Our Mission
Led by the choices of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Futures Explored creates equitable access to relevant programs, supports, and advocacy.
Our programs and services include:
Community Connections
Employment + Education
Film & Media
Personal Wellness
Our story began on January 6, 1964 in Lafayette, California, with a small group of young adults, their parents and the founding Director, Helen Young. At that time we were called the “Enterprise.”
The group included six individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities who made hand-crafted items for sale and the program was staffed mostly by volunteer parents. At the time there were few, if any, programs and services for adults with developmental disabilities. Decades later, we are proud of the impact we’ve made on thousands of lives across Northern California.
Monthly Spotlight!
🎬 Summer is calling, and our film camp is ready to turn your screen-time into a blockbuster adventure! We've still got some spots open for our popular sessions:
Session 1: Dive into Acting and Film Basics!
Lights, camera, action from July 15th - 26th, 9:30am - 3 pm for 2 weeks at 1913 Stanwell Circle, Concord, CA.
Ages 10-22 are welcome to shine!
Session 2: Let your imagination soar with Animation!
August 5th - 9th, 10am-3pm for 1 week, also at 1913 Stanwell Circle, Concord, CA.
Ages 16-22 can join the fun and learn the magic of 2D animation from the incredible Dani Bowman and her team!
WE ARE HIRING!
In Livermore, Futures Explored is looking for candidates to support individuals with I/DD! Please join our family and become part of our amazing community!
GARDEN Tri-Valley is also currently looking for people to create a variety of activities for our participants to engage in, develop friendships and connect with their senses. This person will fully support our participants with mobility, personal care and be an amazing friend!
PLEASE CHECK OUT OUR JOB OPENINGS HERE!
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Our Impact
58+
Years of creating equitable access to relevant programs, supports and advocacy
9000+
Adults with intellectual/ developmental disabilities served since our inception
150+
staff members supporting participants across five counties IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
Our Partners
We are stronger when we partner with organizations who share our values. we would like to thank our wonderful community partners for their dedication, collaboration and support.
Kids Bike Lane is a non-profit organization that partners with charities, community groups, civic organizations, corporations and individuals to provide bikes for under-served youth in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties, with the goal of empowering them to live a healthy and active lifestyle. Kids Bike Lane has donated custom built bikes to our participants as a path to empowerment! See a recent news story here!
Check out this video spotlight!
Founded in 1953, the Lafayette Juniors is a nonprofit organization comprised of local women who come together to raise funds and offer service in support of other nonprofits that serve children, families and seniors in need throughout Contra Costa and the broader San Francisco Bay Area. We were a proud beneficiary of the Juniors’ 2021/2022 giving campaign!
Make a Donation
Want to make a one-time or recurring donation? You can make a difference today!
get involved
Interested in getting involved? We have plenty of advocacy, volunteer and job opportunities for you to explore.
Explore our Programs
Looking for a program that meets your specific needs? Explore our many programs and services here: