Nonprofit Beacons, Inc. continues to earn recognition from local officials and organizations for its success in training and preparing individuals with intellectual disabilities for employment and other postsecondary pursuits. Considered one of the most innovative postsecondary training options in North County, on Dec. 10, 2021, Beacons was presented with a Certificate of Commendation from Supervisor Jim Desmond for “enriching the lives of all our North County San Diego community members.” A ribbon cutting ceremony was also held with the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the launch of a new pilot program Navigator (an enriched learning option), and its second space expansion since 2019.

Earlier in the year Assemblymember Tasha Boerner Horvath recognized the nonprofit for its work. County Supervisor Desmond also supported the nonprofit’s request for a Neighborhood Reinvestment grant, which enabled it to make its space more accessible and updated

Beacons opened its doors late fall 2018 starting with its Club Beacons to provide social opportunities. In spring 2019, the PathFinder vocational training program was launched to teach office skills. PathFinder has since expanded to teach creative design, customer service, entrepreneurial skills and employer specific skills, partnering with supportive local businesses. In 2020, Beacons launched its self-determination division to help families and individuals with life planning.

January 18, 2022, the Navigator pilot program will provide experiential learning opportunities up to 30 hours a week so that those with intellectual disabilities can continue their postsecondary education. All workshops use adapted pacing, assistive technology, and small workshop ratios (approximately 3:1, trainee:instructor) to optimize learning and to provide instructional settings educational institutions are not able to provide. Each option typically has waitlists.

What’s next? Beacons eagerly seeks businesses to help provide employment opportunities and worksite tours.

Learn more at: www.BeaconsNorthCounty. com and lend a helping hand!