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CLIENT SUCCESS STORIES
Hilaria Success Story

Having a hospital bed was essential for me…

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Rosalva Success Story

Rosalva shared, “Me siento segura. Si necesito que llene algunos papeles o necesito guía en algo, sé que me van a ayudar. He recomendado a gente porque aquí no he batallado.”.  …

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Maria Success Story

“En lo personal, he tenido muy bonitas experiencias. Me ha dado la oportunidad de sentirme como en casa. …

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Benefit Options Counseling Success Story

Maria is a survivor of domestic violence who was initially connected to supportive services through a local resource center specializing in crisis response. …

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Stepping- Stones Success Story

A 79-year-old gentleman had always valued his independence, but a recent hospitalization due to heart failure and diabetes brought significant changes to his daily life…

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What CILs and SILCs Do - National Council on Independent Living
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OILP Disaster FAQ
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Area Agencies on Aging ACL Administration for Community Living
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NWD-National-Elements
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CIL Fact Sheet
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State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL)

SPIL INFORMATION

In order for states to receive federal funding, they must submit an approvable 3-year State Plan for Independent Living (SPIL) to the Administration for Community Living (ACL), that comply with specific standards and assurances (Section 725 of the Rehabilitation Act), and that reflects the state’s design for the establishment of a statewide network of centers. Below you can find the State Plans for the two states we serve, California and Hawaii.

SPIL for California FY 2025-2027
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SPIL for Hawaii FY 2021-2023 Word Doc
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SPIL for Hawaii FY 2021-2023 PDF
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2026/2025 Newsletters

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Hilaria Success Story

Having a hospital bed was essential for me. The hospital bed has helped me get off the
bed better without putting too much pressure in my legs since my knee is damaged and Dr’s. will not operate. Jose’s help in advocating to get the hospital bed was really good. His
communication with doctors and insurance was really good too. If one day Services are needed from Access to Independence, I will communicate with Access to Independence or Jose.


When Hilaria’s caregiver first contacted us at Access to Independence, she was having trouble getting a hospital bed. Hilaria has knee problems and arthritis, which made it painful for her to get in and out of bed, both during the day and at night. Her biggest struggle was getting up from a lying or sitting position because of the pressure it put on her joints. After I completed a Home Safety Assessment and saw how difficult it was for her to get up, I agreed that an assisted hospital bed would really help. The bed would support her and reduce the strain on her joints. I attended a doctor’s appointment with her, and the doctor spoke directly to me since he knew I wasn’t a family member. I gave him a letter explaining who I was, what Access to Independence does, and that I was there to advocate for Hilaria’s need for a hospital bed. He responded by saying something like, Yes, we can do that we’ll take care of it today. I also want to mention that Hilaria and her caregiver were always very polite, respectful, and understanding of our role and process. About a week later, I followed up with her, and she let me know that Sunrise Medical would be providing and installing the hospital bed. The pictures above show the bed she has been using since it was delivered.

Rosalva Success Story

Rosalva Castillo shared, “Me siento segura. Si necesito que llene algunos papeles o necesito guía en algo, sé que me van a ayudar. He recomendado a gente porque aquí no he batallado.”

Her words reflect the sense of trust and support she has found through our services. Rosalva feels confident that whenever she needs help, whether completing paperwork or navigating a process, our team will be there for her. Because of her positive experience, she has referred others in her community, knowing they will receive the same level of care.

Rosalva and her husband participated in our Homeward Bound Initiative program after seeking assistance with obtaining their driver’s licenses. They initially felt overwhelmed and confused, as each time they contacted the DMV, they encountered automated instructions in English that they could not fully understand due to a language barrier.

With the support of our staff, Rosalva and her husband were able to better understand the process, receive guidance in their preferred language, and successfully complete the necessary steps. As a result, they both obtained their driver’s licenses—an important milestone toward greater independence and mobility.

