Beacons, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public benefit nonprofit
empowering adults with diverse intellectual abilities!
IMPORTANT DATES & INFORMATION:
SIGN UP NOW for SUMMER WORKSHOPS! - Click Here
Upcoming Events:
5/10/25: Club (5:30 - 8:30 pm) - Theme Island Party
6/6/25: "Color in Motion" Art Exhibit - Click here to sign up! To see what the March Art Fair looked like, check out the "DiscARTed" Exhibit Catalog featuring artists and works!
2025 PATHFINDER
2025
INTEREST
INFO
New Applicants: Please complete the PathFinder Interest Form.
Current Trainees: Please email PathFinder@BeaconsNorthCounty to let us know of your interest in continuing with another workshop.
SDRC Vendor #: PY1700, Code: 102, Subcodes: Spring, Mini, Fall
SPRING WORKSHOPS
Interest Form Link
Monday through Thursday*
Morning Session 9 am - 12 pm
Afternoon Session 1 - 4 pm
*Fridays have extended hours:
All workshops: 10 am - 2 pm (Special Activities)
Office Closure Dates 2025:
Office closed:
1/1, 1/20, 5/26, 6/20, 7/4, 9/1, 11/11, 11/27-28, 12/24 - 12/31
Breaks:
3/31 - 4/4 (Tutoring and Instructor Prep Time)
5/24 - 7/6 (Summer Prep Time)
Please note that attendance is part of the entrance criteria and individuals absent for more than 10% of time may be exited from the workshop.
FALL WORKSHOPS
Interest Form Link
Monday through Thursday*
Morning Session 9 am - 12 pm
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Entrepreneurial Skills 1
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Film & Storytelling NEW!
Afternoon Session 1 - 4 pm
*Fridays have extended hours:
All workshops: 10 am - 2 pm (Special Activities)
PathFinder Forms & Steps
FORMS REQUIRED
If the applicant appears to have met the entrance criteria through the interest form and space is available, an intake meeting will set up to make sure PathFinder can meet the needs of the applicant and that entrance criteria is met. Once accepted, trainees will be asked to complete additional forms as noted below:
STEPS NEEDED
1. Applicants
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New Applicants: Please complete the Interest Form to start the process.
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Returning Trainees: Please send email to: PathFinder@BeaconsNorthCounty.com
2. Intake meeting for new applicants.
For new applicants, an intake meeting will be scheduled after the interest form is submitted to make sure PathFinder can meet the applicant's needs and that the entrance criteria is met. A formal application will be sent after the intake meeting if all parties agree that PathFinder workshops can meet the applicant's needs.
3. Funding & Documentation
(a) Traditionally funded SDRC Applicants:
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Notify the SDRC: Please let your SDRC service coordinator know that the applicant would like to enroll in a Beacons workshop and ask that applicant's most current IPP (and IPP addendum/s if applicable) and "CDER" (Client Development Evaluation Report) be sent to: Pathfinder@BeaconsNorthCounty.com
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Vocational IPP Goal: Please make sure the IPP (Individual Program Plan) has a vocational goal. If there isn't one, please ask the SDRC service coordinator to add one to the IPP, and that a "POS" (Purchase of Service) be completed and submitted to fund the workshop.
(b) For Self Determination Applicants:
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Contact both your SDRC service coordinator and the applicant's Independent Facilitator to discuss the applicant's interest in taking a PathFinder workshop and to make sure sufficient funding is in place to cover the costs of the workshop.
Spring and Fall workshops require coverage of at least 240 hours. (Funding for summer hours are dependent on what workshops the trainee wants to take and how much funding in the spending plan is available).
All SDRC "collateral" (IPP, IPP addendum/s, CDER and other relevant documentation) should be sent to PathFinder@BeaconsNorthCounty.com.
Thank you!
Workshop Descriptions
Creative Design
Creative Design Skills (Level 1)
Recommended for: Trainees interested in learning graphic design skills to create products, marketing materials and/or skills for community and/or self-employment using graphic design skills.
