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Regional Center of Orange County 2026 Spotlight Awards

On April 17, 2026, the Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) hosted its annual Spotlight Awards ceremony in Garden Grove, recognizing exceptional individuals and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of people with developmental disabilities.

A Celebration of Dedication

The event was graced by Orange County Bureau Chief and reporter Michele Gile from CBS Los Angeles, alongside RCOC Board Chair Sandy Martin who introduced the proceedings. Notable guests included Pete Cervinka, the Director of California's Department of Developmental Services and Yang Lee, the Chief Deputy Director of the department.

RCOC was established with a mission in 1997 to enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. With nearly 30 years of service, the Spotlight Awards have become a significant platform to acknowledge the hard work of those making an impact in the community.

Honorees of 2026

The award recipients in 2026 represented a diverse group, showcasing the breadth of support and service available for individuals with developmental disabilities. The honorees included:

• - Evelyn Rodriguez (Parent/Family Member) from Hawaiian Gardens.
• - Jennifer Kennedy (RCOC Achievement) from Cypress, Area Manager at Regional Center of Orange County.
• - Martha England (Direct Support Professional) from Fullerton, Job Coach at Westview Services.
• - Advantage Adaptive Tennis (Community Partner) serving the adaptive tennis community in Orange.
• - Eric Doran (Healthcare Professional) as the Research Manager at UCI Center for Aging Research in Down Syndrome.
• - Orange County Fire Authority (Employer) from Irvine for their inclusivity in hiring.
• - John Correa (Self-Advocate) from Costa Mesa.
• - Stuart Haskin (Lifetime Achievement) for founding Get Safe in Tustin.
• - Dr. Ana Jimenez-Hami (Service Provider) as the Founder and Executive Director of Orange County Children's Therapeutic Arts Center in Santa Ana.
• - Meena Chockalingam received the E. Kurt Yeager Award for service leadership, recognized for her role as a Board Member at Jeena in Irvine.

A Commitment to Community

The RCOC is a critical organization contracted by the State of California, responsible for coordinating lifelong services for over 29,000 individuals with developmental disabilities across Orange County. As a nonprofit entity, the center plays an integral role in guiding families through local services that promote dignity and safety in their communities.

The recognition of these outstanding individuals and organizations not only highlights their contributions but also raises awareness about the ongoing need for support and advocacy for those who face challenges associated with developmental disabilities. With every award presented, the RCOC reinforces its commitment to inclusivity and empowerment for all.

To learn more about the RCOC and its services, visit www.rcocdd.com. Let's celebrate the spirit of community support and advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities, fostering a future where every individual can thrive with dignity and respect.