As of 2025, autism affects 1 in 36 children in the United States, according to the CDC. More than 5.4 million U.S. adults are living with autism, highlighting the growing need for inclusion and lifelong support. Additionally, about 1 in every 700 babies is born with Down syndrome—that’s roughly 6,000 births each year.
Just a few decades ago, individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) were often placed in institutions—isolated from society and forgotten, even by their families. Thankfully, the tide has turned. Today, we’re seeing more members of the IDD community working, thriving, and being included in everyday life. Heather may greet customers at a local coffee shop, Michael might bag groceries with a smile, and Josh could be grooming pups at a doggie daycare.
That’s where Able Buddies NC comes in.
We’re a small but passionate group of families, friends, and advocates working to make life richer and more connected for individuals with special needs. In February 2017, we launched our first event—a Valentine’s Day dance in the Topsail area. It was a heartfelt beginning with about 25 attendees… and the response was overwhelming. Our crowd quickly grew to over 65 participants, and our mission became clear: this was more than just a dance—it was a movement.
We formed a Facebook group, Special Needs Community of Onslow and Pender Counties, to serve as a place of connection. But we needed more. We needed a hub where families could find resources, events, and community—all in one place. That’s why we launched AbleBuddiesNC.org.
By July 2017, thanks to generous donations and incredible local support, we became a registered nonprofit organization. Our Board of Directors includes:
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Yvette Aileen Green (President)
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Laura Ann Cardoso (Treasurer)
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Kim Marie Saxon (Secretary)
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Cindy Holcomb,
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along with dedicated committee members.
Now, we’re ready to grow beyond social events. Our vision is to be a beacon of inclusion, hope, and connection for the IDD community in Eastern North Carolina and beyond. Through dances, fundraisers, trivia nights, and community outreach, we aim to offer support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging for individuals and families walking this journey.
Thank you for supporting Able Buddies NC. Together, we are building a more inclusive world—one dance, one smile, and one connection at a time.
With gratitude,
~ The Able Buddies NC Team