Latest News
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 ...
15th Annual Project Independence Walk For Independence & Health Fair Returns on Saturday, October. 11
Annual event held by local nonprofit to help launch National Disability Employment Awareness Month comes to TeWinkle Park in Costa Mesa Nonprofit Project Independence (PI) of Costa Mesa invites champions for the rights of people with developmental disabilities to walk, jog, or roll at its 15th Annual Walk for Independence & Health Fair, set for Saturday, ...
Looking Back Over the Past Year
A Message From CEO Bob Watson As we look back over the past year, we are proud to share the accomplishments that demonstrate the strength, resilience, and impact made by our community. Together, we continue to expand opportunities, strengthen programs ,and deepen our commitment to those we serve. Improved Job Placement Partnerships We increased access to ...
Meet Our 2025 Walk Ambassadors
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, ...
Independence At Work – Cristian’s Story
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 ...
Independence At Work – Ryan’s Story
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 ...
Rec 9 Golf Fundraiser a Hole-in-One!
Project Independence’s summer golf fundraiser at Rec 9 was a swinging success, with events held on both June 11 and July 1. Golfers came out in full force to support our mission while enjoying a beautiful day on the course. Thanks to the generosity of our community, participants had a chance to win incredible prizes—including a ...
An Interview with Our Community Day Program Director Dor Blubaugh
What is your title? Director of Community Day Services When did you begin working at PI? I’ve been part of the PI family for decades. I originally began my career at Vantage Foundation and stayed for 15 years, working my way from Behavior Specialist to Associate Director. I even played a very small part when Vantage ...
