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Stepping-Stones Initiative

Programs & Services

Stepping-Stones Initiative

EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION:

Stepping-Stones Initiative

Stepping-Stones is a community-based program that helps individuals with disabilities remain safely in their homes and avoid unnecessary institutionalization. We provide personalized assessments to understand each person’s unique needs and connect them with resources that promote independence. A key part of the program includes home modifications—such as installing accessible ramps and other safety features—to ensure that living spaces are functional, comfortable, and tailored to each individual’s abilities.

At the heart of the Stepping-Stones Program is a simple but powerful belief: everyone deserves the opportunity to live safely, independently, and with dignity in their own home.

Program

key benefits

Tailored support plans to meet individual needs and goals.

Home modifications like ramps and grab bars for accessibility.

Helps prevent institutionalization by supporting independence at home.

Services

Getting Started: Assessment & Personalized Planning

When you reach out to us at Access to Independence, our first step is to get to know you. We’ll have a caring conversation to understand your current needs, living situation, health, and any challenges you may be facing. You’ll never be rushed, this is your time to share what matters most to you.

From there, we’ll work together to create a personalized plan that fits your life. Whether you need help staying safe at home, accessing community services, or navigating your daily routines, we’ll build a plan around your goals. This plan isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s made just for you, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Connecting You to Services

There’s a wide network of services available in your community and we’ll help you find and access the right ones. From in-home caregiving and meals, to transportation, health support, or financial assistance, we’ll take care of the referrals and help with any applications. If you’ve had trouble getting the help you need in the past, don’t worry, we’ll advocate for you and follow up to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.

Making Your Home Safer

Your home should feel safe, comfortable, and accessible. If you’re finding it difficult to move around your home or perform daily tasks because of stairs, narrow doorways, or inaccessible bathrooms, we can help. Our team at Access to Independence will meet with you to assess your home environment and talk through the challenges you’re facing. We’ll look at ways to make your space work better for you, whether that means adding a ramp, installing grab bars, or making other helpful changes.

Standing Up for Your Rights

We’ll work with you one-on-one to build practical self-advocacy skills, like how to ask questions in meetings, how to explain your needs clearly, and how to understand your legal rights. If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to navigate a complicated system or talk to a landlord, service provider, or case manager, you’re not alone and we’ll guide you through it. Whether it’s practicing conversations, writing a support letter, or role-playing how to respond to discrimination, we’ll be right there with you every step of the way.

You’ll gain the tools and confidence to make your own decisions and advocate for the support and respect you deserve, not just today, but long into the future.

Ongoing Support When Things Get Tough

Life can change quickly. If something unexpected happens, a health scare, housing issue, or a sudden drop in support, we’ll be there. We check in regularly and stay connected, so we can step in early when problems come up. Our goal is to help you stay safe, independent, and in control, no matter what life throws your way.

Get Started Today

Take the next step toward greater independence. Call, e-mail or complete an online referral form to get started!

FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES
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FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS
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Who Can Benefit?

Our services are designed for individuals with a wide range of disabilities who are seeking to live more independently. We also work closely with families, caregivers, and community partners to ensure a holistic support system is in place.

SUCCESS STORY
"With Access to Independence, I was able to move into my own apartment and gain the skills I needed to manage my daily life. Now, I feel more empowered and confident than ever.”
— Maria, Program Participant
— Maria, Program Participant
"With Access to Independence, I was able to move into my own apartment and gain the skills I needed to manage my daily life. Now, I feel more empowered and confident than ever.”
— Maria, Program Participant
— Maria, Program Participant

Referral Form

CONSUMER INFORMATION
REFERRING PERSON'S INFORMATION
Please Check the Program You Are Referring This Individual To:

Apply Here!

C.C. Success Story

Empowering C.C. to Pursue His Dream Career

C.C. came to Access to Independence (A2i) with a clear vision for his career but faced a significant hurdle: translating his experience and skills onto paper. Creating a compelling resume felt daunting, and he needed support to present himself confidently to potential employers.

Understanding his unique learning style, the A2i coordinator designed a personalized approach. They spent time together identifying C.C.’s strengths and achievements and mapped out a step-by-step plan to build his resume. With templates and examples, C.C. learned how to effectively structure his resume, highlighting the skills that made him a strong candidate. For the first time, C.C. felt able to confidently organize and communicate his qualifications.

Thanks to this guidance, C.C. now has a polished resume that reflects his aspirations and abilities. Armed with new skills and renewed self-assurance, he’s actively applying for positions aligned with his goals. C.C. expressed deep gratitude for the tailored support, sharing that it not only enhanced his resume but also boosted his confidence. Today, C.C. is on a promising path, empowered to turn his career dreams into reality.

Ezekiel Success Story

Bringing Ezekiel Home: A Journey of Love and Determination

Ezekiel’s story is one of hope, resilience, and the unwavering love of family. Born with congenital myasthenia, a rare and complex condition, Ezekiel has been at the Helen Bernardy Center for Medically Fragile Children since he was just 14 months old. His mother shared, “When Ezekiel was born, the doctor told me it was better to send him back to God. At first, his dad and I thought the doctors knew best, but I wanted him to come home with us. Now I thank God he’s still here with me.”

For nearly two years, Access to Independence worked closely with Ezekiel’s family, providing guidance and support as they prepared to bring him home. The center facilitated a smooth transition from the skilled nursing facility by securing essential items like a bed and household supplies and even provided temporary financial support to his mother as she became his primary caregiver.

Finally, after years of separation, Ezekiel came home—a dream realized through the commitment and compassion of Access to Independence. His mother expressed her gratitude, saying, “Thank you again for all of your help. My family and I really appreciate you and the amazing program of Access to Independence!” Ezekiel’s journey home is a testament to the power of community, family, and the dedicated support that can turn hope into reality.

Farmin Success Story

From Doubt to Triumph: C. Farmin’s Art Showcase Success

C. Farmin was thrilled but nervous when her employee program invited her to showcase her artwork at their 85th-anniversary benefit event. The opportunity was exciting, yet the preparation felt overwhelming, and she worried about how to confidently present her art without stumbling over her words. Recognizing her determination, C. partnered with her program manager to create a step-by-step checklist to manage everything smoothly. Together, they developed talking points to help her share her story and discuss her art with confidence.

Despite falling ill for a week, C. stayed on track, completing each task on her list. On the day of the showcase, she arrived feeling both nervous and excited but fully prepared. As she stood beside her work, she found herself able to express her thoughts and inspirations clearly. The event was a success, and C. left with a renewed sense of pride, knowing she had shared her art with grace and confidence. Her journey from doubt to triumph highlights the power of support and preparation in achieving dreams.

Ibarra Success Story

A Lift to Independence: Reclaiming Freedom with a Simple Solution

In July 2022, Access to Independence stepped in to support a courageous individual determined to live independently, despite significant physical challenges. After receiving a referral from Sharp Chula Vista skilled nursing facility, the team quickly recognized that installing a stair lift would be life-changing for her, allowing her to safely navigate in and out of her mobile home for medical appointments, shopping, and daily activities. Using CARES funds, the center installed the stair lift, providing essential access that preserved her autonomy.

Then, in January 2024, when the stair lift required repairs, the team responded with the same dedication. They assessed her needs through an Independent Living Skills evaluation, discovering that this vital piece of equipment was key to her continued independence. Access to Independence arranged for repairs, preventing potential falls and safeguarding her ability to live in her own home.

Today, she proudly shares, “I am very thankful because it’s very easy for me to get in and out of my home, especially since both legs have been amputated now.” Her story is a powerful testament to how small adjustments can make a world of difference, enabling her to stay connected to her community and retain her freedom.

Maria Success Story

Maria’s Journey to a Fresh Start

Maria came to Access to Independence seeking a stable future for herself and her 38-year-old autistic son. Living without secure housing had been a constant source of stress, but during her visit, she discovered the many resources and supportive programs available to help her build a path forward. After meeting with the Long-Term Services Support Coordinator, Maria was guided through intakes and assessments, eventually qualifying for the Homeless Solution and Equitable Communities Program.

The coordinator quickly connected with the property manager at Rancho Santa Fe Village to address Maria’s urgent housing needs. Through an interagency effort, Maria’s application was approved, and with a flexible installment plan for the deposit, she and her son were able to move into a safe, supportive home within a month. Today, Maria feels relief and gratitude as she continues working with Access to Independence for additional benefit counseling. Her journey is a powerful reminder of how community support and timely assistance can transform lives and help families find stability and hope.