Becoming Independent

🎉 Philanthropic Partnership of the Year 🎉

Join us in celebrating this year’s Philanthropic Partnership of the Year Award winners: Clay and Carrie Mauritson!

Through their generosity, leadership, and commitment to community, Clay and Carrie have made a lasting impact at Becoming Independent. As Ambassadors of Indulge Sonoma, they have helped grow one of our signature fundraising events and bring people together in meaningful ways.

Their support extends far beyond a single event. Carrie’s leadership on BI’s Board of Directors and their choice to support Becoming Independent through their 2021 Project Zin fundraiser reflect their deep dedication to our mission and the people we serve.

Clay and Carrie truly represent what this award is all about - partnership, generosity, and creating meaningful community impact. We are so grateful for all they do!

🎥 Watch the video to learn more about their incredible support and impact!

🎉 Artist of the Year 🎉

Join us in celebrating this year’s Artist of the Year Award winner: Denee Locke!

As a professional artist in Becoming Independent’s art program, Denee brings creativity, authenticity, and vision to every piece she creates. Her artwork reflects her unique perspective and inspires others through the power of self-expression and inclusion.

Denee’s impact goes beyond her art. As a member of BI’s Board of Directors, she helps ensure the voices of the people we serve are represented and heard.

Denee truly embodies what the Artist of the Year Award is all about — creativity, leadership, and inspiring others through art. We are proud to celebrate her incredible talent and impact!

🎥 Watch the video to learn more about Denee’s artistry and leadership!

🎉 Advocate of the Year 🎉

Join us in celebrating this year’s Advocate of the Year Award winners: Erik and Nancy Mietz!

The Advocate of the Year Award honors those who use their voices to protect dignity, champion equity, and stand up for their community - and Erik and Nancy embody that spirit in every way.

Erik, who receives services through Becoming Independent to live independently, understands firsthand how essential support services are for individuals and families. As Erik shared, “Many people like me depend on government assistance… Without this help, I don’t know how I would live.”

When proposed policy changes threatened these critical services, Erik and Nancy chose to take action. Together, they stepped into advocacy by sharing their story at press conferences, participating in roundtable discussions with elected officials, and helping others understand what’s truly at stake. Nancy’s words capture the heart of their mission: “A healthy society takes care of everyone.”

Through their courage, honesty, and unwavering commitment, Erik and Nancy continue to inspire others to speak up, protect dignity, and ensure that all people have the opportunity to live, connect, and thrive.

🎥 Watch the video to hear Erik and Nancy’s story and see their advocacy in action!

🎉 Pathway to Employment 🎉

Join us in celebrating one of this year’s Spotlight Awards winners: Charles!

Charles began his vocational journey at Becoming Independent’s BI Buzz Café, where he developed valuable job skills through hands-on training and real-world experience. From customer service to workplace responsibility, he approached every opportunity with determination, focus, and a willingness to learn.

Through hard work and perseverance, Charles successfully transitioned into competitive employment at Dollar Tree, where he continues to grow and thrive. His journey is a powerful example of how confidence, training, and support can create meaningful pathways to independence and employment.

Charles truly represents what the Pathway to Employment Award is all about - dedication, growth, and achieving meaningful employment opportunities. We are so proud to celebrate all he has accomplished!

🎥 Watch the video to see Charles’ journey and impact in action!

🎉 Employment Partnership of the Year 🎉

Join us in celebrating one of this year’s Spotlight Awards winners: Devin and Alsco Uniforms!

Since joining Alsco Uniforms full-time in July 2024, Devin has become a valued member of the team through his strong work ethic, reliability, and positive attitude. His commitment and pride in his work recently earned him the 2025 Sonoma County Mayor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities Employee of the Year award.

Alsco Uniforms has also demonstrated an outstanding commitment to building an inclusive and supportive workplace. By recognizing the strengths and contributions of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, they continue to create meaningful opportunities and set an example for inclusive hiring in our community.

Together, Devin and Alsco Uniforms represent the true spirit of partnership - where inclusion, opportunity, and dedication come together to create lasting impact and meaningful employment for all.

🎥 Watch the video to see their story and impact in action!

🎉 Volunteer Partnership of the Year 🎉

Join us in celebrating one of this year’s Spotlight Awards winners: Patrick and the Charles M. Schulz Museum!

This partnership truly embodies what dedication, inclusion, and community connection look like in action. For more than 20 years, Patrick has contributed over 2,000 hours of volunteer service at the Charles M. Schulz Museum, where his passion for Peanuts and welcoming spirit have made him a valued part of the museum community.

The Charles M. Schulz Museum’s commitment to inclusive volunteer opportunities has created meaningful spaces for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to contribute, connect, and thrive. Their partnership reflects the power of recognizing the strengths and value every person brings to a community.

Together, Patrick and the Charles M. Schulz Museum represent what’s possible when inclusion and opportunity come together — creating lasting impact, meaningful connections, and a stronger community for all.

🎥 Watch the video to see their story and impact in action!

🎉 Impact Partnership of the Year 🎉

Join us in celebrating one of this year’s Spotlight Awards winners: Jimmy G. and Morton and Bassett Spices!

This partnership truly embodies what inclusion, collaboration, and community impact look like in action. Through inclusive hiring, Morton & Bassett Spices has created meaningful employment opportunities - supporting team members like Jimmy, whose contributions reflect the power of opportunity and the value of an inclusive workplace.

Their commitment goes far beyond employment. From ongoing advocacy to generous support of our mission, Morton & Bassett Spices continues to champion inclusion and uplift the voices of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Together, this partnership represents what’s possible when community and purpose align - creating opportunity, strengthening workplaces, and building a more inclusive future for all.

🎥 Watch the video to see their story and impact in action!