Sergio Hernandez has provided services to families in Kern County working for various nonprofit and government agencies for over 25 years. His previous experience as a Service Coordinator and Program Manager at Kern Regional Center has been essential in navigating the Self-Determination Program with expertise.

As a parent of a son with Autism, Alejandra Hernandez understands the challenges that parents with developmentally disabled children experience. Alejandra has experience navigating the Regional Center system to obtain services needed for her son. Alejandra has over 20 years' experience working with nonprofit agencies serving families in Kern County. She is also passionate about working with other families navigating the regional center system. Through her experiences, she has gained valuable insights and is eager to support others.

Gabriel's transition to Self Determination Program (SDP) began by expressing his desire to engage his community, self discovery, and personal growth. Gabriel was attending a program that helped him learn new skills and integrate in the community, but he wanted more. He enjoys activities like hiking, visiting museums, farmer's markets, visiting beaches, zoo trips, and working with animals. SDP has provided Gabriel with the opportunity to choose a program that aligns with his interests, engage in social recreational activities that he enjoys, and hire people he feels comfortable with. With SDP, Gabriel has broadened his horizons, trying new activities that he wouldn't have been able to do with traditional services. This newfound flexibility has allowed him to explore his passions and enhance his quality of life. Gabriel is planning or receiving employment services, job coaching, and direct support while in the community.

Gabriel's Self Determination Journey