Triangle Disability & Autism Services

Triangle Disability & Autism Services delivers comprehensive, person-centered programs for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism across the Research Triangle region. Founded in 1954 by parents seeking community-based alternatives to institutionalization, the agency long served the area as The Arc of the Triangle before adopting its current name to clearly reflect its focus. Today, the organization delivers licensed day services, individualized employment supports, and specialized behavioral counseling that assist participants in leading self-determined lives across Wake, Durham, and Orange counties.

The agency anchors its daytime adult support around the Building Abilities Day Program, which provides structured opportunities for socialization, recreation, and practical skill development. Operating at the Building Abilities Center on the Cisco campus in Morrisville as well as regional community centers in Raleigh and Durham, the program invites participants to practice daily living tasks, explore creative arts, use local public transit, and build self-advocacy techniques alongside peer groups. During summer months, the Building Abilities Summer Experience offers school-age youth dynamic social and recreational opportunities in welcoming, fully inclusive environments that foster lasting friendships.

Vocational empowerment forms another cornerstone of the agency mission. Employment specialists collaborate with area businesses, corporate campuses, and local agencies to identify integrated positions that match individual strengths, providing one-on-one job coaching, resume development, interview practice, and on-site support to help individuals achieve sustained success and economic independence. The organization also operates Project SEE to introduce emerging job seekers to community career paths through workplace tours, soft-skill workshops, and direct interactions with inclusive Triangle employers who value neurodiverse workplace contributions.

Beyond direct participant services, the organization serves as an essential anchor for family caregivers navigating complex service landscapes. Case coordinators guide families through Medicaid Innovations Waiver requirements, alternative community support systems, respite allocations, and adult guardianship responsibilities when needed. In addition, licensed clinical staff provide specialized mental health counseling designed specifically for neurodivergent individuals and their loved ones, addressing anxiety, major life transitions, social relationships, and behavioral health in an affirming clinical setting.

Community partnerships significantly expand the organization reach throughout North Carolina. Active collaborations with local public school systems, area universities, public transit networks, and regional cultural institutions ensure that individuals with disabilities have continuous access to community life. The agency also promotes self-determination through individualized person-centered planning, ensuring every participant defines their personal goals and shapes the specific services they receive.

Individuals and family members seeking services can initiate contact by submitting an inquiry form online or scheduling an appointment at regional offices in Raleigh, Durham, or Morrisville. Community supporters can become involved through recurring financial contributions, employer hiring partnerships, and volunteer roles that assist with recreational programming, community outings, and special events throughout the year. Dedicated administrative teams coordinate personalized support strategies that ensure each individual receives high quality care.