Programs for Exceptional People (PEP)

Program Overview

Programs for Exceptional People (PEP) provides programs and services for adults with intellectual disabilities. The 27 year-old non-profit organization was founded in 1995 by six families on Hilton Head Island, with initial funding from the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry.

PEP currently serves 66 members all living in Beaufort and Jasper counties. The organization's 11,000 square feet facility is in Bluffton, SC. PEP provides daily transportation to and from its facility,.

PEP provides its participants on-site activities such as exercise, science, arts and crafts, life skills and literacy programs. In addition to the on-site activities, PEP provides vocational opportunities for its members who go out and work at different businesses. PEP partners with local area businesses to provide work opportunities for members (i.e., PLAY, Publix, and Carolina Dreamers).

PEP also operates two microbusinesses using the skills of its participants. One microbusiness involves PEP participants selling ceramic art that is handmade at the PEP facility. The other microbusiness involves PEP participants providing lawn care for homes and businesses in the local community..