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We are sharing exciting news: The California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) has appointed El Arc de California Director, Joe Perales, as a member of the Developmental Services Master Plan Stakeholder Committee.
The Stakeholder Committee, a diverse group of individuals with varied backgrounds and experiences in the disability community, is crucial in shaping the Master Plan. Their monthly meetings will be essential to meaningful conversations that will better outline the needs of Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities—advancing the goal of creating a person-centered, equity-focused, and data-driven system.
The committee members, appointed by CalHHS Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly, will serve a one-year term and aim to deliver a comprehensive Master Plan by March 2025. This initiative is a part of the CalHHS’ commitment to modernizing the developmental services system, aligning with the goals of the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act.
The Master Plan, designed as California’s roadmap, seeks to marshal public and private resources within the developmental services system and across other systems and sectors to enhance accessibility, quality, and equity for Californians with disabilities. Recognizing the interconnectedness of California’s developmental disabilities system with other health and social systems, the Master Plan aims to strengthen bridges and connections across critical systems, including education, housing, employment, transportation, and safety.
“I am honored to have been selected as part of the master plan stakeholder committee. In this role, I represent El Arc de California and the Latino disability community,” said Perales.
El Arc de California was established by The Arc of California in 2021 to inform, educate and empower members of California’s Latino disability community and advocating for their rights and inclusion.
Perales, who has more than 40 years of experience in the field of developmental disabilities, has held various leadership roles and actively participated in committees, bringing his expertise and passion to advocate for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities.
As a committee member, Joe will contribute to the development of policies and strategies aimed at improving delivery of services and access for individuals with disabilities and their families.