North Carolina offers a comprehensive range of services and support systems for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the resources needed for a fulfilling life. These services cover various aspects, including healthcare, education, employment, transportation, and independent living. North Carolina’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in the numerous programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its residents with disabilities.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2024 2,706,470 adults in North Carolina have a disability. This is equal to 32% or nearly 1 in 3 adults in North Carolina. These statistics highlight the significant portion of the population that benefits from the state’s dedicated efforts to provide accessible and effective disability services.
North Carolina’s disability services encompass several key areas. Healthcare services ensure that individuals with disabilities receive appropriate medical care and support. Educational programs are designed to accommodate students with disabilities, providing them with equal opportunities for learning and growth. Employment services focus on helping individuals with disabilities find and maintain meaningful work, promoting economic independence. Transportation services are tailored to meet the needs of those with mobility challenges, ensuring they can travel safely and efficiently.
In addition to these core services, North Carolina emphasizes the importance of independent living. Programs and resources are available to help individuals with disabilities live independently, offering support in areas such as housing, personal care, and community integration. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of life are considered, allowing individuals with disabilities to lead self-sufficient and engaged lives.
The state also recognizes the importance of support networks and community involvement. Various disability agencies and service organizations work tirelessly to advocate for the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities, providing essential services and fostering a sense of community. These organizations are outlined below, offering a comprehensive overview of the support available to those in need.
North Carolina Disability Employment Services
The North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services offers a range of services to help individuals with disabilities achieve their employment goals, including job placement, training, and support services.
Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina provides employment services, including job training and placement for individuals with disabilities, helping them secure meaningful employment.
Easterseals UCP North Carolina & Virginia offers employment services that include job training, coaching, and placement for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have the support needed to succeed in the workplace.
Disability:IN North Carolina is a non-profit organization that works to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities through networking, mentoring, and training programs.
Alliance of Disability Advocates provides employment services and support for individuals with disabilities, including job search assistance, resume building, and interview preparation.
Community Workforce Solutions offers job training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, helping them to develop the skills needed for successful employment.
NCWorks Career Centers provide employment services, including job search assistance and training programs, to individuals with disabilities throughout North Carolina.
North Carolina Independent Living Services
Centers for Independent Living (CILs) in North Carolina provide resources, advocacy, and support for individuals with disabilities to live independently within their communities.
Alliance of Disability Advocates, 3725 National Drive, Suite 105, Raleigh, NC 27612 – (919) 833-1117
Disability Advocacy Center, 1102 Grecade Street, Unit A, Greensboro, NC 27408 – (336) 419-0784
disABILITY Partners, 525 Mineral Springs Drive, Sylva, NC 28779 – (828) 631-1167
disABILITY Partners – Asheville, 108 New Leicester Highway, Asheville, NC 28806 – (828) 298-1977
disAbility Resource Center, 5041 New Center Drive, Suite 210, Wilmington, NC 28403 – (910) 815-6618
Disability Rights & Resources, 5801 Executive Center Drive, Suite 101, Charlotte, NC 28212 – (704) 537-0550
Solutions for Independence, 7744 North Point Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27105 – (336) 767-7060
Accessible Housing Resources, 203 South Kerr Avenue, Suite 2, Wilmington, NC 28403 – (910) 815-6618
North Carolina Rehabilitation Services
The North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services offers a wide range of rehabilitation services, including vocational counseling, job training, and medical rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities.
Carolinas Rehabilitation provides comprehensive rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy for individuals with disabilities.
UNC Rehabilitation Center offers various rehabilitation services, including inpatient and outpatient therapy programs, to help individuals with disabilities regain their independence.
WakeMed Rehabilitation Services provides a full spectrum of rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and specialized programs for individuals with disabilities.
Rehabilitation Services of Northwest North Carolina offers a range of services, including physical and occupational therapy, to assist individuals with disabilities in their recovery and independence.
Gateway Clubhouse is a non-profit organization that provides rehabilitation services, including vocational training and social support, for individuals with brain injuries and other disabilities.
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Cary offers comprehensive rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, for individuals with disabilities.
