I Work Because DOR Works

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NDEAM I Work Because DOR Works

 

I Work Because DOR Works

Photo of a man sitting at his desk smiling at the camera. He is wearing glasses. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.
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Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: I love what I do and that I get to be part of a team. It’s a great job and allows me to meet and talk to different people and help DOR consumers. -Frank Soqui
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Frank Soqui,
Operations Clerk

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Frank was first hired at the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) through the State Internship Program in 2022. He started as a seasonal operations clerk with the DOR Greater Los Angeles District operations support team. During his internship, Frank acquired valuable skills in accounting and procurement. As an individual with a neurodiversity disability, Frank is developing his social and communication skills in his interactions with the public and his coworkers.

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Photo of a man sitting at his desk smiling at the camera. He is wearing glasses. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: I love what I do and that I get to be part of a team. It’s a great job and allows me to meet and talk to different people and help DOR consumers. -Frank Soqui

Photo of a woman standing smiling at the camera. She is wearing glasses and her hair is cut in a short, cropped afro. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.
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Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: Working with the DOR has given me the confidence and drive to advocate for others with disabilities while learning to advocate for myself. -Taylor LaRue
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Taylor LaRue,
Program Administrative Assistant

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Taylor LaRue was diagnosed with PTSD and anxiety when she was a college student. She was introduced to a program on campus called Workability III (WAIII), which connects students with DOR services. Through the DOR and WAIII partnership, Taylor received career-building assistance, job counseling, assistive technology for school, and other resources that enabled her to ultimately secure her current position as a program administrative assistant for the federal government.

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Photo of a woman standing smiling at the camera. She is wearing glasses and her hair is cut in a short, cropped afro. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: Working with the DOR has given me the confidence and drive to advocate for others with disabilities while learning to advocate for myself. -Taylor LaRue

Photo of a man outside kneeling down and smiling next to a building sign. The photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.
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Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: The Department of Rehabilitation remains a vital source of empowerment and support on my professional and personal path of growth and service. -Rafael Valdovinos
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Rafael Valdovinos,
Case Worker

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When Rafael started receiving DOR services, he was in recovery and ready to reclaim his life after more than a decade of substance abuse disorder. As a DOR consumer, Rafael embarked on a meaningful career path. He became a peer recovery specialist, drawing upon his personal experiences to assist others with their recovery. Rafael utilized DOR support and resources to complete his Bachelor of Social Work degree and enter a Master of Social Work program. Rafael is a case worker with the Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness.

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Photo of a man outside kneeling down and smiling next to a building sign. The photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: The Department of Rehabilitation remains a vital source of empowerment and support on my professional and personal path of growth and service. -Rafael Valdovinos

Photo of a smiling woman wearing a doctor’s coat leaning against a pillar. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.
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Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: DOR has provided the support, mentorship, and network to become a physician who can serve the most vulnerable patients. -Jamie Wang
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Jami Wang,
Psychiatry Resident Physician

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Jami Wang is currently a psychiatry resident at Kaiser Permanente. Jami acquired her medical disability during medical school and had to take a leave of absence while searching for an accurate diagnosis. Through that experience, Jami learned about the importance of self-advocacy. Her lived experience informs her work every day, and she strives to ensure that her patients feel empowered and have a voice regarding their care.

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Photo of a smiling woman wearing a doctor’s coat leaning against a pillar. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: DOR has provided the support, mentorship, and network to become a physician who can serve the most vulnerable patients. -Jamie Wang

Photo of a woman sitting in a wheelchair in an office setting. She is smiling at the camera. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.
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Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: DOR has been a consistent resource and support to me throughout my education, employment, and independence journey. The most impactful assistance has been the services specific to driving early on. Without DOR, I wouldn’t be where I am today, because I wouldn’t have been able to get there! -Dani Anderson
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Dani Anderson,
Disability Access Manager

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Dani Anderson has dedicated her career to improving the lives of people with disabilities. A wheelchair user herself, Dani has used her lived experience to lead an independent living center, coordinate access and functional needs for one of California’s largest public utility companies, and now she oversees disability access for the County of Ventura. Dani is also a respected leader and mentor to many young people with disabilities through California’s Youth Leadership Forum.

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Photo of a woman sitting in a wheelchair in an office setting. She is smiling at the camera. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: DOR has been a consistent resource and support to me throughout my education, employment, and independence journey. The most impactful assistance has been the services specific to driving early on. Without DOR, I wouldn’t be where I am today, because I wouldn’t have been able to get there! -Dani Anderson

Photo of a woman sitting in a wheelchair wearing a crown. She is smiling at the camera. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.
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Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: Accessibility should not be seen as a luxury request or a burden. Accessibility should always be equitable and mandatory. Until this is the case, I will never be silent, nor will I be ignored. -Candis Welch
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Candis Welch,
DEIA Practitioner and Trainer

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Candis Welch was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy when she was 18 months old; however, she never let that stop her from achieving her goals. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in public administration from California State University, Northridge and recently earned a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University. Candis works at the Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority as a DEI Practitioner and has developed and facilitated a DEIA training series for national and local community-based organizations through her non-profit, I AM ABLED Inc. Candis is the current Ms. Wheelchair California and recently competed for the national title.

