Job seekers with Autism/IDD have a broad variety of opportunities for fair and equal employment.

Businesses are enthusiastic and intentional about hiring employees with Autism/IDD.

There is a thriving community of successful entrepreneurs with Autism/IDD.

EngageNC (formerly “The Power of the Dream”) was founded in 2008 by a group of self-advocates and families in order to assist others in better understanding micro-enterprise and asset building. As the organization connected with more individuals, it was clear that many job seekers with Autism/IDD faced significant barriers to employment.

In 2013, EngageNC opened HANDmeUPs Thrift to provide direct employment opportunities and to demonstrate the value of employing adults with Autism/IDD. Over the years, EngageNC has continued to provide advice and resources to micro-entrepreneurs and businesses who are intentional about hiring adults with Autism/IDD.