Workshop highlights: Trainees interested in creative design will enjoy this project-driven workshop to learn how to:
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use a graphic design programs and tools
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make digital art, graphics, animation and .gifs,
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make marketing materials and social media graphics,
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design and make books, puzzles, and wall art, to explore possible product lines that use graphic design,
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create their own website to showcase a portfolio and/or employment profile, and
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develop person-centered and person-directed plans to present to help shape their futures post-workshop.
Each unit includes pre- and post-unit assessments to measure progress, with extra hours for instructional support if needed to reach proficient levels in a targeted area. Workshop includes creation of a portfolio with designs and animation graphics, client meetings to develop soft skills, and meeting with community employers. Material costs are included in the workshop.
Creative Design Skills (Level 2)
Recommended for: Trainees with basic graphic design skills interested in more individualized skills development to help with designing for self-employment, specific projects, and/or product lines, and/or using their skills for community employment.
Workshop highlights: Trainees interest in creative design 2 will obtain help to support their individual creative pursuits and may include items such as:
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development of curriculum to teach,
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product development and placement in community stores or selling through community events (e.g. textile products, wall art, playing cards, puzzles, gift baskets, etc.),
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development of product lines to suit targeted audiences or themes,
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further development of skills to make digital art, graphics, animation and .gifs,
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marketing materials and social media graphics,
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creation of or further refinement of their own website to showcase a portfolio, sell products and/or market their skills through an employment profile, and
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develop person-centered and person-directed plans to present to help shape their futures post-workshop.
Each unit includes pre- and post-unit assessments to measure progress, with extra hours for instructional support if needed to reach proficient levels in a targeted area. Workshop includes creation of a portfolio with designs and animation graphics, client meetings to develop soft skills, and meeting with community employers. Material costs are included in the workshop.
Customer Service Skills
Customer Service Skills (Level 1)
Recommended for: Trainees interested in community employment categories that include, but are not limited to, retail, restaurant/food service, hospitality and recreation, animal care and more!
Workshop Highlights: Trainees interested in community employment will learn:
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workplace and soft skills such as cashier skills, pre- and post-hiring soft skills, and other tasks used in settings that require a high level of customer interaction, engagement and satisfaction;
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creation of "forever" tools to support job searches, applying for jobs, identify accommodations for the workplace, how to use and request of accommodation;
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learning about person-centered planning to devise a post-workshop plan and running a person-driven meeting to self-advocate for steps to implement the plan;
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development of an online employment profile through creation of a website; and
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learning food handling skills have the opportunity to train and take the county test to try to earn a county food handling license.
Each unit includes pre- and post-unit assessments to measure progress, with extra hours for instructional support if needed to reach proficient levels in a targeted area. Workshop includes applying to local jobs during the workshop, support at interviews during the workshop, meeting with employers to learn about their interview process, job tasks and hiring opportunities.
Customer Service Skills (Level 2)
Recommended for: Trainees interested in further development of their onsite and community workplace training arranged through Beacons workforce partnerships. Goal is to development stronger foundations and employer relationships to help trainees transition to competitive integrated employment (CIE), a paid internship program (where trainees can get paid for volunteering), and/or volunteer opportunities upon conclusion of the workshop. (Helpful workshop for those who participated in Level 1, but who were not yet ready for employment).
Workshop Highlights: Trainees interested in community employment will learn:
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further development of workplace soft skills,
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development of routines to support getting and keeping employment,
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updating of "forever" tools to support job searches, applying for jobs, identify accommodations for the workplace, how to use and request of accommodation;
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person-centered planning to update post-workshop plans and running a person-driven meeting to self-advocate for steps to implement the plan;
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SSI support and training,
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updating of online employment profiles, and resumes; and
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support for job searches, job development, interviewing and job placement.
Each unit includes pre- and post-unit assessments to measure progress, with extra hours for instructional support if needed to reach proficient levels in a targeted area. Workshop includes applying to local jobs during the workshop, support at interviews during the workshop, meeting with employers to learn about their interview process, job tasks and hiring opportunities.
Entrepreneurial Skills
Entrepreneurial Skills for Creative Microbusinesses (Level 1)
Recommended for: Trainees interested in learning about the skills and documentation needed to start their own business (or grow their existing business). Instruction includes assistive technology, creation of accommodations, and introduction to other tools to increase independence and sustainability of a business. This workshop focuses on group businesses and teamwork to learn the dynamics of self-employment.
