Who We Are - Harbor Regional Center

Harbor Regional Center is a private, non-profit that operates under contract with California’s Department of Developmental Services. We are a community-based organization that serves over 20,000 children and adults with developmental disabilities, developmental delays or who are at high risk for developmental disabilities who reside in the South Bay, Harbor, Long Beach, and southeast areas of Los Angeles County. We employ a diverse group of over 480 people.

For the past five decades, Harbor Regional Center has remained unwavering in our mission to serve our community.

Mission Statement

Harbor Regional Center empowers everyone with developmental disabilities, and the people who support them, by providing innovative and person-centered services that help them live their best lives in our diverse community.

Harbor Regional Center
Board of Trustees
Adopted September 16, 2025

Our Vision

Harbor Regional Center envisions a world where everyone with a developmental disability has meaningful relationships, is respected and empowered, is informed and knowledgeable, and reaches their highest potential throughout their life.

Our Guiding Values

Deaf students communicating in sign language on the public park

Person Centered Philosophy

We recognize and respect each person’s unique strengths and contributions, and support informed decision-making and self-direction.

Girl with down syndrome, friends at water park hugging

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

We promote a culture of inclusion and belonging that strengthens meaningful relationships and embraces differing perspectives that guide our decision-making.

Parent and educator shaking hands in classroom with kids smiling

Partnership

We collaborate and grow with our partners; including those we serve, the people who support them, our staff, our service providers, community leaders, elected officials, and others…

Woman writing on a mood board with team members during a team business meeting

Innovation

We evolve by seeking better ways to advance our future.

Young woman making a presentation in the meeting room

Accountability & Transparency

We are fiscally responsible and use resources effectively, share timely and accurate information, and actively listen to our community.

Our History

In 1965, the California Legislature determined that the best way to provide community-based services to citizens with developmental disabilities and their families was through partnerships with local private sector organizations. These local organizations are known as regional centers.

The legislation that created the regional center system is called the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act. It is named after Mr. Frank Lanterman, a California legislator with vision who first conceived this unique and progressive government-private sector partnership. The Lanterman Act sets forth in detail the mandates under which regional centers operate. Read more about The Lanterman Act.

Harbor Regional Center is one of 21 such centers in California. Our center opened its doors in 1973 and served 397 individuals. We currently serve over 20,000 individuals. Our major source of funding is a combination of state and federal government programs and, we also receive funding for specific projects or purposes from foundations, businesses, and individuals.

A group of five men in suits stand together at a ribbon-cutting ceremony. One man holds large scissors, all are smiling.

Black and white image of a commercial building with large windows, a ramp, and an entrance door. The sign above reads

Two men and a child hold a large poster outdoors. One man is kneeling, and the other is standing beside the child.

Group of fifteen people, including twelve standing and three seated at a table with nameplates, in a formal setting.

Harbor Celebrated 50 Years of Service

In 2023-2024, Harbor Regional Center celebrated our journey of hard-fought advocacy, commitment, and partnership.