About Breaking Barriers Services
Breaking Barriers (BB) was founded in 2013 by two visionaries, Ben Sarcadi and Melissa Spicuzza, who shared a bold commitment to reimagine what support for individuals with developmental disabilities could look like. What began as a conversation about life’s purpose turned into a movement to challenge traditional service models and build something profoundly empowering.
With Ben’s tenacity and Melissa’s deep field experience and compassion, Breaking Barriers evolved into a trusted and innovative provider of vocational training, transitional support, and person-centered programming for individuals across California.
Our Mission: Empowering Individuals to Live Fully and Authentically
Mission Statement: Supporting people with developmental disabilities in achieving their goals through employment, education, and community integration.
At Breaking Barriers, our mission is to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) in living lives rich with purpose, connection, and growth. We believe that support should never limit someone’s potential, it should amplify their strengths, honor their voice, and reflect their aspirations.
Through community-based services and individualized development plans, we help participants build the tools they need for meaningful inclusion, independence, and success.
Our Philosophy: Strength-Based, Person-Centered, Community-Rooted
Our philosophy is simple yet transformative: we focus on what makes people thrive, not what holds them back.
Person-Centered Planning
We take the time to understand each individual’s story, their dreams, abilities, and goals. Using proven planning tools, we co-create personalized paths to growth and success.
Strength-Focused Development
We believe that everyone has value to offer. Rather than using a deficit lens, we emphasize the strengths and capabilities of each person, celebrating their individuality and building skills that matter.
Real-World Learning Environments
By using natural, community-based settings, we provide immersive learning experiences that develop critical life, social, and job skills in environments that reflect everyday life.
Community Reciprocity
True inclusion happens when relationships are mutual. Our work is not just about integrating individuals into the community, it’s about building communities where everyone contributes, belongs, and matters.
What Sets Breaking Barriers Apart
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Tailored Vocational Training that adapts to the interests and strengths of each participant
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Inclusive Community Engagement built on mutual respect and shared contribution
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Evidence-Based Practices that evolve with the needs of our participants
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A Team of Advocates committed to dismantling systemic barriers to equity
We don’t just provide services, we help people rewrite the narrative of what’s possible.
Be Part of the Change
If you’re a family member seeking a better future for your loved one, a professional looking to collaborate, or an advocate for inclusive communities, Breaking Barriers welcomes you.
Learn how our person-centered, strength-based approach is redefining disability services throughout California.
Partners
