MEET THE TEAM
Laurie Gallo, M.A.
Founder & Director
Founder and Executive Director of Capital City Career Opportunities, Inc (CCCO), a 501c3 Non-Profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities. My passion for this work stems from a deeply personal experience—I have been advocating for my sister, who sustained a traumatic brain injury in a car accident at the age of 2, supporting her throughout her journey navigating the world of work.
At CCCO, my goal is to educate, advance, and engage individuals with disabilities in the greater Sacramento Area. I achieve this by fostering connections, sharing vital information, creating opportunities, and strengthening the individuals I have the privilege to support as well as educating our community on the benefits is working with individuals with disabilities.
With over 20 years of experience as a vocational rehabilitation counselor, I have empowered clients to lead fuller, more independent lives by assisting them in achieving their employment goals. I conduct thorough assessments of each client’s capabilities and limitations to collaboratively set employment objectives. I arrange tailored training programs and facilitate job training, guiding clients through the application process to secure meaningful employment opportunities.
Throughout my career, I have supported clients dealing with diverse challenges including physical disabilities, mental illness, psychological disorders, and substance abuse issues. My approach integrates their educational and employment backgrounds, taking into account their specific disabilities, to design and implement effective plans geared toward competitive employment outcomes
EDUCATION
Masters of Arts - Career Counseling, Chapman University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology, Chapman University
Associate of Arts - General Education/ Liberal Studies, Cosumnes River College
Anthony Medina
Director of Operations
I have been working with Capital City Career Opportunities, Inc. since 2017 as an Intake Specialist/Office Manager. My objective is to help people discover and unlock their potential by evaluating their goals and guiding them to create a plan that will provide the knowledge they need to gain meaningful employment. I assist them with the beginning steps of employment preparation, such as narrowing down job goals, evaluating their resumes and cover letters, and providing feedback on their interviewing skills to help ensure they are fully prepared to start their search for a job.
In 2021, I attended Cornell University’s Institute of Employment & Disability where I completed a graduate certificate and was granted a full credential as a Work Incentives Practitioner (WIP). As the Work Incentives Practitioner (WIP) for Capital City Career Opportunities, Inc., I assist consumers who are SSI/SSDI beneficiaries to make informed choices regarding the impact of employment on public benefits including cash and health benefits, available work incentives, and reporting of wages and work incentives usage.
EDUCATION
Work Incentive Practitioner - Cornell University
Jesseca Johnson
Employment Specialist
With a profound dedication to empowering individuals to reach their true and full potential, I bring over seven years of experience as an Employment Specialist to the team. Holding an Associate of Arts degree in Human Services and an Associate of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on Social and Behavioral Sciences, I combine academic knowledge with hands-on expertise to provide exceptional support and guidance to job seekers.
Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a strong commitment to helping others navigate the complexities of the job market, offering personalized coaching, resume development, interview preparation, and career planning services. My empathetic approach and keen understanding of human behavior enable me to connect with clients on a deeper level, fostering a supportive environment that encourages growth and self-discovery.
I am passionate about creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities and those of diverse backgrounds, believing that everyone has unique strengths and talents waiting to be unlocked. By leveraging my extensive experience and educational background, I strive to make a positive impact in the lives of those I serve, guiding them towards fulfilling and sustainable career paths.
Outside of work, I enjoy volunteering in the community, continuing education, and exploring new methods to enhance my professional skills. My unwavering dedication to my professional development ensures that I remain at the forefront of industry trends and best practices, consistently delivering high-quality service to clients.
EDUCATION
Associate's Degree in Human services
Associate's Degree In Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Social and Behavioral Sciences
Kylie Smith
Employment Specialist
My previous work as a Career Development Coach involved managing a 25-person caseload, providing individualized support while upholding strict HIPAA and confidentiality standards. In this role, I supported individuals with disabilities in developing job skills, accessing community employment and education opportunities, and maintaining long-term workplace success. I have carried this same organized, dependable, and client-centered approach into subsequent positions, applying strong administrative, operational, and educational support skills across diverse environments. Outside of my professional work, I enjoy tending my vegetable and herb gardens, playing video and board games, and exploring the mountains with my family. Across all areas of my life, I remain committed to fostering growth, connection, and meaningful engagement while supporting individuals with disabilities in achieving their goals.
EDUCATION
Associate of Science, Administration of Justice
Associate of Arts, Social Science
Associate of Arts, Paralegal Studies
Debbie Garcia
Support Specialist
Debbie Garcia is a dedicated professional with a proven track record in customer service, project management, and retail leadership. With over two decades of experience across various industries, Debbie excels in building strong relationships, adapting to dynamic environments, and ensuring operational efficiency.
Debbie is a compassionate professional who combines her extensive experience in caregiving, leadership, and customer service to make a positive impact in her work and community. Debbie has cultivated a deep passion for supporting individuals and building meaningful connections.
Debbie’s previous role as a care provider at Pacifica Homecare Services has given her patience, attentiveness, and adaptability that have been integral in creating a nurturing and supportive environment for her clients. Her unwavering passion for caregiving and her dedication to empowering others underscore every endeavor she undertakes. Beyond work, her volunteer role as a Junior Ministry Aide at New Life Community Church exemplifies her commitment to helping others and fostering community.
Linda Ellis, MN, BSN, RN
Board Member
Linda has a Masters in Nursing degree from UCLA where she specialized in child psychiatric nursing and developmental disabilities. She has over 40 years of combined clinical and management experience specializing in acute psychiatric nursing, community mental health, and hospital administration. In June of 2019, she retired from the Department of Health Care Services where she conducted surveys of California State-licensed psychiatric health facilities and mental health rehabilitation centers.
Linda has worked with all age groups, from children to seniors, with a wide range of client problems. She has taught extensively to a varied audience, from physicians, nurses, mental health workers, social work and nursing students to patients and in-home support caregivers, using all adult learning and training styles. Her passion is helping to reduce the stigma towards the mentally challenged.
EDUCATION
Master’s in Nursing: Psychiatric Nursing, Developmental Disabilities Teaching - UCLA
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Georgetown University