Shannon Hahn was born in South Orange County and considers herself fortunate to have grown up in a community that prioritizes equal access to programs for all students, regardless of their educational needs. This strong foundation inspired her deep commitment to creating equitable opportunities for every individual.

From an early age, Shannon was drawn to engaging with students who were mainstreamed into the school district. She quickly recognized her growing passion for supporting programs that would enhance their lives. Fueled by her strong sense of social justice, Shannon became an advocate for equal access to resources for individuals with diverse needs, believing wholeheartedly that everyone deserves the chance to thrive.

Shannon’s family life provided her with invaluable, hands-on experience in this field. Her mother provided after-school daycare for children with special needs, and her stepfather taught as a Special Education teacher for 32 years. This close-knit family environment gave Shannon a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of working with individuals with special needs. As she continued to thrive in the learning environment, she volunteered for various programs, working with students from elementary school through adult education and vocational programs. It was during these years of service that Shannon discovered her vision and passion for pursuing a career dedicated to supporting and empowering others, knowing she had found her life's purpose.

One of Shannon's most cherished memories is her time volunteering with Special Olympics. There, she witnessed firsthand the camaraderie and sense of pride that athletic competitions brought to individuals, fostering a profound sense of accomplishment for all involved.

Additionally, Shannon had the opportunity to contribute to Miller Children’s Hospital in Long Beach, helping children face challenging health issues. She supported young patients battling a variety of illnesses and traumatic challenges, offering them the emotional resilience and encouragement they needed during their difficult journeys.

Shannon's academic background includes liberal arts studies at Concordia University in Irvine, California. In the summer of 2007, Shannon began exploring career opportunities and sought out an organization focused on supporting neurodiverse individuals. Since then, she has served as an Independent Living Instructor, Coordinator, and Manager of Client Services in Los Angeles and Orange County. In each of these roles, Shannon made significant contributions toward improving the future outlook for the individuals she supported. She was privileged to witness them develop a strong sense of accomplishment and independence, as they began contributing meaningfully to society. Throughout her career, Shannon has been deeply grateful for the chance to empower both the individuals she works with and her fellow staff members, all of whom share a common goal of success and growth.

One of Shannon’s most recent contributions is the development of the Level Life social program. While meeting with the individuals she supports and their families, she recognized a recurring concern: the future of these individuals once their parents were no longer able to care for them. This insight led her to create a program designed to provide a sense of community and lasting friendships, ensuring that these individuals would continue to have meaningful relationships and support long after their parents' lifetimes.

Shannon is dedicated to keeping these individuals motivated, encouraging them to reach for their goals and take pride in their abilities rather than focusing on their neurodiversity. The individuals she supports are her daily inspiration—her true heroes, who have become both her role models and teachers in life.

Shannon’s commitment to enhancing the lives of neurodiverse individuals continues to drive her work, as she strives to build a more inclusive and supportive world for all.