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We Don’t Have a Driving Program (and That’s Okay!)

Clearing the Road: What the One-Step-At-A-Time Youth Transition Program Really Offers

At Access to Independence, we often hear one question: “Do you have a driving program?”. The answer is no, and here’s why that’s a good thing.

Our One-Step-At-A-Time Youth Transition Program is designed to do so much more than teach driving. It’s a comprehensive set of services that empowers youth with disabilities, ages 14-24, as they transition to adulthood.

Through individualized support, we help young people build the skills they need for independent living, employment, higher education, leadership, and community engagement. Driving may be one step along that path, but it’s never the entire journey.

Driver’s license support is…

  • One of many life skills
  • Based on individual transition goals
  • Not guaranteed or automatically offered
  • Never available as a standalone referral

Instead, referrals should be made to the full program: One-Step-At-A-Time, Youth Transition Program.

This program includes:

  • Independent Living Skills (including transportation planning or driving readiness)
  • Employment Preparation
  • Post-Secondary Education Support
  • Youth Leadership & Advocacy
  • Peer Mentorship & Enrichment Workshops

Driver’s license support may be provided only if:

  • The youth is between ages 16 – 24
  • Driving directly supports a college or employment goal
  • Driving is appropriate based on the youth’s disability

By focusing on the whole person, rather than just one skill, we empower youth to build confidence, independence, and a future filled with opportunity. Independence is more than a license, it’s a journey.

Want to learn more or make a referral? Contact Access to Independence today and ask about the One-Step-At-A-Time Youth Transition Program.

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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.