Hilda Trahan has worked in the field of Developmental Disabilities for approximately 30 years, was a member of the AAIDD Region V Board, and has served 4 terms as AAIDD-LA Chapter president.  She currently co-chairs an AAIDD National Committee with Sharon Gomez and is the Executive Director of Evergreen Life Services West Calcasieu.  She has been involved with Special Olympics for approximately 35 years and is in the Special Olympics Hall of Fame.

Ms. Trahan has facilitated the closure of private facilities and helped move people with disabilities into their own homes in the community.  She has continued to advocate for people with disabilities who do not have families, and continues to provide emotional support and advocacy for these individuals.  Ms. Trahan has devoted her life to promoting choice, improved quality of life, dignity and respect for people with Developmental Disabilities and, everyday, she continues her goal of improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.