Beacon – Ohio is passionate about making a difference in the lives of the people we support, families and staff through exceptional supports and services. Using person-centered assessments, we help people discover their interests, dreams, and talents, along with their support needs. Our goal is for people to develop meaningful relationships, reduce social isolation, and create valued social roles in the community. We want every person to be able to say “I am an important part of my community”.
Community & Campus-Based Day Programs
The 4 Pillars
- Community Life – We try to look at what makes being a good community member possible and how we can enhance or create these skills. This can be done in a multitude of different ways by exploring what our communities are already doing and how we can enhance or become involved.
- Work Exploration – If anyone is interested in working, we can figure out how to support them to get a meaningful job that fulfills their desires.
- Meaningful Connection – This can look different for everyone. For some it’s visiting the coffee shop and seeing a familiar face. For others, it could be developing friendships outside of their normal circle. This also can be done in a multitude of ways as mentioned above.
- Fun – Everyone wants to have fun!! There is no reason we can’t have fun as we explore our community and see what opportunities we have and can create!
Pillars Community-Based Program operates under the Adult Day Support (ADS) billing options. Beacon’s Pillars Program is focused on the community integration aspect of ‘Day Hab’ or ‘Adult Day Array’ options. This focus we believe is in the best interest of any individual we serve.
Program Structure & Operations
- Groups consist of up to 4 individuals per staff member.
- Activities are person-centered and developed monthly with individuals’ input.
- Typical outings: mall, movies, Meals on Wheels, bowling, and other community activities.
- Staff pick up individuals in the morning (8:30–10:00 AM) and switch from non-medical transport billing to day service billing afterward.
- Drop-offs in the afternoon occur between 3:00–4:30 PM.
- Groups can meet up with others for shared activities (ex: bowling) but cannot ride together in the same vehicle for billing reasons.
- Individuals must typically bring their own money for activities; calendar budgets aim for $60–$80/month.
Key Program Benefits
- Beacon handles transportation. Individuals are picked up and dropped off.
- Medication administration is offered.
- The Pillars Program encourages independence through budgeting, planning, and community integration.
Beacon Pillars Campus-Based Program is dedicated to providing a safe, engaging, and enriching environment where individuals can participate in meaningful daytime activities that promote personal growth, creativity, and social connection. Through a structured yet flexible daily schedule, our programs foster a sense of community, encourage lifelong learning, and support individual expression.
Program Features
Structured curriculum with weekly themes (arts, reading, cooking, tactile activities).- Aim to “graduate” individuals to community-based services if appropriate.
- One community outing each week – participation optional.
- Individuals bring their own lunch, facility offers a microwave and refrigerator.
- Transportation is provided (pickup/drop-off).
Structured curriculum with weekly themes (arts, reading, cooking, tactile activities).Activities and Learning
- Sensory Room: Specially designed, controlled, and calming environment that helps individuals under our care.
- External Professionals: Periodic activities (e.g., hip-hop dance/aerobics instructor).
- Morning Meetings: Group check-ins, light body exercises and calming activities.
- Educational Activities: Reading, math, and tactile learning projects.
- Arts + Crafts: Painting, drawing, pottery, knitting, and more!
- Cooking Classes: Learn new recipes and basic kitchen skills.
- Music Therapy: Listening, singing, and how music can affect and influence our lives.
- Weekly Outings: Explore new places and experiences in the community.
View Our Brochure
If you or a loved one is ready to enroll in the Pillars Program please fill out our application to get started. The Pillars Program currently serves Individuals living in or near the Columbus, OH metro area.
If you have any questions about the Pillars Program please reach out to the Director of Day Programs, Kurt Kernen, via email (Kurt.Kernen@beaconspecialized.org) or phone (614-601-8110).
What behaviors can be accommodated?
The Pillars Program attempts to accommodate most needs and can perform a case-by-case review.
What are the age requirements?
Anyone 18 or older.
What are your staffing ratios?
The community-based program is always 1:4 and the campus-based program is dependent on need of the Individual.
Is lunch provided?
No, but Individuals are encouraged to bring their own lunch and we offer a microwave and refrigerator at the campus-based program. Community-based groups are encouraged to pack cold lunches.
Are schedules flexible? Can someone attend part‑time? Can an Individual attend both programs?
Yes, we can and do work around Individuals’ schedules for attendance whether that is full-time or part-time. We also have several Individuals who come to both programs depending on their desires and needs.
