About Us

Founded in 2019, Helping Hand Advocacy grew out of a personal understanding of what it means to advocate for a loved one with special needs. Every student deserves to learn, build friendships. For families of children with disabilities, those goals can sometimes feel out of reach. We know they are not. With the right supports in place, every student can be included and make meaningful progress academically, socially, and emotionally throughout their educational journey. That belief guides everything we do.

About Our Founder

Karen Pagano is a dedicated advocate with extensive training and certification in the field of special education advocacy. She completed Special Education Advocate Training through the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA). She also earned advanced advocacy training from both COPAA and the William and Mary Law School Institute of Special Education Advocacy. Kare statys current with the latest developments and best practices in the field through ongoing training and conferences. Karen also holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Buffalo.

In 2019, recognizing her expertise, Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Karen to serve a three-year term as a Councilmember on the State Council on Developmental Disabilities. During her tenure she served on the Legislative and Public Policy Committee where she helped shape policy recommendations to lawmakers on improving support services for individuals with disabilities. Karen currently volunteers on the Self Determination Local Advisory Committee for the Regional Center of Orange County.

As students approach adulthood, the ability to understand their own needs and ask for support becomes essential. That is why Karen donates her time teaching teens self-advocacy skills, a foundation that serves them well beyond graduation. Outside of her advocacy work, Karen enjoys reading, volunteering at animal shelters, and traveling with her family.