At Home of Guiding Hands San Diego, clients are more than just participants in events, they are the creators. The Client Social Club (CSC) is one of the organization’s most unique and impactful programs, offering individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities the opportunity to lead, plan, and bring to life their own community events. What sets this program apart is its foundation in client-led ideas, ensuring that every event is a reflection of those who attend it.
The Client Social Club was born from a simple yet powerful concept: let clients express their desires and actively shape the activities that matter most to them. This vision grew from casual conversations into a vibrant club that empowers individuals to take charge of event planning. Rather than staff dictating every detail, CSC invites members to share their ideas, plan their gatherings, and experience the satisfaction of seeing those plans come to life.
Through this unique approach, CSC provides a wide range of activities that cater to different interests and comfort levels. Whether it is karaoke nights, bingo games, Halloween parties, or outings to Padres baseball games, every event is designed to be inclusive and engaging. Quarterly, the club hosts large events that bring together up to 200 clients, and monthly, smaller gatherings are organized for about 50 attendees.
For members like Beth, who has been involved with CSC since its inception, the club offers more than just socialization, it is a source of pride and purpose. “It feels good to make everyone smile,” Beth says, reflecting on the joy of seeing friends at the events she helps plan.
Aimee, one of the club’s founders, recalls the moment when she recognized the need for such a program. “I knew it was important for the clients to have their say about what was meaningful to them,” Aimee shares. The club’s success speaks to the importance of this initiative, as it goes far beyond the minimum required activities mandated by state regulations.
None of this would be possible without the support of generous donors, like the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities and Bob Carne. Their contributions make it possible for the club to continue growing, allowing it to provide fulfilling opportunities for clients to thrive.
CSC continues to raise funds for future events through its participation in Home of Guiding Hands’ annual golf tournament. On October 10th, 2025, the Client Social Club will once again run a hole at the 43rd Annual Charity Golf Classic at Singing Hills Golf Club. This beloved event features breakfast, lunch, contests, and a lively awards reception. Proceeds from raffle ticket sales will help fund upcoming CSC activities. To support the event, you can sign up for foursomes and sponsorships at www.HGHGolfClassic.org.
Home of Guiding Hands has been serving individuals with disabilities for over 55 years, and the Client Social Club exemplifies its commitment to making every client feel like family. By listening to and respecting the voices of its clients, HGH has created a program that fosters belonging and connection.
To learn more about the Client Social Club and the many programs that Home of Guiding Hands offers to enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities, please visit www.guidinghands.org. Whether you are looking to support these efforts, volunteer, join the team, or explore services for someone you care about, Home of Guiding Hands welcomes you to be part of this meaningful mission.
