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.