#USA #Garden Grove #Orange County #Spotlight Awards #disability services

Regional Center of Orange County Honors 2026 Spotlight Award Recipients

The Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) held its 29th annual Spotlight Awards on April 17, 2026, in Garden Grove, California. This prestigious event recognizes individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to improving the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities. The ceremony was a heartwarming occasion, filled with inspiring stories and dedicated efforts from the community.

Hosted by Michele Gile from CBS Los Angeles and RCOC Board President Sandy Martin, the ceremony brought together community leaders, advocates, and guests for a night of celebration. Among the notable attendees were Pete Cervinka, the Director of the State of California’s Developmental Services Department, and Yang Lee, his Deputy Director. Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration between state agencies and local organizations in advancing the mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Since its inception in 1997, the Spotlight Awards have aimed to honor those who significantly enhance the lives of residents with developmental disabilities in Orange County. This year’s recipients included individuals from various backgrounds, demonstrating the diverse ways in which support and advocacy can manifest in the community.

The awardees of the 2026 Spotlight Awards included:
1. Evelyn Rodriguez – Recognized as a dedicated family member from Hawaiian Gardens, who exemplifies the role of familial support.
2. Jennifer Kennedy – An Area Manager at RCOC’s Cypress office, acknowledged for her contributions to the organization.
3. Martha England – A Direct Support Professional from Fullerton, who has dedicated her career to empowering individuals through employment coaching at Westview Services in Anaheim.
4. Serving Advantage Adaptive Tennis – A community partnership in Orange recognized for offering tennis programs tailored for individuals with disabilities.
5. Eric Doran – A health professional and Manager of Research at the UCI Center for Research on Down Syndrome, whose work brings new insights into health care for individuals with developmental disabilities.
6. Orange County Fire Authority – Acknowledged as an employer that has taken steps to create an inclusive workplace for individuals with disabilities.
7. John Correa – A self-advocate from Costa Mesa, celebrated for his efforts in promoting disability rights.
8. Stuart Haskin – The founder and CEO of Get Safe in Tustin, awarded for his lifetime achievements in service to the community.
9. The Children's Therapeutic Arts Center – Represented by Dr. Ana Jiménez-Hami, the founder and executive director, recognized for providing therapeutic art programs for children.
10. Meena Chockalingam – Bestowed the Kurt Yeager Award for her leadership in service as a board member of Jeena, which supports families with developmental disabilities.

The RCOC stands as a vital nonprofit organization contracted by the State of California, serving as a cornerstone for over 29,000 Orange County residents with developmental disabilities. The center facilitates essential services and supports aimed at empowering individuals and enhancing their quality of life. These categories of disabilities include but are not limited to intellectual disabilities, autism, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy.

This year's awards serve not merely as recognition but also as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to uphold the dignity and rights of people with disabilities within the community. The annual Spotlight Awards build connections and highlight the importance of community collaboration in fostering an inclusive society. The RCOC continues to lead the way, ensuring that individuals with developmental disabilities receive the support they need to thrive and live with self-respect and dignity.

For more information on the Regional Center of Orange County and its services, please visit RCOC’s official website.