I write on behalf of Our Children’s Place, a cooperative, play-based preschool based in Burbank, California, since 1992. We find ourselves in a very, very difficult financial situation that may jeopardize our ability to continue serving children and families. We humbly ask for your support before we start our new school year on August 12, 2025.

If you are an alumni family, you know exactly how unique our school is, what we offer, and how accessible and self-sufficient we aim to be. For folks who are not familiar with us, we are a school community that offers toddler classes, preschool, and pre-kinder, serving kiddos aged about one year old to five years old. Our approach is firmly rooted in embracing every child for exactly who they are, fostering a love of nature and all living beings, and providing kiddos the freedom to learn by playing and exploring. We also offset costs for families by having them do working shifts and take on family jobs.

Although we are taking steps to improve our situation (pursuing grants, approaching local business for in-kind donations, modestly increasing tuition and fees, doing various fundraisers , etc.), the truth is that without community support right now we don’t know how long or whether we will be able to continue. The good news is that we have collective power, we can each give what we’re able as well as share with our networks.

We know this is a difficult time for so many organizations and for individuals, as well. Still, there are many reasons to support our school: because of the value and love OCP brings to children and families, because we need spaces where children can express themselves freely and learn important skills like empathy, community-building, and self-regulation, or because you just want to do something good to help others, today. Please consider helping us reach our goal.

In community and solidaridad,

Alicia Castro, OCP Board President 2025-26