Jackie’s journey with Hope began in Independent Living Services (ILS), and over the years, she has made significant contributions across several programs including SEP, the C.A.N. program, and EMCC. Today, she serves as the Intake Coordinator at our Whittier site. A valued member of the DEI Blog Committee for over two years, Jackie has been a passionate voice for inclusivity and community storytelling.

A proud Gilroy native and Hope resident of 18 years, Jackie Fortino-Lance brings a rich cultural heritage and deep compassion to everything she does. Her father immigrated from Cosina, Italy, while her mother, of Hispanic descent, was born and raised in Gilroy. As the youngest of two sisters and a mother to three grown children—McKay, Kendra, and Kaley (twins)—Jackie’s greatest joy comes from her family, including her six beloved grandchildren and her son- and daughter-in-law, whom she embraces as her own.

With nearly two decades of service at Hope, Jackie exemplifies dedication and heart. Her guiding motto, “everyone has a place and special talents to give,” is reflected in the meaningful relationships she’s built with clients.

Her background in criminal justice from Gavilan College enhances her ability to offer empathetic, informed support to individuals with disabilities. Her career began when a friend recognized her potential, encouraging her to transition from working at a grocery store to pursuing a path of purpose and fulfillment at Hope.

Jackie also collaborates closely with San Andreas Regional Center and De Anza College, working to support the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Plus (DHOH+) community. With their support, she is actively integrating individuals from this population into our programs. This fall, Jackie will begin American Sign Language (ASL) courses at SJCC as part of her goal to earn a degree in ASL. She’s already learned over 20 phrases and delights in communicating with two DHOH+ individuals she brought into EMCC Whittier.

Outside of work, Jackie cherishes time spent with her children and grandchildren. She proudly shares her Italian and Hispanic roots through cooking, often preparing traditional meals like homemade pasta and Italian cookies—a favorite activity with her grandchildren. Her love for culture extends beyond the kitchen, as she’s passionate about preserving old traditions and educating others on the beauty of diverse heritages.

Looking ahead, Jackie aspires to grow within the EMCC program, with plans to move into a managerial role and eventually step into a directorial position. Her commitment to service, cultural pride, and pursuit of lifelong learning make her an invaluable member of the Hope community.