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CFCC’s Bridge to Independence Program Expands Career Pathways for Adults with Disabilities

February 4, 2026

A diverse group of ten adults stand close together outside a building, smiling at the camera. They appear to be students and staff, wearing casual and work attire, some with name badges and notebooks, suggesting a college or workplace setting.

Wilmington, NC (February 4, 2024) – Cape Fear Community College is expanding access to education and employment through the Bridge to Independence Program, designed to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they prepare for more active roles in the community. The program will also educate local employers on inclusive hiring practices.

The Bridge to Independence Program focuses on helping participants identify their strengths, explore career options, and build necessary employability skills, while continuing academic instruction in reading, math, and computer literacy. Through hands-on instruction and personalized support, students gain practical experience in areas such as career exploration, resume development, interview preparation, and workplace readiness.

“Bridge to Independence is about creating real opportunities,” said Erin Easton, Vice President of Economic and Workforce Development and Continuing Technical Education. “We’re supporting individuals with disabilities as they work toward independence, while also partnering with employers to build workplaces that benefit the entire community.”

In addition to student-focused services, the program places a strong emphasis on employer engagement. CFCC will work directly with local businesses to share the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities, providing training and resources for employers, and supporting successful job or volunteer opportunities. This collaborative approach helps ensure that both students and employers are set up for long-term success.

Program offerings include:

  • Career Exploration to help participants discover paths aligned with their interests and strengths
  • Career Preparation through hands-on training, resume building, and interview coaching
  • Community Connection via employer outreach and advocacy for inclusive hiring
  • Job Placement Support that matches students with careers aligned to their goals
  • Academic Skills development in reading, writing, math, and computer literacy

For more information about the Bridge to Independence Program, visit cfcc.edu/academic-career-readiness/bridge-to-independence-program/ .

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