Board of Directors

Jimi Vaughn is an entertainment executive with a passion for diversity, access, and inclusion for all people. With TV credits that include The Big Bang Theory, Two and a Half Men, and Mike & Molly along with an M.A. in Human Resource Development; our current Board President spends much of his time ensuring that media programming represents all people, both on camera and behind the scenes. Jimi attributes his strong connection with the DSALA to the lasting impact that families and individuals with Down syndrome had on him while first volunteering at an event almost 5 years ago. Jimi says, “Serving this community was the most natural next step for me. When you let someone with Ds into your heart, you just know there’s no other option.”

Claudia Hernandez is an Early Start Service Coordinator at Westside Regional Center. She holds a B.S. Degree in Child Development from California State University, Dominguez Hills and a M.A. Degree in Child Development from California State University, Los Angeles. Claudia has a special connection with DSALA and is involved in many ways as she has a sister with Down syndrome. Claudia is currently serving as Vice President of the board of directors of DSALA. She is Programs Committee Chair and helps run the Teen/Young Adult Social Club. Claudia has helped lead parent support groups in the past and is a point of contact for volunteers. You may find Claudia at many of our events sharing her experiences with families or assisting with outreach and in-service presentations for different organizations.

Robert Cruz has been an active board member of DSALA since 2015. However, with an eleven-year-old sister with Down syndrome, DSALA has been a part of his life since she was born. DSALA has played a crucial role in Robert’s family, having provided support, information and amazing programs that have helped with his sister’s development. Having grown close with the DS community and DSALA throughout the years, it was a natural progression for Robert to join the board and bring fresh perspective to the organization. Robert is currently serving as a Sibling Advocate and is Chairman for World Down Syndrome Day and the 21+ event. When not volunteering his time as a board member, Robert is busy as a Registered Nurse, providing home health care to various families throughout the San Fernando Valley.