OCRA Staff Links

OCRA Staff Links

ALTA CALIFORNIA REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
1831 K Street
Sacramento, CA 95811
Phone: (916) 504-5958
EFax: (916) 504-5821
Supervised by Nancy McGee

Kelsey Handcock – CRA
Kelsey.Handcock@disabilityrightsca.org

Kelsey Handcock is a Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Alta California Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the rights of people with developmental disabilities and their access to necessary services. During her time with OCRA, Kelsey has particularly appreciated the opportunities to train clients, their families, and staff on various topics including regional center services, special education, and public benefits. Prior to working for OCRA, Kelsey has had experience in representing children in the areas of special education and dependency law. Kelsey enjoys helping to improve the lives of regional center consumers in victories big and small.

Kelsey holds a J.D. from the Whittier Law School, and a B.A. in Political Science from Sonoma State University. In her free time, Kelsey enjoys listening to podcasts and spending time with her family and pets.

Mathilde Garnier-Tobar – Assistant CRA
mathilde.tobar@disabilityrightsca.org 

Mathilde Garnier-Tobar is the Bilingual Assistant for Client’s Rights Advocate who works with Alta California Regional Center consumers and their families.  Mathilde is originally from France but is fluent in both English and Spanish.  She helps consumers and their families learn to advocate for themselves and provides support, information, resources, and referrals. 

In the past, Mathilde has worked for several non-profits in the Bay Area, serving immigrants, refugees, and families of children with disabilities.  She believes everyone should have access to the services they need.  

In her free time, Mathilde enjoys cooking, hiking, and spending time with her family.

 

CENTRAL VALLEY REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
567 W. Shaw Avenue, Suite C-3
Fresno, CA  93704
Phone: (559) 271-6736
Fax: (559) 271-6606
Supervised by Alejandro “Alex” Gastelum

Evelyn Cortes – CRA
Evelyn.Cortes@disabilityrightsca.org

Evelyn Cortes is a Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Central Valley Regional Center consumers and their families. Evelyn advocates for clients’ needs to be met in an individualized manner and provides essential services to persons with developmental disabilities.  Evelyn believes that OCRA’s services are instrumental to empower persons with disabilities and improve their lives.

Evelyn has worked with underserved populations at the Legal Aid Foundation of Santa Barbara County where she assisted persons to complete U Nonimmigrant petitions. Evelyn has helped persons seek domestic violence restraining orders and assisted them to self-represent themselves in civil proceedings.

Evelyn holds a J.D. from the Santa Barbara and Ventura Colleges of Law and a B.S. in social work from Fresno State University. 

Brenda Vang– Assistant CRA
Brenda.Vang@disabilityrightsca.org

Brenda Vang is an Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Central Valley Regional Center consumers and their families to provide support and knowledge.  Brenda believes that the work that OCRA does is important to help families and clients become the best self-advocates that they can be.  Brenda has worked for OCRA since February 2020, has learned a great amount, and has assisted many clients. She is excited to learn more and help many more clients in the future.

 

EASTERN LOS ANGELES REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
1000 S. Fremont Avenue (P.O. Box 7916)
Alhambra, CA 91802
NOTE: All items that are not mail should be directed to the ELARC reception area, 2nd floor at Bldg. A2 Room #3232 and not OCRA’s office.
(Samantha – Suite # 3233/ACRA – Suite #3235)
Phone: (626) 576-4437/(626) 576-4407
EFax: (626) 576-4276
Supervised by Alejandro Gastelum

Alexander Scarlis – CRA
Alexander.Scarlis@disabilityrightsca.org

Alex is a Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities.  Alex believes OCRA’s work is crucial to ensuring people with developmental disabilities live as independently as possible.  Prior to working for OCRA, Alex represented people with disabilities in negotiations and appeals against state vocational rehabilitation agencies as an advocate in the Massachusetts Office on Disability.

Alex double-majored in Journalism and Political Science at Northwestern University and holds a Master of Public Policy from Brandeis University’s Heller School for Social Policy and Management.

Eduardo Sandoval – Assistant CRA
Eduardo.Sandoval@disability

Eduardo “Eddie” Sandoval is an Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with the Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities.  Before joining OCRA, Eddie worked for El Monte Union High School District’s Adult Transition Site as an Interpreter Aide for the deaf and hard of hearing.  He is fluent in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language and has worked with students of different races and ethnicities with various disabilities, including intellectual disabilities.  His work also put him in communication with many service providers, including regional centers and the state Department of Rehabilitation.  Eddie has also volunteered with his religious organization for more than 20 years, assisting people of all ages, including people with disabilities.

Eddie is currently attending Eastern Gateway Community College, where he is enrolled in the Teachers Education Program to become an Education Specialist in Special Education.

 

FAR NORTHERN REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
150 Amber Grove Drive, Suite 154
Chico, CA 95973
Phone: (530) 345-4113
Fax: (530) 345-4285
Supervised by Brittnee Gillespie Malone

Tammy Solano – CRA
Tammy.Solano@disabilityrightsca.org

Tammy Solano is a Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with the clients of Far Northern Regional Center to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. 

Tammy is excited to be a part of OCRA and its work of providing support and knowledge to people with disabilities and the community.  Prior to working for OCRA Tammy had experience in representing children within juvenile delinquency and juvenile dependency law.  Tammy holds a JD from Cal Northern School of Law and a B.S. in Political Science, with a minor in Latin American Studies, from California State University, Chico.

Frankie Alyssa Delgado – Assistant CRA
Frankie.Delgado@disabilityrightsca.org

Frankie loves working with Far Northern Regional Center clients and their families. She is proud to be a part of an organization that advocates for the rights of people with disabilities.

Frankie joined OCRA in June 2021 after graduating with her BA in Political Science: Legal Studies, and a minor in Criminal Justice, from California State University, Chico. She also earned a paralegal certificate during her undergraduate studies and worked at the Community Legal Information Clinic (CLIC) as an intern, Director of Family Law, and then as an Administrative Director overseeing the entire clinic. In high school, she worked with children with disabilities, developing and establishing a social inclusion club.

Frankie is passionate about being of service to others and believes that the work at OCRA is essential for clients to become successful self-advocates.

 

GOLDEN GATE REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy
825 Howard Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: (415) 499-9724
EFax: (415) 499-9728
Supervised by Alejandro “Alex” Gastelum

Vacant – CRA

Giovana Rojo – Assistant CRA
giovana.rojo@disabilityrightsca.org 

Giovana Rojo is a bilingual Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with regional center consumers to advocate for the rights of people with developmental disabilities. Giovana believes the work of OCRA is vital in advancing the rights of clients to protect and preserve their rights. Giovana believes in teaching and encouraging families about their special education rights. Prior to coming to OCRA, Giovana worked for a disability rights agency as a special education advocate. She hosted and organized events and special education trainings in Spanish. 

