Since 1964, Futures Explored has worked to give individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities access to programs, supports, and advocacy that are informed and led by them, the participants. The nonprofit, which was founded in the East Bay, currently has an estimated 450 participants and 150 staff in seven cities, including Livermore and Pleasanton, in Northern California. Many of the nonprofit’s staff members have worked for Futures Explored for more than 15 years.

“Our daily goal is to provide programs and support to our participants, care for their needs, inspire them to get the best out of their day, and motivate them to succeed in whatever they are doing,” according to Marie Stapleton, Board of Directors Vice President, who notes that the nonprofit’s employees “do what they do because they love it and care deeply for our participants.” The nonprofit’s programs are broken into four different competencies: Community Connections, Employment and Education, Film and Media, and Personal Wellness. A Futures Explored Personal Wellness facility is located in Livermore. A new Community Connections program, called Go Group, opened in Hacienda in May. Each Go Group acts as a kind of social hub, providing inclusive, community-based programs that support individuals in building independence, social connections, and meaningful community involvement.

One way Futures Explored has supported individuals in the Tri-Valley is by teaching them how to use public transportation and/or fixed-route paratransit services. An estimated 29 of 32 participants have received training on how to travel between Futures Explored programs and community locations. Such training is an important milestone for participants, as it promotes greater independence and community engagement.

“Our team has provided ongoing support and training in scheduling and planning rides, and most participants are now able to independently coordinate their own transportation,” says Stapleton. “This has helped increase access to social, recreational, and community-based opportunities while building confidence and self-sufficiency.”

An official ribbon-cutting and open house event will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 from 10 am to 2 pm at the new Go Group and Executive Administrative offices. The location is 5990 Stoneridge Drive, Suites 106 and 106A. Executives say they can schedule tours for interested parties at later dates as well.

“We have a long history of successful business operation and service delivery,” notes Executive Director Erica Horn. “As funding dries up, the need for programs for folks with disabilities and the population we serve becomes even greater.”

The Tri-Valley community can support Futures Explored in a variety of ways. In addition to donations, the group seeks to partner with businesses to create internships and job opportunities for its clients. Giving them access to product or facility tours is also helpful. Those who can teach a basic class in a huge range of areas are also welcome to volunteer. Such educational activities expose participants to a variety of skill sets and broaden their experiences. Futures Explored is also making the conference room at its new Hacienda location available for rental as another way to offset costs. Additionally, the public can support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by adopting a supportive attitude, according to one Go Group coordinator.

“The best support anyone can offer is treating us as equal and part of the community,” says Mitra Mostofi, who leads the Go Group in Pleasanton. “Just meet us with curiosity and openness by asking questions and opening up a conversation. Instead of focusing on our differences and special treatment, celebrate the strengths and diversity we bring.”

For more information about Futures Explored, please visit www.futures-explored.org, www.facebook.com/FuturesExplored, www.instagram.com/futuresfilmstudio, www.youtube.com/user/FEstories/videos, or www.linkedin.com/company/futures-explored-inc.

To support Futures Explored as a business or to set up a tour, please email mariestapleton@futures-explored.org.