Latest News
Why Olmstead Matters: Protecting the Right to Community Living
Nearly 50 years ago, Project Independence was founded on a belief that was far from universally accepted at the time: people with developmental disabilities should have the opportunity to leave institutional settings, live more independently, and become active members of their communities. That belief has guided Project Independence since 1977. Today, the people we serve ...
Matthew has a lot to be proud of!
Our Project Independence job developer, Carla Compton, interviews Mathew as he’s finishing his shift at Ralphs. What do you love about your job? Stocking products on the shelves Helping customers Helping other associates Getting everything done on time Bagging groceries Doing a sweep And putting away shopping carts Tell me about your promotion I got ...
Paddling beyond limits: Newport outing brings adventure, inclusion together
By Eric Licas June 23, 2026 11:53 AM PT Brad Ball and Ron Holland, right, seated at the bow of an outrigger canoe, smile while paddling in Upper Newport Bay Friday during an outing organized by Project Independence and Makapo Aquatics. (Eric Licas) Ron Holland got into a mostly steady rhythm during his first time ...
Challenging Themselves One Paddle Stroke at a Time
All that was needed was a rousing performance of the iconic Hawaii Five-O theme song to complete the scene as Project Independence clients and staff members climbed aboard an outrigger canoe, paddles in hand, and set off across the calm waters of the Newport Beach Back Bay. For many participants, the experience offered an exciting opportunity ...
Brian Graham’s 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 one of the most remarkable transformations of my ...
A Legacy of Independence. A Future of Possibility.
In 2027, Project Independence will celebrate an extraordinary milestone - our 50th Anniversary. For five decades, Project Independence has been dedicated to enriching lives and expanding choices for adults with developmental disabilities throughout Orange County. Together with our clients, families, staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners, we have helped create opportunities for people to live, work, ...
Strong Minds, Strong Communities: Why Mental Health Matters
When we talk about health, most people think about physical health - eating nutritious foods, exercising, getting enough sleep, and visiting the doctor. But mental health is just as important. Mental health affects how we think, feel, connect with others, and handle life's challenges. Everyone has good days and difficult days, but when feelings of sadness, ...
Meet Raymond Sanchez
Raymond Sanchez is an experienced and motivated job seeker currently working with Project Independence’s Supported Employment Program. For five years, Raymond worked in an Amazon warehouse, where he built a strong foundation in reliability, teamwork, and workplace responsibility. Following recent company cutbacks, he is now actively pursuing new opportunities in the retail field. Raymond has already ...
Different Not Less: A Simple Phrase with a Powerful Message
“Different Not Less” is more than a phrase. It’s a perspective. A reminder. A call to see people for who they are, not for what they are assumed to lack. For individuals with developmental disabilities, the world has not always made room for difference. For generations, systems focused on limitations instead of possibilities. But today, that ...
Celebrating Achievement: John Correa Honored at the 2026 RCOC Spotlight Awards
On April 21, the community came together for the annual RCOC Spotlight Awards Ceremony, a special event recognizing individuals and organizations making a meaningful difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities across Orange County. This year, Project Independence is proud to celebrate one of our own - John Correa, who was honored with the ...




