A place to learn, work and belong

In 1995, Programs for Exceptional People (PEP) began with a simple but powerful belief: Adults with intellectual, physical and developmental disabilities deserve opportunities to learn, work, build friendships and be active, valued members of their community. What started as a small program serving a handful of individuals has grown into an organization that now serves about 90 adults throughout the Lowcountry.

More than three decades later, PEP’s mission remains centered on empowering lives and enriching communities.

Every weekday, PEP members arrive ready for a day of learning, activity, friendship and purpose. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all program, PEP provides a variety of experiences designed to meet members’ individual interests, abilities and goals.

A typical week might include cooking classes that teach members how to prepare meals and make healthy choices; life-skills activities that build independence and confidence; and time in PEP’s computer lab developing technology and literacy skills. Members stay active through movement therapy and exercise programs, get their hands dirty while learning about gardening and explore science and technology through activities such as robotics. Art, music, pottery, recreation, community outings and employment opportunities round out a schedule designed to keep members learning, growing and engaged.

One of PEP’s priorities is creating employment opportunities for members who want to work and earn a paycheck. This year, a new partnership with The Grind Coffee Roasters will create another pathway toward that goal.

PEP members will begin working in The Grind’s coffee shop in Sheridan Park, gaining job experience while taking orders, stocking supplies, cleaning and assisting with daily tasks. As members develop their skills, the partnership is expected to expand into The Grind’s warehouse, where members can learn additional job skills such as filling and sealing coffee bags and applying product labels.

For PEP members, opportunities like these are about more than completing a task. Employment provides a paycheck, but it also provides independence, responsibility, confidence, social connection and the pride that comes from contributing to the community.

Making these opportunities possible requires community support. PEP relies on grants and donations to sustain its weekday programs as well as one of its essential services: transportation. Each weekday, PEP vehicles travel throughout Beaufort and Jasper counties to pick up members from their homes, bring them to PEP and into the community, and safely return them home at the end of the day. Without transportation, many members would not be able to participate.

The community can support PEP by getting a car washed during Tidal Wave’s Charity Day in Hilton Head and Bluffton on Friday, Sept. 18. PEP also will hold Boots, Barbeque, and Oysters on Saturday, Oct. 17, at The Golf Club at Indigo Run. The event will support programs that provide purpose, connection, employment and independence for adults in the community. More information can be found at PEPHHI.org.

Nancy T. Sulek is the executive director of Programs for Exceptional People.