Stand Out’s Advocates

MELISSA LANDER

FOUNDER

From opening her own company, a true gem that supported helping families in identifying their child’s unique needs, to co-founding and opening Stand Out 2017, Melissa has represented Special Needs clients large and small for nearly 10 years. Practicing since her son was diagnosed in 2009, Melissa has hands-on experience with how services affect those with special needs. Staying ahead of the state’s frequent changes, and researching the most up to date programs and resources for her clients is Melissa’s sixth sense. Melissa is a mother of 3 in Los Angeles since 2010. Melissa was born and raised in Michigan and calls San Fernando Valley home. Her eldest son is on the autism spectrum with ADHD. Prior to co-founding Stand Out, Melissa founded Guiding Gems LLC, a special needs resource network that helped families diagnose and coordinate services for their special needs children.

Activities & Affiliations

COPAA Council of Parents Attorneys and Advocates, MemberPerson Centered Training, Person Centered Thinking, Independent Facilitator - Train the Trainer, CertificatesRegistered Behavioral Therapist

MARLENE LUECK

FOUNDER

Marlene focuses on the various facets of advocacy that revolve around IHSS, Regional Center, and Medi-cal services, whether that’s securing assessments and services for clients or helping them to navigate through this ever changing process. Prior to co-founding Stand Out, she founded Russell’s Reinforcers, an advocacy agency representing individuals with autism and related disorders. Marlene has represented and advocated for families and clients on their rights and responsibilities related to their disabilities for over 15 years. Born and raised in Southern California, Marlene grew up in the San Fernando Valley, and calls Santa Clarita home. Marlene is a mother of 4 children, 2 of which have special needs. Her passion in life is her family and a love of advocacy.

Activities & Affiliations

COPAA Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, MemberIf I Need Help, Non-Profit Agency, Board MemberPerson Centered Training, Person Centered Thinking, Independent Facilitator - Train the Trainer, Certificates

JASMINE HARO

LEAD CARE COORDINATOR

Jasmine got her start working as a respite provider within the states home health agency program for those with developmental disabilities. Working under Victoria Carlin, Educational Advocate and COPAA member, she furthered her knowledge of special education and aided clients in understanding their rights in an IEP. She specializes in all things related to care coordination, whether that’s securing files for a client or helping them apply for services, she offers a unique and holistic perspective. Jasmine also represents clients as a care coordination advocate, authorized representative, and is a champion and ongoing supporter of all families facing a struggle. Jasmine is a California native who calls Santa Clarita home. She is an aunt, sister to two siblings, and mom to her beloved dog, Dahlia.

Activities & Affiliations

COPAA Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, MemberPerson Centered Training, Person Centered Thinking, Independent Facilitator - Train the Trainer, Certificates

ALLISON LEATHAM

CARE COORDINATION

Allison started as all child advocates do, her son was born with a disability. Allison chose StandOut to get her son the services he needed and thus has found a true passion in being there for others who are in need of a voice. Allison specializes in ensuring all our documentation is clear and accurate and ensuring cases are ready for assessments and hearings.

Activities & Affiliations

COPAA Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Member