Advocacy and Policy
Case Study: Founding Inclusive Sol – Bridging a Critical Gap in Cerebral Palsy Advocacy and Support
The Birth of Inclusive Sol
Inclusive Sol emerged to address a pressing need: Southern California lacked a dedicated hub for families navigating the challenges of cerebral palsy (CP), the most common motor disability in childhood. For instance, none of the eight Los Angeles or Orange County Regional Centers offered CP-specific support groups for parents, leaving families without essential resources or community connections.
Inclusive Sol provides free programs that foster advocacy, resource-sharing, and connection to bridge this gap. Its offerings include support groups for parents and caregivers, CP-specific resources, and opportunities for families to connect and build a supportive community.
The Importance of Inclusive Sol
Cerebral palsy affects 1 in 345 children annually in the U.S., with 295 children diagnosed in Los Angeles County each year—many from communities of color, where access to early intervention is often limited. Timely intervention is crucial, as delays in diagnosis can hinder motor skills, mental health, and participation in education and employment.
Resource gaps persist despite existing programs, with families facing fragmented care systems, inequitable service distribution, and challenges transitioning from Early Start to school-based services.
Inclusive Sol tackles these challenges by:
- Advocating for policy changes.
- Raising awareness about CP.
- Connecting families to vital resources.
- Providing emotional support and practical guidance for caregivers.
"Reena's leadership was instrumental in advancing the first-ever Cerebral Palsy (CP) motion with the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, working closely with Supervisor Holly Mitchell's office. This historic motion, which Reena initiated, paved the way for enhanced resources, comprehensive data collection, and increased awareness for families affected by CP. Reena's ability to navigate complex policy issues, unite diverse stakeholders, and create systemic change is unparalleled. Her dedication to improving lives and driving meaningful change is unwavering and truly rare." ~ Lily Sofiani, Assistant Deputy, Health & Wellness · Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors
Making History: Inclusive Sol's Accomplishments
1. CP Motion: A Landmark Achievement
2. Lighting Up LA City Hall
3. Initiating LA County's First CP Webinar
4. Proclaiming March as CP Awareness Month in LA
5. Bringing CP Awareness to LAUSD