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  2. Toward Maximum Independence

Toward Maximum Independence

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.

An estimated 1 in 6 people are born with a developmental disability. Just like all of us, they are born with hopes, dreams and the drive to contribute to society. Founded in 1981, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) has transformed thousands of lives by providing assistance to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), giving them the ability to realize their hopes and dreams. At TMI we are advocates for the belief that disability does not mean inability. Independence and self-responsibility are fostered by respect for the individual’s autonomy and by empowering them to make informed decisions.
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Purpose

An estimated 1 in 6 people are born with a developmental disability. Just like all of us, they are born with hopes, dreams and the drive to contribute to society. Founded in 1981, Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) has transformed thousands of lives by providing assistance to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), giving them the ability to realize their hopes and dreams. At TMI we are advocates for the belief that disability does not mean inability. Independence and self-responsibility are fostered by respect for the individual’s autonomy and by empowering the individual to make informed decisions. It is important that everyone should have the opportunity to reach their full potential with opportunities to perform functional and meaningful activities or work with support, if needed, to promote success. We offer innovative and trusted services for our clients with IDD. We also offer services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. In 2020, we launched employment services for veterans with disabilities.

All people we support experience full inclusion in their daily lives in all aspects of community life. We believe that the three cornerstones of a strong life foundation are: living as independently as possible, having the opportunity for real work for real pay, and a safe and caring home.
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Vision

Achieving valued roles, making critical life-defining decisions, gaining the respect of others, and contributing to the life of the community are opportunities enjoyed by all citizens.... Read more

Mission

To provide personalized services to those who require support, enabling them to make informed choices regarding how they live, work and function productively and independently in the community.... Read more

Additional Culture Details

Winners of:
2024 USA Today Top Workplaces
2024 Nonprofit Industry
2024 Women-led
2024 Nectar Appreciation
2024 Inland Empire Top Workplace
2024 San Diego County Top Workplace
2025 USA Today Top Workplaces
2025 Nonprofit Industry
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Values

Respect
Having a valued place and role among a network of family, friends, colleagues and neighbors. Choice: having autonomy in decision making both in small every day matters and large, life defining issues.

Headquarters

San Diego, CA

Employees

420 US Employees

Industry

Human & Social Services

Company Snapshots

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