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SAN DIEGO | ESCONDIDO | IMPERIAL VALLEY | HONOLULU
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Programs & Services

One Step at a Time Program

EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION:

One Step at a Time Program

The One Step at a Time Program equips young people aged 14–24 with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to navigate the journey to independence and success. Designed specifically for youth with disabilities, the program offers personalized mentorship, hands-on learning experiences, and engaging workshops that foster self-advocacy, career readiness, and essential life skills. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by both youth and their families, One Step at a Time also provides guidance, community connections, and resources to help overcome barriers to opportunity—empowering participants to discover their passions, set meaningful goals, and build a strong foundation for the future.

Join us in unlocking potential, igniting dreams, and shaping a future where every young person thrives!

Program

key benefits

Provides guidance and resources for families navigating disability services

Provides mentorship, skills training, and career exploration opportunities while offering peer support groups to build connections

Helps young people move confidently into adult life, school, and work, while also supporting families in speaking up for their needs in education, healthcare, and independence

Services

Youth Peer Support Group

The Youth Peer Support Group offers a welcoming space where young individuals come together to connect, share experiences, and support one another. Led by trained peer facilitators, this group fosters an environment of trust and understanding, allowing participants to discuss their challenges and triumphs in a safe setting. Through open dialogue and shared activities, members build lasting friendships and develop essential life skills, such as empathy, communication, and resilience. By encouraging collaboration and mutual support, we empower youth to navigate their journeys with confidence and foster a sense of belonging within the community.

Independent Living Skills Workshop

Our Independent Living Skills Workshops are a cornerstone of our Youth Transition Program, designed to equip young individuals with the essential skills they need for successful adult living. In these interactive workshops, participants learn a variety of critical competencies, including financial literacy, cooking, time management, job readiness, and effective communication. Each session focuses on practical, hands-on experiences that empower youth to take charge of their lives and make informed decisions. By fostering independence and self-sufficiency, we aim to build confidence in our participants, preparing them not just to navigate the complexities of adulthood but to thrive within them. Through these workshops, we inspire young people to embrace their potential and embark on their journey to independence with assurance and resilience.

Individual and Systems Advocacy Training

Our Self and Systems Advocacy Training workshops aim to empower youth with the skills and knowledge to advocate effectively for themselves and broader systemic change. Through this training, participants learn how to articulate their needs, navigate challenges, and influence decision-makers on issues that impact their lives and communities. We also provide unique opportunities for youth to engage directly with local and statewide leaders, fostering an understanding of civic engagement and the legislative process. By equipping young individuals with advocacy tools and connecting them with key stakeholders, we inspire them to become active participants in shaping their futures and driving positive change within their communities.

Higher Education

Our Higher Education Services are dedicated to raising awareness and igniting interest among youth about the vast opportunities available after high school. We offer comprehensive workshops that cover essential topics such as how to pay for college, the application process, and finding housing while pursuing higher education.

Vocational Support

We provide hands-on support with resume writing and equip young individuals with the tools they need to navigate the job market successfully. To further enhance their experiences, we offer valuable internship opportunities that allow youth to build a solid work history and gain practical skills. By guiding them through college and vocational pathways, we empower young people to make informed decisions and embark on fulfilling careers that align with their passions and goals.

Driver’s License Support

Our Youth Driver’s license service is a vital resource designed to support young individuals on their journey to obtaining a driver’s license, a crucial milestone in the transition to adulthood. This comprehensive 8-week course not only covers the essential rules of driving but also incorporates engaging and realistic driving simulator sessions that enhance practical skills in a safe environment. Recognizing the diverse needs of our participants, we offer paid private driving assessments, including adaptive driving evaluations for those who require them. Additionally, financial assistance is available to help cover the costs of driving exams, ensuring that all youth have access to the resources they need to succeed. Please note that this service is fee-for-service and requires a referral from one of our core community partners. Join us in empowering the next generation to gain confidence and independence behind the wheel, setting them on the path to a successful future.

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
Call Us
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FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS
Submit a Referral

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.