Adrian’s Inspiring Path from Dreaming to Achieving with Autism
- Ginger Cohen - TMI Director of Corporate Communications
- Aug 27
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Adrian, a Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) client with autism, has reason to celebrate: he earned his associate's degree in computer information technology from Imperial Valley College. This is a story of determination, and the power of dedicated support.
Adrian started with TMI's El Centro office Tailored Day Services program in late 2019. Three years ago, he was paired with our outstanding Direct Support Professional Carlos Perez who has worked diligently to assist Adrian with tackling his goals and achieving his dream of graduating from college. One of the biggest challenges for Adrian was his social skills, which made it hard to interact with other students.
When Adrian felt overwhelmed by college, Carlos would help him de-stress by watching movies, building with Legos (check out his awesome Lego creations!), or playing video games—Adrian's favorite pastimes.
Graduating with his associate's degree is a monumental achievement, but Adrian isn't stopping. He's now pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer technology from Arizona State University. The new, fast-paced online classes are a challenge, and Carlos is right there to help. He taught Adrian how to manage his time by focusing on one assignment at a time. He even put in extra hours to help Adrian with his writing and composition assignments.
Adrian wants to thank his parents, Elvira and Raul, for their constant support. He’s also grateful to Carlos, who was there for him through the toughest moments of his college career.
Carlos sees Adrian's success as a powerful reminder of his own college days. “It’s very satisfactory helping this young adult and being there for them when college gets rough," he says. "Witnessing his transformation from college undergraduate to alumnus is amazing! I’m really proud to be a part of a company which makes these things happen."
Adrian's journey shows exactly what TMI is all about. Our Tailored Day Services program is designed to help our clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities become self-directed and achieve maximum independence. Adrian’s story is a true testament to what's possible when a person has the right support to follow their dreams.
Congratulations, Adrian! We are very proud of you and we look forward to continuing to follow your success story!
(Thank you to Carlos for contributing to this story and for all that he does to help our clients succeed!)
Founded in 1981, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) is a nonprofit organization, serving San Diego, Riverside and Imperial Counties, 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, and Instagram. 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# 33-0185759
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