East Bay Innovations Founder to Retire in 2026
Tom Heinz will step down from the San Leandro nonprofit at the end of 2026 after over three decades of service.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Jobs — General
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Tom Heinz, the founder of the San Leandro-based nonprofit East Bay Innovations, has announced plans to retire at the end of 2026. Since founding the organization in 1994, he has led efforts to provide independent living and employment services for adults with disabilities.
Why it matters
The organization plays a vital role in enabling adults with disabilities to secure housing and employment. Heinz has utilized his long-standing relationships with state lawmakers and community leaders to expand these essential opportunities.
East Bay Innovations supports 1,100 clients annually through its education, housing, and employment programs. Among those served, some achieve significant career milestones, including one client earning an $80,000 salary and another in a supervisory role.
The players
Tom Heinz
He is the founder of East Bay Innovations who has managed the nonprofit's growth and advocacy efforts for over 30 years.
East Bay Innovations
Based in San Leandro, this nonprofit organization provides education, employment, housing, and supportive services to adults with disabilities.
The details
Founded in 1994, the nonprofit provides critical training in personal care and assistance with government benefit applications. The organization receives state funding to support its mission of helping adults with disabilities live independently.
Timeline
Tom Heinz founded East Bay Innovations in 1994.
The founder plans to retire from the organization at the end of 2026.
Market Landscape
The organization's model follows the federal mandate established by the Americans with Disabilities Act to integrate individuals with disabilities into the workforce and independent housing. This operational approach positions the nonprofit as a critical link between state resources and local labor market opportunities.
The organization will continue to provide education and employment services to its 1,100 annual clients during the leadership transition. Residents seeking support with government benefit applications or personal care training can still access these resources in San Leandro.
The takeaway
The nonprofit demonstrates that specialized support services can lead to high-earning employment outcomes for adults with disabilities. Those interested in organizational stability should monitor the upcoming search for a new leader before the 2026 retirement date.
Further reading
Learn more about the local labor market by visiting the Jobs — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CBS News.
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