Core Programs

Our Independent Living program has assisted hundreds of people who have taken those bold steps to move out of group homes, family households, and other facilities, into homes – and lives – of their own.

Each step of this journey is taken with the support of Project Independence staff, from deciding where to live and picking a roommate, to providing whatever tools are needed to take those successful steps toward independence.

From benefits and budgeting, to planning menus, grocery shopping, and helping prepare meals, to prioritizing housekeeping and laundry tasks, at each step Project Independence staff listen to the needs of the people we serve.

People we support choose the services they want and need. Project Independence staff help to ensure that peoples’ needs are met while always encouraging and fostering independence and choice. We also provide Supported Independent Living services for clients with more significant needs that require 24/7 support. 

The Project Independence Supported Employment program is based on the idea that, in creating a successful job match, a person with a developmental disability can do the job he or she was hired to do. Our job is to provide whatever the person needs to be successful, from assistance with the job application process, extra skills training, establishing priorities and creating task schedules, to educating employees at the job site and building natural supports. Project Independence provides flexible on-site assistance that varies depending on the needs of the client. Some clients have job coaches with them 20% of their work time while others have job coaches that check in monthly to make sure there everything is okay.

Clients work for employers such as The City of Irvine, Albertsons, Ralph’s, Rite Aid, Sav-On and Target. This program develops jobs and then matches up the skills of clients to the needs of the employers. Project Independence acts as a liaison with the employer, aiming to create stability with the employer / employee relationship.  This program serves 190 people as they work at real jobs for real pay. Currently, 40 clients are waiting for placements. If you are an employer and would like to know more about how this program works, visit our Hire Dedication page.

This program offers integrated work, volunteer and paid, recreation and community access. 210 people develop life skills, participate in community life, and engage in proactive and satisfying activities. The range of activities is as varied as the people themselves, and may include recreational activities, supported work, or continuing education courses.

The program is designed to serve individuals in the communities in which they live. Integrated employment is a main focus of the Adult Development Program (ADP) with opportunities for placement in a variety of jobs including clerical, food services, janitorial, and medical services. Volunteer work is also done at local YMCA, libraries, as well as other non-profit agencies. Individuals may take classes at their community college and/or enroll in adult education classes. For example, we coordinate with our local Meals on Wheels to provide food packing and delivery for shut-ins throughout Orange County. Our staff have the training and expertise to provide Positive Behavioral Support for people with complex lives. Twelve vans facilitate these services.