2025 Impact Report
ICAN 2025 Impact Report
Take a look at our 2025 Impact Report to explore the growth of our programs, the strength of our community, and the impact we’re making together.
Take a look at our 2025 Impact Report to explore the growth of our programs, the strength of our community, and the impact we’re making together.
MISSION
Our mission is to empower people with disabilities to discover and achieve their own “I CAN” statement.
We do this through providing life skills training, supported employment, and social programming.
A Note from Our
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
At ICAN California Abilities Network, we see every day what becomes possible when individuals with disabilities are supported, valued, and given the opportunity to thrive. In 2025, we proudly served 659 adults across our programs, each on a path toward greater independence, confidence, and connection.
Throughout the year, our community celebrated meaningful milestones, from clients securing employment and building life skills to discovering new forms of self-expression through our Theater Program, where creativity, confidence, and belonging take center stage.
Because of your generosity, ICAN continues to provide person-centered, high-quality programs while growing alongside the needs of those we serve. Your support expands opportunities, strengthens independence, and creates the stability that allows our clients to flourish. Thank you for helping us build more inclusive communities where every individual has the opportunity to realize their potential.
Scott Elliott
ICAN Executive Director
2025 AT A GLANCE
The People we serve and the support behind them
The ICAN Community
Clients Served – 659
Staff Employed – 167
Volunteers Engaged – 342
Donors Invested – 428
Program Participation
Service Area
Community Demographics
SUPPORTED
EMPLOYMENT
Program
The Supported Employment Program (SEP) empowers adults with disabilities to secure meaningful, competitive employment in their communities. Through personalized job preparation, placement, and coaching, participants build confidence, strengthen independence, and expand economic opportunity while gaining the dignity and purpose that come with meaningful work.
- 144 Clients Served
- 90 Individuals Employed
- $19.71 Average Hourly Wage
- 22,786 Hours of Job Prep & Coaching
- 53 Employment Anniversaries
TAILORED DAY
Services
- 121 Clients Served
- 11,673 Service Hours
- 1:1 Personalized Support
MILESTONES ACHIEVED:
- Learner’s Permits
- Employment
- Volunteering
- Publishing
- New Small Businesses
- Continuing Education
MARKETPLACE
Program
ICAN’s Marketplace Initiative creates paid employment opportunities by directly employing clients through ICAN-operated microbusinesses and contracted partnerships. Through roles in businesses such as ICAN Coffee, Photo Booth, and Creative Studio, clients earn at least minimum wage, and build transferable skills in customer service, teamwork, time management, and daily operations.
ABIGAIL JAYNE DESIGN: Abigail designs greeting cards, matches, and gift wrap sold through retail partners. Producing over 5,000 cards per week, her growing business creates consistent paid employment opportunities for ICAN clients.
Clients support the packaging and preparation of products for distribution, working in a quality-driven environment that emphasizes attention to detail, teamwork, and efficiency.
Through this partnership, clients gain production experience while contributing to a thriving retail brand.
MARKETPLACE
Program
ICAN COFFEE: For years, ICAN Coffee operated carts at community events across the South Bay. In 2025, ICAN expanded the program with the launch of a fully built-out coffee trailer, increasing visibility and paid employment opportunities.
Clients prepare beverages, serve customers, and manage transactions in a real-world setting, building confidence and workplace skills.
For Andrew G., the opportunity represents more than a job. It is a meaningful step toward greater independence, a journey his family has watched with pride.
PARTIAL WORK PROGRAM
Torrance & Long Beach
The Partial Work Day Programs blend employment training with social development, healthy living, and community engagement. Guided by participant choice, individuals build work readiness, communication skills, daily routines, and independence while preparing for future employment.
- 288 Clients Served
- 40,996 Program Hours
- 189 Unique Clubs Offered
- 119 Clients Volunteering
WHERE OUR CLIENTS VOLUNTEER:
- The Volunteer Center
- Sunflower Farms
- Fix Pets Long Beach
- A Sense of Home
- El Dorado Nature Center
- Long Beach Care Services Pet Literacy Program
LIFE SKILLS PROGRAM
Redondo Beach
The Life Skills Day Program provides structured, person-centered services that focus on social development, healthy living, and community engagement.
- 49 Clients Served
- 9,072 Program Hours
- 177 Unique Clubs Offered
2025 PROGRAM ENHANCEMENTS: In 2025, this program transitioned to a medical model to better support evolving participant needs while investing in facility upgrades to improve accessibility and safety. Driveway, bathroom, and garden improvements further enhanced the comfort and functionality of program spaces.
SOCIAL PROGRAM
South Bay & Long Beach
The Social Program creates inclusive opportunities for individuals to build friendships and experience a true sense of belonging. Through social events, camps, retreats, and community outings, clients connect in safe, meaningful ways that foster lasting relationships.
