Peter Olson'ss Bio

Peter Olson

• Accounting Associate
• 805-963-0595 ext 109
• [email protected]

Hi, my name is Peter Olson and I am the Accounting Associate out of the Santa Barbara office. I started working for ILRC in May 2024. I have over 10 years of experience in the field of disability services and I am so proud to work for a mission-driven organization that truly makes a difference for individuals and the community! In my spare time, I love cooking/baking, jogging, live music, and cuddling with my kitty, Hazy.

Shain Wutkee'ss Bio

Shain Wutkee

• Blind/Low Vision Specialist
• (805) 849-3650 ext. 502
• [email protected]

Hello! My name is Shain and I am passionate about serving and advocating for at-risk populations. I look forward to being able to do so as a Blind/Low Vision Specialist at the ILRC! In my free time I enjoy being in nature, doing crafts, and listening to music.

Vanessa Kaelyn Acain'ss Bio

Vanessa Kaelyn Acain

• Manager of Independent Living Programs
• (805) 650-5993 x208
• [email protected]

Based in the Ventura office serving Ventura County.

I became a part of the ILRC family in November of 2021. I love being a part of an organization that shares my passion for social justice and plays a hands-on role in creating a more inclusive and diverse community!

Daniela Tepole-Garcia'ss Bio

Daniela Tepole-Garcia

• Benefits Specialist
• 805-462-1162 Ext 413
• [email protected]

Hello, my name is Daniela. I joined ILRC in May 2024 as a Benefit Specialist. I was a PCA for 9 years and I really enjoyed caring for my clients and helping better their lives. Being part of ILRC I can continue my passion for helping people reach their goals and better lives. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also love being outdoors and traveling.

Nicole Fleeman'ss Bio

Nicole Fleeman

• CalAIM Housing Specialist
• 805-925-0015 ext 301
• [email protected]

I began working with ILRC as the Santa Barbara County CalAIM housing specialist in 2024. I am passionate about serving those in our community that are often overlooked, connecting them with much needed resources and assisting with housing navigation, housing sustainability and acquiring housing deposits. I have worked in mental health, consumer advocacy and homeless services for nearly a decade in one capacity or another and am thrilled to be a part of the ILRC team. I enjoy traveling, backpacking, trying new foods and camping in my free time.

Jennifer Martinez'ss Bio

Jennifer Martinez

• Community Information Coordinator
• (805) 650-5993 x201
• [email protected]

Based in the Ventura office serving Ventura County.

I have been with ILRC, Inc. for over a decade. I enjoy working at ILRC, Inc. because the leadership and staff all share the common goal of helping people as best as possible. It really does take a village and I am happy to be a part of it. Thanks to working at ILRC, Inc., I have gained knowledge about available resources which is helpful to share with our consumers and has made a positive impact on individuals in my personal life as well. One fun fact about me is that I like to ride my bicycle through puddles and run in the rain, whenever I can.

Marlone Zaragoza'ss Bio

Marlone Zaragoza

• Independent Living Specialist
• 805-925-0015 ext:302
• [email protected]

Santa Maria

Hello my name is Marlone, I'm the Independent Living Specialist here in Santa Maria. Having worked many years assisting and caring for many individuals with mental health as well as assisting those in healthcare, I find working for ILRC to be a great way to continue my passion for helping people of all walks of life and doing what I can to better serve and help my community. In my spare time I love to cook, read, listen to all kinds of music, and even spend some time with my family when I'm not too busy.

Alexa Martin-Eisenberg'ss Bio

Alexa Martin-Eisenberg

• Deputy Director
• (805) 650-5993 x202
• [email protected]

I started working for ILRC in 2017. I am passionate about advocating for underrepresented communities, and through my work at ILRC, I get to do that each day! In my spare time, I enjoy dabbling in my many hobbies, being outdoors, traveling, pottery, and spending time with my partner and cat.

