| ||||||||||||||
| 
Programs for Exceptional People (PEP) was incorporated as a nonprofit organization in December 1995. PEP has provided quality services to adults with developmental disabilities since 1996 and is a Qualified Provider through the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN). PEP’s philosophy is based the principles of inclusion, initialization, and the promotion of independence. Our approach to service delivery is person-centered and strengths-based. A grassroots organization, PEP was founded by a small group of parents who were committed to advocating for the rights and needs of their disabled adult children. The initial goal of PEP was to provide meaningful activities and experiences for adults living with lifelong disabilities, and so during the summer of 1996, six adults were served during PEP’s first summer program. The families quickly recognized the benefits to their adult children: socializing with a group of peers and an array of community experiences and activities. The parents then developed Programs for Exceptional People into a year-round service agency. In February of 2002, PEP moved into the new PEP center on Oak Park Drive on Hilton Head Island. With the increased space, PEP was able to solicit additional contract work for the sheltered workshop, welcome additional members, and offer more services. To date, we have a variety of program components that address the various needs of our program members including Day Habilitation and Prevocational Services, Supported Employment, Recreation and Respite, STRIVE, and Individual Rehabilitation and Supports. Programs for Exceptional People continues to grow, and the staff, Board of Directors, and the greater Lowcountry community put forth immeasurable efforts to keep up with the increased demand for services. PEP remains dedicated to meeting the needs of our current members and their families, future program participants, and the needs of our community as a whole. | |||||||||||||
