Founded in 2009 by two parents of special needs children, the Pahrump Disability Outreach Program (P.D.O.P.) emerged from a deep need for local support. These parents, realizing the lack of resources and information in Pahrump, committed to creating a supportive environment for families like theirs. “Reaching for the stars, and settling for nothing less” became the organization’s driving slogan, reflecting their aspirations for the community. As Cindy Small, a key figure in the organization, explains, “P.D.O.P. is a growing, non-profit organization that offers families a place for support, information, education, training, and friendship without having to go to Las Vegas.”
The mission of P.D.O.P. is multifaceted. The organization provides support to parents, siblings, and other family members of children with any disability, welcoming anyone who supports its cause. While P.D.O.P. primarily advocates for special needs individuals, it also aims to support all children in the community.
P.D.O.P. offers a variety of programs to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities. One notable program is the weekly “life skills” club for individuals aged 10 and above, helping them learn and improve essential life skills for societal integration and success. Additionally, regular social events provide opportunities for special needs individuals and their families to interact with each other and typically developed peers. “Each week is an opportunity for these individuals to learn, grow, and put to work real-life skills, preparing them for the world around them,” said Small.
The organization also conducts training sessions for parents as needed and advocates for children through the education system by assisting with school meetings, reviewing documents, and drafting Individualized Education Plans. P.D.O.P. hosts several community events, such as the Holiday Task Force Easter and July 4th events, a back-to-school drive, and a toy drive. These events not only support the families directly involved but also foster a sense of community and inclusion.
The impact of P.D.O.P.’s programs is best illustrated by testimonials from those they have helped. One such client, JP, shared their gratitude for learning essential skills like telling time with the help of dedicated volunteers like Miss Cindy. “I just want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to Miss Cindy for her dedication and passion in teaching us (how to tell time on a clock). She truly goes above and beyond to make sure we’re learning and growing. Thank you, Miss Cindy!” This heartfelt testimonial highlights the positive impact that P.D.O.P. has on the lives of its participants.
P.D.O.P. actively engages with the local community by supporting various causes and partnering with organizations for community events. The organization uses its web presence, social media, and printed flyers to raise awareness about its mission and services. This broad engagement strategy ensures that P.D.O.P. remains visible and accessible to those who need it most. Cindy Small emphasizes, “We are regularly meeting with community organizations as needed such as No to Abuse, Nye Communities Coalition, Nye County School District to ensure we can achieve not only our goals but help our partner organizations achieve their goals as well.”
Funding remains a significant challenge for P.D.O.P., but the organization has overcome this with the help of its annual fundraising event, PDOP Pumpkin Days. Generous donations from community organizations also play a crucial role in supporting the group’s mission. Small noted that “each October for the past 15 years, PDOP Pumpkin Days has been held and the success of this event provides the funding resources to support the organization throughout the year.”
The effectiveness of P.D.O.P.’s programs is measured by the progress and achievements of the children they assist. As these children grow up, secure jobs, and integrate into society, the organization sees the tangible results of its efforts. “We measure the effectiveness of our program by the children that we have been able to help and the progress they make,” said Small.
Community members can support P.D.O.P. through financial donations and volunteering. Interested individuals can visit the website www.pdop.info or call 702-516-0847 for more information.
Two partnerships have been particularly beneficial for P.D.O.P.: Nye Communities Coalition and Stephanie Lopez-Avena with Positive Pahrump. These collaborations have helped the organization achieve its goals and support the community.
In the next ten years, P.D.O.P. aims to build its own facility with a work training component for special needs individuals and assist in constructing a special needs-accessible playground in Pahrump. The organization has also introduced a small food and clothing bank to help clients prepare for self-sufficiency.
Cindy Small, motivated by her child’s needs, became involved with P.D.O.P. to create opportunities for older disabled adults. The most rewarding aspect of her work is witnessing the achievements and new experiences of the organization’s “kids.”
P.D.O.P. aims to build or renovate a location where individuals can learn various skills and integrate into the workforce. This initiative would help the community learn compassion and support clients’ independence, providing employers with an affordable workforce and teaching valuable work ethics.
P.D.O.P. is excited to welcome the community to PDOP Pumpkin Days 2024, scheduled for October 25-27 at Ian Deutch Park. The event will feature a Monster Dash 5K, a pumpkin patch, hay rides, a petting zoo, a haunted house, and much more. It promises to be a fall event for the entire family.
For more information and to support the Pahrump Disability Outreach Program, visit www.pdop.info or call 702-516-0847.
