Stephanie Rodriguez

Becoming Independent

Becoming Independent — also known as BI — helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities live meaningful and productive lives. We are a nonprofit community benefit organization serving Sonoma, Napa, Marin, and Solano counties with a purpose to elevate human abilities for the mutual benefit of our community. At BI, we believe our pioneering model has and always will break barriers for people with disabilities. We believe in the power of authentic human connection. We believe that beauty and potential exist in each of us. We believe it's our responsibility to be active citizens. We believe in standing for the rights of all people, the right to a life of dignity and fulfillment. Awards and Recognition: NBBJ Best Places to Work - 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2011, 2010, 2009 North Bay Women in Business Award - 2020 BI's Chief Executive Officer, Luana Vaetoe, is a 2020 North Bay Business Journal Women in Business Award winner. Community Hero Award - Nonprofit Community Service - 2019 The Santa Rosa Metro Chamber and Poppy Bank presented BI with their first ever Community Hero Award for Nonprofit Community Service. BI was elected by the community with over 300 votes, and was honored for supporting the community through volunteerism and for providing top notch services. Forty Under 40 2022 BI's Director of Education, Kaela Talafili, was selected as a member of the prestigious 40 Under Forty by the North Bay Business Journal. 2016 BI's Chief Executive Officer, Luana Vaetoe, was selected as a member of the prestigious 40 Under Forty by the North Bay Business Journal.