Eli Gelardin serves as the CEO for the Marin Center for Independent Living (Marin CIL). He has over 17 years of experience working in the field of disability justice. During his 13 years of leadership, the small grassroots organization has expanded capacity to serve a diverse community of over 1500 individuals with disabilities (including older adults) every year. Marin CIL prioritizes equal access and racial equity.
Marin CIL plays a key role in supporting community members in accessing long term services and supports through “One Door” across their lifespan. To expand this hubs & spokes strategy Marin CIL partners with local healthcare payers as well as other safety net providers and community-based organizations. In 2019, Marin CIL and the County of Marin’s Aging and Adult Services established California’s 6th designated Aging and Disability Resource Connection.
In 2020, Marin CIL launched Powered & Prepared which provides personal preparedness planning and resources (including high voltage batteries and temporary housing) in response to the increasingly disproportionate impact climate change has on individuals with access and functional needs. Since the start of the pandemic, Marin CIL has been at the forefront of COVID response working closely with County government to provide an array of services, supports, and advocacy.
Eli translates his personal experience into his professional roles. He served as a two-term Governor appointee to the California State Independent Living Council (Chair from 2013-2014). Locally, Eli serves on the boards of the Aging Action Initiative, the Marin IHSS Public Authority, and the World Institute on Disability. Eli lives in the Bay Area with his family. He honors the memory of his daughter, Oliva, every day through his work.