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DECI Hosts NC State Representative Zack Hawkins for a Powerful Conversation on Vocational Access and Inclusion

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 was one of the most insightful and inspiring discussions we’ve had yet.



Championing Access Through Legislative Action

Rep. Hawkins spoke candidly about the ways state policy directly shapes access to services and employment for people with IDD. From funding structures to transportation challenges to the workforce shortages impacting support programs, Hawkins emphasized the importance of legislation that prioritizes equity, visibility, and meaningful opportunity.

He also shared updates on current statewide efforts aimed at:

  • Strengthening vocational training pathways

  • Improving community-based employment support

  • Expanding resources for families navigating the disability service system

His message was clear: policy matters—and when done well, it opens doors.


DECI as a Model for Innovation and Impact

Throughout the episode, Hawkins highlighted DECI’s long history of serving as a pathway to independence for adults with disabilities through employment and skill-building. He applauded the organization’s leadership for continuing to innovate, adapt, and meet individuals where they are.

Katrina Williams shared how DECI’s approach helps participants develop:

  • Workplace confidence

  • Long-term stability

  • Transferable vocational skills

  • A renewed sense of purpose and community

Together, they showed how programs like DECI can be replicated statewide to expand opportunity for people who too often go overlooked.


A Personal Commitment to the IDD Community

Rep. Hawkins also spoke about his own background and longstanding commitment to the IDD community. His advocacy is rooted in years of listening to families, educators, direct support professionals, and self-advocates whose lives are shaped by the outcomes of state policy.

His dedication underscores why partnerships between legislators and organizations like DECI are crucial. When advocates and policymakers come together, voices get amplified, systems improve, and barriers break down.


Innovation as the Pathway Forward

Both Hawkins and Williams emphasized the power of innovation—not just in technology, but in how we think about work, support systems, and community integration.

They explored ways North Carolina can:

  • Expand employer partnerships

  • Strengthen vocational curriculum

  • Modernize funding models

  • Create new pathways to competitive employment

The conversation reaffirmed something we see every day at DECI: when people are given the right tools, supports, and opportunities, they thrive.


A Shared Vision for North Carolina

This episode stands as a powerful reminder of what is possible when mission-driven organizations and committed policymakers come together with a shared purpose. DECI is grateful to Rep. Hawkins for lending his time, passion, and insight to this conversation.

We remain committed to pushing for a North Carolina where every person—regardless of disability—has access to meaningful work, community inclusion, and a future filled with possibility.

Stay tuned for the full video episode and future conversations as we continue spotlighting the leaders shaping the landscape of disability employment and inclusion.


Watch & Listen to More Episodes

Stay connected with the conversations shaping disability employment and inclusion across our state.


Explore more episodes now and follow DECI to stay updated on new releases.

 
 
 
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