Chad came to the ABC as a volunteer, when his wife Sabrina started working there in 2022. He excels at setting up tables and chairs for events, flipping hamburgers at the picnic and directing traffic in parking lots. As a volunteer at many events, he saw the community that was built by the students, families and staff at the ABC. He wanted to do more to support this community and engage the larger community around the ABC. In the process of cleaning up after Halloween Bingo, Chad and the other leaders of the guild decided to form the RISE Community Guild. 

Favorite ABC memory: Helping to welcome students and families at the ABC Dance in 2025. The costumes and joy of the students were really fun, but the excitement of the families bringing their students to the dance, made my day!

Sarah received her undergraduate degree from California State University, Long Beach and continued her education at the University of Southern California, receiving her Master’s in Social Work. She founded the Social & Emotional Wellness Initiative (SEWI). Sarah has also served as the Senior Director of Program & Operations for a Boys & Girls Club in the Los Angeles area. Sarah has presented on the importance of Social & Emotional Wellness programs at conferences throughout the country. Sarah is committed to offering youth-serving organizations well-trained staff, and services to help make an impact on youth lives. 

Sarah is so excited she found the ABC community can can't wait to support the important work they are doing for adults. 

Favorite ABC memory:  Dancing and signing on the dance floor with some ABC student and the Spring Dance 

Samantha is passionate about building inclusive communities where everyone feels supported and valued. Professionally, she works in customer success and program strategy, helping design educational experiences that empower individuals to grow with confidence.

She believes in creating spaces where adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities can build independence, meaningful friendships, and a strong sense of belonging. 

Favorite ABC memory:  Halloween Bingo Night. Seeing the room filled with students, families, and community members was so special. The students were decked out in their costumes and having an absolute blast, and it was amazing to witness the authentic friendships they’ve built with each other and with staff. That night perfectly captured the spirit of ABC and the incredible work it does in our community.

Michelle is currently a classroom assistant with the Alyssa Burnett Center where she enjoys everything from K-pop Cardio to Coping Skills. She previously taught middle school English Language Arts. Her four adult children, husband, pets, and love of the outdoors keep her busy in her free time.

Favorite ABC memory: witnessing the creativity and talent that went into the “Rising Rainbow” original musical.