Rancho Research Institute
Public records show a registered, tax-exempt organization in good standing.
What it says it does
The mission of Rancho Research Institute (RRI) is to conduct medical research and education activities at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center (Rancho)See Schedule O for more details.
- Income
- $11.3 million
- Spending
- $10.6 million
- Spent on programs
- 84%
- Reserves
- 9.6 months of spending
- Largest source of income
- fees for its services, 53%
- Employees
- 144
- Volunteers
- 7
- Highest pay
- $222,142, ceo
Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Financial health
Strong: 93 out of 100.
Reserves
28 of 35Spendable reserves would cover 9.6 months of spending.
Debt
20 of 20It owes 15% of what it owns.
Living within its means
15 of 15Income exceeded spending by 6% of income.
Income trend
15 of 15Income rose 13% on the year before.
Spending floor
15 of 1584% of spending went to programs and raising each dollar of donations cost 0 cents.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Governance
Strong: 90 out of 100.
Independent board
25 of 2511 of 13 voting board members are independent.
Conflict of interest policy
15 of 15Has a written conflict of interest policy.
Whistleblower policy
8 of 8Has a written whistleblower policy.
Record keeping policy
7 of 7Has a written policy on keeping and destroying records.
Board minutes
5 of 5Keeps minutes of board meetings.
Board sees the tax return
0 of 10Did not give the board a copy of this return before filing it.
Pay set independently
5 of 5Sets its chief executive's pay through independent review and comparison.
Independent check of accounts
15 of 15Its accounts were audited by an independent accountant.
No reported misuse
10 of 10Reports no diversion of assets, excess benefits or loans to insiders.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Impact evidence
Describes programs. Its tax return describes what it does but we have found no measurable results in it.
Programs described in its return (17)
- $3.2 million spent. Orthotic Services - The Orthotics Services at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center (RLANRC) is a unique and critical resource that provides optimal patient care to individuals with neurological and musculoskeletal disorders affecting walking or upper extremity function. A full range of orthotic services is provided to both inpatients and outpatients, as well as to individuals outside of RLANRC through our satellite location. Staff orthotists, prosthetists, and fitters are part of a multidisciplinary team that collaborates to develop assessment and treatment plans for clients. Practitioners consult with therapists and physicians to determine the best design for each patient. The department's on-site location at RLANRC allows for quick response and follow-up to the medical center's needs, as well as convenient access for clinic patients See Schedule O for more details. A full range of devices is available for the legs, arms, and spine, utilizing various designsfrom custom to prefabricatedto enhance function in the most cost-effective manner. Prosthetics are also part of our services, providing patients with the same high-quality products and patient care.Total program expenses: $3,153,570
- $917,729 spent. SCI Model System - The Southern California Spinal Cord Injury Model System (SoCal-SCIMS) at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center (RLANRC) aims to improve health, rebuild lives, and restore hope for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) through knowledge generation and dissemination. As the designated Patient-Centered Medical Home for SCI in Los Angeles County, RLANRC serves a diverse and largely underserved population. The SoCal-SCIMS's goals are realized through five key efforts: 1) Delivering comprehensive services, 2) Contributing to the National SCI Database, 3) Conducting site-specific research, 4) Engaging in collaborative research modules, 5) Disseminating knowledge and translating research findings. Our partners, including local trauma centers and Emergency Medical Services, support the majority of the region's trauma cases. See Schedule O for more details. We leverage ORCHID electronic health records for data collection and integration into the national database. Our research focuses on evaluating non-pharmacologic pain management methods for chronic pain in SCI patients and investigating heart rate variability biofeedback training. Another research module examines factors affecting bowel-related quality of life to enhance clinical practices.Total program expenses: $917,729
- $912,153 spent. Transportation - The RRI Patient Transportation Services (Prop A & LA Metro Grant) provides specialized wheelchair accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities and special needs. We provide temporary transportation services for outpatients to and from home while they seek long-term transportation. This is a shared ride service, where the shuttle carries several patients at a time, to and from Rancho for various services, programs, and patient studies including the Wellness Center. Transportation runs throughout the day, five days a week. See Schedule O for more details. Since 1957, the Driver Rehabilitation and Training Program, as part of the Occupational Therapy Department at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, has been assisting disabled or medically at-risk drivers to become skilled drivers. In addition, our program consults on modified vehicle selection to fit the driver's needs. We serve drivers of all ages.Total program expenses were: $912,153
- $801,772 spent. Clinical trials research initiatives funded by industry sponsorsare an essential part of RRIs operations, serving as a valuable enterprise that facilitates the rigorous testing of new pharmaceutical and device technologies and bridges the gap between clinical research and clinical practice. RRIs Clinical Trials Division (CTD) oversees trials in several rapidly expanding areas critical to Ranchos patient population, including Neurology, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gerontology, Nephrology, Podiatry, and Urology. In fiscal year 20232024, the CTD supported 18 physician investigators across more than two dozen trials and conducted approximately 800 trial visits. As the standard bearer for excellence in industry-sponsored research, RRIs Clinical Trials Division continues to drive medical innovation forward, delivering new tools for physicians and improving outcomes for patients.
