A longtime community program supporting individuals with special needs is entering a new chapter in Pahrump. The PDOP Life Skills Club, operated by the Pahrump Disability Outreach Program (PDOP), is expanding its reach beginning in February through a new partnership with Voices for All Abilities (VFAB).
With more than a decade of history in the community, the Life Skills Club will now open enrollment to children ages 7 through adulthood, offering free weekly sessions focused on practical life skills, social development, and inclusive community connection. Participation in the program is open at no cost to families.
The Life Skills Club was originally founded through a partnership between PDOP and RNG Farms, shaped by the leadership of Lynne and Erica Johnston. From its earliest days, the program has provided a safe, welcoming environment where individuals with special needs could learn, grow, and build confidence through hands-on experiences.
Meeting weekly, the Skills Club blends fun with purpose. Participants engage in activities such as cooking basics, safety awareness, communication practice, teamwork challenges, sensory-friendly projects, and guided peer interaction. Each session is designed to help individuals develop independence, strengthen social skills, and gain real-world experience in a supportive setting.
Following the passing of Lynne Johnston in 2024, PDOP temporarily combined younger participants with the adult group while exploring ways to continue and expand the program. Through the renewed partnership with Voices for All Abilities and the support of dedicated volunteers, PDOP has been able to honor Lynne’s legacy while creating new opportunities for younger children to participate earlier in life.
“Lynne was integral in something that mattered — a place where kids could learn, belong, and be seen,” said Cindy Small, Vice President of the Pahrump Disability Outreach Program.
PDOP President David Boruchowitz said the expansion reflects both gratitude and excitement for the future. “This new partnership allows us to carry Lynne’s vision forward while expanding opportunities for even more children in our community. We are excited to provide this service to more children and earlier in their lives to help prepare them. We are grateful for this partnership.”
Voices for All Abilities President Whitney echoed that sentiment, noting that the program aligns closely with VFAB’s mission. “The Skills Club represents everything we believe in — inclusion, empowerment, and giving individuals of all ages the chance to build real-world skills in a supportive environment. We’re proud to partner with PDOP to expand opportunities for families in our community and to continue the legacy that Lynne helped create.”
Through the collaboration, the Life Skills Club will continue offering weekly skill-building workshops, social and peer-interaction activities, community engagement opportunities, and a welcoming environment for individuals with diverse needs. The expansion to serve participants ages 7 and up reflects growing community demand and a shared commitment to accessible, meaningful programming for local families.
Families interested in enrolling their children or learning more about the PDOP Life Skills Club can visit pahrumpdisabilityoutreachprogram.com/life-skills. Community members who would like to volunteer or support the program can also connect with PDOP or Voices for All Abilities at voicesforallabilities.org.
