As we complete our listening sessions for our new strategic plan, I am grateful for our community coming together in programs, boardrooms, and online to listen and learn from one another. I am humbled by the many people who shared their lived experiences, creative ideas, and direction with us. Our board and dedicated staff strive to develop a meaningful plan that will help pave the way for VMRC to continue to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families we serve. With your support and partnership, we will meet the challenges of the day with patience, collaboration, and kindness. 

With gratitude, Leinani

Listening and Learning to

Support VMRC’s Strategic Plan

VMRC Board of Directors and the executive leadership team engaged diverse community partners to hear from people served, families, and service providers. We appreciate the creative ideas and direction you offered in each engagement. Your voice matters!  

Special thank you to SAC6, Integrated Community Collaborative, ARC of Amador, ARC of Calaveras, Families United, Family Resource Center, VMRC Consumer Service Committee, and VMRC’s Board of Directors for supporting this listening tour to help us connect and listen to our community to develop our Strategic Plan goals. Thank you to VMRC Board Members, Erria Kaalund, Dr. Steve Russell, Dominique Mellion and Kyle Cox for joining us on this adventure. 

Gathering to Honor & Remember 

September 15 - California Memorial Project – Our community gathered at the University Park World Peace Rose Garden at the VMRC Stockton Campus and Parkview Cemetery in Manteca to recognize, honor, and remember people with developmental disabilities who lived and died in the State Hospital and Developmental Centers in California. 

We are grateful to the self-advocates from SAC6 and Valley CAPS, the State Council, Office of Client’s Rights Advocacy, Grupe Huber, and Parkview Cemetery for the support and dedication you bring each year.  

A special thank you to Kimo Kamakaalohaamaikalani for creating a beautiful painting in honor of the day. We appreciate our VMRC Board of Directors, Erria Kaalund and Alicia Schott for joining this meaningful event. 

A heartfelt thank you to our amazing VMRC staff who helped make this day special in partnership with our community.   

Stockton Unified School District Special Olympians Compete & Win! 

September 24th - VMRC Transition Team and Board Member, Jose Lara had a blast cheering on the amazing student athletes from across Stockton Unified School District Special Olympics at Edison High School! So much joy, teamwork, and school spirit all in one place — we’re proud to celebrate inclusion and the incredible talents of every athlete. 

Honoring & Celebrating

Native Americans at the Capitol  

September 26 – VMRC was honored to attend the 58th Annual California Native American Day at the Capitol in Sacramento, hosted by the California Tribal Chairpersons’ Association. This day honors and recognizes the First People of the land now known as California, the rich history, traditions, and ongoing contributions. 

Leinani Walter and Mayra Ochoa enjoyed connecting with Season and James Goodpasture of Acorns to Oak Trees, Victor Duron, Chief Deputy Director of California Department of Rehabilitation, and Shanola Harvey, Sandra Coss, Kate Thao, Lilliana Ramos, and Jordan Martinson of California Department of Developmental Services. Connecting with community partners and celebrating native dancers, singers, and artwork from tribes from around California –we enjoyed this beautiful day of celebration, reflection, and culture.

Lodi Police Foundation Donates $3,200 to VMRC for Autism Awareness Month

The Lodi Police Foundation generously donated proceeds from their first Lodi Police Autism Awareness patch fundraiser in honor of Autism Awareness Month. This heartfelt fundraiser shined a bright light on autism awareness within the community. This $3,200 donation to the VMRC James R. Popplewell Fund will directly benefit individuals and families served who are facing financial challenges. 

We are grateful to the Lodi Police Department, Lodi Police Foundation, and each of the community members who helped make this fundraiser a success. Your compassion and support demonstrate the power of partnership and the difference we can make when we stand together. Thank you for supporting autism awareness, and all of the families we serve!

Pictured: Captain Eric VerSteeg, Chief Ricardo Garcia, and Captain Kevin Kent; VMRC Executive Team; VMRC Board President Erria Kaalund; Foundation Board Members Elisa Bubak and Heather from Lodi PD.

VMRC Cultural and Disability Fair

Join Us for VMRC’s 2025 Cultural & Disability Resources Fair! 

• Location: VMRC Stockton Office 
• Date: Friday, October 10th, 2025 
• Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 
• Parking: Field next door to VMRC office  

Bring a friend, enjoy cultural music & dance, shop in the microbusiness fair, learn about terrific resources, and enjoy some good food! 

Innovation and New Beginnings! 

VMRC is thrilled to announce DDS approval for its 2025 Community Placement Plan (CPP) and Community Resource Development Plan (CRDP). We are focused on developing innovative community resources of affordable housing, supported employment opportunities, Early Start Applied Behavior Analysis programs, inclusive specialized children’s homes, and specialized forensic housing living options. VMRC’s CPP/CRDP Plans include resources to be developed in all five of the counties we serve.

Human Resources Announcements

VMRC is excited to announce 12 talented team members have earned promotions since July. Please join us in congratulating Liliana Gonzalez, Annai Flores Nunez, Balbina Arroyo, Laura Hernandez, Carmen Ponce Perez, Alyssa Gaspar, Alina Manzo, Jose Aguilera, Scott Rickey, Alejandra Reyes, Elizabeth Olivares-Rosales, and Anna Sims! Their dedication and hard work are appreciated, and we are looking forward to seeing each of these staff members excel in their new roles!  

Now HIRING Service Coordinators!

We are actively seeking Service Coordinators for our San Andreas office, specifically serving Amador, Tuolumne, and Calaveras counties. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about making a positive impact in our local communities. Our Service Coordinators play a vital role in connecting consumers with essential services and support. If you or someone you know may be interested, please visit our careers page or scan the QR below.

Honoring The Life of an

Amazing Self-Advocate

Community Events & Resources