Here at Programs Employing People (PEP), we are providing people with disabilities employment and day services to improve their lives within the community. Since our creation in 1969 our mission focus has been to provide education, recreation, vocational training, and job placement services to people with disabilities and to strengthen their relationships in the community. In short, we focus on abilities to create opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Philadelphia so that they can live the life they deserve.
But, what do we mean by intellectual and developmental disability? According to the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) – an organization that promotes progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and universal human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities – developmental disability is an umbrella term that includes intellectual disability and other disabilities with childhood onset.
Intellectual disability is characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning (reasoning, learning, problem solving) and in adaptive behavior, which covers a range of everyday social and practical skills. This disability originates before the age of 18. Intellectual disability is the most common developmental disability.
According to the Arc, the largest advocacy organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the country, up to 3% of Americans have intellectual disability. Common causes include genetic conditions, problems during pregnancy or at birth, or exposure to toxins. Intellectual disability can vary in severity from living independently to lifelong limitations in functioning. With the proper attention and support, all people with intellectual disability can lead fulfilling lives.
People with disabilities have been a historically underserved population. According to a survey by the National Organization on Disabilities people with disabilities lack educational opportunities and employment, adequate income, transportation, and socialization 2 to 3 times more often than people without disabilities.
In spite of limits, people with intellectual disability have great abilities and can be successful in many areas. PEP strives to encourage and strengthen these abilities by matching individuals with activities and employment that fit their abilities, needs, and interests. PEP’s qualified and dedicated staff members do this with individual attention to each person.
Without awareness and necessary funding, programs like PEP could not exist. Since our humble beginnings 45 years ago, PEP has expanded to provide Employment Services, Adult Day Training including senior services, In-Home and Community Habilitation, Adult Literacy and Basic Education, Community Arts for Socialization, as well as our founding program Camp PEP. Our program goals are tailored to meet the needs of each individual we served.
Working with people with intellectual disability, every day is filled with the successes of our consumers. Whether they are engaged with traffic safety, learning computer skills, or gaining employing in the community, PEP consumers are always moving forward in a positive and thoughtful manner.
We welcome you to take a look around this site to learn more about intellectual disability and how our programs focus on the abilities of these incredible people in our community. And this March, National Intellectual Disability Awareness Month, we encourage you to get involved with PEP: volunteer, donate, advocate.