Giovana loves to travel, explore different cuisines and binge watch K-dramas. She has an associate degree from California Culinary Academy in culinary arts and business management.

 

HARBOR REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
12501 Imperial Highway, Suite 260
Norwalk, CA 90650
Phone: (562) 623-9911
Fax: (562) 623-9929
Supervised by Johnanthony Alaimo

Jamie Temple  – CRA
Email: Jamie.Temple@disabilityrightsca.org

Jamie Temple is the Clients’ Rights Advocate serving the Harbor Regional Center consumers and their families. She advocates for the civil rights of people with disabilities by advising them about their rights to services, public benefits, and other means of independence. Jamie believes that OCRA’s work is essential in helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead the full and independent lives they are entitled to.

Jamie holds a J.D. from University of California, Davis and a B.A. in political science from University of California, Berkeley. She enjoys trying out new board games, playing with her pug, and watching SF Giants baseball.

Vanessa Juarez – Assistant CRA
Vanessa.Juarez@disabilityrightsca.org

Vanessa is the Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate for the office assisting Harbor Regional Center consumers. They have worked with OCRA for the last five years, and they graduated from the University of California Berkeley with a B.A. in Urban Studies. They grew up in Tijuana, Mexico, and Los Angeles.

Vanessa enjoys connecting clients to appropriate resources and advising them on various topics, including regional center services, special education, and public benefits. They are very close to their uncle, who has Down syndrome, and they learn something new from him every day. They enjoy providing self-advocacy tips to clients who then empower themselves to have their needs met. They like to bring the things they learned from training back to their own family and friends to also share with others

 

INLAND REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
3602 Inland Empire Blvd., Suite C-150
Ontario, CA 91764
Phone: (909) 383-1133
Fax: (909) 383-1113
Supervised by Eva Casas-Sarmiento

Vacant – CRA

Bianca Rosales – Assistant CRA
Bianca.Rosales@disabilityrightsca.org

Bianca is an Assistant Client Rights Advocate who works with the Inland Regional Center Office to assist consumers and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities. She believes the work of OCRA is essential to help clients become successful self-advocates.

Bianca has a passion for helping. She has been an active community member, hosting a yearly essential supplies drive for the homeless and a toy drive for homeless children. Bianca believes there is no limit to helping clients and their families and with her passion she can assist clients develop their own self-advocacy skills.

Bianca enjoys spending time with her family, cooking and gardening. She especially enjoys exploring new hiking trails. Bianca loves road trips and traveling.

 

KERN REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
350 S. Bixel Street, Suite 290
Los Angeles, CA 90017
ATTN:  KRC Office
Phone: (661) 208-4847
EFax: (661) 208-4848
Supervised by Kendra Wagner

Adeyinka Glover – CRA
Email: Adeyinka.Glover@disabilityrightsca.org

Adeyinka Glover is a Clients’ Rights Advocate at OCRA who advocates for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities.

Adeyinka previously worked as an attorney at two legal non-profit organizations in the Central Valley assisting clients and communities with housing, domestic violence, guardianships, and environmental justice priorities.  Adeyinka believes it is important to provide high quality legal advocacy to underserved populations to meet their so individuals, families, and communities can thrive.

Adeyinka holds a J.D. from Thomas Jefferson School of Law and earned her B.A. degree in Political Science with a minor in Africana Studies at San Diego State University.  She enjoys traveling and experiencing art in various forms.

 

FRANK D. LANTERMAN REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy
350 S. Bixel Street, Suite 290
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Phone: (213) 213-8180
EFax (213) 213-8021
Supervised by Johnanthony Alaimo

Boanerges A. Rodriguez Orellana – CRA
Boanerges.Rodriguez@disabilityrightsca.org

Boanerges A. Rodriguez Orellana is the Clients’ Rights Advocate for Frank D. Lanterman Regional Center consumers, ensuring regional center clients and their families have access to the resources and services they need.  Boanerges also provides advocacy services for people with developmental disabilities in institutional or restrictive settings.    

Boanerges holds a J.D. from University of California, Irvine School of Law, and a B.A. in Political Science from University of California, San Diego. While at UC Irvine Law, he was co-chair of the Latinx Law Student Association, fundraising co-chair of the Public Interest Law Fund, and part of the Immigrant Rights Clinic.  Boanerges is fluent in written and spoken Spanish.  Outside of work, Boanerges enjoys playing basketball and running.

Ada Hamer – Associate CRA
Ada.Hamer@disabilityrightsca.org

Ada Hamer is an Associate Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Frank D. Lanterman Regional Center consumer and their families.  She has worked with the Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy for almost 20 years, advocating for the rights of regional center consumers in the areas of Regional Center, In-Home Supportive Services, Social Security, and Special Education. Ada participates in outreach focusing on the rights and services of regional center consumers. She has developed a unique relationship with the monolingual Spanish community based on the trust she has cultivated over many years. Ada enjoys connecting with families.

 

NORTH BAY REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy
50 Santa Rosa Avenue, Suite 310
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
Phone: (707) 224-2798
Fax: (707) 255-1567
Supervised by Katie Meyer

Yulahlia Hernandez – Senior CRA
Yulahlia.Hernandez@disabilityrightsca.org

Yulahlia Hernandez has been the Clients' Rights Advocate for North Bay Regional Center consumers for over fifteen years.   Yulahlia advocates for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities.  She advises clients on a variety of matters including eligibility for public benefits, regional center services, and special education.  Yulahlia particularly enjoys providing training to Spanish-speaking consumers and their families, and enjoys working with consumers on their self-advocacy skills.

Yulahlia previously interned at Bay Area Legal Aid focusing on Social Security appeals and advocacy workshops for Spanish-speaking survivors of domestic violence.  Yulahlia also interned at the Northern California Innocence Project.  She holds a J.D. and Public Interest Certificate from Santa Clara University School of Law and a B.A. in Latin American history from San Jose State University.

Annie Breuer – Associate CRA
Annie.Breuer@disabilityrightsca.org

Annie Breuer has worked for OCRA serving North Bay Regional Center consumers since 2010.  In the Associate Clients’ Rights Advocate, Annie provides administrative support to our North Bay Regional Center OCRA office and advocacy services to regional center consumers.  Annie especially enjoys providing trainings to clients from underserved communities and self-advocates.  She also trains OCRA staff on client communication techniques.

Annie has her B.A. in human development from Sonoma State University.  During college, Annie started her career working with regional center consumers through an internship with the State Council on Developmental Disabilities.  Before working for OCRA, Annie provided supported living and supported employment services to regional center consumers.  Annie enjoys spending time with her two children and growing a vegetable garden every year.

 

NORTH LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
350 S. Bixel Street, Suite 290
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Phone: (213) 213-8118
EFax (213) 213-8021
Supervised by Johnanthony Alaimo

Wilmary Torres – CRA
Email: Wilmary.Torres@disabilityrightsca.org

Wilmary Torres is the Clients’ Rights Advocate and attorney who works with North Los Angeles County Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the rights of people with developmental disabilities. Wilmary believes that OCRA’s services ensure that clients and their families receive necessary services and support.

