Launched in 2023, Access to Achievement aims to boost job opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in North Carolina.
If you have an intellectual or developmental disability, this program will ensure you have the chance to earn a certificate, degree, or diploma in a highly supportive environment. This initiative is active at 15 community colleges across the state, including South Piedmont.
Many North Carolinians with intellectual and developmental disabilities believe they don’t have the option to go to college or pursue their dreams. Access to Achievement changes that.
Access to Achievement provides:
- Education programs: We provide guidance to help you discern your ideal career path and support your pursuit of a degree, credential, or micro-credential.
- Personalized plans for success: We develop tailored plans that leverage your distinct strengths and interests while proactively addressing potential challenges, empowering you to succeed.
- Education cost management: We offer insights into available financial options, equipping you to make well-informed decisions regarding the funding of your education.
- Inclusive college experiences: We foster an inclusive campus experience, encouraging you to immerse yourself in campus life, forge meaningful connections, and benefit from our peer mentoring program for enhanced support and community.
- Collaboration with faculty and staff: We partner with faculty and staff members to ensure you receive the resources and support essential to your academic and personal growth.
- Employment: We prepare you for career success through targeted job search assistance, skills development, internships, and immersive work experiences.
Putting Academic Achievement Within Reach
Access to Achievement is a groundbreaking initiative that launched in 2023 across 15 North Carolina community colleges, including South Piedmont.
Access to Achievement provides coordinated support that empowers students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to earn certificates, degrees, and diplomas.
At South Piedmont, our team is standing by, ready to help you achieve more through Access to Achievement.
Opening Doors to Tomorrow’s Success
Access to Achievement is more than just academic support. It’s about helping you develop the skills you need to succeed in your education, career, and life.
Courtney Knox, Access to Achievement Coordinator