Latest News
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 ...
Angel’s New Journey
Our Intake Specialist and Job Developer, Carla Compton, recently supported Angel with getting interview-ready - including a shopping trip for new clothes using a voucher from the Department of Rehabilitation. A fresh start deserves confidence, and Angel is showing up ready. After more than a decade of dedicated work, Angel is re-entering Job Development following ...
Supporting Success: Carla Compton Earns CESP Credential
Big congratulations to Carla Compton, our Intake Specialist and Job Developer since 2010, on earning her Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) credential! This nationally recognized certification reflects a high level of expertise in helping individuals who are uniquely abled achieve meaningful, fulfilling employment. Carla works closely with clients through the Department of Rehabilitation and the ...
PI Up Close With Denise
Denise (R) with Heather (L) Denise (L) with client Marcel (R) at his IKEA job In our new PI Up Close series, we’re shining a spotlight on the dedicated staff members who help make Project Independence’s mission come to life every day. From supporting independence to building meaningful connections in the community, ...
Project Independence Joins “We’re Here: Then, Now, Always” Campaign in Observation of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Costa Mesa, California, March 4, 2026 Project Independence (PI), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization serving adults with developmental disabilities in Orange County, is proud to observes March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM) with the "We're Here: Then, Now, Always” campaign that recognizes a simple truth: people with developmental disabilities have always been part of our ...
2025 Disability Rights Timeline
In 2025, disability rights in the United States - and around the world - continued to evolve in ways that were both encouraging and deeply concerning. This timeline highlights key disability rights developments throughout 2025, focusing on education, civil rights enforcement, transportation, and public policy - and on whether rights are truly accessible in everyday life. ...
Christian Shines as Employee of the Month
Project Independence is proud to celebrate Christian, who was recently named Employee of the Month for October 2025 at Russell Fischer Car Wash. In his role as a detailer, Christian is responsible for sweeping out vehicles and giving them a thorough pre-wash before they head into the car wash tunnel. It’s a job that requires ...
Meet Coach Griffin Who Led the Walk For Independence & Health Fair Warmup
Leading the warmup this year was Griffin, a coach with Hideout Fitness of Irvine. He studied Kinesiology at Concordia University, Irvine, and competed as a 4-year NCAA collegiate athlete, giving him a strong foundation in both performance and injury prevention. Griffin volunteered his time and talent to make sure our participants were ready to go ...
County of Orange Formally Acknowledges 15th Annual Project Independence Walk For Independence & Health Fair
Nonprofit Project Independence (PI) of Costa Mesa was honored by the County of Orange for its 15th Annual Walk for Independence & Health Fair, held October 11at TeWinkle Park to help launch National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Presented by Robbie LaBounty, District Representative, Office of Supervisor Katrina Foley, 5th District, the certificate says: “On behalf ...
