S.T.E.P PROGRAM

Skills, Training, & Entrepreneurial Pathways

What is S.T.E.P. ?

STEP: Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Pathways is an 11-week pilot program designed to empower individuals with developmental and physical disabilities in the Imperial Valley to achieve workforce economic development.

The S.T.E.P pilot program aligns with California Jobs First statewide initiative by delivering Access to Thrive's plan to integrate a full-circle workforce development model where training fosters entrepreneurship, entrepreneurship creates inclusive employment, and employment strengthens community support. As a key initiative of the Southern Boarder Coalition the S.T.E.P pilot program recognizes that people with disabilities are natural innovators skilled in adaptation and problem-solving and transforms these strengths into entrepreneurial success. In Imperial County, where unemployment and disability rates are among the highest in California, this pilot program represents a vital first step towards economic inclusion, resilience, and lasting opportunity for a historically overlooked community.

This pilot program will take place at the Honor Health Sciences campus in El Centro, CA and provide participants with:

  • Customized Curriculum: A curriculum focused on business planning, micro-enterprise, and leadership training.

  • Adaptive Technology: Access to specialized adaptive devices to ensure full accessibility.

  • Professional Support: Guidance from a multidisciplinary team, including Occupational Therapist, Psychologist, and business facilitators.

  • Disability Benefits Education: Integrated education on federal work incentives, such as Trial Work Periods and CalABLE Accounts.

Who Qualifies?

​The STEP program is designed to empower the entire disability community.

  • ​Individuals with Disabilities: Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking economic development through business ownership.

  • Full-time Family Caregivers: Available for those caring for children or adults with high-support 24/7 needs.

    The program supports building a flexible business that fits their caregiving life.

  • Community Visionaries: Local residents with business ideas that directly improve accessibility and quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

Executive Director, Ashley Contreras

Director of strategic planning, Malik Glasgow