Challenge Center Inc

Enterprises were specifically created to support individuals with hands-on work opportunities at a pace and expectation level to meet the individual's current capabilities. This program allows individuals a safe environment in which to test community workplace readiness and interest in either a prevocational sheltered workplace or in the community. These vocational services include job development and preparedness, job shadowing and coaching, task analysis, transportation supports, career profile services and transition to long term employment. Our Community Employment Program provided support for 16 individuals in 9 different community businesses in 2024. Of the 9 individuals served, 4 were new to the program in 2024. Within Bay Produce and Marathon Enterprises 37 participants pursued their individual prevocational goals toward future employment while earning $153,148.30 in wages in 2024. Bay Produce consists of 1.5 acres of greenhouse space, producing several different types of tomatoes and herbs. Marathon Enterprises operates a fulltime confidential shredding service with the ability to take on long or short-term work on a contractual basis with local businesses.

The Adult Day Program provides a wide variety of learning and recreational opportunities to people with varied capabilities. Adult Day Programs offer scheduling choices for activities both community wide and facility based within four program areas. The Life Enrichment Program schedules community opportunities that generally appeal to older participants. This program utilizes many local resources such as restaurants, museums, parks and other points of interest. The Life Enrichment Program served 16 individuals in 2024 providing 18,408 hours of service. The Life Skills Program adds volunteering opportunities, caring for a local park and a variety of other community organizations. The schedule also includes regular recreational activities, emphasizing physical activities such as local trail systems, swimming, bowling, and other seasonal activities. Life Skills served 26 individuals in 2024 providing 28,548 hours of service. The Sensory Program is focused on helping individuals with severe to profound physical challenges to maintain their activities of daily living. The Sensory Program served 17 individuals in 2024 providing 14,692 hours of service. It is common for individuals to spend a portion of each week in different programs to pursue personal interests.