Our Story
Raising a child with special needs is a unique journey that can often feel overwhelming. From navigating complex healthcare and school systems to balancing emotional and financial strain, it is easy to feel isolated. But you don't have to do it alone—connecting with parents who truly understand your experience can make a world of difference.
That is why we are here. In 1985, a small group of parents in Santa Cruz County began meeting in each other's living rooms for mutual support. Over the years, that informal circle grew into a lifeline for local families, officially becoming the Special Parents Information Network (SPIN) in 1996 and incorporating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2000.
Today, SPIN remains dedicated to providing the vital information, resources, and community connections families need to feel supported, informed, and ready to thrive.
Our Team
We bring different perspectives to the table, but we’re united by a love for purposeful work, thoughtful design, and real connection.
Becka York
Becka has been a longtime supporter of SPIN, bringing both professional and personal experience to her work as a former Special Education Teacher and as a parent of a child with a learning disability. After 17 years with the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, she transitioned into the role of Executive Director of SPIN in January 2025. Becka is deeply committed to helping families find support, connection, and community as they navigate the journey of raising a child with a disability.
In her spare time, Becka enjoys going on day trips and traveling with her husband and three children, going on walks with her dog, and listening to wellness podcasts.
Executive Director
Ricardo Cornejo
Ricardo has dedicated 23 years to providing community outreach, individualized support and service coordination. His commitment to this field is deeply rooted in personal experience, having a family member who was enrolled in Early Start services. This unique perspective fuels his passion for supporting individuals with disabilities, their family members, and ensures a compassionate, informed approach to supporting their needs and objectives.
In his spare time Ricardo enjoys barbecuing/grilling, spending time with his family and rooting for the San Francisco 49ers.
Sonia Plageman
Sonia came to SPIN as a parent seeking support and community for herself and her young son living with Down Syndrome - She was encouraged to join the SPIN team by then Director Mary Balzer. She enjoys supporting families by helping them navigate special education services and connecting them with other organizations and families in the community. She remembers those early years and wants to give back to a community that has given back so much to her and her son.
Angelica Gallo
Angelica is a seasoned special education professional with over 20 years of experience supporting children, adults, and their families. In her dual role at SPIN, she leverages her bilingual fluency and background in behavioral therapy to provide essential advocacy and administrative clarity. Angelica is deeply committed to ensuring that every family feels empowered, heard, and supported throughout their journey.
When she isn’t supporting SPIN families, Angie loves spending quality time with her own family—whether they are cooking together, playing games, or cheering on her young adults at their sporting events. She also loves gardening and taking her boxer dog on daily walks.
Marcela Rosales
For over three years, Marcela has worked closely with families to provide guidance, advocacy, and meaningful resources tailored to their unique needs.
She is especially committed to reducing stress for Spanish-speaking families by increasing awareness of available community resources and improving access to support. Through her work, she promotes empathy, inclusion, and a judgment-free approach so that every family feels informed, supported, and valued.
Staff Name
SPIN Job title
Santa Cruz County
Sonia Martinez
Bilingual Early Start Support (Special Connections)
South Santa Cruz County
Staff Name
SPIN Job title
Santa Cruz County
