Project Independence

21/08/2026

We’re getting ready to celebrate 50 years of Project Independence, 1977–2027! Commemorate this incredible milestone with our new 50th Anniversary tees! Show your Project Independence pride and help us celebrate A Legacy of Independence. A Future of Possibility. https://shopforindependence.org/

20/08/2026

🎉 Work Wednesday Spotlight: Meet Eugenio! 🎉
Eugenio has been a valued member of the Vons team for several years, where he works as a Courtesy Clerk and is known for providing excellent customer service. He especially enjoys connecting with customers and spending time with the friends he’s made at work.

And Eugenio knows a thing or two about dedication! Before joining Vons, he spent an impressive 20 years working at Regal Theatres. 👏

We’re proud to celebrate Eugenio and the skills, friendships, and independence that meaningful employment can bring. 💙

08/08/2026

Community inclusion is at the heart of everything we do at Project Independence.

For nearly 50 years, we have worked to ensure that adults with developmental disabilities have opportunities to live, work, make choices, build relationships, and participate fully in their communities.

The landmark Olmstead v. L.C. decision has played an important role in protecting the right of people with disabilities to receive services in community settings rather than being unnecessarily segregated or institutionalized. Recent changes in the federal government's interpretation of Olmstead have raised serious concerns among disability rights advocates about the future of these protections.

We encourage our community to learn more from Disability Rights California in the post below.

Community integration is a civil right.

03/08/2026

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Daria Yang to our Board of Directors.
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Dr. Yang is a respected healthcare executive, physician, and public health leader whose career has been dedicated to improving the quality, accessibility, and outcomes of healthcare services. With extensive experience in quality improvement, strategic leadership, and patient-centered care, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for serving communities.
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As our organization continues to expand opportunities and enhance the lives of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. Dr. Yang's expertise and commitment to excellence will be and invaluable asset. Her leadership and insight will guide our mission and strengthen our ability to provide high-quality programs and services.
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Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Dr. Daria Yang. We look forward to the experience, vision, and compassion she brings to our organization and are excited to have her as part of our leadership team.

24/07/2026

This , we're looking back to May of this year when Terry proudly showed off his colorful artwork created at his new Project Independence day program! 🎉

Art and crafting activities do more than encourage creativity—they help people with developmental disabilities build confidence, strengthen fine motor skills, improve communication, reduce stress, and express themselves in meaningful ways. Every masterpiece tells a story, and we're so proud of Terry for sharing his!

20/07/2026

Highlights from our June bowling activity! Activities like these are about so much more than bowling... they create opportunities for friendship, inclusion, and making lasting memories while staying active and engaged. We're already looking forward to our next adventure!

09/07/2026

A Story of Hope, Recovery & Independence ❤️

Brian's journey is a powerful reminder that lasting change is possible with determination, support, and people who never give up. After years of hard work in recovery, Brian is now living independently, celebrating nearly five years of sobriety, and building an exciting future filled with new opportunities.

His story is one of resilience, perseverance, and the incredible impact that the right support can have on someone's life. We hope you'll take a few minutes to read Brian's inspiring journey—you won't regret it.

Read the full story and celebrate Brian's remarkable path to independence and hope.
https://proindependence.org/brian-grahams-journey-to-independence/

By Donna Voss, Area Manager A Life at Risk When I first began working with Brian Graham, I was a direct support staff member assigned to assist him in maintaining his independence. Later, as I became his Area Manager, I continued working closely with him and witnessed firsthand

06/07/2026

Something big is coming… 🎉

In 2027, Project Independence will celebrate 50 years of creating opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities to live, work, and thrive throughout Orange County.

As we prepare for this exciting milestone, we look forward to honoring our history, sharing stories, celebrating achievements, and recognizing the incredible clients, families, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners who have been part of our journey.

Stay tuned as we get ready to celebrate 50 years of independence, inclusion, and possibility!

24/06/2026

💙 Independence In Action 💙
Every day, Project Independence clients are building skills, pursuing goals, and living more independent lives!

📸 Photo 1: Aby is excited to prepare Lemon Garlic Chicken with Baby Carrots, building confidence in the kitchen and learning healthy cooking skills.

👟 Photo 2: Brian picks out a new pair of shoes, practicing decision-making and community navigation skills.

💚 Photo 3: Lisa proudly wears her green while working at Vons, demonstrating the value of employment, responsibility, and community inclusion.

These moments may seem simple, but they represent something powerful: greater independence, increased confidence, and the opportunity to thrive in everyday life.