Join us for a live webinar

In this webinar, we will offer a brief overview of CARE Court, SB 43, and the MHSA-to-BHSA transition, with tips for individuals directly impacted, guidance on supporting loved ones, and resources for community advocacy, featuring insights from disability justice advocates.

About the webinar:

Join us for an empowering conversation with disability justice advocates as we talk about the CARE Act/CARE Court, and SB 43, what they mean, who they impact, and how to navigate these systems if you or a loved one are directly impacted. Learn tips for advocacy, explore alternative ways to support loved ones outside of the court system, and gain tools to address vicarious trauma. We'll also highlight the evolving mental health landscape, including the transition from MHSA to BHSA, and share resources to help you advocate for services that truly meet your mental health needs.

Panelists:

Carolina Vale: Director of Power Building, MSW, Disability Rights California

Carolina is a social worker by training, with experience in both clinical work and traditional public policy. Carolina is currently focused on ending poverty traps and building a strong, statewide cross-disability network. Originally from Los Angeles, she’s also a co-founder of the All People’s Health Collective.

Vanessa Ramos, Special Advisor, Disability Rights California, Investigative Unit

Vanessa is a survivor of the Los Angeles drug war, leverages her diverse background in corporate, government, and non-profit sectors to advocate for community-driven solutions. Passionate about addressing state violence and promoting anti-carceral solutions like sustainable housing and mental health initiatives, she draws from her journey through ableist systems. Vanessa shares mindfulness practices across California, blending her expertise in yoga and peace literacy. As a devoted mother, she nurtures inclusive art and green spaces in Hollywood, enriching her community with compassion and dedication.

Monica Porter-Gilbert, Associate Director and Senior Counsel of Public Policy, Disability Rights California

Monica's work focuses on mental health and homelessness policy. Monica brings to her work personal and professional experience with mental health systems. Prior to joining DRC, Monica did mental health policy advocacy at the federal level at the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, worked to end homelessness at Homebase, and represented people with mental health disabilities in impact litigation at Disability Rights Advocates. Monica holds a J.D. from the George Washington University Law School and a B.A. from UC Berkeley in Social Welfare, with minors in Public Policy and Disability Studies.