Inland Regional Center (IRC) recently hosted two Purchase of Services (POS) Public Input Meetings as part of our ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and meaningful community engagement.
These meetings were intentionally held to provide families, providers, and community partners with a formal opportunity to receive information and submit public comment regarding POS — including how IRC allocates and spends funding to support programs and services for individuals and families we serve.
Why We Hosted These Meetings
At IRC, we understand that transparency builds trust. The purpose of the POS Public Input Meetings was to:
- Provide clear information about how POS funds are used
- Share how IRC spends money to support programs and services
- Offer a structured space for formal public comment
- Document community concerns and recommendations
- Identify opportunities to strengthen supports and find solutions
POS funding plays a critical role in ensuring individuals receive needed services. Hosting these meetings allows IRC to openly share information about expenditures and continue improving how resources are allocated to best serve our community.
Community Participation
We were encouraged by the strong turnout and engagement:
- Total attendees: 230
- Public comments provided: 20
The level of participation reflects the community’s desire to better understand services, funding, and available supports. Families and partners took the opportunity to share thoughtful feedback during the formal public comment period.
Key Themes Identified
A consistent theme that emerged was the continued need to help families better understand available services and how to navigate the POS process.
Families expressed interest in:
- Clearer explanations of services
- Guidance on how funding decisions are made
- Additional support in navigating available resources
This feedback highlights the importance of continued education, outreach, and communication to ensure families feel informed and supported.
Community Partnerships in Attendance
The Public Input Meetings were strengthened by the presence of valued community organizations and support groups, including:
- Ives Torres Foundation
- Angeles Especiales
- Fundación de Apoyo Latino Murrieta
- Padres Exepcionales, (NESPE) por la Inclusion
- GANAS
- TASK
- Chasing 7 Dreams
- Inland Respite
- 24HR Homecare
- Autism Society Inland Empire
Their attendance reflects collaboration and a shared commitment to supporting families and strengthening access to services.
Moving Forward: Turning Input Into Action
The feedback received during these Public Input Meetings will directly inform IRC’s planning for the upcoming year. Community input helps guide how we evaluate current programs, identify gaps, and explore solutions to better support individuals and families.
“As a Cultural Specialist, I left these meetings feeling deeply moved. Seeing 230 individuals show up, and hearing 20 public comments rooted in lived experience, reminded me why this work matters so much. I am truly inspired by the strength and unwavering support of our families and community support groups. When our community shows up with honesty, courage, and hope, it pushes us to do better. Transparency is not just about sharing numbers; it’s about honoring the trust families place in us every day.”
— Mari Rodriguez, Cultural Specialist
By creating space for transparency around POS funding and formally documenting public input, IRC continues to prioritize accountability, equitable access, and continuous improvement.
We sincerely thank every family member, partner, and staff member who participated. Your engagement strengthens our work and helps ensure that IRC spends public funds continues to reflect the needs and priorities of the community we serve.
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