PUENTES - BRIDGES in Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Kern Counties
The PUENTES - BRIDGES program first made its debut in 2022 in Kern County. As a result of our success in serving the community in Kern, we have expanded to Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties. We value our communities and are delighted to be supporting students with disabilities and their families cross the bridge from school services to adult services. PUENTES - BRIDGES offers the following supports:
Our Support Structure
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Collaborative Efforts
PUENTES - BRIDGES collaborates closely with families, support networks, service providers, and community agencies such as:
• Community events, fairs, and school districts
• Essential feedback from parents, self-advocates, and agencies
• Stipend opportunities available!
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Educational Workshops
PUENTES - BRIDGES hosts informational workshops for parents and self-advocates regarding life after high school such as:
• Employment
• Disability law
• Financial literacy
• Self advocacy
• And many more!
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Outreach
PUENTES - BRIDGES engage in ongoing collaborations with organizations such as:
• Transition fairs
• Community events
• School districts
• And many more!
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One-on-One Support
PUENTES - BRIDGES hands-on support for individuals and families such as:
• Accessing information
• Navigating the regional center
• Goal setting
• And many more!
About Us
PUENTES / BRIDGES
As a PathPoint educational program, our mission with PUENTES / BRIDGES is to provide support for transition-age youth with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and their families (who are currently being served by your local Regional Center) in understanding the transition process from school services to adult services, and into the workforce using transition planning. PUENTES / BRIDGES works side-by-side with families and their student to connect them to resources and services that will help in achieving the goals of the student after completing high school.
PATHPOINT
Established in 1964, PathPoint is a non-profit organization supporting people in living the life they choose. We partner with people with disabilities, people with mental health diagnoses, and young adults to pursue their hopes and dreams through strengthening workplace abilities, building life skills, and developing meaningful relationships. We envision compassionate, inclusive, and equitable communities where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive.
REGIONAL CENTERS
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) oversees the coordination and delivery of services for Californians with developmental disabilities through a statewide network of 21 community-based, non-profit agencies known as regional centers. Regional centers provide assessments, determine eligibility for services, and offer case management services. Regional centers also develop, purchase, and coordinate the services in each person’s Individual Program Plan.