Every great walk needs a few shining stars to lead the way, and this year’s Walk for Independence is no exception! We’re thrilled to introduce our four amazing Walk Ambassadors, each bringing their own energy, story, and inspiration to the day. From setting walking goals to cheering on fellow participants, they’re living proof that independence, health, and community go hand in hand. Get to know the faces behind the walk and why they’re stepping up to make this year’s event extra special.
Walk for Independence Grand Marshall Brad Ball
Meet Brad
Brad is friendly, funny, and a true “hostess with the mostess,” Brad knows how to make people feel welcome. He enjoys watching DVDs of classic TV shows and movies, spending weekends with his girlfriend, and caring for his beloved pets, he proudly calls his “kids.”
Accomplishments
Brad is a proud graduate of Project Independence from the days when the program held formal graduations. He has lived independently in his own apartment since the late 1990s, caring for his pets with dedication. He worked at Del Taco before retiring during the pandemic, demonstrating responsibility and commitment in everything he does.
My PI Journey
Brad joined Project Independence in January 1990, starting in the Supported Employment program and later joining the Independent Living program. Over the years, PI supported him in achieving greater independence, from living with a roommate to securing his own Section 8 housing. Today, he treasures the freedom of living on his own and the confidence it has brought him.
Walk for Independence
As the 2025 Grand Marshal, Brad brings his enthusiasm and community spirit to the Walk for Independence. He loves the event for the fun, the opportunity to exercise with his girlfriend, and the chance to reconnect with old friends while meeting new ones.
In His Words
“I really enjoy the Walk for Independence because it’s fun, I can get good exercise with my girlfriend, and I can also meet new people and catch up with old friends.”
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Walk for Independence Ambassador Blanca De Leon
Meet Blanca
Twenty-seven years ago, Blanca joined a program called Vantage, now known as Project Independence, looking for a day program that would support her needs, nurture her inquisitive nature, and help her grow socially. She found all that and more!
Blanca is warm, wonderful, and full of joy. She loves art, music, and theater, especially romantic stories and songs about love. With her great sense of humor, she’s always ready for a joke, sometimes even stealing the punchline, and her smile has a way of brightening everyone’s day.
Accomplishments
Blanca has built strong connections with her job coach, Jena, and her peers. She enjoys activities like adaptive Uno games, morning coffee runs to Starbucks, arts and crafts at the library, and lunch outings. Her love for shopping is matched by her thoughtfulness; she keeps her family’s needs in mind and delights in surprising them with special finds, often staying under budget.
My PI Journey
Blanca’s journey with PI spans nearly three decades, filled with friendships, skill-building, and countless adventures. She and Jena have a long history, from their first meeting during Jena’s job application process to years of shared activities like arts and crafts, ordering coffee, exploring new places, and trying new projects together.
Walk for Independence
For Blanca, the Walk for Independence is a family affair. Her team, which often boasts the largest turnout, includes her beloved family members, who come together to support her, enjoy the sunshine, and connect with her extended PI family. Her radiant smile says it all, his event is a highlight of her year.
In Her Words
“I love being a daughter, a sister, a Tia, and I love having my family and friends together for the Walk. It means the world to me to be part of PI and to have so many people to share it with.”
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Walk for Independence Ambassador John Correa
Meet John Correa
John works at Sprouts. He is easy-going, laid-back, and has a spunky personality that brightens every room. He enjoys talking with family on the phone, recycling (“it gives me a little extra to do fun things”), going to the movies, walking, and hanging out with friends.
My Accomplishments
With the support of her Project Independence Community Support Companion, Denise, John has made significant strides in her health and wellness. He’s learning to care for herself through healthy eating, regular walking, and exercise, and by embracing the advice of those who want to help her succeed. His commitment has paid off: he’s already lost 10 pounds, improved her overall health, and expanded her social activities.
My PI Journey
John has been with Project Independence for over 19 years. Through PI, he secured a HUD voucher, receives SSI benefits support, and gets helpful reminders to maintain her apartment, because, as he says, “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.”
Walk for Independence
John is a seasoned Walk for Independence participant. He remembers her very first walk, completing over 20 laps with the encouragement of family and friends. He loves the energy of the event, where the community comes together to support Project Independence. For her, the Walk is a yearly chance to see loved ones, meet new people, and share in a great time.
In His Words
“Never give up on life, make jokes no matter how corny, don’t try to please other people, but make yourself happy.”
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Walk for Independence Ambassador Nick Westphalen
Meet Nick
Hi, I’m Nick. I’ve proudly served as a Project Independence Board Member since 2023. I love movies, music, and reality shows, especially Survivor! I’ve been a fan since 2000 and have even attended two live finale tapings. I’ve collected a lot of Survivor memorabilia, but my favorite is a torch my mom found on eBay.
I’m an avid walker and enjoy heading to my local coffee shop or grocery store. The baristas know me so well that they often have my drink waiting for me. I’m known for my big personality, positive outlook, and ability to get along with just about everyone I meet.
Accomplishments
One of the achievements I’m most proud of is living independently since I was 21 years old. Even when faced with challenges or frustrations, I never gave up. That resilience is something I carry with me every day.
My PI Journey
I’ve been part of Project Independence since 1998, when I was 19. I moved into my own apartment when I was 21. PI has been by my side for 27 years, supporting me in many ways, from helping me budget while grocery shopping to encouraging me to cook healthier meals.
Some of my favorite PI memories come from Access to Adventure trips. I’ve cruised to Alaska and even the Bahamas with Disney after spending time at Disney World. I’ve also traveled to Washington, D.C., Hawaii, and enjoyed horseback riding on a dude ranch in Arizona. Catalina was a blast, too! I was lucky to go on so many trips, and I have hundreds of photos! The adventures gave me the chance to meet so many new people and create lasting friendships and memories.
Walk for Independence
I’ve walked in nearly every Walk for Independence. I love the TeWinkle Park location, walking around the water, visiting the exhibitor booths, and being able to catch up with friends and staff from both Anaheim and Costa Mesa. My family and friends always come out to support me, making it a special day to connect and celebrate independence together.
In His Words
“Don’t give up on your dreams, because if I can do it, you can too.”
