At the heart of Breaking Barriers is a powerful story of transformation — one that begins with military service and evolves into community empowerment.

Benjamin Sarcadi, a decorated Navy veteran and dedicated social worker, founded Breaking Barriers with one core belief: that every individual, regardless of ability, deserves the opportunity to live a full, independent, and connected life.

After years of public service, Benjamin saw the gaps in support for adults with developmental disabilities — not just in employment, but in day-to-day life skills, socialization, and true community integration. Breaking Barriers was born from a desire to change that.

“We’re not just helping people find jobs. We’re helping them find belonging,” says Benjamin.

Through tailored one-on-one support, public transportation training, group social activities, and job coaching, Breaking Barriers offers a holistic set of services that meets participants where they are — and helps them grow beyond what they thought possible.

Programs like:

Tailored Day Services that prioritize individual goals and community exploration

Community Integration where small groups socialize, navigate the city, and make lasting friendships

Paid Internship Programs (PIPs) that provide hands-on job experience with local businesses

Behavioral Day Services overseen by trained staff and guided by behavioral goals

The mission is simple but profound: to break down systemic and social barriers for people with developmental disabilities — and replace them with pathways to dignity, independence, and joy.

You can read more about Benjamin’s journey and the origins of Breaking Barriers in this feature by VoyageLA:

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https://voyagela.com/interview/meet-benjamin-sarcadi-of-breaking-barriers