Prior to working for OCRA, Wilmary worked as an attorney at a private firm where she advocated for students with disabilities in school.  She assisted parents with developing their IEPs and navigating Due Process proceedings.  Wilmary also has volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and a mentor with Minds Matter LA.

Wilmary holds a J.D. from Glendale University College of Law and a B.S. in biology from University of Texas at San Antonio.  Wilmary enjoys spending time with her two miniature schnauzers.

Fatima Perez – Assistant CRA
Email: Fatima.Perez@disabilityrightsca.org

Fatima Perez is the Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with North Los Angeles County Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the rights of people with developmental disabilities. Fatima helps consumers and their families learn to advocate for themselves by coordinating trainings on different topics such as Special Education, In-Home Support Services, Social Security, and Regional Center services. Fatima also provides support, information, resources, and referrals. Fatima believes the work of OCRA is essential to help clients become successful self-advocates.

Fatima has worked at OCRA for over two years and cultivated and managed relationships with the monolingual Spanish community. She has also assisted many clients obtain necessary services and supports and achieve their goals.

In her free time, Fatima enjoys spending time with her family and loved ones.

 

REDWOOD COAST REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy
427 F Street, Suite 232
Eureka, CA 95501
Phone: (707) 268-1388
EFax: (707) 268-0318    
Supervised by Alejandro “Alex” Gastelum

Clifford Black – CRA
Clifford.Black@disabilityrightsca.org

Clifford Black is the Clients’ Rights Advocate working with the Redwood Coast Regional Center to ensure people with developmental disabilities and their families have access to the resources and services they need to thrive on California’s North Coast. He also volunteers as a Long-Term Care Ombudsman at his local Area 1 Agency on Aging office. On any given weekend, you will find Cliff exploring the Redwood forests of Humboldt County, playing chess with friends, or frequenting local farmer’s markets in search of the freshest produce.

Clifford holds a J.D. from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law as well as a B.A. in Political Science from California State University of Long Beach.

Crysalyn Miranda – ACRA
Crysalyn.Miranda@disabilityrightsca.org

Crysalyn Miranda is an Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Redwood Coast Regional Center clients and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities.  Crysalyn believes the work of OCRA is an essential resource for helping underserved communities become successful self-advocates.  Crysalyn enjoys supporting client’s individual voices and helping folks navigate the resources available to them.  

Crysalyn holds a B.A. in Psychology from Sacramento State University where she had the opportunity to engage in participatory action research with local underserved communities. From this experience she developed a passion for encouraging welcoming environments that foster a sense of belonging and leave room for transformational empowerment. Her hobbies include adventuring with her partner, watching historical dramas, and maintaining her hoard of houseplants.

 

REGIONAL CENTER OF THE EAST BAY

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
1000 Broadway, Suite 395
Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: (510) 267-1280
Fax: (510) 267-1281
Supervised by Brittnee Gillespie Malone

Arthur Lipscomb – Senior CRA
Arthur.Lipscomb@disabilityrightsca.org

Arthur Lipscomb is committed to advocating for the rights of traditionally underserved and disadvantaged communities, with a particular interest in the educational rights of children. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley. He majored in Legal Studies with a minor in Education. While at Berkeley, he had the opportunity to work for two years at the San Francisco District Attorney's Office as a legal intern. He also devoted much of his time to outreach, tutoring, and youth mentoring so he could help and motivate young people to get a college education.

Arthur earned his J.D. from the University of California, Davis School of Law. In law school, he worked as a legal extern for the Yolo County Office of Court Counsel and was an intern at Consumers Union. He also participated with the law school's Pro Bono program and volunteered his time at an Employment Law Clinic.

Arthur first began advocating for persons with disabilities while serving as a CAP Advocate for Legal Services of Northern California. After two years in that role, he moved to OCRA in 2003. He is honored to serve as the Clients' Rights Advocate for the Regional Center of the East Bay.

Jane Selkye – Assistant CRA
Jane.Selkye@disabilityrightsca.org 

Jane received her paralegal certificate from UCLA’s Attorney Assistant Training Program in the 1980s and worked for Public Counsel in Los Angeles when it was still a small organization.

Realizing that so many clients’ difficult situations were rooted in the need for biliteracy, she left public interest law within a few years to become a Spanish bilingual elementary teacher, focusing on literacy in underserved communities. After 13 years, she left the classroom, getting her MLIS to become a K – 12 school library media specialist. During her recent coursework to add a special education credential, she became aware of the connection between high school transition programming and post-secondary services for young adults with disabilities. Her explorations of careers supporting the rights of people with disabilities led her back to her original passion for self-advocacy development for marginalized communities. Jane is thrilled to return to public interest law as an ACRA at OCRA RCEB. 

Jane also spins, dyes, and weaves mohair and plays in the SF Bay area music groups Springhouse and Magic City Chamber of Commerce with her bassist husband. 

 

REGIONAL CENTER OF ORANGE COUNTY

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy     
801 North Parkcenter Drive, Suite 107
Santa Ana, CA  92705
Phone: (714) 621-0563
Fax: (714) 621-0550
Supervised by Heather Benton

Chad Escallier  – CRA
Chad.Escallier@disabilityrightsca.org

Chad Escallier is the Orange County Clients’ Rights Advocate. He assists clients with a myriad of matters, including regional center services, special education, and public benefits. Chad aspires to provide legal advocacy that will help his clients reach their goals and objectives. 

Chad previously worked for a legal non-profit organization providing legal services in the areas of family law, housing, and consumer rights.  He holds a J.D. from the UCLA School of Law and a B.A. in Political Science from USC. Chad enjoys spending quality time with his family, walking his dog, Angel, a miniature schnauzer mix, and exercising.

Maria Rojas – Assistant CRA
Maria.Rojas@disabilityrightsca.org

Maria Rojas is the Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Regional Center of Orange County consumers and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities. 

 

SAN ANDREAS REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy
6203 San Ignacio Avenue, Suite 110
San Jose, CA  95119
Phone: (408) 374-2470
Fax: (408) 374-2956
Supervised by Alejandro “Alex” Gastelum

Stephanie Krol Vieira – CRA
Stephanie.KrolVieira@disabilityrightsca.org

Stephanie Krol Vieira is the Clients’ Rights Advocate for San Andreas Regional Center. Stephanie has spent over seven years as an attorney working in the public interest field zealously advocating for low income and underrepresented communities. 

Prior to OCRA, Stephanie worked at the Law Foundation of Silicon Valley Health Program where she represented clients in a variety of public benefit cases as well as larger advocacy regarding issues impacting the unhoused communities in Santa Clara County.  Stephanie also worked at Bay Area Legal Aid primarily on SSI benefits advocacy, mental health care advocacy, and and related services, with a special focus on transition aged youth.  Stephanie earned her J.D. from USC Gould School of Law but will always represent her undergrad UC Berkeley (Go Bears!).    