Maria Success Story

Maria shared her experience in her own words:
“En lo personal, he tenido muy bonitas experiencias. Me ha dado la oportunidad de sentirme como en casa. Todo el personal es excelente conmigo, me dan seguridad y tienen mucha paciencia para enseñarme en mis clases de inglés y computación. Yo siento que son personas excelentes y se las recomiendo de todo corazón porque son personas sencillas, amorosas y nos tratan con mucho respeto. Para mí les doy doble 10 porque he aprendido mucho de ellos en dar cariño, amor y comprensión a otras personas, así como ellos lo hacen conmigo.

Yo he ido a diferentes partes a estudiar y en ningún otro lugar me he sentido tan feliz como estoy aquí con ellos. Les doy las gracias por ser como son—que nunca cambien. Para mí, son como unos ángeles que Dios ha enviado, porque desde que vengo me he sentido mucho mejor: se me ha quitado la depresión, la inseguridad y la ansiedad. Yo anhelo que llegue el día de clase porque me motivan mucho. Los quiero mucho a todos, y se lo repito: vengan aquí con ellos para que los conozcan y disfruten de su compañía.”

Maria is a participant in our Homeward Bound Initiative program, where she has worked to overcome multiple barriers. Through independent living skills training provided by Access to Independence staff, she has learned how to communicate basic needs in English and confidently use a computer to search for information.

Her journey reflects not only skill-building, but a renewed sense of confidence, emotional well-being, and connection—demonstrating the life-changing impact of supportive, person-centered services.

Benefit Options Counseling Success Story

Maria is a survivor of domestic violence who was initially connected to supportive services through a local resource center specializing in crisis response. Recognizing the need for more comprehensive support, the center referred her to Access to Independence in hopes to find more resources tailored to her goals and circumstances.

Access to Independence provided support to her through our Benefit Options Counseling Program. In this program Maria received assistance in applying  to different public services such as housing navigation, peer support groups and workshops. These services provided her with both practical tools and emotional support as she worked toward greater independence and stability.

One of the most significant challenges she faced was securing Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). After multiple denials over the course of three years—largely due to mishandled medical documentation, she felt discouraged and uncertain about next steps. With guidance and consistent support from our coordinators, she was presented with clear options and empowered to make informed decisions about how to proceed.

After engaging in services for seven months, she received life-changing news: her SSDI application had been approved. The decision came on her birthday, marking a powerful and symbolic end to a long and difficult journey.

She expressed deep appreciation for the guidance and encouragement she received throughout the process. Maria has chosen to remain actively involved in ongoing programs, highlighting the trust she has built with both the services and the staff.

This story reflects the impact of coordinated support, persistence, and empowerment in helping survivors rebuild their lives and achieve meaningful milestones.

Stepping-Stones Success Story

A 79-year-old gentleman had always valued his independence, but a recent hospitalization due to heart failure and diabetes brought significant changes to his daily life. Following his discharge, he experienced a noticeable decline in mobility and was no longer able to care for himself safely. Tasks like moving around his home became difficult and risky. He now relied on a walker and, at times, a wheelchair for mobility.

Concerned about his safety and well-being, his family sought support from Access to Independence. Their goal was to ensure that his home environment would meet his new needs and allow him to remain as independent as possible.

Access to Independence conducted a home assessment to identify barriers and safety concerns. During this assessment, one of the most critical needs identified was safe access in and out of the home. The existing entryway presented a major obstacle, especially given his limited mobility.

Through the Stepping- Stones Program, Access to Independence was able to install a ramp at his home. This modification made an immediate difference, allowing him to safely enter and exit for medical appointments and daily activities without unnecessary strain or risk.

The impact of this change went beyond physical accessibility. With improved access, he regained a sense of confidence and independence, while his family gained peace of mind knowing he could move more safely within his environment. In addition to the ramp installation, Access to Independence also provided guidance on caregiver support and assisted the family in navigating public benefits applications.

This story highlights how targeted home modifications and supportive services can significantly improve quality of life, helping individuals maintain independence and remain safe in his home.

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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.