- 208 Clients Served
- 42 Theater Participants
- 123 Summer Camp Attendees
- 91 Winter Camp Attendees
2025 PROGRAM EXPANSION: In 2025, ICAN expanded the Social Program to Long Beach, broadening access to inclusive social opportunities. ICAN also launched a Theater Program, offering weekly rehearsals and public showcases where clients took the stage to perform for family and community members, building confidence and celebrating creative expression.
VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers play a vital role in advancing ICAN’s mission, supporting programs and special events. Their time and expertise strengthen our community while helping create inclusive, engaging experiences for those we serve.
- 342 Volunteers Engaged
- 2,205 Hours Served
- 181 Corporate & Group Volunteers
- 100% Would Volunteer Again
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS:
- Ambassador High School
- Century High School
- Keller Williams Red Day
- Valour Academy High School
- Biola University
- EOS Accounting
- National Charity League
- Torrance High School Kiwin’s Club
VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHTS
Some of the ways volunteers made an impact in 2025
EOS ACCOUNTING Corporate Volunteer Day
EOS Accounting employees came together for a hands-on “Camp Day” with ICAN clients, leading tie-dye, bracelet-making, and other creative activities. The team also donated snacks and supplies, creating an energetic, joyful day for everyone involved.
BIOLA UNIVERSITY University Partnership
Through a partnership with a Biola University Sociology of Disability course, 14 students volunteered in ICAN’s Social Program, supporting activities while gaining meaningful, hands-on learning experiences in inclusion and disability advocacy.
NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE Ongoing Community Partner
Our ongoing partnership with a local National Charity League chapter brings mother-daughter volunteers into Social Program activities throughout the year. In addition, they support special ICAN events through preparation and day-of assistance.
COMMUNITY IN ACTION
ICAN remained actively engaged in the communities we serve throughout 2025, responding to emerging
needs while building partnerships that expand access, connection, and support for individuals and families.
In January, ICAN mobilized quickly to support families impacted by the LA wildfires. Clients and staff collected, sorted, and delivered essential supplies to local relief centers, helping provide immediate support to affected communities.
ICAN partnered with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive. Staff, families, and community members came together to donate lifesaving blood and support patients in need.
ICAN hosted its annual inclusive Halloween Festival for individuals with disabilities of all ages, welcoming more than 1,500 attendees for an afternoon of inclusive celebration, activities, and community connection.
Following the award of a Department of Developmental Services grant focused on service access and equity, ICAN expanded Social Recreation initiatives in Long Beach in 2025. Funding supported free workshops, community office hours, and local partnerships to strengthen pathways to services and connection. This work will continue through 2026 and beyond.
ICAN participated in several community events throughout the year, including Harbor Regional Center’s transition event and the opening of their new building, providing coffee and a photo booth. Additional events included the Torrance Food Drive, Robinson Helicopter Santa Event, and a holiday toy drive.
GARDEN PARTY
ICAN’s Signature Fundraising Event
ICAN’s annual Garden Party welcomed clients, families, local businesses, and community supporters for a meaningful afternoon celebrating the individuals we serve. Funds raised help expand opportunities, enhance
programs, and support the growing needs of our community.
$87,000+ Raised
The event was made possible by 30 sponsors, including Presenting Sponsors GG’s Family Foundation, Laney LA, and Stella and Walker Horton.
INVESTING IN IMPACT
Community investment accelerated in 2025, strengthening ICAN’s ability to expand programs, enhance services, and respond to evolving needs.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
$222,448 Raised through Events & Individual Giving
428 Total Donors
206 New Donors
IN-KIND SUPPORT
$40,000+ in donated goods and services
In-kind contributions enhanced programs through donated equipment, event experiences, transportation, food, and other essential resources.
RESTAURANT GIVE-BACK FUNDRAISERS
Local businesses donated a portion of proceeds from designated days to support ICAN:
- Raising Cane’s
- Panda Express
- Handel’s Long Beach
- The Brews Hall
COMMUNITY EVENTS AND CAMPAIGNS
Additional fundraising efforts throughout the year included:
- TopGolf Classic
- Camp & Seasonal Campaigns
- Pancake Fundraiser
- Year-End Giving
CORPORATE & COMMUNITY PARTNERS
We are grateful for the businesses and organizations that invested in ICAN and the individuals we serve throughout the year.
PHILANTHROPIC GRANT FUNDING
Institutional support fueled program impact in 2025, generating $223,191 to expand access and services.
iPads for program staff to support documentation, communication, and service delivery
Scholarships for the Social Program Spring Retreat
Support for ICAN’s Long Beach program expansion
General operating support
Support for employment and workforce development programs
General operating support
General operating support
Support for employment and workforce development programs
Adaptive equipment including motorized wheelchairs, bath benches, and zipline harnesses
General operating support
iPads for program staff to support documentation, communication, and service delivery
Redondo Beach garden expansion and improvements
TurboChef oven and accessories for ICAN Coffee
ALBERT V.
SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
From a young age, Albert was fascinated by how things worked, developing a natural mechanical ability and a love for hands-on problem solving. As he grew older, challenges with learning and communication made it difficult to find employment that truly aligned with his strengths.
After joining ICAN, Albert received individualized support that helped him build confidence, strengthen workplace skills, and better understand the environment where he could thrive. Through job development, he discovered a preference for behind-the-scenes work that allowed his focus, organization, and attention to detail to shine.
In 2025, Albert secured a position as an assembler at CMA Dishmachines, where he takes apart commercial dishwashers, details each component, and installs final parts before they are ready for use. Within his first week, he was independently preparing multiple machines per shift and setting ambitious goals for himself — reaching them in just ten days.
Today, Albert takes tremendous pride in his work and the independence he has achieved. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “ICAN never let me down. I don’t know where I’d be today without them.”
ADRIEL B.
PARTIAL WORK PROGRAM
Since joining ICAN’s Torrance Partial Work Program, Adriel has steadily built confidence, independence, and a strong belief in his abilities. In 2025, he set a personal goal to actively pursue volunteer opportunities while stepping into a leadership role amongst his peers. Despite navigating personal changes, Adriel arrived each day with determination, positivity, and a willingness to grow.
Through ICAN’s partnership with A Sense of Home, Adriel became a dedicated and dependable volunteer, contributing his time to assembling furniture and organizing essential items for individuals and families transitioning into stable housing. His consistency and initiative quickly distinguished him as a natural leader within the group.
Adriel’s commitment did not go unnoticed. He was personally invited to attend the organization’s Volunteer Appreciation Night to accept an award on behalf of the program. Standing before an audience to deliver his first public speech, Adriel experienced a defining moment — one marked by pride, confidence, and the realization of how far he had come.
Today, Adriel continues to inspire those around him, demonstrating how perseverance and opportunity can unlock leadership potential.
ASHLEY A.
PARTIAL WORK PROGRAM
When Ashley first joined ICAN’s Long Beach Partial Work Program in 2025, new environments felt overwhelming and stepping outside her comfort zone was not easy. With encouragement, patience, and consistent support, she gradually began building confidence, forming friendships, and discovering her voice within the program.
As Ashley grew more comfortable, she started embracing opportunities that once felt out of reach. Today, she volunteers at a local animal rescue, advocates for opportunities to give back, and is taking meaningful steps toward her goal of becoming a library aide. What once felt unfamiliar now feels possible, and Ashley approaches new experiences with increasing independence and self assurance.
Her growth extends beyond the program walls. Ashley’s family has seen her confidence flourish as she becomes more expressive, helpful at home, and socially connected. Once hesitant to try new things, she now meets change with resilience and a belief in her own capabilities.
Ashley’s journey is a powerful reflection of what can happen when individuals feel supported, safe, and empowered to grow.
CLIENT SUCCESS STORIES
A few more moments that reflect the growth, achievements, and everyday impact taking place across ICAN’s programs.
MADISON W. Partial Work Program
Madison came to ICAN with a clear goal of building greater independence and pursuing a career working with animals. Through consistent support and opportunities to grow, she strengthened her confidence, developed leadership skills, and began taking meaningful steps toward her future.
Today, Madison is enrolled at California Healing Arts College, where she is training to become a veterinary technician. Motivated by her progress and proud of how far she has come, Madison continues to gain the knowledge and skills needed for her chosen career — a reflection of what is possible when individuals are empowered to pursue their passions.
JOHN B. Tailored Day Services
After a personal challenge delayed his plans to return to work, John joined Tailored Day Services to focus on building greater independence and connection. With support from his coaches, he learned to navigate public transportation, discovered new interests like coding and drawing, and enrolled in Child Development courses at El Camino College.
Today, John rides the bus independently to visit friends, contributes to his household, and continues to grow in confidence. Reflecting on his progress, he shared that he “feels like the best John ever.”
CLIENT SUCCESS STORIES
STEPHANIE H.
Life Skills Program & Theater Program
Since joining ICAN’s Redondo Beach Day Program, Stephanie has grown in confidence and connection, but it was through the Theater Program that she truly found her voice.
In 2025, she performed in ICAN’s Theater Showcase, stepping onto the stage with courage and excitement. What once felt intimidating became a proud milestone, allowing her to express herself creatively and share her joy with the community. “I love doing the clubs and shows at ICAN,” she shared.
Stephanie’s experience highlights how the Theater Program nurtures creativity, belonging, and the confidence to shine.
LOOKING AHEAD
ICAN enters the coming year grounded in momentum and guided by a continued commitment to opportunity, dignity, and inclusion for the individuals we serve.
By strengthening programs, deepening partnerships, and remaining responsive to evolving community needs, we will continue building pathways for individuals with disabilities to live, work, and connect in meaningful ways.
With the strength of our community behind us, ICAN is strongly positioned to carry this work forward and deepen its impact in 2026 and beyond.