Michael Flores's Bio

Michael Flores

• Emergency Preparedness Services Manager
• 805-849-3650 ext 503
• [email protected]

Hello! My name is Michael and I am joining the ILRC family in July of 2024! I am looking forward to expanding the ways I will be able to help in my community and advocate for people in need! I enjoy spending my time at the gym, being around my friends/family, and playing D&D!

Deanna Sutherland'ss Bio

Deanna Sutherland

• Administrative Manager
• 805-963-0595 ext107
• [email protected]

Santa Barbara

Howdy and Hello! I am the Administrative Manager located in Santa Barbara. I joined the ILRC family in August of 2023. I am looking forward to the challenges and success of being part of an organization that is involved in making a difference. I believe in making memories, taking selfies, and sunshine and smiles!

Lacie Thacker'ss Bio

Lacie Thacker

• Transitions Specialist
• 805-650-5993 ext 209
• [email protected]

Based in Ventura office

Hello my name is Lacie. I joined the ILRC family in January 2024 as a Transition Advocate. My many years of experience working with people who have different disabilities has taught me a lot, and I am excited for this new journey. I love hanging out with family and friends. My son keeps me busy and laughing. I also love music, coffee and the beach.

Mary Moore'ss Bio

Mary Moore

• CalAIM Coordinator
• 805-963-0595 ext 103
• [email protected]

Santa Barbara

Hi! Since starting with ILRC in August of 2023 in a new position, I have absolutely fallen in love with the energy and dedication from our team here; to offer support and promote the independent living philosophy for consumers of all backgrounds and needs. With a close family member experiencing a life-altering disability over the last decade, I come on board with my own energy and motivation to work at collaborating, sustaining, and expanding the services we offer. I couldn't be happier to come in to work each day with such a drive and intention behind all that ILRC has done, and will do in the future! I can't wait to see what's around the corner.

Carol Baizer'ss Bio

Carol Baizer

• Benefits Specialist
• (805) 963-0595 x102
• [email protected]

Based in the Santa Barbara office serving all counties.

Carol started working at ILRC in 1997. Her favorite color is blue. For her, the best part of working at ILRC is being a part of an organization that provides a different window to the world. Her favorite independent living advocate is Marta Russell.

Michelle Ward'ss Bio

Michelle Ward

• Community Transition Specialist
• 805-963-0595 ext 106
• [email protected]

Based in Santa Maria office serving Santa Barbara County

My name is Michelle Ward and I’m the Transition Advocate in Santa Barbara. With a background in homelessness, housing solutions, and crisis intervention/diversion, I was drawn to ILRC because of the level of commitment to consumers and employees alike. Having advocated for myself and my daughter around our own disabilities, I feel that this is important work. I love helping and empowering people with disabilities to advocate for themselves. A fun fact about me is that I am a lover of the band Pearl Jam and have seen them live 33 times.

Suzanne Troolines's Bio

Suzanne Troolines

• Housing and Supports Specialist
• 805-650-5993 ext 208
• [email protected]

Based in Ventura office

I am new to the ILRC in the Housing and Supports Specialist role and started working for ILRC in February 2024. I am excited about working with such a great team. I have had over 20 years in the behavioral health field and can't wait to get in there and help out any way I can for underrepresented communities, and through my work at ILRC, I get to do that each day! I enjoy being outdoors, swimming, beach, and spending time with my five kids playing sports.

Jerry Mihaic'ss Bio

Jerry Mihaic

• Community Information Coordinator
• (805) 462-1162 x410
• [email protected]

Based in San Luis Obispo office serving San Luis Obispo County.

I first began working at ILRC in 2009, then I came back for more in 2017. The work ILRC does is important to me because I believe in social justice and taking care of vulnerable populations and marginalized groups-- ILRC provides that opportunity. I feel a very close connection with the community in San Luis Obispo and am involved with various groups such as The Latino Outreach Council, Adult Services Policy Council, and GALA Pride and Diversity Center. I also try to encourage and coach people, especially the elderly, to embrace and use technology and the Internet to their full benefit.