- $594,806 spent. Dementia Care Aware - This program 1) creates the Cognitive Health Assessment and accompanying toolkit for team-based implementation in primary care, 2) offers training for California's Medi-Cal providers in the early detection of neurocognitive impairment and care planning across all California counties, 3) increases Medi-Cal providers self-efficacy in detecting and diagnosing neurocognitive disorders, 4) enhances the detection of dementia in primary care settings serving Medi-Cal patients, and 5) improves clinical staging and documentation of care planning for patients living with dementia.
- $533,660 spent. Other programs - Rancho Research Institute (RRI) supports a diverse portfolio of programs aimed at advancing innovation, education, and research to improve the lives of people with disabilities. RRIs educational initiatives provide training for healthcare professionals, students, and community members, fostering the next generation of leaders in rehabilitation science and disability advocacy. Through its cutting-edge rehabilitation robotics program, RRI explores the use of advanced robotic technologies to enhance mobility, independence, and functional recovery for individuals with physical impairments. In addition, RRI is committed to capacity-building efforts that strengthen Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center's position as a leader in clinical innovation and research, expanding opportunities for groundbreaking studies and the development of new therapies that transform care and improve outcomes for people with disabilities.
- $452,059 spent. Eliminating Cardio-Metabolic Disparities in Multi-Ethnic Populations:Rancho Research Institute is advancing community-centered research initiatives aimed at reducing inequities in cardiovascular and neurological health outcomes among underserved populations. Through the BP-REACH study (Blood Pressure Disparities Reduction, Equity, and Access among safety-net patients with Cardiovascular Health risk), Rancho collaborates with UCLA and UCI to improve hypertension management, cardiovascular risk reduction, and access to preventive care for multi ethnic communities disproportionately affected by stroke and heart disease. Complementing this effort, the REACH-ICH study (Race/Ethnicity, Hypertension and Prevention of VCID and Stroke after Intracerebral Hemorrhage) investigates the long-term cognitive and vascular consequences of hemorrhagic stroke, with a focus on preventing recurrent stroke and vascular cognitive impairment in high-risk populations. Together, these initiatives support equitable, culturally responsive health care by combining clinical research, longitudinal patient follow-up, community engagement, and targeted interventions designed to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities in historically underserved communities.
- $342,364 spent. Rancho Works Caf & Gift Shop - The Rancho Work Program supports individuals with disabilities in their goal of returning to work, offering a blend of income opportunities and meaningful engagement. Our program facilitates recovery through skill application in a supportive work setting. Trainees can start at our on-site Rancho Works Caf & Gift Shop, which serves affordable, healthy food and handcrafted items, fostering community engagement. Participants develop crucial workplace skillslike time management, organization, and teamworkthrough real tasks such as inventory management, sales transactions, and bookkeeping. They also learn safe food handling practices, customer service, and job application skills including resume writing and interview preparation. Our comprehensive training, conducted in a practical work environment, prepares participants for community employment, enhancing their employability and integration into society.
- $289,123 spent. Spinal Neuromodulation - The Spinal Neuromodulation Program at Rancho Research Institute (RRI) focuses on advancing innovative treatments for individuals living with paralysis by using non-invasive spinal cord stimulation to promote recovery of motor and urological function. This cutting-edge approach delivers targeted electrical stimulation to the spinal cord without the need for surgical intervention, activating neural pathways that support voluntary movement and improve bladder control. Through ongoing clinical research and collaboration with leading experts, the program explores how spinal neuromodulation can help restore independence and enhance quality of life for individuals affected by spinal cord injury and other neurological conditions.
- $281,774 spent. Alzheimer's Disease and Treatment Center - One of ten California state-funded Alzheimer's Disease Centers (CADCs), this Center develops model systems of care to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Located at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center (RLANRC) and affiliated with the University of Southern California (USC), the Center provides services aimed at improving health, enhancing quality of life, and reducing the degree of disability for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. The Center also refers patients to clinical and observational trials to evaluate new treatments and diagnostic methods for Alzheimer's and other dementias, and to better understand factors that may either protect against or accelerate mental decline in aging. In addition to clinical services, the Center offers support for families and caregivers, education for medical professionals and community groups, and bilingual services to meet the diverse needs of the population.
- $249,675 spent. Wellness Center - Established in 2011 with support from LA CARE, the Don Knabe Wellness Center provides comprehensive educational and fitness level programs, including peer support groups for individuals with disability, their families, community, and Rancho staff. The Don Knabe Wellness Center is located in a 5,760 square-foot facility, which includes four rooms used for art classes, Zumba, sitting exercise class, meditation, support groups, and technology access. Off-site adaptive outdoor adventure programs through Recreation Therapy are available to those interested in participating in activities such as adapted rock climbing, water sports, and horseback riding. Each program is conducted by enthusiastic therapists, rehabilitation therapy technicians and Wellness Center volunteers. All individuals are welcome to participate via a low-cost membership fee. For these clients with various diagnoses (i.e. stroke, spinal injury, multiple sclerosis, brain injury, etc.) the Wellness Center will offer continued programming to meet their physical and psychosocial needs. Support groups, peer counseling, recreational programs, exercise and fitness classes, specialty services, and education classes will be offered to allow the client to explore and experience a rich and active lifestyle while living with a disability.
