Catawba County Special Needs & IDD
Resource Guide
Distributed by Family Support Network / HOPE
Family Support Network / HOPE
Physical Office Address: 202 S. Center Street, Hildebran, NC 28637
Mailing Address: PO Box 11395, Hickory, NC 28603
Phone: (828) 256-5202
Email: [email protected]
Compiled by:
Deidra Hicks
FSN/HOPE Office Support Staff
Phone: (828) 228-6896
Email: [email protected]
Follow Family Support Network/HOPE on Facebook for additional one-time events and new
Opportunities
Recreation & Activities
Abilities Tennis
Abilities Tennis provides a positive tennis experience for individuals (ages 8 and up) with intellectual disabilities. The program focuses on improving mental, physical, emotional, and social well-being while teaching skills needed to participate in tennis at various levels.
Provider: Hickory Parks and Recreation
Instructor/Director: Hani Nassar
Phone: (828) 322-7046 or (828) 234-6330
Email: [email protected]
Location: Hickory City Park Tennis Courts (lower-level courts)
Schedule: Offered seasonally (dates vary)
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Ages 8 and up with special needs
Additional Information:
This is a volunteer-run, grant-based program. No equipment is required to participate.
Participants should wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes and bring a water bottle.
Parents are required to stay and are encouraged to participate if able.
Bowling Buddies
Bowling Buddies is a relaxed, non-competitive league designed for individuals with special needs to socialize and have fun. Participants are grouped into small teams and can bowl up to three games each session, with flexibility based on individual needs.
Organizer: Deidra Hicks
Phone: (828) 228-6896 (text preferred)
Location: Pin Station Bowling Alley, 525 West A Street, Newton, NC
Schedule: Monday nights (year-round, with occasional cancellations)
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Cost: $2.00 per game (up to 3 games), $1.00 shoe rental if needed
Eligibility: Individuals with special needs
Additional Information:
There are no registration fees and no requirement to attend every week. Participants pay the organizer for games, and shoe rental is paid at the front desk. First-time participants should arrive early to complete membership paperwork.
Dancing Wonders
Dancing Wonders provides a supportive environment where individuals with disabilities can explore dance and express themselves creatively. Participants have opportunities to perform in recitals and local competitions.
Provider: Krista Whitener Academy of Dance
Phone: (828) 485-8210 or (828) 514-5954
Email: [email protected]
Location: 318 1st Street West, Conover, NC
Cost: Free (costumes and shoes may have additional costs)
Eligibility: Individuals with disabilities
Additional Information: Participants may take part in performances throughout the year, including a beginning-of-year showcase and end-of-year recital.
Raise the Barre Dance Academy (Special Needs Class)
Raise the Barre Dance Academy offers a special needs dance class for individuals ages 5 and up. The program includes weekly lessons, with opportunities to participate in recitals, showcases, and competitions.
Owner: Jaimie Walden
Phone: (828) 604-0350
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.raisethebarredanceacademync.com
Location: 825 Conover Blvd W, Newton, NC
Cost: Varies (see website for current pricing)
Eligibility: Ages 5 and up with special needs
Cheer Energy All-Stars (Explosion: Cheer Abilities)
Cheer Energy All-Stars offers a special needs cheer program designed to build Confidence, teamwork, and physical skills. Participants may have opportunities to compete and perform.
Phone: (828) 405-1217
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: www.cheerenergy.com
Location: 185 2nd St. Pl. SE, Hickory, NC
Cost: Reduced rate (uniforms, shoes, and competition costs may apply)
Eligibility: Individuals with special needs
Additional Information: Competitions may require travel and additional expenses.
Hickory Parks and Recreation – Ceramics Studio
The Ceramics Studio offers a creative space for individuals to paint and glaze ceramic pieces. This is a flexible, come-and-go activity suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities.
Provider: Hickory Parks and Recreation
Phone: (828) 323-7400
Location: Winkler Park Museum Building, 2500 Clement Blvd NW, Hickory, NC
Schedule:
Monday & Wednesday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tuesday & Thursday: 1 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
1st Saturday of the month: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Cost: $1.00–$75.00 depending on selected item
Eligibility: Open to all
Additional Information: All materials and firing are included in the price. No registration is required.
Hickory Parks and Recreation – Special Activities
Hickory Parks and Recreation offers inclusive recreational opportunities such as open gym play and seasonal activities for individuals with special needs.
Phone: (828) 328-3997
Location: Highland Recreation Center, 1451 8th Street Drive NE, Hickory, NC
Cost: Varies depending on activity
Eligibility: Individuals with special needs
Additional Information: Activities may include basketball, pickleball, dodgeball, and other seasonal events. Check the Parks and Recreation calendar for current offerings.
We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym
We Rock the Spectrum is a sensory-friendly gym designed to provide a safe and inclusive play environment for children of all abilities, with a focus on those with special needs.
