mother standing behind her two young sons

Community Stories

Our community stories showcase the vital services Easterseals Southern California provides and the impact we have on the lives of individuals and families throughout Southern California.

Service Spotlight: Gabrielle Hernandez

Jan. 28, 2026

Gabrielle Hernandez has been changing lives at Easterseals Southern California for more than 10 years—one connection at a time.
Continuing a Legacy of Compassion

Jan. 8, 2026

Inspired by her mother’s generosity, Carol Smith keeps a legacy of love alive—supporting Easterseals and her community with heart, hope, and purpose.
Easterseals Opens New Head Start Center in Encinitas

Dec. 22, 2025

Easterseals SoCal opens a new Head Start Center in Encinitas, offering early learning, family support, and brighter futures for children ages 0–5.
Easterseals Ends 2025 With Kindness, Connection & Community

Dec. 18, 2025

Easterseals SoCal spreads joy with a 2025 Kindness Challenge, uniting teams through fun activities, shared compassion, and connections that last all year.
Sensory-Friendly Santa Visits Easterseals Autism Therapy Services

Dec. 18, 2025

A sensory-friendly Santa brought holiday magic to Valencia, creating a calm, inclusive experience where every child could feel the joy of the season.
Working Towards a Hollywood Ending, Jorge is a ‘Creative Journeyman’

Meet Jorge from Easterseals Van Nuys ADS—artist, gamer, and aspiring filmmaker chasing his Hollywood dreams with talent and heart.
Alfred’s Journey: Learning, Growing and Gaining Independence

After losing his vision at eight, Alfred found empowerment through Easterseals and the Braille Institute—embracing lifelong learning and independence.
Passion Meets Purpose: Monica’s Career Growth at Easterseals

Monica’s path to Easterseals SoCal is fueled by family, resilience, and disability advocacy—her story inspires inclusion and hope.
Makena Achieves Sweet Success!

Her love of treats turns into an exciting new career at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory with help from Easterseals WorkFirst Employment Services.
Support From WorkFirst is a Game Changer for Michael

With support from WorkFirst, Michael transformed his gaming passion into a rewarding career at Retro Games Plus, gaining confidence, purpose, and independence.
A ‘Head Start’ to Success: One Family’s Journey with Easterseals

Discover how Child Development Services has supported a mom and her daughter through many stages of life.
Jameson Has ‘Quite the Moves’ at Easterseal’s Early Head Start Program

Discover how Easterseals’ Head Start turned challenges into pure joy for Jameson—now a thriving preschooler eager to learn, make friends, and dance every day.