Hi, I'm Sherri

I'm thrilled you're here.


My name is Sherri Kastner, and I have the joy of being Alyson’s mother. She’s a remarkable 15-year-old who has Down syndrome. When I first learned I would be a mother at 42, and that my child would have Down syndrome, I embarked on a journey to arm myself with knowledge and resources to ensure Alyson could thrive. It’s been a challenging road, especially transitioning to single parenthood when Alyson was five. Yet, I’ve found strength in the support of family, friends, and the unwavering assistance of the Regional Center’s exceptional case workers.

Just like any parent seeking the best for their child, I’ve often felt the frustration of trying to fit a square peg into a round hole when navigating the maze of resources available. But with the Self-Determination Program, it’s as if we’ve finally found the right fit. This program opens doors for Alyson that were previously closed, offering her chances to grow that the traditional Regional Center programs couldn’t provide. It empowers me to direct funds where they will have the most significant impact, helping Alyson not just to succeed but to truly flourish.

Drawing from my own journey, I stand with you as your Independent Facilitator, committed to guiding you to the perfect solutions for your unique needs. Together, we’ll walk this path starting with the Person Center Plan to the final transition into the Self-Determination Program. And the most heartwarming part? This guidance comes at no cost to you, instead it is built into your SDP spending plan. Let’s embark on this journey towards the right fit, hand in hand.