Anisa Garrett'ss Bio

Anisa Garrett

• Youth Advocate
• 805-963-0595 ext 106
• [email protected]

Santa Barbara

I joined ILRC in July of 2023! I love being part of an organization that is so passionate about making a difference and advocating for equality! I’m happy to be in a position where I’m working with youth to provide appropriate resources and support to achieve their goals! When not working, you can usually find me at the beach, gym, reading a book, or hanging out with loved ones.

Claire Triplett'ss Bio

Claire Triplett

• Independent Living Specialist
• [email protected]

Based in Thousand Oaks office

My name is Claire and I joined ILRC in January 2024 and am enjoying working with such an amazing team! I have a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and am currently working on my Masters in Higher Education Counseling. I have a passion for helping people with disabilities, and assisting underrepresented populations in the community and in the education system. In my free time I love hiking and going to concerts!

Bradlee Kirkman'ss Bio

Bradlee Kirkman

• Emergency Preparedness Services Manager
• 805-925-0015 ext:303
• [email protected]

Santa Maria

I began working for ILRC in October 2023. I am excited to be brought in as the Emergency Preparedness Service Manager (EPSM). I genuinely believe there are simple and basic precautions all people should take to be ready for any natural disaster, and I’m glad to be part of the team that assists people with this information. I am so happy to be part of an organization serving its community through advocacy and supporting people to live their most independent lives. In my free time, I enjoy all things outside, from hiking and camping to just getting out and exploring our communities’ parks.

Jamie Moothart'ss Bio

Jamie Moothart

• Transition Advocate
• (805)462-1162 x414
• [email protected]

Based in San Luis Obispo office serving San Luis Obispo.

I first began working with ILRC in 2020, I left briefly and returned in March of 2023! I find passion in helping the community members of the San Luis Obispo area find the resources and help they need to lead a more independent and fulfilling life. We are fortunate to live in such a wonderful area, and through working with ILRC it is my hope for the population as a whole to be able to enjoy this beautiful location while connecting people to the resources that may help them live their best lives. While not working, I enjoy coaching and playing softball, going for nature walks/hikes and spending time with my friends and family!

Jennifer Griffin'ss Bio

Jennifer Griffin

• Executive Director
• (805) 963-0595 x112
• [email protected]

Based in the Santa Barbara office.

I started working at ILRC in 2000. ILRC's work is important to me because I love that we empower and support people with disabilities to live the life they choose to live. I also adore my co-workers. All good people with big hearts. During quarantine, I became a semi-professional home organizer. I binge-watched Marie Condo and Home Edit until I could no longer contain the inner OCD organizer inside me. Since discarding all items that no longer spark joy for me, color-coded my closets, and sorted through over 100,000 photographs I have helped several other friends (not at their request) declutter their homes. My goal for 2021 is to continue to grow professionally and personally. Make more time for myself and my family and hopefully go on a trip somewhere this year?

Carmen Gaitan'ss Bio

Carmen Gaitan

• Housing and Supports Specialist
• 805-462-1162 ext 412
• [email protected]

Hello! My Name is Carmen Gaitan. I am the Housing Support Specialist out of the San Luis Obispo office. I joined the ILRC family in June of 2024. My passion to help others is what led me here and I am overjoyed to be a part of an organization that genuinely cares about those in need and making sure the proper assistance is given! As a mom of three (ages 2, 3, and 14) I don’t get spare time but they are more than worth it! An ideal day to me is being at home watching a movie eating good food with all my kids next to me!

Emily Bridges's Bio

Emily Bridges

• Public Health Advocate
• (805) 650-5993 x203
• [email protected]

Based in the Ventura Office serving Ventura County.

