Our Work
Where Your Support Goes
For over 85 years, Las Floristas has remained unwavering in our mission: to help children with physical and cognitive challenges reach their full potential and lead proud, independent, and meaningful lives. We work hand in hand with Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center to provide life-changing resources for children.
Explore the programs and projects currently seeking funding and community support.
Past Projects
In 1980 Las Floristas dedicated the Bob Hope Audiology Suite at Rancho in honor of our Master of Ceremonies that year Bob Hope. The audiology suite provides comprehensive diagnostic and rehabilitative audiology services for inpatients and outpatients.
On May 14th, 1994 the sports court was dedicated for the Las Floristas Pediatric Wheelchair Sports Program. This was donated by Marlene and George Chumo in memory of their fathers, Michael Chumo and Luka Pecel.
In 1989 the Kenneth and Harlyne Norris Center for Applied Rehabilitation Technology (CART) opened its doors which culminated a 50th Anniversary Project for Las Floristas. This center was designed to help children and adults with physical disabilities lead more independent lives through the use of assistive technology.
Assistive technology is often the tool that enables individuals with disabilities to participate more fully in everyday activities at home, school and work. An interdisciplinary team consisting of occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech pathology and a technology specialist are available to address one or more of the following technology areas: seating and mobility, augmentative and alternative communication, electronic aids to daily living, computer access and worksite evaluations.
Joan Wismer and her mother Hilda Davis
In 2005 Joan Wismer created the Las Floristas Endowment (with funds from both the Joan Wismer Foundation and the Hilda & Preston Davis Foundation) which would ensure that, Las Floristas would continue to fulfill its mission.
Then, in 2016, Jack Dilday, Trustee of the Wismer Foundation directed additional funds to create the Joan M. Wismer Scholarship Endowment. This endowment allows for one student to be selected on an annual basis to receive a full college scholarship.
Established with the generosity of the late Marilyn Hilton’s estate and many generous donations made in memory of Marilyn Hilton and Gregory Dillon. Integral to the Day Rehabilitation Center, this multi-purpose space, staffed by patient counsellors, helps patients and their families access resources to support them as Rancho outpatients. The center opens into a spacious garden, a tranquil place for patients, families and staff to enjoy outdoor relaxation, barbecues and patient support groups.
Maggie Simms, Lori Dillon, Supervisor Don Knabe, Ron Hilton, Jorge Orozo and Lilli Thompson
38045 47th Street East, Suite E
PO Box 521
Palmdale, CA 93552
562-250-5708
info@lasforistas.org