DECI Attends the 2025 NC Inclusive Housing Summit to Advocate for Change

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 2025 Summit Sponsorship.

Held at The Friday Conference Center, the summit provided a full day of learning, collaboration, and conversations focused on how changing state and federal housing policies impact people with I/DD—and what organizations like DECI can do to support individuals beyond the workplace.

Centering the Housing Crisis Affecting the I/DD Community

Throughout the event, speakers and panelists highlighted the significant barriers facing individuals with I/DD in accessing stable, safe, and inclusive housing. These challenges include:

• Long waiting lists for supportive housing

• Staffing and service shortages

• Rising housing costs statewide

• Limited community-based residential options

• Policy and funding models that often lag behind real needs

The summit underscored that meaningful inclusion requires more than employment opportunities—it requires a place to call home. For DECI, whose mission centers on vocational access and independence, the linkage between employment and housing stability is a core part of empowering the individuals we serve.

A Powerful Message from Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt

This year’s summit featured an address from North Carolina Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt, whose leadership and long-standing commitment to equity set the tone for the day. Hunt spoke passionately about the urgent need to expand inclusive housing options across the state—emphasizing that stability, safety, and community integration are fundamental rights, not privileges.

Building Connections to Strengthen DECI’s Impact

DECI’s presence at the summit allowed our team to connect with:

• Housing organizations and developers

• Support service agencies

• State and local policymakers

• Disability rights leaders

• Community nonprofits

These conversations helped reinforce DECI’s role not only as an employer and vocational training provider, but also as a collaborator in broader systems of support. Stable housing, community inclusion, and employment success are deeply interconnected—and DECI remains committed to advocating across all three areas.

Looking Ahead: DECI’s Commitment to Inclusive

Communities

DECI is proud to be part of statewide efforts that uplift the voices of people with I/DD and strengthen access to the resources they deserve. As we continue supporting individuals through vocational training and employment, we recognize that true independence requires collaboration across housing, policy, and community engagement.

We extend our appreciation to HOPE NC for hosting such a powerful, mission-driven event and look forward to building on the momentum and ideas shared at this year’s summit.