I enjoy working at ILRC because of the opportunities to engage with compassionate coworkers to help our communities. Working at ILRC has impacted my life by helping me build valuable relationships and become more understanding of others. A fun fact is that I have met seven actors at pop-culture conventions (like Comic-Con)over the past several years.

Jacob Lesner-Buxton'ss Bio

Jacob Lesner-Buxton

• System Change Coordinator
• (805) 963-0595 x105
• [email protected]

Based in the Santa Barbara office serving all counties.

I started working at ILRC in 2013. Working here has given me the confidence and sense of empowerment to make change and hopefully encourage others to do so. During quarantine, I learned how to engage with yoga classes over zoom. My goal for 2021 is to work up the courage to ride Splash Mountain and Space Mountain at Disneyland. I am not a big fan of thrill rides, but I have been watching some YouTube clips on the rides and think they might be fun to try!

Margaret Weiss's Bio

Margaret Weiss

• MPA Project Coordinator
• 805-963-0595 ext 117
• [email protected]

Santa Barbara

Margaret Weiss, MPH, MCHES I appreciate ILRC for helping people with disabilities to live their best lives and to have a voice. I am thrilled to work on the Master Plan for Aging because it is a unique opportunity to enhance livability in the community for all ages and abilities. An age-friendly place benefits everyone. In my free time you will find me playing outside with family, friends and my dog, Poppi.

Kelly Kivlahan'ss Bio

Kelly Kivlahan

• Assistive Technology Coordinator
• (805) 650-5993 x204
• [email protected]

Based in the Ventura Office serving Ventura County.

Hiya y'all! My name is Kelly Kivlahan and I had the amazing opportunity to start working at ILRC in November of 2020 as a Transition Advocate. Throughout my time in that role, we were able to grow the program immensely and successfully transition over 30 consumers from institutional settings back into their communities. The services that ILRC provides is important to me because being a part of a team that genuinely cares about others helps make it possible for individuals to be properly represented and live independent fulfilling lives. I've seen how the work of ILRC has impacted individuals and it really is the type of work that makes the world a better place. In my spare time I love to play outside, take my foster dog (Guava) on long beach walks, and travel the world. In 2022 I was lucky enough to visit 13 countries (mostly Europe) and I feel incredibly honored to return to the ILRC family as the Assistive Technology Coordinator. My goal for 2023 is to really build our Assistive Technology program to its utmost potential in all three counties and try something new each month (location, food, activity etc.).

Laura Hernandez'ss Bio

Laura Hernandez

• Blind/Low Vision Services Manager
• 805-963-0595 ext 104
• [email protected]

Santa Barbara

Hi, my name is Laura Hernandez, I am the new Blind/Low Vision Services Manager. I have worked doing direct care service since 2010 and managed an ICF for adults with developmental disabilities. I am passionate about serving and advocating underrepresented communities while also being part of a team that shares my values. I am ecstatic to be part of ILRC. In my free time I enjoy the beach, hiking, spending time with my daughter, family and friends.

Rosie Florido'ss Bio

Rosie Florido

• Controller

Rosa Lopez'ss Bio

Rosa Lopez

• Community Information Coordinator
• (805) 963-0595 x100
• [email protected]

Based in the Santa Barbara office serving Santa Barbara County.

I began working for ILRC back in 2005. The work ILRC does is important to me because ILRC helps everyone when they feel no one is there for them and it feels rewarding. During quarantine, I tried cooking different meals and read more. My goal for 2021 is to get healthier physically, and mentally.

Chris Burke'ss Bio

Chris Burke

• Housing and Supports Specialist
• (805)963-0595 x101
• [email protected]

Based in the Santa Barbara Office serving Santa Barbara county.

Hello, my name is Chris and my passion is to help people overcome barriers to live their best life. ILRC provides a healthy space to facilitate this process and it’s an honor to be a part of such a fun-loving team. In my spare time, I enjoy surfing and swimming in the ocean with my son.