At DECI, we’ve been supporting adults with disabilities since 1966, helping individuals discover their potential and thrive in the workplace. Our programs are designed to prepare you or your loved one for meaningful, sustainable employment — while creating opportunities for growth, independence, and connection.
Through hands-on training, goal setting, and real work experience, participants gain the tools and confidence to succeed both on the job and in the community.
Internal Services
At DECI, Your Goals Come First.
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Whether you’re building independent living skills or focusing on job training, we give you the tools and confidence to succeed. Through hands-on work and real-world community experiences, you’ll practice what you’ve learned — from managing money to navigating Durham with ease — all while preparing for meaningful employment and greater independence.
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At DECI, we provide both vocational training and independent living skill development, guided by experienced support professionals. Participants have opportunities to build confidence, earn wages, and prepare for meaningful employment in the community.
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​Through our programs, individuals can explore:​​
What Will You Gain at DECI?
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Pre-vocational or enrichment services, offered individually or in groups, partially funded by the Medicaid Innovations Waiver. Helps individuals with I/DD build independence, work toward employment or purposeful activities, and achieve life goals.
Innovations Day Supports
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DECI’s Long-Term Community Supports program provides ongoing assistance to individuals who require extended support to live successfully in their community. Services are person-centered and may include help with transportation, daily living tasks, navigating resources, and participating in social or volunteer opportunities.
Long-Term Community Supports
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For individuals or families seeking flexible, personalized support options outside of traditional funding streams, DECI offers a range of Private Pay Services. These services can be tailored to meet unique needs—whether it’s short-term assistance, job coaching, daily living support, or companionship.
Private Pay Services
On our work floor or in our full-service cafeteria, trainees gain hands-on vocational experience while earning paid wages — building the skills necessary to transition into competitive employment.​
Our Programs
At DECI, we offer a variety of programs designed to meet individuals where they are and prepare them for future success. Our Adult Development Vocational Program (ADVP) focuses on teaching job skills, work habits, and communication, helping participants get ready for possible referral to NC Vocational Rehabilitation.
Pathways to Employment and Independence
For those without other funding, our Extended Employment program provides paid training opportunities, allowing individuals to build valuable skills and experience while working toward competitive employment. We also provide Enrichment Day Activities, a pre-vocational program centered on self-care, socialization, daily living, and community inclusion skills — ensuring participants grow not only as workers, but as independent members of the community.
Work performed at DECI
​​At DECI, individuals gain experience in a variety of work settings. On our production floor, trainees take part in packaging, sorting, assembly, disassembly, inspection, stocking, and material handling. We also provide opportunities in food services, janitorial work, and roles such as patient escort or switchboard/receptionist — giving participants a wide range of skills that can be applied to future employment in the community.
