Fundraiser enables organization to build a community one step at a time

Costa Mesa, California, June 12, 2020 – This year, out of an abundance of caution because of the COVID-19 pandemic, nonprofit Project Independence of Costa Mesa is taking the 11th edition of its Annual Walk for Independence online as a virtual fundraising event.

The virtual Walk celebration begins now and culminates September 12, 2020. The event will feature short inspirational videos, interactive workout sessions, special guests, easy ways to give online, a virtual auction and more.

“Protecting the health and safety of the people with developmental disabilities served by Project Independence is our primary goal,” said Project Independence CEO and President Debra Marsteller. “Consequently, this year we’re going online to celebrate our independent living, work and day programs and confidence-building activities through fun with our Access 2 Adventure Program when we can safely start them back up.”

Project Independence has a 40-year history of service and stability in Orange County as a lifeline to adults with developmental disabilities who are now at even greatest risk because of the pandemic. The essential workers who comprise the Project Independence staff continue to serve clients despite challenges brought on by COVID-19.

Sponsorships for the virtual walk are still available at $10,000, $5,000 and $2,500 levels with commensurate benefits for marketing and publicity exposure that will be rolled out over the next few months leading up to the event.

To become a 2020 Walk sponsor, and to donate items to the auction, please contact Director of Development Todd Eckert at Todd@Proindependence.org or 714-549-3464.

Current sponsors include One Metro West, Home Depot, Bridgford Foods, Mitsubishi Electric, Union Bank, Advanced Dental, Serv-Wel Disposal and Recycling, Virtual Office Solution and Honest-1 Auto Service. The media sponsor is the Los Angeles Times/Daily Pilot. Conducting the workout sessions will be Art of Strength Fitness of Irvine.

Annually, more than 300 people participate in the annual event. All registrants will receive custom facemasks.

Eighty-seven cents of every dollar raised by Project Independence goes directly to support vital programs for people with developmental disabilities.

For additional information, please visit www.proindependence.org

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