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Description of the SSI/SSDI presentation

The Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy will present the basics of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The presentation will cover which benefits children and adults get, the difference between SSDI and SSI, how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines a disability, and substantial gainful activity. The presentation also covers how much money recipients can get, how to apply for benefits, how the appeals/hearing process works, and how to avoid an overpayment issue. It also touches on CalABLE accounts and Special Needs Trusts in the context of SSDI/SSI.

Guest Speakers:

Erica Rodriguez

Erica Rodriguez is the North Los Angeles County Regional Center (NLACRC) Clients’ Rights Advocate (CRA) and has been in this position since starting to work at DRC in April 2024. She is a Registered Legal Aid Attorney in the State of California and a licensed attorney in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

She believes individuals with disabilities should have fulfilling lives with all the support afforded to them under the law. Erica aspires to provide legal advocacy that will help her clients reach their goals and objectives, and she takes pride in this work. She is also the proud mother of a member of the disability community and considers herself fortunate to work in disability rights.

Erica previously worked in the field of immigration law for over five years, including at the U.S. Department of Justice and in the non-profit sector. She obtained a J.D. from The George Washington University Law School. Erica obtained a B.S. in Political Science and Sociology from Northeastern University. Erica grew up in the Boston area but has found a true home in sunny Los Angeles. In her free time, she enjoys CicLAvia, spending time with her three children (including playing Mario Kart with her son and Girl Scouting with her daughter), visiting modern art installations, and riding her Peloton.

Whitney Jarquin Parente

Whitney Jarquin Parente is the North Los Angeles County Regional Center (NLACRC) Assistant Clients’ Rights Advocate (ACRA) and has been in this position since she starting working at DRC in July 2024. With a heart for inclusion and a passion for justice, Whitney brings experience from the classroom, community, and the playground to her advocacy work.

She began her career as a Special Education Teacher with LAUSD, supporting students with extensive support needs. She worked in creating inclusive, accessible learning environments for children in Pacoima, CA. Whitney then served as a Recreation Coordinator and then Recreation Director for the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, where she supported adaptive sports through the PlayLA program, classes, and enrichment programs that celebrate diversity and community connection in several Los Angeles neighborhoods. She also worked as an Inclusion Facilitator for Inclusion Matters by Shane’s Inspiration, helping lead school-based programs that build friendships between children of all abilities, and most importantly playing in accessible playgrounds!

When she’s not advocating, Whitney is embracing all things kawaii (cute) including her love for Sanrio, Disneyland days, and cheering on her younger sister at swim competitions and water polo games.