Charlotte Rehabilitation Institute provides a variety of rehabilitation services, including inpatient and outpatient therapy, to support individuals with disabilities in their recovery process.
North Carolina Assistive Technology Services
The North Carolina Assistive Technology Program (NCATP) provides assistive technology services to individuals with disabilities, including device demonstrations, loans, and training.
Assistive Technology Exchange Post is a service that helps individuals with disabilities find and acquire assistive technology devices through an online exchange platform.
North Carolina Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped offers a variety of assistive technology resources, including audio books, braille materials, and adaptive reading devices for individuals with visual and physical disabilities.
Carolina Access Center for Assistive Technology provides assessments, training, and support for individuals with disabilities in acquiring and using assistive technology.
AT Center at Western Carolina University offers assistive technology services, including evaluations and training, to support students and individuals with disabilities in the community.
TEACCH Autism Program provides assistive technology services specifically tailored for individuals with autism, including device recommendations and training.
Alliance of Disability Advocates offers assistive technology services to help individuals with disabilities live independently, including device demonstrations and training.
North Carolina Disability Financial Assistance Services
The Social Security Administration offers comprehensive information on disability benefits, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, and the types of benefits available. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Use the Social Security Field Office locator to find a location near you or call toll-free: 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing and use TTY equipment, you can call their TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.
North Carolina Disability Determination Services is responsible for making decisions on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims for residents of North Carolina.
North Carolina Industrial Commission administers the Workers’ Compensation Act, ensuring that workers injured on the job receive compensation and that employers comply with state laws.
North Carolina Division of Social Services offers various financial assistance programs for individuals with disabilities, including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and emergency assistance.
North Carolina Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) provides financial assistance to help individuals with disabilities pay their heating bills during the winter months.
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency offers financial assistance programs, including home ownership assistance and rental subsidies, to help individuals with disabilities secure affordable housing.
Wake County Human Services provides various financial assistance programs, including rent and utility assistance, to support individuals with disabilities in the community.
The Arc of North Carolina offers financial assistance programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them access essential services and supports.
Durham County Department of Social Services provides financial assistance programs, including emergency assistance and housing support, to individuals with disabilities in Durham County.
Orange County Department of Social Services offers various financial assistance programs, including emergency financial assistance and utility support, to help individuals with disabilities meet their basic needs.
North Carolina Disability Transportation Services
GoTriangle ACCESS provides paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in the Triangle area, offering door-to-door transportation options.
GoDurham ACCESS offers accessible transportation services for individuals with disabilities in Durham, ensuring they have reliable and convenient travel options.
GoRaleigh ACCESS provides paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in Raleigh, offering specialized transportation to meet their needs.
Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Special Transportation Service (STS) offers door-to-door transportation services for individuals with disabilities in the Charlotte area.
WAVE Transit Dial-A-Ride Transportation (DART) provides paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in the Wilmington area, ensuring they have accessible transportation options.
Greensboro Transit Authority SCAT offers specialized transportation services for individuals with disabilities in Greensboro, providing door-to-door service.
Asheville RIDE provides accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities in Asheville, including door-to-door and fixed-route services.
High Point Transit Access offers paratransit services for individuals with disabilities in High Point, ensuring they have reliable and convenient transportation.
North Carolina Disability Child Care Services
The North Carolina Infant-Toddler Program provides early intervention services, including specialized child care for children with disabilities and developmental delays.
Child Care Services Association offers resources and support for families of children with disabilities, helping them find inclusive child care programs that meet their needs.
Autism Society of North Carolina provides specialized child care services and support for children with autism, including after-school programs and summer camps.
Arc of North Carolina’s Respite Care Program offers respite care services for families of children with disabilities, providing temporary relief and quality care for children.
Easterseals UCP North Carolina & Virginia provides inclusive child care services for children with disabilities, including early childhood education and developmental therapy programs.
North Carolina Partnership for Children supports child care programs that include services for children with disabilities, ensuring access to high-quality early childhood education.
Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center (ECAC) offers resources and support for families seeking child care services for children with disabilities, helping them navigate available options and services.
North Carolina Disability Recreational Services
Bridge II Sports offers adaptive sports and recreational activities for individuals with disabilities, promoting physical activity and social engagement.
