Together California

Our
Champions

Welcome to Our Champions page. This page celebrates organizations and individuals who passionately champion Together California’s mission!

We are proud to begin this appreciation page by spotlighting one of our very first champions, the Austrian-American Council West (AACW). An organization that fosters cultural, educational, and philanthropic ties between Austria and the United States. AACW prioritizes supporting vulnerable children and families.

The Austrian-American Council West (AACW) has passionately supported SOS Children’s Villages. A model of care similar to Together California that began in Austria and ensures siblings remain together in out-of-home care. 

Veronika Reinelt, President of AACW greets Sibi and Christian Bale at Together California’s Groundbreaking Ceremony
Veronika Reinelt, President of AACW greets Sibi and Christian Bale at Together California’s Groundbreaking Ceremony on February 7, 2024 in Palmdale.
AACW members join Christian Bale and others celebrating at the groundbreaking ceremony.
AACW members join Christian Bale and others celebrating at the groundbreaking ceremony.

The Austrian-American community has played a vital role in supporting the development of Together California. As early as 2008, AACW President, Veronika Reinelt, provided leadership and guidance to bring this model of care to California. As one of Together California’s earliest major donors, AACW and its members have contributed over $6 million to this impactful cause.

In a special way, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to AACW members Rudi and Helga Frenner, whose generous gifts have become catalysts for others to support our most vital mission. 

“We are delighted to do our part in creating the first Together California village.

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
Joey Clapper, Veronika Reinelt, President of AACW and Tim McCormick, Together CA, Executive Director
Joey Clapper, Veronika Reinelt, President of AACW and Tim McCormick, Together CA, Executive Director on October 29, 2024 at Getty House in Los Angeles.
Helga and Rudi Frenner, AACW Sponsors along with Cornelia Malloy, Deputy Consul General of Austria and Veronika Reinelt
Helga and Rudi Frenner, AACW Sponsors along with Cornelia Malloy, Deputy Consul General of Austria and Veronika Reinelt, President of AACW at the groundbreaking ceremony.

We are most grateful for all AACW has done and will continue to do to be true champions who care for and support every child who turns to us when they need us the most.

AACW’s unwavering support has been instrumental in realizing our innovative foster care model, set to transform the lives of children in Los Angeles County. To honor AACW’s commitment, the Together CA Community Center in Palmdale will be named the Austrian-American Council West Community Center.  

The future Austrian-American Council West Community Center at Together California.