(Los Angeles, CA) February 26, 2026 – More than 20 community leaders, legislative representatives, and partners gathered today for a Hard Hat Tour of The Nest on Exposition, Wellnest’s new interim supportive housing project designed for Transitional Aged Youth (TAY) in Los Angeles.
Attendees included representatives from the Los Angeles County Homelessness and Housing Services, the office of Assemblymember Sade Elhawary, the office of Los Angeles Council member Heather Hutt, and the office of Senator Bob Archuleta. Neighboring businesses, representatives from the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, local community organizations, Wellnest Board Members, and members of the executive leadership team also joined the tour.
The Nest on Exposition will feature 24 modular studio units, thoughtfully designed using trauma-informed architectural principles to create a safe environment for young adults transitioning out of foster care, or who may be at risk for homelessness. Expansive windows invite natural light into each unit, while open, airy interiors create a sense of peace and serenity. Healing outdoor spaces and natural materials landscaping further support emotional well-being and connection to the surrounding community.
Located in the Vermont corridor at Vermont and Exposition and a stop on the F metro line, The Nest on Exposition offers convenient access to public transportation, nearby cultural institutions, educational campuses, workforce opportunities, and food resources, creating a connected, integrated environment in the heart of Los Angeles.
“The architectural design embraces trauma-informed principles to create a welcoming, restorative environment where young adults can truly heal,” Nicholas Muraglia, associate with Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects shares, “From the expansive windows and natural light to the seamless indoor-outdoor spaces and calming landscape design, every element was intentionally designed to promote safety, stability, and well-being.”
Charlene Dimas-Peinado, President & CEO of Wellnest, shares the broader impact of the project below,
“Safe, stable housing is the foundation of both physical and emotional well-being,” said Dimas-Peinado. “When young adults have access to secure housing, they experience lower stress levels, stronger mental health, and improved overall health outcomes. Housing is a fundamental human right and influences nearly every aspect of a young adult’s life, from access to compassionate care to college and career preparedness. By developing supportive housing, Wellnest is investing in healthier individuals and stronger communities.”
Residents at The Nest on Exposition will receive a full continuum of care, including outpatient mental health services, workforce development support, job training, and integrated, compassionate care tailored to everyone’s needs. The program is designed to empower young adults 18-25 y/o with independence, confidence, and long-term stability.
The Hard Hat Tour provided key stakeholders and legislative partners an early look at how Wellnest is integrating housing and mental health expertise to create a model of supportive community living; one that ensures young adults don’t simply survive, but truly thrive.
For more information about The Nest on Exposition or to learn how to support this initiative, please visit www.wellnestla.org/housing.
About Wellnest:
For 100 years, Wellnest has provided innovative, trauma-informed, nationally acclaimed mental health services for children and youth in Los Angeles. Originally founded as part of a nationwide initiative to create access to comprehensive mental health services for children, Wellnest has emerged as a leader in pioneering innovative solutions to meet emerging communities’ wellness needs. Today, Wellnest engages with more than 273,000 clients annually.
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Rebecca Haussling
Vice President of Communications & Public Affairs
