Get to know us

Since 1888, Five Acres has protected the most vulnerable members of our community: children. Originally founded in downtown Los Angeles as an orphanage, Five Acres was initially created to offer safety to children who had no home. In time, our mission expanded to also focus on the well-being and mental health of our clients who were increasingly coming to us as a result of abuse or neglect.

Having grown to an agency caring for more than 9,700 children and family members annually across five counties, we now strive for permanency—a permanent, loving home—for all those in our care. The three pillars of safety, well-being and permanency provide the framework for all our programs and will guide our steps as we develop even more effective means of caring for children and families in crisis. With over 100,000 clients served since its founding in 1888, Five Acres currently serves children and families across five counties in Southern California, including Los Angeles.

Get to Know us

Read the biographies of Five Acres's staff

Chanel Boutakidis, MA, MFT
Chief Executive Officer

Jennifer Berger, MPA
Chief Advancement Officer

Chinling Chen, LCSW
Chief Program Officer, Prevention

Elizabeth Gonzalez, MA, LMFT
Chief Program Officer, Residential

David L. Graft, CPA
Chief Financial Officer

Rachel McClements, Psy.D.
Chief Operating Officer