About Us
Our Team
Founded in 2008
Founded in 2008, The DESI Team is comprised of a diverse group of individuals from all walks of life and areas of Southern California. Executive Director, Elizabeth Jinzo, frequently refers to the team as the DESI Angels because of their willingness to go above and beyond and participate in activities which not only benefit our clients, but the surrounding communities that we serve.
D.E.S.I. is active throughout the Greater Los Angeles Area, with most activities centered around historically marginalized neighborhoods in East and Southeast Los Angeles County. D.E.S.I. clients live and work in cities like Bell, Downey, East Los Angeles, Huntington Park, Los Angeles, Maywood, Montebello, Monterey Park, Pico Rivera, South Gate, and Whittier.
D.E.S.I. clients work with professional educators and mentors on a variety of subjects, including health and wellness, nutrition education, personal safety skills, social connection skills, independent living skills, community connection skills, travel training, benefits training, resource navigation, micro-enterprise support and supported employment.
At D.E.S.I., the curriculum is individualized to each client, using a Person-Centered Planning process. The curriculum is presented holistically, with multiple areas of growth occurring at once, and instruction takes place at home and in the community. Each learning goal builds on the next, and many clients continue to progress in their skills training with D.E.S.I. for multiple years.
D.E.S.I. is committed to working with parents, caretakers and other stakeholders to ensure its clients have a continuum of care, and a strong Circle of Support.
It has been stated that 17% of all children under the age of 18, are diagnosed with some form of an Intellectual disability. D.E.S.I is an active agent of change in the community, educating and empowering families to learn more about available resources. We understand the prevalence and major risk factors that people with intellectual disabilities face. We encourage the equalization of opportunities for persons with intellectual disabilities.
Meet Our Founder & Executive Director
Elizabeth Jinzo
Founder & Executive Director
"When my daughter Desirae was born, she was born extremely premature. As a young mother, I did not realize or understand the challenges I would be facing of raising a child with a disability. I was already raising a son and daughter."
I decided that I had to ensure that she would benefit from the same education and support such as those of her brother and sister. I had limited resources, but sought information through my community.
As Desirae grew older, she started to face other challenges in academics as well as in social emotional development. Fortunately, I had training comprised of the educational system and of the Regional Center.
I learned that through a team effort she could be mainstreamed and succeed as long as she had the support. Time has progressed and I have developed an agency to help others achieve the vision and dream I have developed for my daughter.
I have met many families that struggle with the same questions, and I am there to help along the way, by making sure their loved one's transformation is successful into their community. We are here to serve you!
— Elizabeth Jinzo, Founder & Executive Director
Want to join our team?
We're always looking for passionate people ready to make a difference in East and Southeast Los Angeles.
View Career Opportunities