Lettie Gurrola

Lettie Gurrola is the Co-Founder of Kern Down Syndrome Network and serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors. Since helping establish KDSN in 2015, Lettie has played a key role in building the organization’s infrastructure, branding, and program development.

She oversees communications, marketing, systems management, and administrative operations, ensuring that KDSN’s mission is carried out with clarity and professionalism. Lettie is passionate about creating sustainable systems that strengthen families, expand outreach, and promote inclusion throughout Kern County.

Lettie’s dedication to KDSN is not only professional, but deeply personal and family-centered. She is the proud mother of Ryan, 19, and Brookie, 14, who has Down syndrome. Both of her children have grown up alongside KDSN families, forming lifelong friendships and serving within the community from a young age. Ryan has been volunteering with the organization since he was just seven years old — a reflection of the values of service and inclusion that define their home.

She is also engaged to Keith O’Leary, who became part of the KDSN journey when he met Lettie and has since embraced the mission wholeheartedly. Together, their family reflects the heart of KDSN — a community built on connection, commitment, and shared purpose.

Through her leadership, KDSN has grown into a trusted local resource providing mentorship, medical outreach, educational programming, and community-driven events that celebrate individuals with Down syndrome.