Phone: (828) 855-3383
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.werockthespectrumhickory.com
Location: 1061 7th Street Court SE, Hickory, NC
Cost: Varies
Eligibility: Children of all abilities
Additional Information:
The facility offers sensory equipment and play areas designed to support development and safe exploration. A nonprofit branch may occasionally offer social skills groups and activities.
Outdoor & Equine Programs
Big Hearts Outdoors
Big Hearts Outdoors is a faith-based organization designed to introduce individuals with disabilities to the outdoors through hunting and fishing experiences. Each participant is paired with trained volunteer guides who provide one-on-one support.
Contact: Guy Mundy (Founder)
Phone: (828) 308-2412 or (828) 228-6222
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.bighearts-outdoors.com
Location: Events held in Catawba and Alexander Counties (varies by event)
Cost: Free (small fees for tags may apply; assistance available if needed)
Eligibility: Individuals with disabilities
Additional Information:
All equipment is provided, including hunting and fishing gear. Specialized adaptive equipment is available for individuals with mobility limitations. Events are limited based on available volunteer guides. Meeting locations vary but often include the Alexander County Fairgrounds for hunting and Whittenburg Lake Access for fishing.
Hands of a Sportsman
Hands of a Sportsman is a nonprofit organization that provides individuals facing physical, emotional, or financial challenges with opportunities to participate in hunting and fishing experiences.
Coordinator: David Hinceman
Phone: (704) 798-4669
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.handsofasportsman.org
Location: Events typically begin at Alexander County Fairgrounds, 170 Fairgrounds Road, Taylorsville, NC (final location varies by event)
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Individuals with disabilities or other qualifying challenges
Additional Information: Participants may meet their assigned guide at the fairgrounds or another designated location depending on the event. Both local and distance-based events may be offered.
Bended Knee Outdoors
Bended Knee Outdoors is a faith-based nonprofit organization that supports veterans, families, and individuals with disabilities through outdoor experiences such as hunting, fishing, and special events.
Phone: (828) 244-4721
Email: [email protected]
Location: 4537 Ike Starnes Road, Granite Falls, NC
Cost: Free (based on funding availability)
Eligibility: Veterans, families, and individuals with disabilities
Additional Information: In addition to outdoor events, the organization may provide assistance with essential needs when funding is available. Events may be held on-site or at off-site locations.
C.A.S.T. for Kids (Lake Hickory Event)
C.A.S.T. for Kids is an annual fishing event held on Lake Hickory for children with special needs. Participants are paired with volunteer boaters who guide them through a fishing experience in a safe and supportive environment.
Organizer: Andy Matusko
Phone: (828) 493-6822
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Website: www.castforkids.org
Location: Whittenburg Access Area, 175 Wildlife Access Road, Hickory, NC
Schedule: Annual event (typically late spring or early summer; dates vary)
Time: Approximately 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Ages 8–18 (young adults may be accepted if space is available)
Additional Information: All equipment is provided. Life vests are encouraged but not required. This is a volunteer-led, grant-funded event with limited participant spots.
Rising Hope Farms
Rising Hope Farms is a faith-based therapeutic horseback riding program that provides equine-assisted activities for individuals with disabilities.
Contact: Gail Wartner (Founder)
Phone: (828) 638-0879
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://risinghopefarms.com
Location: 3775 Bethany Church Road, Claremont, NC
Schedule: Multiple days per week (year-round with breaks; assigned weekly time slots)
Cost: Free (suggested annual donation; helmet purchase required)
Eligibility: Individuals with disabilities
Additional Information: Due to high demand, there may be a waiting list. Each rider is supported by multiple trained volunteers. Riders must wear appropriate clothing, including pants and closed-toe shoes, and purchase a riding helmet.
Walk With Me – Barn Buddies
Barn Buddies is an equine-assisted learning program that uses structured activities with horses to support social, emotional, and developmental growth.
Directors: Julie Dollar and Jennifer Bandy
Phone: (828) 330-4152
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.walkwithmehealingsteps.com
Location: Steel Water Barn, 4170 LB Propst Drive, Conover, NC
Schedule: Wednesdays (subject to change)
Time: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Cost: Varies (grants and possible insurance coverage available)
Eligibility: Individuals with autism and other developmental differences
Additional Information: Activities focus on communication, social interaction, and emotional awareness through guided interaction with horses.
Shining Hope Farms
Shining Hope Farms is a nonprofit organization that provides equine-assisted therapy and adaptive riding programs for individuals with a variety of physical, developmental, and mental health needs.
Phone: (704) 827-3788
Website: https://shininghopefarms.org
Location: 6347 St. Peter’s Church Road, Conover, NC
Cost: Varies (private pay or insurance may be accepted)
Eligibility: Individuals with physical, developmental, or mental health needs
Additional Information: Services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and adaptive riding. The organization is a PATH International Premier Accredited Center and may have a waiting list.
