2026 Ambassador Crystal Muro

Crystal Muro lives in Orange County, California with her mom, thanks to a very important decision her parents made when she was born.

While California’s Lanterman Act of 1969 ensured the rights of individuals with developmental disabilities to community-based care, Steve and Pia Muro were encouraged to consider committing Crystal to a state hospital when she was born. They knew immediately that their only option was to bring home their newborn and fully embrace her as a member of their loving family.

From the very beginning, Crystal’s infectious laugh added even more warmth to her family. But life wasn’t without challenges. As an infant, Crystal was frequently hospitalized and underwent surgery for a hole in her heart. But her resilience after these hospitalizations was just the first sign of her fighting spirit and dedication to spreading joy to those around her.

Since graduating from Tustin High School, Crystal has been engaged with the Regional Center of Orange County – one of a network of 21 Regional Centers across the state that were created through the Lanterman Act. The Regional Center has helped her to meaningfully engage with the community, including being part of the Orange County Goodwill Day program.

For over 10 years, Crystal has brought her kindness and conscientiousness to her volunteer work at the Tustin Area Senior Center. Her colleagues know that she will be the first to grab a microphone to entertain the seniors or grab a towel to help clean up after a bingo game or lunch.

An avid artist, Crystal always has a stack of paper, pens, and markers at the ready. Lucky friends and family can expect a card containing artwork on most holidays. Crystal is the queen of birthday greetings and maintains an extensive family and friends’ calendar. Once she knows your birthday, you will be sure to get a card, text, or if you’re lucky, a birthday song!

Crystal has been a lifelong role model and treasured friend, family member, and community leader. This is why we’re so excited to have Crystal serve as GLOBAL Ambassador as she celebrates her 40th birthday at the 2026 AcceptAbility Gala. Crystal is proud to champion GLOBAL’s groundbreaking work and to represent a community she embodies so beautifully.