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.

Donations

Liberty Corner Enterprises, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives within their communities. We are profoundly committed to providing the people we serve with whole-person care, access to opportunities, resources, and a quality of life. Your generosity can make a significant difference in achieving these goals.

Why Your Donation Matters

As a nonprofit, the support of compassionate individuals like you who go above and beyond for our community can positively impact the lives of people with disabilities in significant ways. Your generosity through donating to LCE provides the following opportunities for people:

Employee Support

Your contributions enable us to provide essential benefits to our dedicated employees. This includes employee appreciation programs, funding for ongoing education, and training opportunities that enhance the level of care and support we offer.

Direct Assistance

We direct your donations where they are needed most, benefiting both the people we support and our hardworking employees. Your support allows us to bridge financial gaps, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access vital services, therapies, and programs.

Housing and Group Homes

Your contributions fuel improvements to our residential facilities, enhancing the living environments for the people we support. From accessibility upgrades to creating vibrant, inclusive spaces, your donations help us provide the highest standard of care.

Community Engagement

We firmly believe in building community through meaningful connections directly with the people we support and our employees. Your donations enable us to organize events, activities, and initiatives that foster a sense of belonging and connection within our community.

Donate Today, Transform Lives

Your donation, no matter the size, has the power to change lives. It is an investment in creating a more inclusive, accepting, and supportive society for all people. Together, we can empower those with disabilities to lead lives filled with purpose, dignity, and opportunity. Every dollar you contribute goes directly toward enhancing the lives of the people we serve and supporting our dedicated direct care workers. Join us in our mission to empower lives, foster inclusion, and build a brighter future for all.

Donate Now

Thank you for being a part of the Liberty Corner Enterprises community. Your generosity is the cornerstone of our mission, and together, we can make a world of difference.