Members of DECI's Leadership Team took the POLAR PLUNGE on Saturday in support of Special Olympics NC! DECI was a co-presenting sponsor of the event!

Creating a clear path for the future is essential for any organization aiming to thrive. The DECI Board and leadership team recently partnered with Wendy Scott from Wendy Scott & Associates, Inc. to develop a focused 3-year strategic plan. This collaboration highlights the importance of thoughtful planning and teamwork in setting achievable goals and adapting to changing environments. The Importance of a Strategic Plan A strategic plan serves as a roadmap that guides an organ

On Monday, December 15th, DECI welcomed Miles Spann, Community Engagement Analyst, and Robert Espinosa, Community Specialist with Durham County Government for a facility tour and in-depth conversation with our leadership team. Led by Sonja Beckford, our Director of Advocacy, Training, and Community Outreach, the visit served as an opportunity to explore the essential work DECI does in providing employment and vocational services to individuals with disabilities in Durham and

On November 17, DECI had the privilege of attending the Fourth Annual Inclusive Housing Summit  in Chapel Hill, hosted by HOPE NC. This year’s theme, “Advocating for Change,”  brought together statewide leaders, disability rights advocates, service providers, policymakers, and community partners to address one of North Carolina’s most urgent challenges: expanding inclusive, accessible housing options for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) HOPE NC 2

Durham Exchange Club Industries (DECI) recently welcomed NC State Representative Zack Hawkins  for a new episode of our ongoing series highlighting leaders, advocates, and changemakers across North Carolina. The conversation, led by Katrina Williams, DECI’s Program Services Manager , focused on a shared mission: expanding vocational access, employment opportunities, and community inclusion  for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). What followed

We’re proud to announce the official launch of The DECI PodSquad , a brand-new podcast series dedicated to amplifying voices, sharing meaningful stories, and diving deeper into the mission that drives us. The first few episodes are available now on both YouTube  and Spotify, and we invite you to tune in, subscribe, and follow along as we explore the topics that shape our community and the lives of those we serve. Why a Podcast? The DECI PodSquad is more than just a podcast, i

Earlier this week, our Director of Advocacy and Outreach, Sonja Beckford, along with staff members Todd Williams and Ricky Hargrave, proudly represented DECI during the NCARF Virtual Day of Action —a vital statewide push to reverse recent cuts to North Carolina Medicaid funding. Sonja Beckford and Todd Williams outside North Carolina's General Assembly to meet with state officials. The team participated in meetings with key state officials and legislators, including Represent

This past week, Durham Exchange Club Industries (DECI) was honored to welcome Shannon Trapp, Director of Community Partnerships and Engagement at Durham County Government, for a thoughtful and energizing visit. Shannon stopped by DECI as part of her tour of several local organizations committed to equity, innovation, and opportunity in Durham. During her visit, she toured our facility, met with members of our leadership team, and engaged in an open dialogue about DECI’s role

On Monday, October 6, DECI proudly welcomed North Carolina State Representatives Zack Hawkins and B. Ray Jeffers  for a powerful and inspiring visit to our facility. Their time with us focused on learning more about DECI’s mission, the individuals we serve, and how we’re championing vocational rehabilitation and inclusive employment for adults with disabilities in Durham and beyond. Led by our Director of Advocacy and Outreach, Sonja Beckford , the visit included a guided tou