Deanna Graziano, of Atascadero, has been appointed to the California State Rehabilitation Council by Governor Brown as a Disability Advocate. Graziano has been the Supported Employment Program manager for Transitions-Mental Health Association since 2006.
Graziano served in various positions at the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Santa Barbara County from 2005 to 2006, including grants manager and executive assistant. She was a clinic manager at Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics from 2000 to 2005, a program coordinator at the Mental Health Association of Orange County from 1995 to 2000 and a mental health counselor at Olive Vista Center for Problems of Living from 1994 to 1995.
“I am a true believer that employment is an extremely important role for each member of society,” said Graziano. “I have a passion for helping others and strongly believe in educating and empowering people with information for making choices that lead to their success and satisfaction.”
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended in 1998, requires the existence of a State Rehabilitation Council. The council consists of a diverse membership, who are interested in and representative of Californians with disabilities. The council works in partnership with the California Department of Rehabilitation to review, evaluate and advise the Department of Rehabilitation regarding its specific and overall performance and effectiveness. The council also works in partnership with the Department of Rehabilitation to develop, agree to, and review state goals and priorities.
It is the mission of the California State Rehabilitation Council, in partnership with the California Department of Rehabilitation, to assure that all Californians with disabilities are represented, informed and empowered; receive necessary, sufficient and timely individualized services; and that these services are excellent and lead to meaningful employment.
Council members are appointed by the Governor and serve three-year, staggered terms. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation.