Hello, my name is Serena Martinez, and I am a Coordinated Family Support Case Manager with Self Determined Futures. I am deeply committed to assisting individuals in need, particularly those with developmental disabilities and those who may struggle to advocate for themselves.

My passion for this work began at the age of 14 when I volunteered at the Harbor Gateway Youth Source Center, gaining experience at various facilities, including the Toberman Neighborhood Center and Lifted Fellowship Church, where I served as a Kids Ministry facilitator. Shortly after graduating high school, I took on the responsibility of becoming the legal guardian of my 12-year-old sibling due to our mother’s struggles with schizophrenia. At the time, I lacked access to a social worker who could guide me in securing essential resources such as therapy, counseling, and extracurricular activities for my sister. This experience ignited my determination to pursue a career in social services, leading me to complete my Associate’s Degree in Psychology at El Camino Community College—all while raising a beautiful babygirl.

I was fortunate to establish lasting connections at the Work Source Center, which led to my first role as a Case Manager Assistant. There, I developed a strong foundation in connecting individuals with essential resources. This experience opened the door to my next position as an Economic Development Coach with the South Bay Center for Counseling, where I supported 100 former foster youth through the LA County Breathe Part II program, providing them with financial assistance and guidance. I later advanced to a Case Manager role at the Work Source Center, where I had the privilege of assisting individuals with job search support, career training, and access to vital resources, all funded by programs such as the LA City Dislocated Workers Grant, Adult Grant, WIOA Grant, Persons with Disabilities Grant, LARCA Grant, and Prison to Employment Grant.

As a former foster youth myself, I am incredibly grateful for the supportive foster family I now call my own and with whom I raise my daughter. In my free time, I cherish moments spent with my daughter and sister, whether going on bike rides, visiting Disneyland, or enjoying summer days at my nana’s pool. Being both a mother and a guardian has been the greatest gift of my life, allowing me to support my sister’s journey to college and inspire those around me. With the closure of the Harbor Work Source Center, I was eager to find a new opportunity where I could continue making a meaningful impact, leading me to my role at Self Determined Futures LLC. I look forward to contributing my experience and dedication to empowering individuals and families in need.