Debra Emerson

Mission: The mission of St. Madeleine Sophie's Center is to empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to discover, experience and realize their full potential as members of the greater community. Vision: St. Madeleine Sophie's Center is internationally known for being the finest center serving adults with developmental disabilities. We provide creative programs focused on building self determination, interdependence and life skills. Values: St. Madeleine Sophie's Center is value-based and respects the dignity of the whole person, intellectually, physically, ethically, psychologically, socially and spiritually. For more than 45 years St. Madeleine Sophie's Center (SMSC) has helped people with developmental disabilities, their families and communities, discover, explore, and nurture potential - giving thousands a chance to live life to the fullest. The Center truly provides a "Life Program"​ that allows students to learn and grow, and enjoy friendships and social activities throughout their lives. Students come to SMSC's five-acre campus in the foothills of El Cajon, California, daily to learn or upgrade marketable skills, develop creative outlets, earn some money, make new friends, and gain a sense of independence and self esteem. This "Life Program"​ includes recent high-school graduates to seniors in their 80s. .