Maria Martinez – Assistant CRA
Maria.Martinez@disabilityrightsca.org

Maria Martinez is an Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with San Andreas Regional Center clients and their families by providing information and advice.  Maria takes pride in being able to provide advocacy, translation, and interpretation to Spanish- speaking families.  Maria believes that the work that OCRA does is important for families and for clients to become the best self-advocates.  In her free time, Maria enjoys spending time with her family and pets, and going on long hikes.

 

SAN DIEGO REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
530 B Street, Suite 400
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 239-7877
Fax: (619) 239-7838
Supervised by Brittnee Gillespie Malone

Tania Schloss – CRA
Tania.Schloss@disabilityrightsca.org

Tania Schloss’s advocacy for social justice is inspired by the needs of people with disabilities, closing the gap of income inequality, and providing access to legal representation to underserved communities. “What do we live for if not to make the world less difficult for each other?” – George Eliot.

Prior to joining Disability Rights California, Tania worked at a private firm where she represented diverse clientele in over 200 administrative law disability hearings in the California and Nevada region. Previously she partnered with the Legal Aid Society of San Diego and the San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program where she assisted indigent clients pro bono with tax and subsidized housing matters. She has also drafted motions and contracts for class action litigation.

Tania graduated magna cum laude from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in 2016, where she achieved several CALI Excellence awards for earning the highest grade in Evidence, Constitutional Law, Civil Procedure, and Legal Writing and Research.

Maria Salas – Assistant CRA
Maria.Salas@disabilityrightsca.org

Maria Salas is an Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who assists in providing information, advice, and representation to consumers and families of San Diego and Imperial County. Maria takes pride in being able to provide advocacy, translation, and interpretation to Spanish-speaking families.

Maria believes that her position at OCRA has the potential to impact many clients with developmental disabilities in her community. Maria has over 10 years of administrative experience. Before OCRA, she worked at a non-profit mental health clinic where she supported staff in providing exceptional support to clients with mental health disabilities. In that role, Maria gained experience working directly with clients and managing cases, files, and projects.

In her free time, Maria enjoys spending time outdoors with her family.

Yazmin Franco – Assistant CRA
yazmin.franco@disabilityrightsca.org

Yazmín is an Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate serving San Diego Regional Center clients and their families. Yazmín provides free legal information, advice, and representation to people with developmental disabilities. She also serves as a Spanish interpreter and translator, facilitating communication for Latinx communities.

Yazmín earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from UC Riverside. After graduation, Yazmín became a legislative consultant at the California State Assembly Speaker’s Office where she researched and analyzed public policy bills related to higher education and immigration. 

Following her legislative experience, Yazmín helped people with their immigration processes. Yazmín also enrolled in UC San Diego’s School of Global Policy and Strategy where she graduated with a Master of International Affairs and a specialization in Latin America.  Throughout her academic journey, Yazmín graduated with high honors and received accolades for academic and civic excellence. Through advocacy, Yazmín has enhanced the treatment and services for students with disabilities and immigrants, as well as improved accessibility and equity within the environmental justice movement.   

In her free time, Yazmín enjoys playing video games and spending time with her cat, Lumi. 

 

SAN GABRIEL/POMONA REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
3602 Inland Empire Blvd., Suite C-150
Ontario, CA 91764
Phone: (909) 595-4755
Fax: (909) 595-4855
Supervised by Heather Benton

Aimee Delgado – CRA Specialist
Aimee.Delgado@disabilityrightsca.org

Aimee Delgado is the Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities. Aimee believes the work of OCRA is essential to help clients become successful self-advocates. Aimee has developed close relationships with community partners to provide trainings to empower clients and their families. Aimee has worked at OCRA for over ten years and in that time, has assisted hundreds of clients to obtain necessary services and supports and achieve their goals.

Aimee holds a J.D. from Whittier Law School and a B.A. in English and Political Science from Mount St. Mary’s University.

Adan Barrera – Assistant CRA
Adan.Barrera@disabilityrightsca.org

Adan Barrera is an Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who serves clients of the San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center.  He is honored to advocate and support consumers and their families for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities.  Adan believes that his position at OCRA has the potential to impact many clients with developmental disabilities in his community.  Adan’s family members with disabilities inspire him to advocate and support the rights of others to ensure people with disabilities are treated fairly and live as independently as possible.

Adan enjoys spending time with family, meeting new people, attending marching band competitions, and going to Disneyland with his partner.

 

SOUTH CENTRAL LA REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy      
8255 Firestone Blvd., Suite 408
Downey, CA  90241
Phone: (323) 292-9907
Fax: (323) 293-4259
Supervised by Johnanthony Alaimo

Erica Clark  – CRA
Erica.Clark@disabilityrightsca.org

Erica Clark is the Clients’ Rights Advocate for the South Central LA Regional Center. Erica worked in disability advocacy for ten years before joining Disability Rights California. She represented clients pursuing public benefits under both Title II and Title 16 of the Social Security Act. In the last two years, she joined the non-profit sector and worked with the most vulnerable residents of Los Angeles County under the Measure H initiative to end homelessness.

Erica graduated from Princeton University with a Bachelor’s degree in sociology before getting her J.D. from The College of William & Mary Law School. She enjoys helping people and is grateful for the opportunity to serve underrepresented members of our communities.

Henry Melendez – ACRA
Henry.Melendez@disabilityrightsca.org

Henry Melendez is an Assistance Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with the South-Central Los Angeles Regional Centers.  Henry graduated from the University of California Riverside with a Bachelor’s in History and a minor in Education. Henry has worked in a few non-profit organizations such as City Year Los Angeles, REACH, and Disability Community Resource Center, providing services to underserved communities. Henry has experience working with children considered “at risk” and individuals with disabilities and providing employment services to various individuals.

TRI-COUNTIES REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy
201 N. Calle Cesar Chavez, Suite 202
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Phone: (805) 308-8950
EFax: (805) 308-8949
Supervised by Kendra Wagner

Melissa Maher – CRA
Melissa.Maher@disabilityrightsca.org 

Melissa Maher is a Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Tri-Counties Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities. Melissa believes the work of OCRA is essential to help clients successfully navigate through complex systems and become empowered self-advocates. 

Melissa holds a J.D. from Stetson University College of Law and a B.S. in psychology from Georgia State University.

During law school, Melissa interned with a federal magistrate judge, a homelessness-advocacy legal aid organization, and the Center for Biological Diversity. She also served as an associate and contributor to Stetson Law Review, and worked with the Global Brigades Legal Empowerment Division to implement legal aid clinics and legal education programs in rural Honduran communities. Prior to pursuing a career in law, Melissa worked in the environmental conservation field, designing and presenting educational programs for zoos and aquariums.

