We are passionate individuals with a shared commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. With diverse backgrounds and expertise, our team members bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to help our clients and their families.

​Here we believe in a collaborative and compassionate approach, working closely with families and individuals to provide personalized support and IEP empowerment.

​Get to know the faces behind our mission and discover the caring hearts and skilled hands that drive our commitment to you. We look forward to working with you soon, and learning more about you! 
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Jackie Chan - Executive Assistant & Employee Relations Specialist
​Jackie is a wife and a mother to two wonderful children. Her advocacy journey started in 2015, navigating services for her Autistic son, who is now 12 years old. She is continuously eager to learn and adapt to the ever-changing needs of her family. With a professional background in corporate learning and development, strategic communications and behavioral change, she is passionate about developing opportunities where all families can thrive. As an Executive Assistant and Employee Relations Lead, she is happy to serve as the backbone of Sanford Autism Advocacy Group and is referred to as “Jackie of all trades” among the team. 

You can typically find her planning her next family adventure, working on a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle, or finding ways to reorganize the house. She loves a good taro milk tea with boba on the side of a pork bao bun. 
Desiree Sorgini - IEP Advocate
Desiree is a proud mother of two amazing children. She found her passion for advocacy while facing struggles with her own child. Finally finding the appropriate setting and services for her son and then watching him thrive was a life changing moment for her. That's when everything clicked and she decided to take a new path in life. She attended the special education law and advocacy series and became certified through the University of San Diego school of law.
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After being certified in special education advocacy, she began working with parents to help achieve an appropriate IEP.  Desiree works hard and feels success from assisting other parents through a journey that seems so alone. Her bubbly personality, loving soul and knowledge of parents' rights is what brings a valuable asset to Sanford Autism Advocacy Group.
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​Gaby Pierce - Community Operations Specialist
Gabrielle was drawn to Sanford Autism Advocacy Group due to her personal connection to the work their company does. Her younger brother, who is neurodivergent, encountered issues with his IEP when he entered middle school. With the help of an experienced attorney, her brother was able to receive access to an appropriate education. He is now thriving as a freshman in high school! Reflecting on her family's experiences, she wished her family had had a company like Sanford Autism Advocacy on her brother's team. Now, she assists them in helping families just like her own. 
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Gabrielle is a recent graduate from San Diego State University! When she isn’t working or studying, you can find her reading a book. She also enjoys playing with her orange tabby named Boo or exploring new places in San Diego!
Gina Michel - Client Care Specialist
Gina is a very passionate mother of three girls and is always striving to make a positive impact in her daughters' education.  After selling homes for the last five years, Gina's life took a detour when her youngest daughter, Dahlia, was diagnosed with autism.  Dahlia has been her biggest cheerleader and teacher ever since.  The journey has impacted her so much that Gina decided to join this community of advocates helping those who have only begun this long, but blessed journey. ​