Workshop Highlights: Trainees will explore:
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community sales skills such as cashier and customer interaction skills;
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photography and graphic design to help with branding and marketing, logo creation, and packaging,
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basic office skills for record-keeping and order /inventory management;
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creation of "forever" tools to support sales, order management, and inventory tracking;
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SSI planning and reporting;
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person-centered planning to devise a post-workshop transition plan or to help with Self-Determination planning if needed;
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website design and support to help link to payment processor/merchant card carrier;
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what documents they will need to start a business (e.g. business license and/or sales permit),*
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and more!
Each unit includes pre- and post-unit assessments to measure progress, with extra hours for instructional support if needed to reach proficient levels in a targeted area, such as the creation of a marketing email tool, meeting with retailers to discuss possible product placement (where applicable), selling in community markets, and/or the making of items to help with product displays or marketing.
*Note: Trainees will learn about the filings needed to secure a business license or sales permit in this workshop. Meetings will be held with each trainee's Circles of Trust to discuss SSI, taxes and other considerations to make sure the trainee's team is aware of tax, SSI and other implications before proceeding with business filings.
Entrepreneurial Skills for Creative Microbusinesses (Level 2)
Recommended for: Trainees with a current business plan who are looking to expand their business knowledge, refine their business plan, develop products lines, and launch an individual business for purposes of self-employment.
Workshop Highlights: Trainees will explore:
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community markets to sell individualized products;
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creation of business cards and promotional materials;
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SSI planning and reporting;
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creation of "forever" tools to support sales, order management, and inventory tracking;
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person-centered planning to devise a post-workshop transition plan or to help with Self-Determination planning if needed;
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website design and support to help link to payment processor/merchant card carrier;
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what documents they will need to start a business (e.g. business license and/or sales permit);
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and much more!
Film & Storytelling
Film & Storytelling (Level 1)
Recommended for: Trainees interested in writing, film and storytelling.
Workshop Highlights: Trainees will explore:
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story development,
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comics and Zine books,
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graphic novels and illustration,
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film for video segments and shooting scripts,
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planning and storyboards for a short film,
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casting, props and lighting,
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film editing and production,
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accommodation planning,
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how to submit in film festivals,
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and much more!
This is a new workshop available fall 2025!
Office Skills
Office Skills (Level 1)
Recommended for: Trainees with an interest working in a community business environment through either a paid internship, competitive integrated employment (CIE), or volunteerism.
Workshop Highlights: Trainees will explore:
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workplace soft skills and interactions;
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data entry;
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mailroom and copy center skills;
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coffee cart/station skills;
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typing to work towards LEAP certification;
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basic filing skills;
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basic computer skills using Google and/or Microsoft tools to create documents, enter data, and work with spreadsheets;
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workplace advocacy;
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SSI planning and reporting;
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accommodation planning;
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exploration of useful assistive technology to increase workplace success and employment options;
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skills to find, apply and get a job;
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and much more!
"Sous Chef" (Culinary arts)
Sous Chef (Level 1)
Recommended for: Trainees interested in developing skills to make and sell food to generate income.
Workshop Highlights: Trainees will explore a wide variety of recipes while learning:
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proper food handling,
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prepping for and taking the food handler's license exam,
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exploring the "cottage food business" and state requirements,
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how to package food for sale,
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labeling food for sale,
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working with breads, chocolate, and more!
Trainees will end the session with a person-centered plan and meeting to help them with the journey beyond the workshop!
This is a new workshop available in Fall 2025.
Instructor Information
Questions? Email: Pathfinder
Janet is a dedicated professional with a profound commitment to empowering adults with developmental disabilities. With a strong foundation cultivated over 16 years in customer-facing roles within the food and service industry, as well as memory care retirement homes, Janet possesses a unique ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Her genuine passion for making a difference led her to four impactful years at another local service provider, where she played a pivotal role as a Resource Counselor, nurturing essential life skills and fostering independence among her participants.
