Mateo Franco joined Disability Rights Arizona in May 2026. His work focuses on advocating for people with disabilities as a Staff Advocate/Investigator on the Representative Payee team. In this role, he helps review representative payees, interview beneficiaries and payees, and examine financial records to ensure benefits are being managed appropriately.
Before joining DRAZ, Mateo worked in market research, where he developed strong skills in analysis, reporting, project coordination, and turning detailed information into clear findings. He also brings personal experience with disability and the healthcare system as a cancer survivor and double lung transplant recipient, which has deepened his commitment to dignity, accessibility, and advocacy.
Mateo received his bachelor’s degree at Arizona State University. In his free time, he enjoys watching soccer, reading comic books, and cooking new recipes with his wife.