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Photo of a woman sitting in a wheelchair wearing a crown. She is smiling at the camera. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: Accessibility should not be seen as a luxury request or a burden. Accessibility should always be equitable and mandatory. Until this is the case, I will never be silent, nor will I be ignored. -Candis Welch

Photo of a woman wearing glasses standing outdoors at an event wearing a Halloween-inspired shirt. She is looking at the camera. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.
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Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: I know what it feels like to be rejected and not being hired because of my disability. People with disabilities have skills, talent, and abilities. People just need to give them a chance and allow them to show what they can do. That’s all we ask. –Michelle Padilla
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Michelle Padilla,
Office Technician

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Michelle Padilla is an office technician with the California Department of Conservation. Diagnosed as having a learning and intellectual disability in her early years, Michelle discovered at the age of 30 that she has DiGeorge syndrome, or 22q11, which mirrors Down syndrome. The diagnosis inspired her to become an advocate and increase awareness about her disability. Michelle was a DOR consumer and credits her counselor and other DOR staff with providing the career coaching and training she needed to finally land what she calls her "dream job."

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Photo of a woman wearing glasses standing outdoors at an event wearing a Halloween-inspired shirt. She is looking at the camera. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: I know what it feels like to be rejected and not being hired because of my disability. People with disabilities have skills, talent, and abilities. People just need to give them a chance and allow them to show what they can do. That’s all we ask. –Michelle Padilla

Photo of a man wearing business attire, sitting in his wheelchair during an outdoor evening event, smiling at the camera. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.
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Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: I truly believe that no matter your background or ability, financial literacy is a crucial part of building wealth and living your best life. I can help others achieve their financial goals, and build a lucrative business because DOR works! -Benjamin Aviles
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Benjamin Aviles,
Financial Consultant

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As a child, Benjamin Aviles was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2. Doctors predicted he would have a challenging and short lifespan. Now approaching 40, Benny is a business owner, mentor, and disability advocate who lives independently in Southern California with his life partner and their beloved dog. With the support of DOR, Benjamin launched his entrepreneurial journey in the financial services industry. Today, he helps his clients transform and solidify their financial futures.

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Photo of a man wearing business attire, sitting in his wheelchair during an outdoor evening event, smiling at the camera. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: I truly believe that no matter your background or ability, financial literacy is a crucial part of building wealth and living your best life. I can help others achieve their financial goals, and build a lucrative business because DOR works! -Benjamin Aviles

Photo of a woman standing in an office smiling at the camera. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.
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Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: There are feelings of embarrassment and shame for some people who have a substance use disability. As a person in recovery, it's important for me to talk about my experience to educate people about what this disability is. We can't end the stigma and increase understanding and empathy from others if we don't start talking and sharing our stories. -Jessica Grove
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Jessica Grove,
DOR Deputy Director

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When Jessica Grove decided to stop using after decades of substance abuse and multiple rehab stays, she knew she was making a life-or-death decision. In her newfound sobriety, Jessica went down a pathway of self-discovery, gained a newfound confidence, and launched a successful career in vocational rehabilitation. Jessica has worked as a rehabilitation counselor, assistant deputy director and was the first sighted person to lead DOR's Orientation Center for the Blind. Currently, she is deputy director of DOR's policy and resources division. Jessica is also working to increase awareness about substance use disorders at the state level and helped launch an initiative that integrates employment with recovery.

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Photo of a woman standing in an office smiling at the camera. Photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: There are feelings of embarrassment and shame for some people who have a substance use disability. As a person in recovery, it's important for me to talk about my experience to educate people about what this disability is. We can't end the stigma and increase understanding and empathy from others if we don't start talking and sharing our stories. -Jessica Grove

Picture of Ana Zambrano - Administrative Professional
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I was not just supported by the department, but more importantly by my counselor who lent support from the early stages of learning to be a blind individual, all the way through being a colloge studnet and a working professional. - Ana Zambrano
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Ana Zambrano,
Administrative Professional

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Ana had to adapt to a new normal as her visual disability progressed and she became legally blind. Described by DOR staff as highly motivated with a contagious sense of humor, Ana was focused on her career goals. While she was completing her college program and looking for employment, Ana volunteered on community projects and activities that improved people’s lives. She continues those efforts in her personal life and is enjoying professional success as an administrative professional with the California Employment Development Department.

