DESI was founded in 2008 to help support families with children and young adults with developmental disabilities. Our goal is to make our clients independent and become active members of their community. These activities could be tasks such as utilizing public transportation, attending post secondary education, acquiring employment, micro-enterprising, building appropriate social skills, learning about financial budgeting and any other areas in which assistance is desired.
The DESI Mission
To teach those with disabilities to live independent lives, so they can be their own person, make their own decisions and experience the joy of doing so.
“ I have met many families that struggle with the same questions, and I am there to help along the way, by making sure their loved one’s transformation is successful into their community. ”
Meet the People We Help Everyday
Calvin
We hope everyone had a fantastic Veteran's Day-- Calvin had a terrific time visiting Huntington Beach this Veteran's Day with his Educator. Sometimes a holiday is the best time to get away!
DEA Festival
Amanda, Denisse and Desirae are creating a sign for the volunteer support booth where we served over 300 meals throughout the day with the help of AltaMed Health Services.
Marisol
D.E.S.I. had a huge turn out at the East L.A. Regional Center Consumer Advisory Committee today! This is a place for regional center consumers to learn about the services available to them.
Client Testimonials
AJ’s Community integration program, via D.E.S.I. has made a tremendous difference in his life.
I am very happy with your services, the outings you provide for my son are great, they are god sent.
Loyalty is the foundation of family. I’ve been blessed to have your support then, and most importantly now.
The DESI Blog News & Spotlights
D.E.S.I. in the Community: Run, Fight, Hide, and Persons with Disabilities
Martin, Miranda and Hernan recently shared an eye opening experience they won’t soon forget: volunteering as extras in “Run, Fight, Hide, and Persons with Disabilities,” an active shooter safety training video. Esteban Miranda, a D.E.S.I. Community Educator, said the clients relished the opportunity to “step outside their shells” and see what it was like to make a film– while learning invaluable safety advice.
Client Spotlight: David Rivas
David Rivas has big dreams and an even bigger drive to succeed. The long-time Southern California resident is passionate about music and regularly works DJ gigs throughout the Greater Los Angeles Area. David’s D.E.S.I. Educators help him stay focused on chasing his passions while continuing to progress in all areas of life.
Bridge to the Regional Center
Bridge to the regional center is a Spanish-language program dedicated to helping the people and families of the Latino community to access the services of the regional centre. For more information click here.
East L.A. Parade
So proud to have Selene Luna and her husband join us for our parade float in the East Los Angeles Christmas Parade! Selene is an actress, comedian and performer who is best known for her role as Tia Rosita in Disney Pixar’s COCO!