Our Mission Statement

Programs for Exceptional People (PEP) was incorporated as a nonprofit organization in December 1995. PEP has provided quality services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1996 and is a Licensed Qualified Provider through the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (SC DDSN).  PEP seeks to empower adults with special need and its philosophy is based the principles of inclusion, initialization, and the promotion of independence.  We have a person-centered and strengths-based approach in the delivery of our programs and services.

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, an array of community experiences and a variety of programs, activities and services. 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 work activity center, 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 Services, Employment Services and our Recreation and Respite Program.

Programs for Exceptional People continues to grow as we currently serve more than 40 adults with special needs, and the staff, Board of Directors, volunteers 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.

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Organizations(s) mentioned above:
South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (SC DDSN)