Brandy Wright

Brandy develops and implements programs, partnerships, and fundraising strategies that enhance the capacity and impact of nonprofits. She is committed to fostering intentional connections, inspiring people, and strengthening the nonprofit sector. She holds a Master’s of Nonprofit Administration (MNA) from the University of San Francisco and a Bachelor’s of Feminist Studies (BFS) with an emphasis in Law, Politics, and Social Change from the University of California Santa Cruz. Outside of work, she volunteers at Marin Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA).

Beheschta Barati

Specialty: Dari, Farsi, German
Originally from Afghanistan, I understand the unique challenges faced by families raising children with special needs. With both personal experience and professional expertise, I’m here to assist Farsi/Dari-speaking families in navigating the system. I’m dedicated to supporting families through coaching, so they can advocate for their children and access the support networks they deserve.

Sumathi Balaji

Specialty: Hindi, Tamil
I am a parent turned advocate. I enjoy learning and researching services available for children with complex needs. My life’s satisfaction comes from helping families receive the services they deserve. When I am not researching, I enjoy being outdoors.

Kay Holmes

I am a sibling to an amazing brother who was diagnosed shortly after birth with Cerebral Palsy. I remember seeing the frustration and sadness on my mother’s face. It brings me so much joy and peace to now be apart of the FRN family, using my background in Interior Design and Event Coordination, to make genuine connections with families by designing unique workshops, trainings and conferences to bring more awareness and free resources to the community. I am always ready to create a safe space for support and inspire families to walk the walk alongside us.

Ali Hernandez

Specialty: Spanish
My son has led me to knock on the doors of FRN years ago after his diagnosis. And today I’m proud to be part of this great team and to be able to support the community, as one day they did with me.

Selina Zhan

Specialty: Cantonese, Mandarin
I am a mom of two children and first came to FRN as a parent. I am very happy to work in the FRN organization. I have received a lot of training at work and have increased my knowledge of special education, which enables me to better support my children. I also very much hope to help more families who have similar experiences and needs, and to help people in the Alameda County community.

Valeria Brabata

Specialty: Spanish
Before joining FRN, I served as grant-maker, program director, and senior consultant for organizations such as the Kellogg Foundation and the Global Fund for Women. Our FRN navigators were a light in the dark when my son got sick. I love playing board games with my son.

Will Long

Specialty: ASL
I am a Hard of Hearing family advocate with training and experience with IEPs. FRN is host to some of the most passionate and helpful team members I’ve ever seen in the disability world. I also rely on them for support! I’m honored to be part of this team. Family empowerment is my goal for you. Disability is normality!

Pei He

Specialty: Cantonese, Mandarin
I started working at FRN as an Administrative Assistant in 2014. In my free time, I like hiking and traveling the world to see different places by exploring and understanding other cultures and customs.

Lilian Ansari

Department: Management
Specialty: Persian (farsi)
In Iran, I spent my summers taking care of my cousin with Muscular Dystrophy. Then in the US, I was the primary caregiver for my brother with a Traumatic Brain Injury. My most profound training comes from parenting two kids with disabilities. I am passionate about providing support to other families so they don’t feel alone.