Gina Gheno – Associate CRA
Gina.Gheno@disabilityrightsca.org

Gina Gheno is the Associate Clients’ Rights Advocate serving people with developmental disabilities who live in the Tri-Counties Regional Center catchment area. Gina helps people obtain and preserve their rights to the supports and services needed to living meaningful lives in the least restrictive environment of their choice.

Gina knows that every person brings a special gift to this world. She believes in the importance of service to others, for all people to work together, to share their respective gifts for the benefit of their fellows.

Gina came to advocacy early in life by supporting a close family member served by the regional center. Gina has worked as a paraprofessional in Special Education, a direct service provider in both employment and residential services, and has served as a medical coordinator for people with developmental disabilities. Gina has provided direct support to clients of OCRA for over 14 years.

Gina holds a B.A. degree in Psychology from the University of California at Santa Barbara.

 

VALLEY MOUNTAIN REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients' Rights Advocacy
Valley Mountain Regional Center
1321 I Street, Suite 3
Modesto, CA 95354
Phone: (209) 242-2127
Fax: (209) 462-7020
Supervised by Kelsey Handcock

Colleen Yoder – CRA
Colleen.Yoder@disabilityrightsca.org 

Colleen Yoder is the Clients’ Rights Advocate who serves Valley Mountain Regional Center consumers and their families. Colleen became involved in the disability community early on through the needs of her own family members and friends. Colleen is also a proud member of the disability community herself and believes that there is “nothing about us without us.” She is proud to serve the community, and to advocate and advance the rights of individuals with disabilities. 

Colleen previously worked in Nevada for a legal non-profit organization providing legal services in the areas of public benefits, special education, and housing. She graduated from the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law, cum laude, earning her J.D., and graduated from the University of Tulsa, cum laude, with a B.A. in sociology and B.S. in economics. When not working, Colleen enjoys spending time with her dog and traveling to new places. 

Idalia Arroyo – Assistant CRA
Idalia.Arroyo@disabilityrightsca.org

Idalia was born and raised in the Central Valley.  Because of this, she has dedicated her time to providing supportive services to those in her community. Prior to joining OCRA, she worked as an advocate through the local nonprofit for victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and exploitation. She has extensive hands-on experience providing direct services to individuals with various backgrounds and abilities.

 

WESTSIDE REGIONAL CENTER

Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy
5901 Green Valley Circle, Suite 150
Culver City, CA 90230
Mailing Address: (DO NOT INCLUDE “WESTSIDE REGIONAL CENTER” ON MAILING ADDRESS, OR MAIL WILL NOT BE SENT TO OCRA)
Phone: (310) 846-4949
Fax: (310) 846-4932
Supervised by Katie Meyer

Matthew Alivio – CRA
Matthew.Alivio@disabilityrightsca.org

Matt is the Clients’ Rights Advocate for the Westside Regional Center. He is so honored to advocate and help people with disabilities navigate what can be a very complex system.

Previously, Matt worked with a non-profit in the Bay Area protecting the rights of those in the mental health system.  Matt was born and raised in Southern California and is happy to be back home serving the community here.

Matt holds a J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law as well as a B.A. in Psychology and a B.A. in Sociology from the University of California, Irvine.

In his free time, Matt likes cooking, being outdoors away from the usual modern technologies, but still enjoys video games and watching soccer when he is back at home.

Ana Rivas – Assistant CRA
Ana.Rivas@disabilityrightsca.org

Ana Rivas is an Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Westside Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities. Ana believes the work of OCRA is essential to help clients become successful self-advocates.

Ana holds a B.A. in History from the University of California, Los Angeles. Ana has a sibling with autism and grew up helping her mother advocate for him when needed. Ana previously worked for a personal injury law office, and is happy to transition to non-profit advocacy.

 

OCRA MANAGEMENT TEAM

Shannon Cogan, Director
Email: Shannon.Cogan@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (213) 213-8197
Supervised by Andy Imparato

Shannon Cogan is the Director of the Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy and Work Incentives Planning Assistance programs.  She works collaboratively to lead the advocates asserting and protecting the rights of people with disabilities.  Shannon considers herself a lucky lawyer to be able to advance the mission of Disability Rights California to defend, advance, and strengthen the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities.

Shannon became a disability rights lawyer due to her experiences advocating for her own child in disability-related systems.  Previously she was a civil trial lawyer, and also ran a non-profit organization providing adaptive and rehabilitative equipment to children with disabilities.  Shannon grew up in rural northern California.  She is a graduate of U.C. Berkeley School of Law and her undergraduate degree is in computer science, cum laude, from Smith College.

Eva Casas-Sarmiento, Managing Attorney Santa Ana
Email: Eva.Casas-Sarmiento@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (213) 213-8197
Supervised by Shannon Cogan

Eva Casas-Sarmiento obtained her bachelor’s degree from the University of California at Berkeley and her J.D. from Loyola Law School.  She has been a disability rights lawyer for her entire legal career.  The first half of her career focused on the rights of persons with psychiatric disabilities.  The second half has focused on the rights of persons with developmental disabilities who are regional center clients.

Eva’s focus is always on promoting self-advocacy and helping her clients achieve the most independent and productive life possible in the least restrictive environment.  She always incorporates a lot of outreach and training to traditionally underserved communities of color.  Eva’s family members with disabilities inspired her to pursue this area of law and her clients continue to motivate and reward her with career satisfaction on a daily basis.

Nancy McGee, Managing Attorney Oakland
Email: Nancy.McGee@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (916) 504-5946
Supervised by Shannon Cogan

Nancy McGee is a Managing Attorney and manages a team that supervises attorneys and advocates serving clients of the regional centers.

Nancy has been with OCRA since 2019, having come to OCRA from a career providing legal advocacy to individuals in underserved communities seeking economic justice.  Additionally, Nancy has many years of management experience.

Nancy holds a J.D. from the Golden Gate University, School of Law, a M.A. in Sociology from Northern Illinois University and a B.A in Sociology from Northern Illinois University.

Johnanthony Alaimo – Supervising CRA Los Angeles
Email: Johnanthony.Alaimo@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (213) 213-8174
Supervised by Nancy McGee

Johnanthony Alaimo is originally from New Jersey and graduated from The College of New Jersey with a B.A. in political science.  He moved to California to attend UC Irvine, School of Law, graduating in 2018.  He is licensed to practice law in the State of California.  Johnanthony was inspired to serve the public, particularly people with disabilities, after he became a caretaker for his disabled mother when he was 14 years old.

Immediately after law school, Johnanthony worked as a staff attorney for a legal non-profit organization providing direct legal services for low-income and homeless veterans, often with combat-related disabilities.  Johnanthony continued his disability work at the Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy as the Clients' Rights Advocate for Harbor Regional Center clients.  In that role, he provided advocacy and support for regional center clients, as well as advocacy services for people with developmental disabilities in institutional or restrictive settings.  Johnanthony has been a Supervising Clients’ Rights Advocate since 2022.

