Congratulations to Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) clients Stephan, Kenneth and Robert on being honored by Unity Valley Church for the amazing work they are doing there. Celebrating one year as a TMI Integrated Work group, these men have demonstrated motivation and teamwork.
(TMI Job Coach Jelene with Robert, Kenneth and Stephan at the Humane Society in Ramona)
The TMI Integrated Work program seeks to assist our clients with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) with finding employment if they desire and/or help them integrate into the community by volunteering at local businesses in order to be contributing members of society.
“I'm very proud and pleased with this group of individuals,” said TMI Job Coach Jelene Steele. “I've been blessed to work with them! They work hard as a team and on individual tasks.”
(Stephan, Kenneth and Bobby being honored by Minister Bill)
The group first started volunteering at the church nine months ago. After just four months their hard work paid off and they were offered paid employment one day a week. They keep the church looking spotless! The group also volunteers at Living Way Fellowship Church, Ramona Humane Society, Angel View Thrift Store, My City Youth Center, Cops for Kids, and Assembly of God Church. Thank you to former TMI Job Coach Angela Reynolds for her work with getting the group up and running with these sites and assisting them with giving their all!
Robert (Bobby), who has Down syndrome, was more interested in playing video games than volunteering when he first started the program, but with TMI’s coaching he has learned teamwork and is now self-motivated. Bobby loves going to Disneyland!
Stephan is a very hard worker and a lot of fun to be around! He is a great dancer who always brings a smile to people’s faces.
(Stephan hard at work)
With TMI for more than three years, Kenneth has taken on the role of group leader. He is a self-starter and motivated. Kenneth works very hard!
When not busy volunteering, Jelene assists the group with looking for employment and conducts mock interviews with them. They also enjoy exercising in the park.
(Jelene, Kenneth, Stephan and Bobby at Living Way in Hemet)
TMI has been providing services to clients with IDD, including autism, Down syndrome and cerebral palsy, since 1981. TMI expanded its services throughout Riverside County in April 2008 and is now serving more than 1,000 children and adults throughout San Diego, Riverside and Imperial Counties.
Thank you to Unity Valley Church for partnering with us to transform lives! If you know of an organization that could benefit from employees or volunteers such as this hardworking group, please contact TMI at (800) 877-5452 or email info@tmi-inc.org. Thank you!
Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) has been transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1981 and the deaf and hard of hearing since 2000. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living and Family Support Services throughout San Diego, Riverside and Imperial Counties. To stay connected with us follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion.