Founder/CEO/Executive Director Iris Rivera
Iris Rivera is a lifelong advocate for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) with over 33 years of experience in the New Jersey Court System.
Through her professional career, advocacy, and personal experience, Ms. Rivera has developed extensive knowledge of the guardianship process and the challenges families face as a loved one with a disability reaches adulthood, including HIPAA, healthcare decision-making, government benefits, and adult services.
Recognizing the financial and informational barriers many families face, she founded Guiding Hands Guardianship Services (GHGS) to provide education, guidance, and support throughout the guardianship process.
Ms. Rivera also co-founded Passaic County Parents of Adults with Disabilities (PACOPAD), strengthening her longstanding commitment to individuals with disabilities and their families.
As the mother of a nonverbal adult son with autism,
Ms. Rivera understands firsthand the challenges families face when navigating services and planning for their loved one’s future. Her personal experience continues to strengthen her commitment to individuals with disabilities and their families.
Through GHGS, she provides bilingual (English and Spanish) guidance, educational workshops, family support, and community outreach focused on guardianship, transition to adulthood, healthcare decision-making, disability services, and community resources.
Her personal experience, professional background, and dedication to advocacy have made her a trusted resource for families seeking information, guidance, and support.
“Celebrating Advocacy, Leadership, and Community Service”
