Babcock Center

The Babcock Center is a Columbia, South Carolina, organization dedicated to empowering people with lifelong disabilities. Since 1970, it has worked to build an inclusive, barrier-free community, guided by a mission to promote abilities and respect individual choice. The Center serves individuals, employers, and communities in Columbia and surrounding areas, and reports that more than 5,000 people have benefited from its employment opportunities, independent living and life-skills support, and community connections.

Its services include residential supports, employment supports, vocational training, HASCI supports, respite care, and the WOW Program. Residential options range from supported independent living to intensive, 24-hour care, delivered through nearly 68 programs in Richland County; the organization also supports more than 65 residences. Seven vocational training centers operate in Richland and Lexington Counties. For employers, Babcock Center offers flexible, cost-effective supported-employment models for individual hires or project-based work. The organization also welcomes volunteers and interns, operates a foundation and Babcock Store, and hosts community events, including the Jingle Jam Music Festival.