Hermes Castro

MSRC

Hermes Castro earned his Bachelor of Arts in Human Development in 2021 from Cal State University San Marcos. He earned a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling in 2024 from San Diego State University. Castro was born in Michoacán, Mexico, and raised in Fallbrook, CA. As an immigrant, he has dedicated his career to supporting individuals with disabilities and helping them achieve independence within the community.

Castro was injured on September 1, 2006, which introduced him to the world of disability and profoundly shaped his professional path. He began his career as a Summer Camp Counselor with the San Diego Adaptive Sports Foundation in 2008. Over the years, he has held various positions highlighting his commitment to disability advocacy and support.

In his role as Transition & Diversion Coordinator at Access to Independence from 2019 to 2021, Castro assisted individuals transitioning from hospitals and rehab facilities back into the community. He currently serves as the San Diego Program Manager for Access to Independence, managing two branches and overseeing programs that promote the full participation of people with disabilities.

An advocate for disability awareness, Castro has extensive knowledge of adaptive sports and firsthand experience living with a physical disability. He is fluent in both Spanish and English, enhancing his ability to communicate with diverse communities. He has been a public speaker promoting disability awareness at institutions such as Sharp Hospital, San Diego Mesa College, and CNN en Español.

Castro’s professional affiliations include membership in the National Rehabilitation Counseling Association (NRCA) and the American Rehabilitation Counseling Association (ARCA). His achievements include being part of the 2023 Division 1 Champion wheelchair basketball team, the Golden State Road Warriors. His journey from overcoming personal physical challenges to supporting others in achieving their independence underscores his dedication and passion for rehabilitation counseling.