- $164,349 spent. Rancho Violence Recovery and Prevention - The Rancho Violence Recovery and Prevention Program (RVRPP) aims to help break the cycle of violence in Los Angeles County communities. In partnership with Southern California Crossroads and with funding from the California Community Foundation and the Office of Violence Prevention (OVP), RVRPP provides coordinated peer counseling, social work, and case management services for individuals who sustain life-altering injuries or disabilities as a result of violence. RLANRC nurses, providers, case managers, and social workers are often the first to identify patients as victims of violent crime and potential participants in the RVRPP. Eligible participants include any inpatient or outpatient who reports being a victim of a violent crime, including aggravated assault, community violence, robbery, rape, or intimate partner violence. Through program services and ongoing longitudinal surveys with participants, RVRPP seeks to identify the most effective interventions to support survivors recovery from violent injuries and promote successful reintegration into their home communities.
- $94,075 spent. AFO Prescription Guidelines to Optimize Post-Stroke Function and Quality of Life:The project seeks to improve mobility, rehabilitation outcomes, and quality of life for individuals recovering from stroke by developing evidence-based clinical guidelines for prescribing ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs). Ranchos multidisciplinary team is leading gait laboratory evaluations, participant recruitment, focus groups, and clinical data collection, while also contributing expertise in rehabilitation therapy, biomechanics, and patient-centered care. The study incorporates advanced gait analysis, patient feedback, and collaborative clinical research to better understand how different AFO interventions affect functional outcomes and daily living for stroke survivors.
- $41,276 spent. Assistive ExoSkeleton and ExoTendon System - The Assistive ExoSkeleton and ExoTendon System for Increased Return of Limb Function after Diabetic Foot Ulcer study assesses the comfort and acceptance of shoes equipped with an exoskeleton device (FlyBand) for individuals who have experienced diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), compared to standard diabetic footwear. The goal is to determine whether the FlyBand shoe helps individuals restore normal walking function more effectively than standard diabetic shoes.
- $34,717 spent. Physical Therapy Education - The Physical Therapy Department at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center began as an organized unit in the late 1920s and is one of the premier departments of Physical Therapy in the world, providing over ninety years of clinical expertise and leadership in rehabilitation. The Department's commitment to excellence continues today with the delivery of individualized and collaborative care which incorporates the latest evidence into clinical practice as well as a commitment to educating the professional community and a spirit of innovation and progress.
- $24,433 spent. Technology Service/Students - Using the Center for Applied Rehabilitation Technology, CART, patients are evaluated on the use of technology in the recovery process. CART helps children and adults with disabilities lead more independent lives using assistive technology solutions.Assistive technology enables individuals with disabilities to participate more fully in everyday activities at home, school, work, and in the community. An interdisciplinary team of experts consisting of occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech pathology and a rehabilitation engineer are available to address one or more of the following technology areas: seating and mobility, augmentative and alternative communication, environmental control, access to computers and/or mobile devices, adaptive gaming, low vision assistive technology and worksite/ergonomic evaluations.Experienced CART consultants work together with clients and caregivers to ensure that individuals can test different solutions and find optimal and seamless methods to meet their individual goals.
- $21,848 spent. Observational Gait - The Rancho Observational Gait Analysis System is a well-known method for teaching a systematic approach to analyze gait that is utilized internationally as a foundation for movement analysis related to gait. The Rancho system incorporates a thorough and systematic approach of problem identification, prioritization, and treatment focus. Based on the work of Dr. Jacquelin Perry, MD, and the Rancho Physical Therapy Department, Rancho Observational Gait Analysis helps clinicians examine and improve an individual's walking ability.
Source: Form 990 for the year ending June 30, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Legitimacy checks
Is it registered with the IRS? Passed.
Listed in the IRS master file of tax-exempt organizations as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
Has the IRS revoked its tax-exempt status? Passed.
Not on the IRS automatic revocation list.
Source: Automatic revocation of exemption list, Internal Revenue Service, file dated November 6, 2026.
Are donations tax-deductible? Passed.
On the IRS list of organizations eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.
Source: Publication 78 data: organizations eligible for tax-deductible contributions, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
Is it keeping up with its IRS filings? Passed.
Most recent return on file covers the year ending June 2025.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
How long has it been tax-exempt? Passed.
Recognized by the IRS since May 1959.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated October 13, 2026.
Is it in good standing with state regulators? Passed.
Not on California's list of charities barred from soliciting. Other states are not yet checked.
Source: May Not Operate or Solicit for Charitable Purposes list, California Attorney General, Registry of Charities and Fundraisers, file dated November 4, 2026.
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