OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

  • Matt Asner

    President

  • Navah Paskowitz-Asner

    Co-Founder

  • Renee Frigo

    Board Member

OUR ADVISORY BOARD

  • Ron Burkhardt

    Advisory Board Member

  • Daniele Salusky

    Advisory Board Member

  • Chris Halon

    Advisory Board Member

OUR STAFF

  • Avivah Paskowitz-Asner

    Programs Director

    In Avivah, we find a rare blend of humor, empathy, and skill, making our programs not just educational but truly life-enhancing. Her background in preschool education and art, coupled with a personal connection to autism, provides a foundation for leadership that inspires the team everyday.
    Avivah's Dining Pick: Seoul Tofu House, chosen for its inviting atmosphere and exquisite flavors that bring people together.

  • Peter Arenas

    Head of Support Staff

    With a heart as big as his dedication, Peter is the cornerstone of our support staff. Drawing from his personal journey alongside his brother with Down syndrome, he brings empathy, understanding, and a knack for making everyone feel at home. Peter and his team ensure the center is a place where every participant feels empowered and supported.
    Peter's Dining Pick: Rick's Drive-In, for the best breakfast in Los Angeles

  • Luisa Romero

    Operations Manager

    Luisa streamlines our center's operations, optimizing processes and supporting fundraising initiatives to ensure our mission's success. Her academic background in Communicative Disorders and Child Development, combined with experience in diverse educational settings, positions her perfectly to contribute to our mission.
    Luisa's Dining Pick: A Salvadoran breakfast for dinner at La Numero Uno, her favorite for classic Salvadoran specialties.

OUR MENTAL HEALTH STAFF

  • Chrisa Sadd

    Director of Mental Health

    A Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience supporting children, teens, and young adults with Autism. Her client-centered approach incorporates family systems, CBT, solution-focused techniques, mindfulness, and somatic therapy.

  • Michelle Tapia

    Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

    Michelle recognizes that trauma and anxiety can be overwhelming but believes in healing's power. She provides a safe space to process experiences, develop coping skills, and build resilience, helping clients find hope and create a healthier future.

  • Kathy Khorramian

    Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

    As a solution-focused therapist, Kathy empowers clients to overcome limiting beliefs and achieve their goals. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and hypnotherapy, she helps clients reframe negative thoughts, tackle career challenges, and develop positive habits for a fulfilling life.

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