Matthew has a lot to be proud of!

2026-08-04T00:00:18+00:00August 4, 2026|Program Updates|

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 promoted for the first time back in February and I went form Courtesy Clerk ...

Challenging Themselves One Paddle Stroke at a Time

2026-06-23T11:21:12+00:00June 23, 2026|Program Updates|

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 to try something new while enjoying the natural beauty of Orange County's coastline. Working ...

Supporting Success: Carla Compton Earns CESP Credential

2026-03-26T22:55:25+00:00March 26, 2026|Program Updates|

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 Regional Center of Orange County, and she brings both heart and skill to everything ...

Independence At Work – Ryan’s Story

2025-10-13T07:39:37+00:00September 15, 2025|Program Updates, Supported Employment|

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the skills, talents, and contributions of workers with disabilities. At Project Independence, our Supported Employment Program helps adults with developmental disabilities thrive in meaningful jobs throughout the community. This month, we’re proud to share stories from some of our incredible clients whose hard work and dedication inspire us every day. Ryan's Story Ryan Scobell has been receiving Job Coaching ...

Meet Gabe

2025-09-05T11:12:51+00:00July 18, 2025|Program Updates, Supported Employment|

Meet Gabe - a friendly face with a big smile and a love for amusement parks and the great outdoors. Gabe recently started a new job working as a Home Depot Lot Associate. Through Project Independence’s Supported Employment Program, Gabe was matched with this opportunity, and it's already proving to be a great fit. He works part time and loves that his role keeps him outside and active — something ...

25 Years With Project Independence!

2025-10-13T07:38:05+00:00May 22, 2025|Program Updates, Supported Employment|

This month, we’re thrilled to celebrate Cristina and her 25 years with Project Independence! Since joining in 2000, Cristina has brought energy, dedication, and a joyful presence to every space she’s a part of. Cristina began her journey by exploring vocational paths, developing her skills, and discovering where she felt most confident and fulfilled.   In November 2004, she was hired as a Mail Attendant for Irvine City Hall, a ...

Independent Living Vs. Supported Living

2025-09-05T11:00:05+00:00December 22, 2023|Program Updates, Stories|

Project Independence offers an Independent Living and a Supported Living Program. Both options aim to empower individuals with the necessary tools and support to lead fulfilling lives, but they do so in distinct ways. While Independent Living encourages self-sufficiency and autonomy, Supported Living offers a more structured support system tailored to specific needs. Project Independence’s Independent Living program provides in-home supports and living skills training to people with intellectual disabilities ...

Project Independence online fundraiser helps build supportive community one step at a time

2025-09-05T11:07:08+00:00March 13, 2025|Program Updates|

The nonprofit Project Independence of Costa Mesa has transformed its 11th annual Walk for Independence into a virtual fundraising event and is inviting participants to walk from Sunday through Sept. 12 and enjoy a live online celebration on the final day. Accessible at proindependence.org, the event will feature short inspirational videos, interactive workout sessions, special guests, easy ways to give online, a virtual auction and more. Walkers can share their own ...

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