Aiken, SC, October 21, 2025
News Summary
The University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA) is launching a new community event in October aimed at providing real-world work experience to students with intellectual disabilities through its Pacer LIFE program. On October 18, LIFE students will serve as employees at downtown Aiken businesses, showcasing their capabilities to potential employers. Local businesses are encouraged to join this initiative to create more job opportunities and support these students, who also receive job training as they transition into the workforce.
Aiken, SC
The University of South Carolina Aiken (USCA) is set to launch a new community event in October for its Pacer LIFE program, which supports students with intellectual disabilities in securing employment. The event, modeled after Children’s Place Inc.’s Celebrity Waiter Night, will allow LIFE students to gain real-world work experience by serving as employees at various downtown Aiken businesses on Saturday, Oct. 18.
The primary goal of the LIFE program is to facilitate job opportunities for the participating students. These students receive job training and are expected to work between 5 to 20 hours per week throughout each semester, with support from staff. During their first year, students engage in unpaid internships on campus, and in their second year, they take on roles within campus and the local community.
Adrienne Patterson, the LIFE Assistant Director, acknowledges that there are challenges in helping students secure jobs. Many employers express uncertainty regarding the capabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities. To combat this issue, Patterson aims to provide businesses with the chance to interact directly with students, showcasing their competence and reliability as workers.
This upcoming event is designed not only to raise awareness of the capabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities but also to demonstrate that they can be effective and reliable contributors in the workforce. So far, six local businesses have pledged their participation in the event:
- Lionel Smith Ltd.
- Pitter Patter/Caroline’s Boutique
- High Country Olive Oil
- Mack’s Deli
- Beyond Bijoux/Iron Gate Candles
- Vampire Penguin
Other businesses are encouraged to join the initiative, which aligns with the program’s mission to create more job opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities.
The LIFE program is currently in its third year, having initially been a two-year program focusing on life skills. Participants also received a PACER credential. The program has since expanded to include new third and fourth-year options through the Leadership and Civic Engagement (LCE) program for students who have completed their initial two years. In these subsequent years, students are required to work 20 hours per week off-campus in a paid position.
Notably, some first-year students from the LIFE program have successfully secured employment at local organizations such as Aiken Regional Medical Centers, Savannah River Mission Completion, and the YMCA, showcasing the effectiveness of the program.
Patterson highlights the community’s growing recognition of the program and its successes in securing employment for participants. Businesses interested in joining the movement to support these students can contact Adrienne Patterson at [email protected] for participation opportunities.
The weather for the event day is expected to be pleasant, with sunny skies and a high near 80°F and a low of 51°F, with winds ranging from 5 to 15 mph.
FAQ
What is the Pacer LIFE program?
The primary goal of the LIFE program is to secure employment for its participating students.
When is the Celebrity Employee event?
The event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 18.
How many hours do LIFE students work each week?
LIFE students receive job training and work 5-20 hours per week each semester, supported by staff.
What businesses are participating in the event?
Six local businesses have committed to participate, including Lionel Smith Ltd., Pitter Patter/Caroline’s Boutique, High Country Olive Oil, Mack’s Deli, Beyond Bijoux/Iron Gate Candles, and Vampire Penguin.
How can businesses participate in the event?
Interested businesses can contact Adrienne Patterson at [email protected] for participation opportunities.
Key Features of the Pacer LIFE Program and Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | October 18 |
| Participating Businesses | Lionel Smith Ltd., Pitter Patter/Caroline’s Boutique, High Country Olive Oil, Mack’s Deli, Beyond Bijoux/Iron Gate Candles, Vampire Penguin |
| Student Work Hours | 5-20 hours per week |
| Program Duration | Initially 2 years; now extended to 4 years with Leadership and Civic Engagement options |
| Job Placement Success | First-year students employed at Aiken Regional Medical Centers, Savannah River Mission Completion, YMCA |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
USCA LIFE Program Enhances Education with Apple Technology
USC Aiken Renames Student Activities Center for Chancellor Emeritus
Cumberland Village Residents Engage in Lifelong Learning
USC Aiken Launches Lifelong Learning Program for Seniors
USC Aiken Graduates Thirteen from USCA LIFE Program
USC Aiken Launches Pacer $mart Financial Education Program
University of South Carolina Aiken Launches Financial Education Program
Additional Resources
- WRDW: USCA LIFE Program Students Move Into Homes
- Wikipedia: Intellectual Disability
- Post and Courier: USCA LIFE Celebrity Employee Event
- Google Search: Pacer LIFE program
- WRDW: Huge Milestone USC Aiken Program Makes History with First Graduates
- Google Scholar: Intellectual Disability Employment
- WISTV: Best Friends with Down Syndrome Reflect After First Year of College
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Intellectual Disability
- The Augusta Press: USC Aiken’s Graduating Class of 2025 in Photos
- Google News: USCA LIFE program
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
