Other Programs
The Disability Action Center offers other programs that supplement the four core services. These programs reflect needs in our service communities that have been identified by persons with disabilities. The Empowering Students and Parents (ESP) program provides assistance in navigating through public education systems. ESP is available in all areas based on request, but receives targeted support for Cherokee and Union counties through the United Way of the Piedmont. Project HOPE exists with additional support from the Projects with Industry program of the U.S Department of Education, and assists citizens with disabilities in Fairfield, Lexington, and Richland counties to find and maintain competitive jobs.
Audience specific assessment and training is available on a sliding fee basis. The Disability Action Center recently completed a contract to perform accessibility assessments at eighteen Head Start centers. Immediate future plans for other programs call for an expansion of Project HOPE, improved transportation services, and the introduction of a travel and vacation program.
The mission of the ESP program is to augment the educational and specialized services for students with disabilities in public school settings. This is achieved by providing knowledge, services, and training to students, parents, families, and caregivers in a number of areas. Click above to learn more.
The Disability Action Center sponsors Project HOPE through a grant from the Projects with Industry program of the U.S. Department of Education. Project HOPE is a compatible core service endeavor, as the central premise of the program is to provide a linkage to greater independence through employment and economic self-sufficiency. Project HOPE is an open-entry, skilled-exit initiative that is currently offered in a formal partnership with the Home Builder’s Institute. Project HOPE has a number of collaborative partners, including the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department, University of South Carolina, and RBC Centura Bank.
Project HOPE applies a person centered approach to create and expand job and career opportunities for persons with disabilities in the competitive labor market.
The Disability Action Center offers technical assistance, training, and speakers for business, education, faith-based, and government groups. These learning opportunities are audience specific and taught by staff with years of experience. Training is available in either 1 ½ hr, half-day or full-day sessions. Speaking requests are honored on a case by case basis. Fees are on a sliding scale, and discounted for non-profit groups.