The Board of Directors of Triangle Disability & Autism Services has voted to end the organization’s affiliation as a chapter of The Arc of North Carolina and as a chapter of The Arc of the United States.
We value and cherish our history as NC’s first local chapter of The Arc, formed over 70 years ago. We recognize our Triangle communities have experienced a great deal of confusion and turmoil in trying to make sense of the separation between TDAS and the state chapter, which is also headquartered in Raleigh. This has been a challenge, certainly for TDAS’ Executive Director and administrative staff, but most regrettably for the individuals and families who haven’t had clarity in their most vulnerable moments. Changing our name from The Arc of the Triangle in June 2024 was the first step in providing that clarity, and we believe that ending our affiliation with The Arc will further solidify our distinct identity and prove beneficial for Triangle families as they seek out a partner in support for their loved ones.
Maintaining our status as an affiliated chapter under these circumstances is not in the best interests of our organization, the people we provide support to, or the greater Triangle community. As we step away from The Arc, our core values remain unchanged. We are rooted in our history as a trusted partner and service provider to the disability community in the Triangle, and our commitment to excellence in our programming and services endures as we begin the next phase of our journey.
TDAS Leadership has been in contact with both The Arc of the US and NC and are following The Arc’s protocols for a smooth disaffiliation, with no disruption to service delivery and supports.
Respectfully,
Triangle Disability & Autism Services Board of Directors and Leadership Team
Maia Keller, President
Laura Alden, Vice President
Nick Keller, CPA, Treasurer
Brian Ridout, Secretary
Allison Baer
David Cove
Robert Faircloth
Michelle Hartman
Kristina Payton
Sushma Punuru
Jennifer Thompson
Kristen Widmer, MD
Alissa Wu
Jennifer Pfaltzgraff, Executive Director
Michael Kirschner, Compliance Director
Marie Dionne, Human Resources Director
Susan Swearingen, Vocational Services Director
Felecia Stokes, Support Services Director
Michelle Foy, Community Programs Director
Natasha Pratt, Day Services Director