Johnanthony enjoys traveling (especially to New York City), baking, and dreaming about being on the Amazing Race.

Heather Benton – Supervising CRA
Email: Heather.Benton@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (213) 213-8162
Supervised by Nancy McGee

Heather Benton has practiced law for over a decade and joined Disability Rights California in January 2023 as a Supervising Clients’ Rights Advocate.  Heather’s interest in disability rights stems from her own experiences with disabilities and her passion for advocacy.   She has a breadth of knowledge due to her experience in a variety of practice areas.  Heather previously practiced in both dependency and disability rights law with a focus on community engagement and outreach as well as special education. 

As a staff attorney, Heather developed the Mental Health Team at Children’s Law Center and served as Community Advocacy Program Director with Disability Rights Legal Center.  As a Supervising Clients’ Rights Advocate, Heather ensures that her team continues to grow in both legal skills and leadership.  She believes that leadership is not an isolated journey, it is an opportunity for collaboration and connection. 

Heather earned her Juris Doctorate from The George Washington University Law School.  She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, Long Beach.  Heather has also practiced in family law and workers’ compensation law.  Heather enjoys traveling and cooking and hosting the occasional dinner party.

Kendra Wagner, Supervising CRA Santa Barbara
Email: Kendra.Wagner@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone:(213) 213-8051
Supervised by Eva Casas-Sarmiento

Kendra Wagner is a Supervising Clients’ Rights Advocate who oversees attorneys and advocates working with regional center clients and their families.  Kendra came to OCRA with a background in legal services and collaborative justice through the California Drug Court program.  Kendra began work with the Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy in 2009 as a Clients’ Rights Advocate where she deepened her passion for civil rights.

Kendra is committed to advancing Disability Rights California’s mission and protecting the rights of those with developmental disabilities in California.

Katie Meyer, Supervising CRA Santa Rosa
Email: Katie.Meyer@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (916) 504-5852
Supervised by Shannon Cogan

Katie is originally from Buffalo, New York, and she went to college in northern California.  While she was working in Missouri as a case manager for children in the mental health system, she noticed that people with disabilities tend to have complicated legal issues.  Because of her interest in helping clients with crossover issues in disability and law, she began attending law school in the evenings. She graduated from St. Louis University School of Law with a specialty certificate in Health Law.  Katie moved to Los Angeles in 2006 and found a great opportunity to represent consumers of regional center services.  She served as the Clients’ Rights Advocate for consumers of Westside Regional Center for eight years.  Since 2014, she has been a Supervising Clients’ Rights Advocate for several OCRA offices around the state. She also works on special projects for OCRA from her office in Santa Rosa. In her free time, Katie enjoys skiing, wine tasting, playing softball, and seeing live music.

Brittnee Gillespie Malone, Supervising CRA Sacramento
Email: Brittnee.Gillespie@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (916) 504-5944
Supervised by Nancy McGee

Brittnee Gillespie Malone has worked at OCRA since August 2015.  Brittnee earned her J.D. from Loyola Law School and her B.A. in English from Spelman College.

As a Supervising Clients’ Rights Advocate, Brittnee oversees attorneys and advocates working with regional center clients and their families.  She was previously the Clients’ Rights Advocate serving Alta California Regional Center consumers and their families.  In that role, Brittnee helped people with developmental disabilities get the services and supports they need to have the most productive and independent life possible.  She advised clients on a variety of matters including eligibility for public benefits, regional center services, and special education services.  Brittnee also provides community-based trainings to people with disabilities and their families, service providers, and professionals.  In her free time, Brittnee enjoys playing soccer and eating dark chocolate.

Alice Ximenez, Senior Office Manager Sacramento
Email: Alice.Ximenez@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (916) 504-5943
Supervised by Shannon Cogan

Alice Ximenez began her employment with Disability Rights California in the Sacramento Legal Unit in December of 1991, when it was still called Protection and Advocacy, Inc.

Over the years, Alice promoted and became part of OCRA and the Office of Payee Review and Beneficiary Assistance, providing supervision and office management to five support staff who provide assistance to the many staff providing advocacy to people with disabilities.

Personally, Alice assists in running a small family-owned business called Creative Falls, providing beautiful sculptures and landscapes throughout Northern California.  Alice’s hobbies include casual bike riding and staying happy.

Marisol Cruz, Office Manager II Los Angeles
Email: Marisol.Cruz@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (213) 213-8020
Supervised by Alice Ximenez

Marisol Cruz is the Office Manager for OCRA.  Prior to that, she was an Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who worked with San Gabriel Pomona Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities.  Marisol believes the work of OCRA is essential to help clients become successful self-advocates.  Marisol has worked at OCRA for over fifteen years and in that time, has assisted hundreds of clients to obtain necessary services and supports and achieve their goals.

Alejandro “Alex” Gastelum – Supervising CRA
Email: Alejandro.Gastelum@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (213) 213-8191
Supervised by Nancy McGee

Alex Gastelum is a Supervising Clients’ Rights Advocate and has worked for OCRA since September 2018.  He was the Clients’ Rights Advocate for Golden Gate Regional Center.  Prior to that position, he was a Statewide Clients’ Rights Advocate in Southern California.  He assisted regional center consumers from Inland Regional Center, Lanterman Regional Center, Westside Regional Center, and Valley Mountain Regional Center.  Alex obtained a J.D. from University of California Hastings College of the Law in San Francisco in 2018.  Alex enjoys travelling and going to concerts.

 

OCRA OUTREACH TEAM

Ibrahim “Bebo” Saab – Los Angeles
Supervising Attorney
Email: Bebo.Saab@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (213) 213-8184
Supervised by Eva Casas-Sarmiento

Mr. Saab received his B.A. in English, with high honors, from the University of California, Berkeley in 1999. He remained at Berkeley another three years to earn his J.D. from U.C. Berkeley School of Law.  While in law school, Mr. Saab served as President of the Boalt Disability Law Society and helped to organize a daylong symposium on disability rights law.  He also served on the law school’s admissions committee and received the student services award at graduation.  Mr. Saab also was a law clerk at Disability Rights Legal Center. He joined OCRA in 2005 as the North Los Angeles County Regional Center Clients’ Rights Advocate, and recently promoted to become OCRA’s Supervising Attorney for Outreach.

Scott Barron – Los Angeles
Peer Advocate
Email: Scott.Barron@disabilityrightsca.org
(213) 213-8178
Supervised by Bebo Saab

Mr. Barron received his B.A. degree in Communications from California State University Fullerton in 2006.  After graduation, he joined Disability Rights California as a coordinator for the Developmental Disabilities Peer Self Advocacy Unit. While there, Mr. Barron provided self-advocacy trainings to clients throughout the state on a variety of topics including voting, clients’ rights, and emergency preparedness. In 2013, Mr. Barron became OCRA’s Southern California Peer Advocate.  Mr. Barron provides self-advocacy trainings to regional center consumers and community organizations. He also serves on committees that affect the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities and is passionate about advocating for the rights of individuals in restrictive settings. Mr. Barron joined OCRA’s new Outreach Unit in 2019. He is excited to help make the unit a success through his many years of experience.

