Topics Related to Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities

This week, NCDHHS leadership came together at the i2i conference to talk about the Olmstead Plan. This plan helps people with disabilities get the support they need to live the lives they want in their communities.

PRESS RELEASE —The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today announced the launch of a digital resource to help people with disabilities in the workforce. North Carolina DB101 was guided by beneficiaries and their experiences with the goal to simplify how to apply for, access and understand public benefits. This new resource will help North Carolinians navigate programs such as social security disability insurance, food and nutrition services and Medicaid.

NCDHHS hosted its Annual Assistive Technology Expo, “Breaking Boundaries, Empowering Lives,” on Oct. 3 at the McKimmon Conference and Training Center in Raleigh.

MEDIA ADVISORY — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services invites media to two virtual events being presented in honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

PRESS RELEASE — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will host its Annual Assistive Technology Expo, "Breaking Boundaries, Empowering Lives," on Oct. 3, 2024. The event will take place from 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the McKimmon Conference and Training Center, 1101 Gorman St., Raleigh, NC 27606. There will also be a virtual option for those who cannot attend in-person.

NCDHHS' Assistive Technology Program is a state and federally-funded initiative that provides assistive technology services statewide to people of all ages and abilities. The program promotes independence for people with disabilities through access to adaptive equipment at its nine AT Centers throughout North Carolina. On May 3, NCATP hosted the third of its three AT Resource Fair Pop-Up events at the Charlotte AT Center.

MEDIA ADVISORY — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services invites media to a press conference in Goldsboro announcing the new name of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services: Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities. This name change marks an important milestone for the vocational rehabilitation program in North Carolina, reflecting the real progress achieved by people with disabilities over the last century and celebrating the potential and accomplishments of North Carolinians on their journey to independence.

MEDIA ADVISORY — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services invites media to a press conference in Morganton announcing the new name of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services: Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities. This name change marks an important milestone for the vocational rehabilitation program in North Carolina, reflecting the real progress achieved by people with disabilities over the last century and celebrating the potential and accomplishments of North Carolinians on their journey to independence.

MEDIA ADVISORY — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services is announcing the division’s new name: the Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities. This name change reflects the division’s century-long history of critical work with North Carolinians with disabilities. NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley, EIPD Director Kathie Smith and EIPD clients will celebrate the change at a kickoff event, which will include addresses from clients, partners and division leadership on Tuesday, April 23, at 10:30 a.m. at the Haywood Building on Dorothea Dix Campus in Raleigh.