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Photo of a woman sitting at a desk in an office space looking towards the camera. The photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. There are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: I was not just supported by the department but more importantly by my counselor who lent support from the early stages of learning to be a blind individual all the way through being a college student and a working professional. -Ana Zambrano

Picture of Isabel Bueso - Patient Advocacy Specialist
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Through my patient advocacy career, I have focused on making sure that the voice of people living with rare diseases and disabilities is being heard. By sharing my personal story and lived experience, I continue to fight for patient-centered policies - Isabel Bueso
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Isabel Bueso,
Patient Advocacy Specialist

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Isabel was diagnosed with Maroteaux-Lamy syndrome, a life-threatening illness, before she was 2 years old. As a child, Isabel and her family left their native Guatemala City and came to the United States at the invitation of doctors, enabling Isabel to receive life-saving treatment Through DOR, Isabel completed her bachelor’s degree in sociology at California State University, East Bay, where she graduated summa cum laude. Isabel works in the healthcare industry as a patient advocacy specialist. In her personal life, Isabel works to increase awareness about her disability and other rare disabilities.

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Photo of a woman looking towards the camera. She has a trachea in her throat. The photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: Through my patient advocacy career, I have focused on making sure that the voice of people living with rare diseases and disabilities is being heard. By sharing my personal story and lived experience, I continue to fight for patient-centered policies. -Isabel Bueso

Picture of Misti Harrelson - Mental Health Specialist
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I 100 percent know I would not be where I am today without the assistance of DOR and my counselor. I was able to go back to school, get my education, and land a full-time job. I was able to regain my power and independence and move my life forward. - Misti Harrelson
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Misti Harrelson,
Mental Health Specialist

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Misti acquired her disability as a victim of domestic violence. During a decade-long abusive relationship, Misti lost her vision in one eye and suffered from PTSD. After leaving her abuser, she found her way to DOR and received support and guidance that put her on the pathway to a career and a new life. Misti graduated from California State University, East Bay with a degree in psychology and works as a mental health specialist with the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, where she assists victims of violent crime. Misti is currently pursuing her master’s degree.

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Photo of a woman standing outdoors amongst a crowd smiling at the camera. The photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: I 100 percent know I would not be where I am today without the assistance of DOR and my counselor. I was able to go back to school, get my education, and land a full-time job. I was able to regain my power and independence and move my life forward. -Misti Harrelson

Picture of Carlos Fernandez - Office Assistant
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Being an intern helped me get the experience I needed to become an office assistant. I like my job because I get to help staff and I also like filing and doing other clerical duties. I'm learning new things every day - Carlos Fernandez
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Carlos Fernandez,
Office Assistant

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The State of California offers a variety of career pathways for people with disabilities. DOR helped Carlos attain administrative skills through the State Internship Program, which provides individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities a pathway to civil service through paid internships, on the job coaching, and career guidance. Carlos’ internship supervisor and colleagues were so impressed by his attention to detail and dedication, he was offered a permanent position after completing his internship.

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Photo of a man sitting at a desk. He has his hands on papers, and he is looking at the camera. The photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: Being an intern helped me get the experience I needed to become an office assistant. I like my job because I get to help staff and I also like filing and doing other clerical duties. I’m learning new things every day. -Carlos Fernandez

Picture of Adrian Hermosillo - Operations Manager
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DOR not only enabled me to pursue higher education, but also equipped me with the necessary tools to thrive. It provided me with guidance, mentorship, and access to resources that allowed me to overcome obstacles and excel academically. - Adrian Hermosillo
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Adrian Hermosillo,
Operations Manager

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Adrian was born with congenital glaucoma, and age 17 he became legally blind. When Adrian came to DOR for services, he had just made a major life decision to change his career goal from sports medicine to business and didn’t quite know how to begin his journey. He did know that he wanted to attend college. He started with DOR and focused on completing his undergraduate degree at California State University, San Bernardino. DOR was with him every step of the way and provided Adrian with the resources to complete his undergraduate degree and a master's program at UC Riverside. Adrian also interned in the counseling center while attending college in San Bernardino and was hired as a permanent staff member in 2022. Adrian currently oversees the college’s high school outreach program and works with students entering college.

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Photo of a man sitting in an office space with his back toward a desk smiling at the camera. The photo is outlined like a picture frame. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

Quote graphic with an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the top of the graphic. The are smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background of the graphic like wallpaper. Text reads: DOR not only enabled me to pursue higher education, but also equipped me with the necessary tools to thrive. It provided me with guidance, mentorship, and access to resources that allowed me to overcome obstacles and excel academically. -Adrian Hermosillo