Stories
News, stories, and updates from Independent Identity and the community we serve.
In the News & Our Story
Independent Identity was founded on the belief that adulthood should be filled with opportunity, connection, and purpose for people of all abilities. Here you'll find news coverage, the story of our inspiration Geoffrey, and updates from our community.
Founder Jenna Taylor was named an Extraordinary Woman of the Year by the Austin American-Statesman in 2023 — a recognition of her decade-long commitment to adults with autism and IDD in Austin, Texas.
Featured Story
Extraordinary Woman of the Year — Austin American-Statesman
In the NewsJenna Taylor's passion for working with autistic teens and adults began in high school in a class called 'Peer Buddy'. There she met her friend Geoffrey.
— Austin American-Statesman, July 2023
Independent Identity Founder and Executive Director Jenna Taylor was honored as an Extraordinary Woman of the Year by the Austin American-Statesman in July 2023. Read the full story on the Statesman website.
Jenna Taylor, Founder
Featured Stories
Geoffrey's Story
Geoffrey Zaragoza
Geoffrey loved fishing, Mountain Dew, and assisting his dad with the cross country and track teams as manager. He never met a stranger and left everyone he encountered with a smile.
— Jenna Taylor, Founder & Executive Director
Independent Identity Founder Jenna Taylor met Geoffrey Zaragoza in a high school class called 'Peer Buddy'. Geoffrey was born with an enlarged heart and was diagnosed with a seizure disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder at 18 months old. In December 2003, Geoffrey passed away. After this devastating loss, Jenna made the decision to study special education — and Geoffrey continues to be the guiding light and inspiration for Independent Identity.
Golf for Geoffrey — Alamosa, Colorado
Community Support
The annual event in Alamosa, Colorado donated all funds from their June 2019 event to Independent Identity.
— Alamosa Valley Courier
The annual Golf for Geoffrey event in Alamosa, Colorado — Geoffrey's hometown — donated all proceeds from their June 2019 event to Independent Identity. The donation was presented to Jenna Taylor as the first donation to her budding organization.
One Year Anniversary Open House
Independent Identity
A celebration of one year of creating quality lives through ABA in Austin, Texas.
— Independent Identity, April 2023
In April 2023, Independent Identity celebrated its one-year anniversary with an open house for participants, families, staff, and community supporters. The event marked a milestone in the organization's growth and commitment to the Austin community.
From Peer Buddy to Founder
Jenna Taylor
Taylor saw a path and decided to take the steps towards her goal. The Alamosa graduate went on to study special education and would collect her Master's Degree in Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis.
— Alamosa Valley Courier
Jenna Taylor's journey from a high school Peer Buddy class in Alamosa, Colorado to founding Independent Identity in Austin, Texas is a story of friendship, loss, and purpose. Geoffrey's memory drives every decision she makes for the organization.
Share Your Story
Has Independent Identity made a difference in your life or your family's life? We would love to hear from you and share your story with our community.
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