Elizabeth Campos – Sacramento
Outreach Coordinator
Email: Elizabeth.Campos@disabilityrightsca.org
(916) 504-5808
Supervised by Bebo Saab

Elizabeth started with Disability Rights California in September 2021 as the OCRA Northern California outreach coordinator. She organizes and attends community events. Elizabeth conducts trainings to parents, consumers, and professionals about OCRA’s services in both English and in Spanish.

Prior to joining DRC, Elizabeth worked in the blindness rehabilitation field for over 10 years. She received her National Orientation and Mobility Certification (NOMC) in 2018, and is recognized as an O&M instructor on the national level.  Elizabeth understands that blindness is not a characteristic that defines her, but rather an inconvenience that she has learned to overcome.

Alondra Castillo – Outreach Coordinator Ontario
Email: Alondra.Castillo@disabilityrightsca.org
(213) 213-8131
Supervised by Bebo Saab

Alondra started with Disability Rights California in May 2022 as the Southern California Outreach Coordinator.  She organizes and attends community events.  Alondra conducts trainings to parents, consumers, and professionals about OCRA’s services in both English and in Spanish.

Alondra is a CSUSB psychology graduate as of 2018.  Prior to joining DRC, Alondra gained lived experience as an ABA therapist for children with ASD.  Before joining OCRA, she was a case manager for an IRC respite vendor where she assisted monolingual families to benefit of their services leading her to grow a desire to share her advocacy experience with OCRA.

 

ADMIN SUPPORT

Jasbir Soomal, Bilingual Admin Assistant Sacramento
Email: Jasbir.Soomal@disabilityrightsca.org
(916) 504-5967
Supervised by Alice Ximenez

Jasbir Soomal began her employment with Disability Rights California (DRC) in the Legal Advocacy Unit. She recently joined OCRA, and she also serves on DRC’s Diversity Committee. Jasbir is trilingual in English, Punjabi, and Hindi. Her background includes experience working and associating with people from multicultural communities as she has resided in England and Canada before immigrating to the United States. She has also spent time in India to volunteer in her family-founded and operated non-profit organization that provides free eye care to people from underserved communities. Jasbir feels privileged to be part of an agency dedicated to working for the rights, dignity, equal opportunities, and choices for all people with disabilities.

Lupita Amaton – Bilingual Admin Assistant Santa Ana
Email: Lupita.Amaton@disabilityrightsca.org
(916) 504-5851
Supervised by Alice Ximenez

Lupita Amaton is a Bilingual Administrative Assistant who works with OCRA, Office of Payee Review and Beneficiary Assistance, and Work Incentives Planning Assistance. She provides staff from these 3 departments administrative support by answering incoming calls and handling voicemails from the OCRA 1800-line, making documents accessible, handling incoming/outgoing office mail, interpreting/translating wherever necessary, among other administrative tasks.

Lupita feels blessed to be a part of an agency that defends the rights of people with disabilities. She has gained her knowledge about disabilities from her college courses, work experience, and personal experience.

Lupita holds 3 A.A.s from Golden West College in Mathematics and Science-General Biology, Liberal Arts-Emphasis in Mathematics, and Liberal Arts-Emphasis in Science. She also holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of California, Davis.

Patty Santamaria-Chadwick, Bilingual Admin Assistant Los Angeles
Email: Patty.Santamaria@disabilityrightsca.org
(213) 213-8161
Supervised by Alice Ximenez

Patty Santamaria-Chadwick works for OCRA as a Bilingual Administrative Assistant. She provides administrative support to OCRA staff by arranging travel and preparing for meetings. Patty is bilingual in Spanish and provides assistance in document translations. She also assists in making training materials accessible. Patty particularly enjoys helping with incoming calls from the OCRA toll-free number and assisting callers by directing them to the appropriate offices.

Patty previously worked for a non-profit organization that provides drug and alcohol abuse services and assistance to homeless families, homeless transitional age youth, and victims of domestic abuse. Patty enjoys reading and spending quality time with her children.

Ana Pelayo – Intake Assistant
Email: Ana.Pelayo@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (213) 213-8045

Ana Pelayo is an Intake Assistant who provides pre-intake, clerical, and administrative support OCRA’s offices statewide. Ana previously worked at the KRC office as a Bilingual Administrative Assistant. Although she enjoyed thoroughly her time at OCRA, Ana took some time off to raise and homeschool her kids. During that time, she also experienced working as a web manager and cake designer. 

Ana believes the first line of communication with the client is the basis of achieving the best outcome for everyone involved. That’s why she is very excited to work as an intake assistant and be able to contribute to the overall goal of the company and empower the clients while treating them with dignity and respect.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, doing outdoor activities, sightseeing, and enjoying nature. She also loves tending to her garden, raising chickens and rabbits, and learning new skills.

Rachel Llanos – Intake Assistant
Email: Rachel.Llanos@disabilityrightsca.org
Phone: (213) 213-8044

Rachel Llanos is an Intake Assistant who works with OCRA remotely. Rachel believes that by answering clients calls in OCRA, she can make a difference not only for clients we serve by providing compassionate care from the initial call, but also by helping the team gather the information needed to help our clients.

Rachel has worked at Miller Children’s Hospital where she was a family representative for the Palliative Care Program and worked in many clinics as a new patient coordinator. She has worked at SCLARC as a parent navigator helping families navigate the systems of care. In her last role, Rachel worked as a Parent Partner in the mental health field. She had successfully provided court mandated classes, anger management classes and intensive mental health to families that needed court mandated services.

Rachel holds a Billing and Coding Specialist Certificate from Harbor College and a ELNEC Palliative Care Provider Certificate from the University of San Diego. She is currently attending Harbor College for her AA is Psychology.

Grace Delmar – Executive Assistant
Grace.Delmar@disabilityrightsca.org 
Phone: (213) 213-8080.
Supervised by Shannon Cogan

Grace Delmar works as an Executive Assistant at Disability Rights California supporting Associate Executive Director Shannon Cogan. Grace is passionate about social justice, equity and inclusion and is grateful she can assist those in an organization as impactful as DRC. Grace began her career at GLAAD where she worked as an Entertainment Media Intern and contributed to research and reports on LGBTQIA+ representation in media. She then spent over 5 years at The Walt Disney Company supporting executives in television and film who worked to champion underrepresented voices both in front of and behind the camera. Grace is excited to be back in the advocacy space and support DRC’s mission of working towards a world where all disabled people have power and are treated with dignity and respect. Grace lives in Los Angeles where she volunteers with Reading Partners, tutoring students at under resourced schools. Grace enjoys hiking and exploring all the unique and beautiful spaces California has to offer.

