We’re so pleased to talk today with Lee Lombardo from the YMCA of Orange County. She has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1996 and has been in the fields of social services and mental health since the mid-80s. Lee has always had a heart to serve vulnerable populations in the community.

The programs that Lee currently oversees are two that focus on those with developmental disabilities. One program is for adults and the other one that is our focus today is for children ages 3-17.

Join us for this incredible glimpse inside their children’s program and be sure to stay tuned for information on an upcoming event organized by the YMCA of Orange County, in honor of Disabilities Awareness Month!

Show Highlights:

• Lee describes some of the varied programs offered by the YMCA.
• One program that she oversees is for children with developmental or intellectual disabilities, whose parents work and need a place to be after school.
• This particular program provides one-to-one aides for children with special needs in their after-school programs throughout Orange County.
• Each child who comes into the program gets an assessment and individualized goals.
• The aide works with the child on the goals, and also works with the site staff and other children towards “their” child’s inclusion in all the program’s activities.
• Lee’s provides an overview of the program training for staff, but it all starts with the principle that all kids are different. 
• In honor of Disabilities Awareness Month, the YMCA of Orange County will be presenting Caring for a Child with Special Needs - A Panel Discussion on Thursday, March 18, 2021, from 6 PM – 7:30 PM PDT. This is a panel of experts (including our very own Vickie Brett!!) discussing everything from early detection, resources for your child, and advocacy support with school intervention. Following will be an attendee Q&A. Click HERE to register for this FREE online event!

For More Information:

YMCA of Orange County - Community Services

Lee’s Phone #: (714) 508-7643

Lee’s email

Caring for a Child with Special Needs - A Panel Discussion

Thursday, March 18, 2021

6PM – 7:30PM PDT

Click HERE to register for this FREE online event!

Help Me Grow - Developmental Screening and Monitoring - In English and en Español

Related Episode: Help Me Grow with Yvette Nunez [IEP 086] 

Links/Resources:

Thank you for listening!

Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday.

If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, then please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show in Apple Podcasts, Stitcher Radio, or Google Play. It helps other listeners find this show.

Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions/concerns:

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

IEP website

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not to be construed as legal advice specific to your circumstances. If you need help with any legal matters, be sure to consult with an attorney regarding your specific needs.