Janet's expertise is complemented by her ACRE certification in Community Employment Services, a testament to her dedication to tailored job placements. At Beacons, she has taught a wide variety of vocational workshops, skillfully guiding individuals to overcome challenges and supporting them on their path to purposeful and rewarding careers. Janet's empathy-driven communication and unwavering commitment to inclusivity exemplify her mission to create a positive, lasting influence on lives, making her an indispensable asset to the team.
Malerie has her Masters and is also a certified Career Services Provider (CCSP) with a professional certificate in grant writing, including a Google Foundations of Project Management Certificate.
She has worked as a career guidance technician at Surfside Educational Academy (Oceanside School District), a mentor and site coordinator with PASS Americorps, and as a resource parent with San Diego Youth Services.
Malerie has experience in a wide variety of support services including, but not limited to: academic assistance, career coaching, case management, employment development, and resource coordination. Malerie also has extensive skills in Canva design and gamification of instructional materials to help make learning fun!
Malerie currently shares her business background with our trainees in Customer Service, Entrepreneurial Skills workshops and Office Skills.
Lead Instructor
Britney is a dynamic and innovative professional with over six years of experience in both childcare and retail management, she is passionate about leveraging her creativity and leadership to inspire positive change and foster meaningful connections. Her career has been driven by a deep commitment to empowering others and creating inclusive environments where individuals can thrive.
Throughout her professional journey, she has worked with diverse groups, including children of all ages and those with disabilities, tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. She started the first Bionic Club in California, an impactful initiative designed to cultivate kindness and strengthen community ties within school environments. This program has helped peers develop empathy and compassion, making a lasting difference in the lives of students. Additionally, she launched a 3D program for middle school students , providing them with hands-on learning opportunities that foster creativity and critical thinking. Her entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in her artistic achievements, including the publication of a coloring book featuring her original hand-drawn artwork, now available on Amazon. This venture underscores her ability to combine creativity with business acumen, as well as her dedication to sharing her work with a broader audience.
In her personal life, she embraces mindfulness practices such as meditation and hiking, which help me maintain a balanced, grounded perspective. These passions fuel her creativity and enhance her ability to connect with others on a deeper level.
Charles is from Oceanside California and is a son, brother, father of three. He is very passionate about being of service within his community as well as outside of it.
Charles has a bachelor's degree in the science of psychology and over twenty years experience in helping individuals with maladaptive behavioral problems and disabilities. Throughout his experiences in life he has learned that everyone has battles to fight, and that “life is not about waiting for the storms to pass, but learning how to dance in the rain.”
Lead Instructor
Associate Instructor
Tracy plays a vital role in supporting the personal and professional growth of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her involvement at Beacons is fueled by a belief in the transformative power of job training and social opportunities to enhance lives, a commitment mirrored in her own experiences as a parent.
Transitioning from early childhood education to vocational training, Tracy has found her stride in engaging with a demographic that thrives under her guidance. She is known for her empathetic approach, listening keenly to the trainees and offering advice that resonates with their unique paths.
In her role, Tracy faces and overcomes challenges with a positive spirit, drawing inspiration from the resilience and achievements of those she mentors. Her personal joy comes from witnessing the direct impact of her work, whether it's through a trainee's smile or a problem solved. Beyond her professional life, Tracy’s heart lies in the simple pleasures of nature and self-sufficiency, with hobbies that range from gardening to biking, and aspirations that reflect her down-to-earth ethos.
Associate Instructor
Enid comes from multiple years in the educational field as a teacher and trainer. She was previously employed with MAAC Association, as the Lead Kindergarten Readiness Teacher. She created Individual Service Plans, used their Creative Curriculum program, implemented special events, such as the "Mommy and Me" program, community garden and a recycle center. Enid also served in Beacons Explorer Division prior to joining PathFinder.
Enid has worked as a Training Supervisor for the U.S. Department of Commerce (Census Bureau) and led a very diverse and large group of employees to exceed weekly goals. She has also worked as an Information and Referral Coordinator for the U.S. Army and provided training for military family members, whose children were of all ages with special needs (Exceptional Family Member Program). Enid participated in the Army McGruff Safe House Program and has an Associate Degree in Liberal Studies. She will have complete her B.A. in Liberal Studies in Spring "2025".