Inspiration Golf provides accessible golfing opportunities for individuals with disabilities, offering adapted golf programs and events.
Therapeutic Recreation Program – City of Raleigh offers various recreational activities and programs tailored for individuals with disabilities, including sports, arts, and community events.
Carolina Miracle League provides baseball programs for children with disabilities, allowing them to participate in adapted baseball games and activities.
Adaptive Sports and Adventure Programs (ASAP) offers a range of adaptive sports and recreational activities for individuals with disabilities, promoting an active lifestyle.
Camp Royall provides summer camp experiences for children with autism, offering a variety of recreational activities in an inclusive environment.
Therapeutic Riding of Tryon (TROT) offers therapeutic horseback riding programs for individuals with disabilities, promoting physical and emotional well-being through equine-assisted activities.
Special Olympics North Carolina provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, offering opportunities to develop physical fitness and participate in inclusive sports events.
North Carolina Disability Rights & Legal Services
Disability Rights North Carolina offers legal advocacy and representation for individuals with disabilities, addressing issues such as discrimination, access to services, and rights protection.
North Carolina Justice Center provides legal assistance and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, focusing on issues related to healthcare, housing, and economic justice.
Legal Aid of North Carolina offers free legal services to individuals with disabilities, including representation in cases involving disability rights, public benefits, and access to services.
Carolina Legal Assistance provides legal support and advocacy for individuals with mental health disabilities, focusing on protecting their rights and ensuring access to necessary services.
Council for Children’s Rights offers legal advocacy and support for children with disabilities, addressing issues such as special education, healthcare, and juvenile justice.
National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) provides legal advocacy and resources through its state affiliates, including Disability Rights North Carolina, to protect and advance the rights of individuals with disabilities.
UNC School of Law – Clinical Programs offers legal clinics that provide free legal services to individuals with disabilities, including assistance with special education and disability rights cases.
North Carolina Support Groups for People with Disabilities
Autism Society of North Carolina offers support groups for individuals with autism and their families, providing a space for sharing experiences and resources.
NAMI North Carolina provides support groups for individuals with mental health conditions and their families, offering peer support and education.
Brain Injury Association of North Carolina hosts support groups for individuals with brain injuries and their families, providing a platform for sharing experiences and finding resources.
Spina Bifida Association of North Carolina offers support groups for individuals with spina bifida and their families, fostering community and mutual support.
Multiple Sclerosis Society – Greater Carolinas Chapter provides support groups for individuals with multiple sclerosis, offering peer support and information on managing the condition.
North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance hosts support groups for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, providing support, resources, and community connections.
ALS Association – North Carolina Chapter offers support groups for individuals with ALS and their families, providing emotional support and information on living with the disease.
Epilepsy Alliance North Carolina provides support groups for individuals with epilepsy and their families, offering a space for sharing experiences and finding support.
North Carolina Disability Housing Assistance
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency offers various programs to assist individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining affordable housing, including rental assistance and home ownership programs.
Independent Living Rehabilitation Program provides housing assistance for individuals with disabilities, helping them secure accessible housing and necessary home modifications.
Transitional Living Facilities – RHA Health Services offers housing assistance and support services for individuals with disabilities, providing transitional living facilities to promote independent living.
Alliance Behavioral Healthcare provides housing assistance for individuals with mental health and developmental disabilities, helping them secure safe and stable housing.
Center for Independent Living (CIL) of Northwest North Carolina offers housing assistance services, including help with finding accessible housing and navigating housing resources.
Partners Behavioral Health Management provides housing assistance for individuals with disabilities, including supportive housing programs and rental assistance.
Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults (CAP/DA) offers financial assistance for home modifications and housing support to help disabled adults live independently.
Habitat for Humanity of North Carolina provides affordable housing solutions for individuals with disabilities, including home construction and repairs to ensure accessible living environments.
North Carolina Disability Education Services
Exceptional Children Division – North Carolina Department of Public Instruction provides specialized educational services and support for students with disabilities, ensuring they receive a free and appropriate public education.
