These 6 NC businesses proudly employ people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

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In North Carolina, despite being recognized as dependable, motivated, and attentive to work quality, 69% of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) remain unemployed, and many who do find work report being underemployed.

Organizations like Work Together NC and The Arc of NC aim to change this by connecting individuals with meaningful employment opportunities that empower them and enhance their quality of life.

Several North Carolina businesses are leading the way in providing jobs for people with IDD:

1. Cakeable Cafe (Charlotte): A nonprofit workforce development program offering vocational training and employment for adults with IDD in their bakery and cafe.
2. The Purple Bowl (Chapel Hill): A family-owned acai bowl shop ensuring at least 10% of its staff comprises individuals with IDD, providing them with various job skills.
3. Part & Parcel (Durham): An eco-conscious store that promotes neurodiversity through inclusive employment and values the full identities of its employees.
4. Esteamed Coffee (Cary): A nonprofit cafe focused on lowering the unemployment rate for adults with disabilities by creating meaningful jobs in a supportive environment.
5. HANDmeUPS Thrift (Raleigh): A thrift store providing employment and volunteer opportunities for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, while also supporting micro-enterprises.
6. Extraordinary Ventures (Chapel Hill): An organization operating six businesses that employ individuals with IDD, creating over 200,000 hours of meaningful employment.

These businesses are making a significant impact by offering meaningful work opportunities to individuals with IDD, fostering independence, and enhancing their quality of life.