Upcoming virtual event

Christine C. Tolbert’s commitment to those with disabilities began over twenty years ago with adolescents and young adults with disabilities who were at-risk or engaged in the justice system with co-occurring specialized health care, mental, and behavioral health needs. She is a fierce and compassionate advocate for those with developmental and cross-disabilities, their families and those who serve them throughout Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Christine is an expert in capacity-building and systemic change advocacy that improves equity and access in areas of health care, safety, education, and employment. Christine has also served at a Los Angeles area regional center before moving to the State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCDD) sixteen years ago as the Clients’ Rights Advocate to the Lanterman Developmental Center, providing consultation to residents, families, staff, attorneys, and regional centers concerning resident’s rights through its eventual closure.  As the SCDD Orange County Office Advocate, she chaired the CalOptima Member Advisory Committee, facilitated the Health Care Task Force and was an active stakeholder in numerous other inter-agency collaboratives in Orange County, advocating for the needs of the youngest in early start to employment and post-secondary education opportunities for adults. Christine is honored to serve in the SDP Program Manager position within SCDD to ensure the voice of the disability community, including needs and gaps, is emphasized, and woven throughout the development of practices and priorities through this program.