North Carolina Early Intervention Branch offers early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities, including developmental assessments and individualized education plans.
TEACCH Autism Program provides educational services and support for individuals with autism, including structured teaching and individualized learning plans.
North Carolina School for the Deaf offers specialized education services for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, providing a comprehensive curriculum and support services.
Governor Morehead School for the Blind provides educational services for students who are blind or visually impaired, offering tailored instruction and support to meet their unique needs.
Learning Disabilities Association of North Carolina offers resources and support for students with learning disabilities, including advocacy, tutoring, and educational workshops.
Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center (ECAC) provides educational support and resources for families of children with disabilities, helping them navigate special education services and individualized education plans (IEPs).
Western Carolina University – University Participant Program offers inclusive post-secondary education opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities, providing support and access to college courses and campus life.
North Carolina Disability Healthcare Services
UNC Health Care – Center for Development and Learning offers specialized healthcare services for individuals with developmental disabilities, including diagnostic evaluations, treatment, and support services.
Vidant Health – Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics provides comprehensive healthcare services for children with developmental and behavioral disorders, offering assessments and individualized treatment plans.
Duke Health – Duke Children’s Development and Behavioral Health offers specialized medical care for children with disabilities, including developmental assessments, therapeutic interventions, and family support services.
Carolinas Rehabilitation provides a wide range of rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
WakeMed Children’s Rehabilitation offers specialized healthcare services for children with disabilities, including therapy programs and medical rehabilitation.
ECU Health – Pediatric Specialty Care provides comprehensive healthcare services for children with disabilities, including medical treatments, therapy services, and family support.
Novant Health – Pediatric Developmental and Behavioral Medicine offers specialized healthcare services for children with developmental and behavioral disabilities, including assessments and treatment programs.
Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital – Pediatric Rehabilitation provides specialized rehabilitation services for children with disabilities, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
North Carolina Vocational Training for People with Disabilities
North Carolina Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services provides a variety of vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities, including job readiness training, career counseling, and job placement services.
Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina offers vocational training and job placement services for individuals with disabilities, focusing on skills development and employment opportunities.
Easterseals UCP North Carolina & Virginia provides vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities, including job coaching, skills training, and employment support.
Community Workforce Solutions offers vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, helping them develop the skills needed for successful employment.
The Arc of North Carolina provides vocational training programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, focusing on skills development and job placement.
NCWorks Career Centers offer vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job search assistance and skills development programs.
Alliance of Disability Advocates provides vocational training and employment services, helping individuals with disabilities prepare for and secure meaningful employment.
Charlotte Works offers vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities, including job readiness training, career counseling, and job placement services.
North Carolina Mental Health Services for People with Disabilities
Cardinal Innovations Healthcare provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care.
Alliance Behavioral Healthcare offers comprehensive mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including crisis intervention, therapy, and support services.
Trillium Health Resources provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including outpatient therapy, crisis services, and community support programs.
Sandhills Center offers mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including counseling, psychiatric care, and case management.
Partners Behavioral Health Management provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including therapy, medication management, and community support.
Monarch offers a range of mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including outpatient therapy, crisis services, and residential programs.
RHA Health Services provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including therapeutic and psychiatric care, as well as community-based support.
Vaya Health offers mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including crisis intervention, therapy, and support services.
North Carolina Vision Services for People with Disabilities
North Carolina Division of Services for the Blind provides comprehensive vision services for individuals with disabilities, including vocational rehabilitation, independent living services, and medical eye care.
Governor Morehead School for the Blind offers educational and vision services for children with visual impairments, including specialized instruction and support services.
Prevent Blindness North Carolina provides vision screenings, eye health education, and access to eye care services for individuals with visual impairments.
Metrolina Association for the Blind offers a range of vision services, including low vision rehabilitation, orientation and mobility training, and assistive technology support.
IFB Solutions provides vision services, including low vision evaluations, adaptive technology training, and support programs for individuals with visual impairments.
Lions Clubs of North Carolina offers vision services through various local clubs, including eye exams, glasses, and support for individuals with visual impairments.
