about us
San Diego Regional Center is dedicated to serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), helping them lead fulfilling lives.
One key component of this mission is the Client Advisory Committee (CAC), a platform where adult clients can voice their opinions, share experiences, contribute to the decision-making processes that affect their lives, and participate in fun social events.
Welcome to the client advisory site!
CAC members are part of the SDRC Board of Directors and serve an essential role as advisors to the regional center and the Board on things that need improvement, things that are working well or not working well for clients, and identifying disparities within our system. These include services, vendors, navigating systems, outreach, service quality, accessibility, and creating training or info sessions to connect the client to resources.
Meet the Committee
Eric Rascon
CAC Chair
Erik has been on the SDRC Board for over three years and on the CAC for six months. He has also been an active member of the People’s First Conference Planning Committee. Erik can best be described as a “people-person with a kind heart who is committed to serving and volunteering in his community.” He enjoys planning and taking part by keeping himself busy.
Erik reported that he has learned and significantly improved his public speaking skills, as he was never exposed to them until he joined the SDRC Board and the CAC. He has also improved his overall communication and organizational skills. Erik stated that he has learned to become more responsible and complete his duties to the best of his ability. He stressed the importance of punctuality, arriving on time, and being prepared for meetings. He likes to provide help and sometimes will provide technical assistance when needed.
Erik enjoys interacting with other members, having get-togethers, and especially enjoying the food. He has a good memory for names and is detail-oriented.
Erik participates in the ARTE Program through Adjoin-IV, which he enjoys because he can express himself by creating his art. He is a Black Belt in Karate and practices once a week. Erik is a member of the Knights of Columbus at St. Mary’s Church. He enjoys watching television, especially following the Pope’s travels and being informed of his whereabouts.
Erik resides with his mother and brother, Gregory, in El Centro and has a large extended family.
What is the purpose of CAC?
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Learn about issues affecting individuals with disabilities.
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Educate the community and other people with disabilities about their rights and services.
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Promote independence.
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Respect individual choices.
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Learn how to become better leaders.
Reasons for you to participate:
Participation in the CAC gives clients a platform to express their views and concerns. This sense of ownership and involvement in the decision-making process empowers clients, helping them develop self-advocacy skills. When clients speak up, they learn to communicate their needs and preferences, an important advocacy skill.
The feedback and suggestions from CAC members directly impact the services and programs offered by SDRC. By participating, clients can ensure the services are tailored to their needs and preferences. This direct influence helps create a more responsive and effective support system, improving the overall quality of services.
The CAC provides an excellent opportunity for clients to meet others with similar experiences and challenges. Building these connections fosters a sense of community and belonging. It allows clients to share their stories, learn from each other, and offer mutual support, which can be incredibly empowering and encouraging.
Being part of the CAC helps clients develop essential leadership skills. They learn to organize meetings, engage in constructive discussions, and make decisions collaboratively. These skills are valuable within the CAC and transferable to other life areas, including education, employment, and personal relationships.
Clients bring a unique perspective to the table. Their insights and experiences are crucial for ensuring that the CAC reflects the diverse needs and interests of the SDRC community. Participating ensures they’re adequately represented, vital for the committee’s success and relevance.
Active participation in the CAC can significantly boost a client’s confidence and self-esteem. Knowing their input is valued and they can make a difference encourages personal growth. Clients often find their involvement in the CAC helps them become more assertive and confident in other areas of their lives.
Attend a meeting and share your ideas, offer input, or listen in!
We meet:
The second Tuesday of every month from 11:00 am to 11:50 am
In person at the San Diego Regional Center, 4355 Ruffin Road, San Diego, CA 92123
Or
Via Zoom
Join the Zoom meeting by clicking here.
Meeting ID: 861 5394 0094
Passcode: Lu3kMA
Join the CAC committee. We welcome new members!
Please email us your name, phone number, and best contact method. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.
Erik Rascon, CAC Chair
Or
Robin Bello
Assistant Director of Client Services
Resources: People First