Project Independence

Project Independence promotes civil rights for people with developmental disabilities through services which expand independence and choice. Since 1977, Project Independence has provided adults with developmental disabilities throughout Orange County the choice of living, working and recreating with their nondisabled peers. We have been setting the standard for exemplary support, as a nationally recognized organization. We provide integrated work opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities, autism and related disorders and our community living supports were the first in the state. Project Independence promotes access to a ‘valued life’ for all people in our community by sharing resources, collaborating with peers and promoting healthy communities in general, not just clients. Access to these basic civil rights is possible because of the promise of California’s landmark legislation The Lanterman Act. Our Staff, Board and volunteers are passionate about what we do and how we do it. As advocates, first and foremost, we are here to work for the people in our programs, providing assistance only when necessary, encouraging self-sufficiency and personal growth.

Developmental disabilities occur early in life and have a life-long impact on cognitive development, adaptive behavior, and learning. Such disabilities include intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, neurological impairment, and autism. However, adults with these type of disabilities not only have the desire to live full and independent lives, but also the capability to be productive members of society. In response to this basic civil right, Project Independence was founded in 1977 and currently offers comprehensive services in Orange County to people with developmental disabilities in their homes, at work, and in the community. It all started with a group of parents who wanted more for their adult children with disabilities; believing that they could live independently, with the right support. From this belief, the first Independent Living program in Orange County was created. In 2007 two successful organizations-Vantage & Project Independence-united with their shared vision that life should contain the same elements of choice, integration, and opportunity for all people, regardless of disability. Since then our mission has remained the same: To promote civil rights for people with developmental disabilities through services which expand independence and choice. We now offer Independent Living, Supported Employment, Behavior Supports, and Community Day services to over 700 people in Orange County. Dedicated staff, volunteers, and supporters are committed to partnering with Project Independence to provide excellent services that enhance the lives of the people we serve.  

Accomplishments:
* Healthy Living Choice project developed in collaboration with University of California, Irvine.  Student  volunteeers designed a comprehensive program design for incentivizing, implementing and tracking a fitness and nutrition program.
* A new housing project, Vista del Rio opened in Santa Ana, enabled 8 people we support to live in a beautiful setting.
* The Social Security Administration chose Project Independence to manage Work Incentive Planning Assistance contract for Orange, San Diego, Imperial  and parts of Los Angeles Counties.
*  Support provided by Project Independence helps over 700 people live, work and play within their communities. 

 On-going needs:1.Core capacity- Through the last 5 years Project Independence has lost funding for both Independent Living and Supported Employment through rate cuts.  In order to sustain these vital programs we have had to cut back on administrative functions. To meet the challenges of the changing needs of people and families of Orange County it is imperative we expand our fundraising and technology capacity. $100,000 is needed for staff, hardware, software and staff training.
2. Volunteers- Expansion of our Board of Directors by 3 people with expertise in organizational development, fundraising, or technology. 45 people needed for Walk for Independence for team development, client recognition awards and fitness partners.
3. Nutrition Kits - Development of “Stop Light” nutrition guidelines will help people sort food into categories of green, yellow and red. Labeling food that can be eaten often such as fruits and vegetables, sometimes like pasta, breads and diary or rarely such as cakes or cookies. These 200 kits must be assembled, distributed and reviewed individually with each of our Independent Living clients. Cost- $1,400  Volunteers - 20 to 35.
4.  Tablets, iPads, laptops- $40,000
5. Access to Adventure-Project Independence is aggressively generating support to reinstate our outdoor activity program. Kayaking, camping, baseball, travel, theater and so much more add to the quality of life for our clients. 

Project Independence continues to serve over 700 adults with developmental disabilities throughout all of Orange County.

As a community, when we decide to support and include those who might need a little extra help to build an independent life, our community grows stronger.  We would not have the honor to serve those we do without our community partners. We thank you.Debra Marsteller, CEO/President, Project Independence 

I work with many wonderful organizations throughout Orange County. Having the honor to witness the compassionate staff at Project Independence walk beside those who might need a little extra help, has made it an organization that I am very proud to be part of.  My time spent on the board has been nothing short of an absolute pleasure and I look forward to helping the board take it into the next 40 years.Dan Pittman, Pittman & Associates, Project Independence Board