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About NCARF: History

The History of NCARF

In 1964, a group of sheltered workshop directors met for the purpose of organizing an association through which they could discuss and have an impact on issues and concerns that affect the delivery of services to individuals with disabilities in the state of North Carolina.

The initial organizational meeting was held at the University of North Carolina in Greensboro.  Chris Horacules, Tom Boring, Sarah Bray and Jerry Stone spearheaded the movement.

In 1965, the organization was chartered as the North Carolina Association of Sheltered Workshops (NCASW).  Chris Horacules was elected as the first president and Virginia Stowers served as secretary.  Until the early 1970’s, the Board of Directors was composed of sheltered workshop directors only.  Around 1974, freestanding Adult Developmental Activity Programs (ADAP) were allowed to join.

In 1978, the association contracted with Olsen Management Group, Inc, to manage the daily activities of the association.  In 1984, the association changed its name to the North Carolina Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, Inc.  In order to expedite delivery of services to member facilities, the Board of Directors, in 1990 hired its own Executive Director and located in Durham.  In 1992, the office was moved to Raleigh.  Beginning in 1993, the association began an expansion of staff that included both administration and training.

1999 heralded change for the association as its 2nd   director came aboard, shifting the focus to new initiatives designed to promote self-sufficiency and lessen dependence on funding sources.

Currently, the association is composed of a wide variety of community rehabilitation programs that continue to promote efficient service delivery to the more than 10,000 individuals served annually.  Many members have expanded their definitions of barriers to employment to include developmental, physical, psychological and economic barriers.  The consumer population that we now serve is very diverse.

As an association, NCARF aggressively seeks ways to serve its members and add value to membership.  A sampling of current initiatives include:

• Web-based communications via www.ncarf.com

• Relevant, comprehensive training via professional development seminar series and the Annual Conference

• Stronger regional initiatives and communications

• Organizational development assistance to members

Group buying arrangements to help members