Eye Care Center – North Carolina State University provides vision services, including comprehensive eye exams, low vision rehabilitation, and access to specialized care for individuals with visual disabilities.
North Carolina Hearing Services for People with Disabilities
North Carolina Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing offers a range of services for individuals with hearing impairments, including communication support, assistive technology, and advocacy.
UNC Hearing and Communication Center provides comprehensive hearing services, including hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, and auditory rehabilitation.
Duke University Medical Center – Hearing Center offers hearing services, including diagnostic evaluations, hearing aid services, and cochlear implant programs.
Hearing and Balance Center at Wake Forest Baptist Health provides a full range of hearing services, including hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, and balance assessments.
The Hearing Clinic at East Carolina University offers hearing evaluations, hearing aid services, and auditory processing disorder evaluations for individuals with hearing impairments.
Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center provides hearing services, including hearing screenings, hearing aid fittings, and auditory rehabilitation for individuals with hearing loss.
Western North Carolina Community Health Services – Audiology offers hearing services, including diagnostic hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and hearing health education.
Carolinas Center for Hearing and Balance provides comprehensive hearing care services, including hearing evaluations, hearing aid services, and balance assessments for individuals with hearing impairments.
North Carolina Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities
UNC Hearing and Communication Center provides comprehensive speech and language services, including speech therapy, language assessments, and communication support.
East Carolina University Speech-Language and Hearing Clinic offers speech and language services, including evaluations, therapy, and specialized programs for individuals with communication disorders.
North Carolina Central University Speech and Hearing Clinic provides speech and language assessments, therapy services, and support for individuals with communication disorders.
Western Carolina University Speech and Hearing Clinic offers speech and language services, including diagnostic evaluations, individual therapy, and group therapy sessions.
Appalachian State University Communication Disorders Clinic provides speech and language services, including assessments, therapy, and support for individuals with communication disorders.
Novant Health Speech Therapy offers a range of speech and language services, including evaluations, therapy, and specialized programs for individuals with speech and language disorders.
Duke University Medical Center – Speech Pathology provides speech and language services, including assessments, therapy, and support for individuals with communication disorders.
Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center offers speech and language services, including evaluations, therapy, and support for individuals with speech and language disorders.
North Carolina Autism Services
TEACCH Autism Program offers comprehensive services for individuals with autism, including diagnostic evaluations, treatment programs, and family support services.
Autism Society of North Carolina provides a wide range of services, including individualized support, social skills groups, and community resources for individuals with autism and their families.
ABC of NC Child Development Center offers diagnostic and therapeutic services, early intervention programs, and educational services for children with autism.
Carolina Center for ABA and Autism Treatment provides applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, social skills training, and family support for individuals with autism.
Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development offers diagnostic assessments, clinical services, and research programs aimed at understanding and treating autism.
Autism Services of Mecklenburg County provides residential and community-based services, vocational training, and support programs for individuals with autism.
Mariposa School for Children with Autism offers individualized educational programs, ABA therapy, and support services for children with autism and their families.
ASNC Innovations Waiver Services provides home and community-based services for individuals with autism, including respite care, supported employment, and community living supports.
North Carolina Early Intervention Services
North Carolina Early Intervention Branch offers comprehensive early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities, including developmental evaluations, service coordination, and individualized family service plans.
Infant-Toddler Program provides early intervention services such as speech therapy, physical therapy, and developmental therapy for children from birth to age three with developmental delays or disabilities.
Easterseals UCP North Carolina & Virginia offers early intervention services including developmental screenings, therapy services, and family support for young children with developmental delays or disabilities.
Child Development Services Agency (CDSA) provides early intervention services and supports for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities, including assessments, service coordination, and therapy services.
ABC of NC Child Development Center offers early intervention programs focusing on young children with autism and other developmental disabilities, including therapy services and parent education.
Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities (CIDD) provides early intervention services including developmental evaluations, therapy services, and family support for young children with developmental delays or disabilities.
Family Support Network of North Carolina offers early intervention services and support for families of young children with developmental delays or disabilities, including resource coordination and parent support groups.
Children’s Developmental Services Agency – Greensboro provides early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities, including developmental assessments, therapy services, and individualized family support plans.