In March of 2026, Liberty Corner announced a historical merger with Irene Wortham Center. We are joining forces to provide a unified future of care!

Learn More About Irene Wortham HERE
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Irene Wortham Center Inc. and Liberty Corner Enterprises Inc. Announce Historic Organizational Merger

ASHEVILLE, NC- Two of Western North Carolina’s most enduring advocates for children and adults with developmental delays and disabilities are joining forces to create a unified future of care. The Irene Wortham Center Inc. (IWC)/Irene Wortham Residential Center Inc. and Liberty Corner Enterprises Inc. (LCE) announced today that LCE will transition its operations to IWC, marking a monumental chapter in the region’s disability services. Combined, the two organizations represent more than 100 years of dedicated service, strengthening a “lifecycle of care” that ensures every individual can lead a life of purpose and connection.

 

For 39 years, LCE has been a cornerstone of person-centered care in WNC; Jennifer Waite has served LCE for over 22yrs most recently as Executive Director. To ensure stability for the families served, Waite will remain with the organization in the role of Transition Director.

Stepping into the role of Executive Director for the combined entity is Matt Henry, who will also continue to serve as the President & CEO of the Irene Wortham Center Inc. and the Irene Wortham Residential Center Inc.

 

“We are grateful to Jennifer for her two decades of service, and we are pleased that she will take the role of Transition Director, to support this new chapter,” said Mr. Henry. “Her commitment to fostering a more inclusive society has changed countless lives, and we are honored to carry that torch forward as our organizations come together.”

 

Since 1961, the Irene Wortham Center has empowered children and adults through its Five-Star Inclusive Early Learning Center, Residential Homes, and Adult Day Programs. By integrating LCE’s mission and expertise, the combined organization will be better positioned to meet the growing needs of the community and enhance the independence of those they serve.

 

For more information and to learn how to support the mission, please visit www.ireneworthamcenter.org.

 

About Irene Wortham Center: The Irene Wortham Center has been a leader in disability services in Asheville, NC, since 1961. Through a comprehensive lifecycle of care, including early childhood education, 24-hour residential support, and adult day programming, IWC empowers individuals to lead healthy, happy, and independent lives.

 

About Liberty Corner Enterprises: Founded in 1987, Liberty Corner Enterprises has spent nearly four decades building a person-centered inclusive society where individuals with disabilities are supported in finding purpose and connection within their community.

Supported Living

At Liberty Corner Enterprises (LCE), we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live life to the fullest, regardless of their abilities. Our Supported Living Services are designed to empower individuals with disabilities, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive in their own dwelling. Here’s what you need to know:

1 – Individualized Levels of Support

  • Supported Living services are available through the NC Innovations Waiver in levels (1-3), tailored to each person’s unique needs.
  • The LME/MCO (Local Management Entity/Managed Care Organization) evaluates and assigns the appropriate level based on assessments and person-centered planning.
  • Supported Living Levels 2 and 3 offer 24-hour support, which can be delivered face-to-face or through the use of technology.
  • Individuals who are not currently eligible for NC Innovations Waiver may apply for 1915i waiver Long Term Community Supports (Level 2) and receive similarly modeled services while living in their own home or apartment dwellings.

2 – Person-Centered Approach

  • We prioritize individual preferences and needs.
  • People can live in their own homes within an integrated environment.
  • Our staff support includes skills training and assistance, tailored to the individual’s needs and wants.

3- Choice and Control

  • There is no requirement to live in groups; individuals have the autonomy to live alone or with someone they choose.
  • Services and support are developed through careful planning with the individual and their team.
  • Supported Living provides flexibility based on strengths, needs, and personal preferences.

4 – Provider Flexibility

  • Supported Living services are adjusted as life circumstances change without relocating the individual.
  • The person supported can choose and change service providers while maintaining their residence.

5 – Readiness and Independence

  • Important to remember that there is NO readiness criteria for Supported Living; all adults can live successfully in their own homes with appropriate assistance.
  • Supported living encourages natural relationships within the community.

6 – Personal Dreams and Outcomes

  • Recognizing personal dreams as a right, not just a reward, is a primary goal in the Supported Living model of service.
  • Support includes connecting individuals to community resources and building meaningful connections to natural support networks.

In summary, Supported Living is about choice, respect, and personalized care. It differs from group homes, emphasizing individualized support and valued relationships. As needs evolve, so does the support provided.

LCE is dedicated to providing Supported Living services in partnership with people to create a place they can call home and thrive in communities of their choice. 🌟🏠