 

OCRA STATEWIDE ADVOCATES

Alexandria Acosta – CRA Sacramento
Email: Alexandria.Acosta@disabilityrightsca.org
(916) 504-5845
Supervised by Kendra Wagner

Alexandria is a Clients’ Rights Advocate at OCRA who advocates for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities.

Alexandria is honored for the opportunity to advocate with and for clients. Alexandria became a Clients’ Rights Advocate to advocate for the rights of others. Alexandria believes OCRA’s work is crucial to ensuring people with disabilities are treated fairly and live as independently as possible.

Alexandria holds a J.D. from Florida Coastal School of Law and a B.A. in Psychology from Spelman College.

Amy Moreno – Bilingual ACRA Los Angeles
Email: Amy.Moreno@disabilityrightsca.org
(213) 213-8050
Supervised by Kendra Wagner

Amy Moreno is a Bilingual Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with regional center consumers and their families to advocate for the rights of people with developmental disabilities.  Amy believes the work of OCRA is essential to help clients become successful self-advocates.  She has worked with OCRA for over two years, and has assisted with hundreds of client cases to obtain services and supports to achieve their goals.

Amy holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from California State University Long Beach.

Beatriz Reyes – Statewide CRA
Email: Beatriz.Reyes@disabilityrightsca.org
213-213-8053
Supervised by Heather Benton

Beatriz Reyes is a Statewide Associate Clients’ Rights Advocate.  Before her current role, Beatriz worked at Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), a Medi-Cal/Medicare Managed Health Care plan where she managed its Compliance Regulatory Affairs Team.  She also served as an Assistant CRA, Outreach Coordinator for Southern California, and ultimately became an Associate CRA for the Inland Regional Center OCRA remote office.  

Beatriz holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies with a concentration in Public Relations and has extensive experience as a legal professional in disability rights and public benefits.  Beatriz has a strong passion for the disability community and is looking to directly connect with this community and make a difference in their lives.

Clara Torres – ACRA Sacramento
Email: Clara.Torres@disabilityrightsca.org
(916) 504-5941
Supervised by Kendra Wagner

Clara Torres is a Bilingual Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with regional center consumers and their families to advocate for the rights of people with developmental disabilities.  Clara believes that the assistance OCRA provides to clients and their families is essential to helping them become successful self-advocates.  She has worked with OCRA since 2017 and has assisted with hundreds of client cases to obtain services and supports to achieve their goals.

Clara holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from California State University Sacramento.

Courtney Mangus – CRA Sacramento
Courtney.Mangus@disabilityrightsca.org
(916) 504-5849

Courtney Mangus is a Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with Golden Gate Regional Center consumers and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities.  Courtney believes that the work of OCRA is important to creating an equitable world for people with developmental disabilities.

Courtney previously worked for a civil rights non-profit organizing advocacy events and social justice training programs.  She holds a J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law and a B.A. in Comparative Religion from Miami University.  Courtney enjoys roller skating, making digital art, and writing.

Jens Sorensen – CRA Ontario
Integration/DCs
Email: Jens.Sorensen@disabilityrightsca.org
(213) 213-8052
Supervised by Kendra Wagner

Jens has worked at OCRA for over two years.  As a Clients’ Rights Advocate for Community Integration, Jens works with individuals living in restricted settings such as state hospitals, jails, and other institutions.  He works closely with clients to advocate for their rights within facilities and ultimately for community placement.  He particularly enjoys helping clients understand and exercise their rights in facilities and take an active role in planning for their return to the community.

During and after law school, Jens worked for Disability Rights California for over three years, first as a law clerk, then as an intake advocate.  He holds a J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law and a B.A. in political science from the University of California, Davis.  He is an avid fan of science fiction, both in literature and cinema. 

Rachel Leach – CRA Los Angeles
Email:  Rachel.Leach@disabilityrightsca.org
(213) 213-8028
Supervised by Kendra Wagner

Rachel Leach is a statewide Clients’ Rights Advocate.  While working toward her undergraduate degree at Arizona State University, Rachel began to understand further what it meant to have her own voice, to make informed decisions, and to feel empowered.  She wanted to ensure that all people had those same opportunities, which pushed her to learn how to become an effective advocate.  She earned her Juris Doctorate degree from the George Washington University Law School.  In law school, she participated in the Domestic Violence Project and interned with the D.C. Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Prior to serving as a Clients’ Rights Advocate with OCRA, Rachel was a staff attorney at a non-profit and focused on protecting and advancing the civil rights of immigrant communities.  As a Clients’ Rights Advocate, she will work to ensure that people with disabilities are receiving necessary protections through legal representation, technical advice, or wrap-around services.

Sandra Graham – Assistant CRA
Email: Sandra.Graham@disabilityrightsca.org
Supervised by Kendra Wagner

Sandra Graham has worked at OCRA for over two years. Sandra serves Valley Mountain Regional Center consumers and their families. As the Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate, Sandra assists in advocating for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities. She assists clients on a variety of matters including eligibility for public benefits, regional center services, and special education. As the sister of a younger brother with developmental disabilities, Sandra enjoys providing support to clients and their families.

Sandra previously worked as an Assistive Technology Advocate for a non-profit organization providing services to people with disabilities. Sandra has a background in community organizing, graphic design, and radio. Sandra volunteers as the Program Director for a local non-profit community radio station and enjoys gaming with her husband. Sandra shares her house with two black cats and a bearded dragon.

Veronica Mora – Office Manager I Los Angeles
Email: Veronica.Mora@disabilityrightsca.org
(213) 213-8174
Supervised by Marisol Cruz

Veronica Mora is an Office Manager I. Veronica previously worked with OCRA staff as a Statewide Bilingual Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate and with Office Manager Marisol to conduct intake and provide administrative support.  Veronica believes that establishing good communication with clients and staff is essential in working with clients towards their goals and executing administrative tasks effectively and efficiently.  Veronica has worked at OCRA for over eight years and in that time, has facilitated communication between OCRA staff and monolingual Spanish speakers to ensure that clients’ wishes are heard.

Veronica holds an A.A. in Paralegal Studies from Platt College.

Yesennia Sandoval – ACRA Los Angeles
Email: Yesennia.Sandoval@disabilityrightsca.org
(213) 213-8058
Supervised by Kendra Wagner

Yesennia Sandoval is an Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate who works with regional center consumers and their families to advocate for the civil rights of people with developmental disabilities.  Before joining OCRA, Yesennia worked in providing affordable housing assistance and community development to individuals of all ages, including people with disabilities. Yesennia is proud to work with OCRA and be a part of a team that works to empower and improve the lives of regional center clients.

Yesennia holds a B.A. in Political Science from California State Polytechnic University of Pomona.