Person-Centered Care in Action: The Peltier Family
A Legacy of Belonging
At TLC, our story goes beyond the bricks and mortar of our homes. We write it in the lifelong journeys of our residents and the families who have stood by us since the very beginning.
For Betty Peltier and her children Katie and Larry, there is a 40-year history with TLC, one rooted in community, love, and the belief that every person deserves a life of dignity and purpose. We sat down with the Peltier family to talk about their brother Tim’s incredible journey toward independence and self-advocacy, and what keeps them connected to TLC’s mission.
From Ten Sets of Parents to a Forever Home
The story of TLC began with a simple but radical idea: that every individual deserves a home that treats them as an equal. Betty shared how the organization was born from the vision of Bunny and Seymour Perlman, who joined forces with ten other sets of parents to create what the world didn’t yet offer.
“Families worked together to meet every need,” Betty recalled, “from building beds to securing equipment.” A singular goal fueled the effort: a better life for their children. Today, TLC operates 12 homes throughout the San Fernando Valley, serving more than 80 residents and over 200 individuals annually in TLC’s Creative Arts Day Program.
In Their Own Words
When asked to describe the atmosphere at TLC today, the words came easily to the Peltiers:
“Inclusive” – Katie “Dynamic” – Larry “Happiness“ – Betty
Tim and Kirsten share a moment at a TLC social event
For the Peltiers, TLC is more than a service provider; it is the place where their brother Tim has been able to truly blossom and thrive. What strikes the family most is how Tim continues to grow and evolve. Confidence has become one of the clearest signs, expanding in ways that are impossible to miss. He has become more expressive, sharing details about his day and advocating for his own interests including a deep passion for music, which flourished with the help of a musically inclined roommate.
“TLC provides a sense of freedom and liberation,” Larry noted. “They tailor programs to meet individual needs, helping clients reach their full potential and find their own identities.”
Tim shares a dance with a friend at promTim enjoys a day of ice skating with a friendSammy Davis Jr. and Tim share a moment at a benefit concert for TLCThe Peltier family
A Philosophy of Equality
Her parents’ philosophy helped shape Katie’s own professional path as a speech pathologist. Growing up with Tim, there was no “othering,” Katie noted. He was an equal family member in every sense. The Peltiers see this belief in dignity, respect and independence reflected in the TLC staff today, whom they describe as “angels.”
“We have such peace of mind knowing Tim is well-cared for,” Katie shared. She pointed to the personal relationships Tim has built with long-term staff members like Nettie in the nursing office. The Peltiers believe this culture of respect, for both residents and staff, is what makes the TLC community thrive.
Person-Centered Care That Grows With You
One of the things the Peltier family values most about TLC is its person-centered care: the way TLC tailors care to each resident. As Tim and his neighbors grow older, TLC adapts alongside them. This ensures that participation in creative arts programming remains accessible and meaningful at every stage of life. For the Peltiers, knowing that Tim can continue doing what he loves is everything.
When asked what they would say to someone considering a gift to TLC, Katie’s message was simple. Your gift helps create an environment where joy meets individual needs. Every resident becomes a vital part of the community.
Tim plants seedlings in the community garden as part of TLC’s outdoor programmingClassmates work on braille skills during a life skills session at TLCWith the support of TLC staff member, Tim rides an adaptive bike
We are so grateful to the Peltier family for their decades of advocacy, their vision and their continued support of the TLC mission. Together, we are ensuring that residents like Tim have a place to call home, now and for years to come.
You can help write the next chapter. Consider making a gift to TLC today, or learn how to get involved as a volunteer or advocate in your own community.
