A New Chapter in Temecula: Celebrating Growth, IDD Community, and Independence
- Ginger Cohen - TMI Director of Corporate Communications
- 5 minutes ago
- 3 min read
At Toward Maximum Independence (TMI), we have always believed that disability does not mean inability. On April 7, 2026, that belief was on full display as we celebrated a major milestone: the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of our new, upgraded Temecula office!
It was an incredible day filled with joy, connection, and a shared vision for the future. We were honored to welcome approximately 200 guests to our new home at 41463 Margarita Road to honor 18 years of service in Temecula and 45 years of impact since our founding in San Diego in 1981.
More Than Just an Office
While the new facility is a beautiful physical expansion, it represents a deeper commitment to the Riverside County community. This larger space allows us to expand vital services—including Employment Solutions and Assessment and Intervention Services—for the 230 local clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities who we support.
Our CEO, Dr. Rachel Harris, shared:
“Expanding our footprint in Temecula is about deepening our roots in inclusion. This facility represents our promise to ensure that every individual we serve has the resources, support, and community connection they need to lead a self-directed life. We aren't just opening doors to a building; we are opening doors to new opportunities for every individual we serve.”
Voice of Independence and Community Support
Ashley, a TMI client and dedicated volunteer at Southwest Healthcare Inland Valley Hospital, shared her journey of independence. Her story, made possible through TMI’s Community Integration Training Program, perfectly highlights the direct impact of person-centered support.
We were also privileged to have a remarkable turnout of local leaders and partners:
The Official Cut: TMI CEO Dr. Rachel Harris and COO Jessie Campbell officially inaugurated the facility alongside local officials.
Legislative Support: We welcomed Tanis Earle (representing Mayor Jessica Alexander), Amanda Fisher (office of Senator Kelly Seyarto), Ben Littlefield (office of Assemblymember Kate Sanchez), and Zuly Martinez (office of Supervisor Chuck Washington).
Business Community: Brooke Nunn, CEO of the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce, joined other Chamber members to welcome us to the neighborhood.
TMI Leadership: Our Board of Directors was well-represented by Board Chair Jocelyn Gonzalez, Vice Chair Donaven Yousif, and Member Michele Mamerto.
Expanding Our Reach: New Resources for DHH Families
Growth at TMI is about more than square footage; it is about meeting the evolving needs of our neighbors. We are excited to highlight a new Parent Advocacy Support Group specifically for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) families. This vital resource was established thanks to a $200,000 grant awarded by the Inland Regional Center.
Our Dedicated Team
Our Temecula office key staff members include Melissa Rapoza, Director of the Community Integration Training Program for Temecula and Corona; Tracy Guzman, Associate Director of Family Support Services; and Jennifer Arthur, Supported Employment Division Manager. The team is further strengthened by Eva Prendes and Yvonne Arroyo, who both serve as Site Coordinators and Community Integration Training Program Division Managers. Together, these dedicated professionals oversee the vital programs and person-centered support that empower our Temecula clients to reach their full potential.
We also want to extend a special thank you to Mailani Faniel and Yesenia Villegas for decorating our new offices so beautifully, and to Frances Johnson for coordinating such a fantastic event! We are also very grateful to our entire staff for making this a true day of celebration. Their collective hard work ensured every guest felt genuinely welcomed from the moment they walked through the door!
Looking Ahead
Since 1981, TMI has grown to assist more than 1,100 individuals across San Diego, Riverside, and Imperial Counties with a dedicated staff of more than 440. As we look around our new Temecula office, we see a future full of even more potential to ensure every person has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Did you miss the event? Check out all the photos and video!
Want to learn more about our services in Temecula? Click here!
Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and veterans with disabilities. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living Services and Family Support Services. To stay connected with us, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion. Please consider making a donation to assist us with transforming lives for many more years to come. We thank you in advance! Tax ID# 33-018575
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