Cal State Dominguez Hills announced on Monday, April 6, that it had received a $29 million grant, the largest philanthropic gift in the university’s history, to educate hundreds of new mental and behavioral health professionals to serve South Los Angeles families and youth.
The five-year investment from the Ballmer Group is aimed at increasing access to mental health care for children and families in underserved communities while preparing more counselors and social workers.
It was one of three substantial grants announced Monday from the investment company founded by Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and his wife, Connie. Cal State Los Angeles received $48 million — also the largest philanthropic gift in its history — and UCLA is getting $33 million, all for the same purposes.
The CSUDH grant will fund scholarships, licensure preparation and emergency aid for students studying key fields related to community and mental health.
“This gift is a response to acute child and youth behavioral health shortages in South L.A. and adjacent areas — communities our students and graduates call home,” CSUDH Interim President Mary Ann Villarreal said in a statement. “With this investment, CSUDH can expand access to opportunity for our students while preparing professionals committed to serving populations with the greatest need.”
The Ballmer Group’s commitment will support the launch of Toros Heal L.A., an initiative geared toward helping to strengthen the workforce needed to address the state’s documented shortage of mental health professionals.
“CSUDH is a proven philanthropic partner and leader in preparing graduates ready to serve their communities,” said Kim Pattillo Brownson, director of strategy, policy, and partnerships for Ballmer Group Los Angeles. “This investment will support a critically needed workforce and expand access to culturally responsive care across the region.”