Richard Danford

With over four decades of leadership experience, Richard Danford is a distinguished advocate for the aging and disabled populations. Currently serving as the Eastern Washington Regional Long-Term Care Ombudsman, he has dedicated is career to protecting the dignity and rights of patients in long-term care. Richard began his advocacy career at the University of San Diego School of Law, where he quickly rose to become one of the youngest program directors in California. He cofounded the California Association of Mental Health Patients’ Rights Advocates (CAMHPRA) and played a pivotal role in creating the Psychiatric Emergency Response Teams (PERT) in San Diego. His extensive work includes directing mental health programs, establishing advocacy centers, and leading initiatives to improve long-term care and patient rights. Richard’s dedication has been recognized by the mental health community, the City of San Diego, and Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, reflecting his lifelong commitment to empowering vulnerable populations.