Shirley Chao

Shirley Chao has been part of the PDS family since 2001, when she started as an office assistant and occasional substitute in the field. Her attention to detail and drive to always improve led her to become our HR Director in 2007. Today, as our Development and HR Director, Shirley continues to wear many hats—working behind the scenes to support staff, managing HR operations, and continuing the agency's growth through development efforts.

Born in San Francisco and a longtime Bay Area resident, Shirley brings over 23 years of experience in the field. She’s known for her warmth, sense of humor, and infectious enthusiasm—especially when she’s singing, dancing, or playing games with clients, some of her favorite parts of the job. Outside of work, Shirley enjoys paper crafts, swing dancing, snorkeling, and exploring nature and wildlife destinations. At PDS, she's just as famous for her adventures as she is for her cool costumes and sweet dance moves at Halloween parties.

Shirley believes strongly in recognizing the brilliance and bravery of adults with disabilities. “People with disabilities can be just as smart, funny and talented as someone without disabilities,” she says. “I’m always impressed by their openness to try new things.”

Two smiling women dancing at Halloween party once dressed as a 1920''s flapper and one woman in yellow 'LET THERE BE MUSIC' jacket.

Lisa & Shirley at a Halloween Party

Smiling man in football jersey with a thumbs up and woman embrace outside a door entrance.

Eric and Shirley in front of The Friend Zone

Three colleagues celebrate "Happy 20 Year Anniversary" in a decorated office.

Jarrod, Shirley & Lisa at The Friend Zone

Smiling man and woman in polka dot dress at an indoor event.

Shirley and her husband Geoff at the PDS 25 year anniversary

Client Testimonials

Here’s what some of the clients have to say about Shirley:

Eric: "I’ve known Shirley a long time, and she’s still my friend. I like going out for coffee with her and dancing together. She has a nice personality."

Robin: "She’s sweet, she’s funny, she’s smart, she’s kind—she’s special. I love having dance parties with her, and she’s really good at board meetings."

Lisa T: "She always reminds me of a best friend in my heart for forever. I call her baby cakes, and she calls me baby cakes too. I’ve known her for a long time, and we have so much fun hanging out. One of my favorite memories is cooking together at my house."