The Art of Inclusion: How Painted Earth and TMI Build Community Connections for Adults with IDD
- Ginger Cohen - TMI Director of Corporate Communications
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
At Toward Maximum Independence (TMI), we believe that every individual, regardless of the nature or severity of their disability, deserves to be a full participant in community life. We are dedicated to inclusion by providing the support our clients need to cultivate real-world relationships and achieve vocational success.
Today, we are happy to shine a spotlight on a TMI community partner that embodies these values every single day: Painted Earth in Temecula.
A Legacy of Creativity
For over 25 years, Painted Earth has been a staple of the Temecula community, providing a vibrant creative outlet for artists of all levels. For more than four of those years, they have stood by TMI as a dedicated community partner, opening their doors and their hearts to our clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
The spark for this partnership came from TMI Direct Support Professional (DSP) Robin Harrington, who recognized the studio's unique atmosphere.
"I knew that Painted Earth would be an amazing partner," said Robin. "They understand how important it is for our clients to be able to be creative and to be seen and heard."
A Place of Belonging
Through our Community Integration Training Program (CITP), clients work toward personal goals by volunteering and developing vocational skills. At Painted Earth, this isn't just "busy work"—it is true integration.
Studio Manager Taylor Martin has been instrumental in this success. She treats our clients with the same high standards and respect as any other staff member, assigning tasks essential to the studio’s daily operations. Whether cleaning the studio or preparing supplies, our clients leave each shift with a profound sense of pride and accomplishment.
Art for Everyone
Beyond vocational support, Painted Earth has become a hub of joy for the entire TMI family. They have hosted wonderful events for our clients and offer a generous discount to TMI staff, recognizing the hard work that goes into supporting our community.
Whether you are a seasoned artist or a beginner, Painted Earth offers a variety of guided experiences, including: pottery painting, canvas art, glass fusing, and clay hand building.
Thank You, Painted Earth
We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the entire team at Painted Earth. Your long-standing dedication helps TMI’s Employment Solutions program succeed in its goal: improving the quality of life for people with IDD through fulfilling work and genuine community connections.
By providing a space where our clients are "seen and heard," you aren't just teaching art—you are helping build lives of independence and dignity.
Want to support a business that supports inclusion? Visit Painted Earth to get creative.
Partner With Us
If you are interested in having our dedicated and hardworking clients join your organization, please contact us today at (800) 877-5452, email info@tmi-inc.org, or visit our Community Partner page to learn more about the benefits of partnering with us. We look forward to hearing from you!
(Thank you to Robin for contributing to this story and for all that she does to transform the lives of our clients!)
Founded in 1981, 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, 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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