Empowering People to Experience the Fullest Life Possible
Toward Independence (TI) was founded in 1975 by parents who wanted more for their children with developmental disabilities. They imagined a world where each person could live independently, work meaningfully, and participate fully in community life.
Five decades later, that dream has become our purpose. Today, we support more than 200 individuals across six Ohio counties, helping them live, work, and thrive through:
• Residential supports in more than 50 homes
• Financial and life-skills coaching
• Transportation and day programs that encourage creativity and independence
What sets Toward Independence apart is our staff, who bring expertise, compassion, and joy to everything they do
“TI has helped our
son live independently
and confidently.
We give because we
want others to
experience the same
joy and freedom
we’ve seen in our
own lives."
— The XXX Family,
Donors and Parents
of a TI Participant
“When I heard about Independence Park, it took their mission one step further—it’s about inclusion you can feel.”
— Jody, Community Donor
Why Independence Park Matters
While our community offers many beautiful public parks, none are designed specifically for people with mobility or developmental disabilities.
What that means for people with disabilities:
• Uneven trails and inaccessible playground equipment leave people isolated.
• Families often stay home rather than risk unsafe environments.
• Our community misses the inclusive spaces that make everyone feel welcome
We believe it’s time to change that. Independence Park will be the first of its kind in Greene County—a place where no one is left behind.
Creating Independence Park
Independence Park will be a custom-designed park located on a beautiful piece of land owned by Toward Independence near our main office in Xenia. It will embody the principles of universal design, ADA standards, and sensory-friendly planning. Built to be accessible, ensuring the design is functional and worry-free...so everyone can have a fun park day!
Park features will include:
• Barrier-free paths and surfaces
• Wheelchair and walker-friendly design throughout
• Shaded spaces for comfort and safety
• Sensory-focused garden and activity zones
• Adaptive recreation and quiet reflection areas
• A central pavilion for programs, community events, and family celebrations
• Safe drop-off zone for accessibility and ease oftransportation.
We are launching a $2M capital campaign to bring Independence Park to life.
Because Toward Independence already owns the land, every dollar raised will go directly toward building the park and pavilion.
Campaign Breakdown:
- $1.5M Construction and Design
- $500K Campaign, Contingencies, and Maintenance
- Timeline: 2026-2027 *Construction will take 9-12 months to complete after reaching our campaign goal
Naming and Recognition Opportunities:
Every gift matters, and every gift will be celebrated
- Park and Pavilion naming, program areas, equipment, gardens, benches, paths, bricks
Help us build a place where inclusion, joy, and independence flourish side by side. Together, we can build Independence Park!
Donate Online
Mail a Gift
Toward Independence, Inc.
81 East Main Street, Xenia, Ohio, 45385
Campaign Committee: Cindy Seabolt, Chris Wilkin, Joseph Harmon, Jan Young, Mary Rose Zink, and Anne Gerard
Independence means being included!
It has been a true privilege to work alongside my colleagues at Toward Independence for the past 12 years, including the last two years in the role of CEO. I continue to wake up each morning energized and grateful for the opportunity to serve the 200 individuals and families who place their trust in us.
At Toward Independence, we view every person who walks through our doors as part of our family. That commitment goes far beyond a sentiment; it is deeply woven into our culture and reflected in the way we care, support, and show up for one another every day.
We believe every individual, regardless of ability, deserves the chance to live their best life. For nearly 50 years, we’ve helped people with developmental disabilities find independence, build friendships, and live fully in their communities.
Now, we’re ready to take the next step in that journey.
WE’RE BUILDING INDEPENDENCE PARK, A FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND ACCESSIBLE PARK AND PAVILION DESIGNED FOR WELLNESS, CONNECTION, AND JOY.
Please take a few moments to review this brochure, which will help you envision the park and better understand the heart behind this special project. We hope you will feel the same excitement about
Independence Park that inspires all of us.
Joe Harmon,
CEO, Toward Independence, Inc.