award-winning structures in Los Angeles, partnering to design the first village in California.
Our Elected Officials
The City of Palmdale approved $1.2 million for the support of Together California to cover pre-construction costs. Under the leadership of Kathryn Barger, the LA County Board of Supervisors approved $500,000 of support for land acquisition.
Our Community
Together California acquired a 4.67-acre parcel of land in Palmdale. The site is located on 30th Street East, adjacent to McAdam Park and close to schools and community resources for children and families to thrive.
Our Request
We need you to take the next step in helping us bring a difference to California and improve children’s lives.
Can we count on you?
Together We Can Create Real Change
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“We are delighted to do our part in creating the first Together California village.
The Austrian-American Council West has a long history of helping children and families in need. We are proud to be part of this landmark model of foster care, which originated in Austria after World War II. Our Council and its members are committed to and focus all our resources on developing the Community Center, which will be our legacy of support, love, and care for so many children in need.”
Veronika Reinelt, President, Austrian-American Council West
One person can make a difference. Together, we can make a lasting change.
“We wanted to do something meaningful to support families in our community.
We know that Together California will have a positive impact on families and the community. Los Angeles County is the perfect home for Together California to help transform foster care in the County, given its well-documented needs. It is truly an honor to come together with partners to help people for generations to come.”
Dr. Eric Esrailian Board Member
“With LA County having more kids in foster care than anywhere else in America, it’s time we stand together and take a holistic, loving, and long-term approach to take better care of our children.
Please join us in transforming the foster care system and improving children’s lives throughout Los Angeles.”
Sibi and Christian Bale Board Members
Our Leadership
Board Members
Christian Bale
Sibi Bale
Dr.Eric Esrailian
Chad Hummel
Anna Levin
Tim McCormick
Executive Director, MDiv., MBA, MHRM
Tim McCormick takes on the role of Executive Director of Together California with over 18 years of executive leadership developing models of care for children in foster care and collaborating with communities. Tim’s dedication to developing a family-strengthening program provides crucial intervention services that empower families, enabling them to remain intact and reducing the number of children entering the foster care system. His leadership has been marked by innovation, strategic vision, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable children and families.
Tim completed his Doctoral Work in Ethics at Loyola University in Chicago. Tim also holds a Master’s in Divinity, a Master’s in Business Administration and a Master’s in Human Resources.
