Program Philosophy
Project Independence was founded on the belief that people with disabilities possess the potential to live and interact in their communities, and that by listening to the hopes and dreams of people we serve, we can help them realize those dreams. 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.

A full, rich, and independent life is about much more than just paying bills and vacuuming the apartment. Recent research indicates that the lack of close friendships in peoples’ lives is as dangerous to one’s health as smoking or carrying extra weight. To truly feel part of the community, people need to be involved with people – friends, neighbors, peers. Project Independence plans a variety of social activities in all areas of Orange County. From restaurants to pot luck dinners to exercise clubs, scavenger hunts, and movie nights, people we serve have many opportunities to make friends, liver better, and have fun.