Theatre, Arts & Performance
Limitless Theatre (The Green Room Community Theatre)
Limitless Theatre is a specialized theatre program designed for teens and adults with disabilities. The program focuses on teaching drama skills while building confidence, creativity, and social interaction through performance.
Provider: The Green Room Community Theatre
Phone: (828) 464-6583
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.thegreenroomtheatre.org/limitless
Location: 105 S. Main Ave, Newton, NC
Schedule: Two semesters per year (dates vary)
Time: Typically Tuesdays, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Cost: Varies (approximately $45 per semester)
Eligibility: Ages 15 and up with special needs
Additional Information: The class is led by trained instructors with backgrounds in theatre or special education. Participants learn acting, movement, stage presence, and other theatre elements. A final showcase performance is held at the end of each session. Participants should be able to follow simple instructions and manage personal needs unless accompanied by a caregiver.
The Penguin Project (Hickory Community Theatre)
The Penguin Project is a theatre program that provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to participate in a full stage production alongside peer mentors.
Provider: Hickory Community Theatre
Phone: (828) 328-2283
Website: http://www.hickorytheatre.org/penguin-project
Location: 30 3rd St. SW, Hickory, NC
Cost: Varies (contact for current details)
Eligibility: Ages 8–22 with disabilities
Additional Information: Each participant is paired with a peer mentor who provides support throughout rehearsals and performances. The program includes individuals with a wide range of disabilities, including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other developmental or physical conditions. Rehearsal and performance schedules vary by production.
Social & Support Groups
Walkin’ Roll Activities League
Walkin’ Roll Activities League is a nonprofit organization that provides social and recreational opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. The program focuses on building confidence, self-esteem, and social connections in a supportive and non-competitive environment.
Director: Sharon Barlow-Elliot
Phone: (828) 446-5106
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.walkinroll.org
Location: Albert Parkhurst Municipal Complex, 202 South Center Street, Hildebran, NC
Mailing Address: PO Box 1994, Hildebran, NC 28637
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages
Additional Information: Activities include game nights (such as bingo), tee-ball, chorus, and special events. Game nights are typically held twice per month. The organization serves families across multiple counties.
Autism Support Group of the Foothills
This support group provides a welcoming space for families and individuals affected by autism to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another.
Founder: David Sigmon
Phone: (828) 320-2356 or (828) 459-7068
Email: [email protected]
Location: St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 6175 St. Peter’s Church Road, Conover, NC
Schedule: First Thursday of each month
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Individuals with autism and their families
Additional Information: A light dinner is provided. Meetings include group discussions, programs, and occasional social gatherings. Children may play in a supervised environment while parents connect. Some meetings may include short character-building or faith-based lessons.
Be Optimistic – I’m Autistic!
This group is a social support opportunity for teens and adults on the autism spectrum,
providing a relaxed environment to connect with others and build friendships.
Facilitator: Mary Minton
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Be Optimistic I’m Autistic
Location: Various locations throughout the county
Schedule: Typically meets once per month (varies)
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Adults ages 18 and older on the autism spectrum
Additional Information: Meetings are often held at restaurants or community locations. The group may also host social outings and activities throughout the year.
Hickory Brain Injury Support Group
The Hickory Brain Injury Support Group provides support, education, and connection for
individuals affected by brain injuries, as well as their families and caregivers.
Facilitator: Travis Glass
Phone: (828) 781-0778
Email: [email protected]
Location: First United Methodist Church, 311 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC (Room 247, Timothean Room)
Schedule: Typically the 4th Tuesday of each month
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Brain injury survivors, families, and caregivers
Additional Information: Meetings may include guest speakers, group discussions, and educational topics. Separate spaces may be available for caregivers and survivors during certain sessions. Optional meditation sessions may be offered.
Families Together Support Group
Families Together Support Group is a parent-led support group designed to provide connection, encouragement, and shared understanding for families of individuals with disabilities.
Provider: Families Together Support Group
Contact: Kim Lambert
Phone: (828) 303-9777
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Families Together Support Group
Location: Varies (details shared within the group)
Schedule: Monthly meetings (dates and times vary)
Cost: Free (some optional activities may have a small fee)
Eligibility: Parents and caregivers of individuals with disabilities
Additional Information: This group provides a welcoming and supportive space for families to connect, share experiences, and learn about local resources. Meetings may include open discussion, resource sharing, and opportunities for children to interact and build social connections. Details such as meeting locations and events are shared privately within the group to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for participating families.
Catawba County Elks Lodge Dances
The Elks Lodges in Hickory and Newton host social dances for individuals with special needs, providing a fun and inclusive environment with music, food, and social interaction.
Locations:
Hickory Elks Lodge #1654 – 356 Main Ave NW, Hickory, NC
Newton Elks Lodge #2042 – 625 West J Street, Newton, NC
Schedule: First and third Tuesdays of each month (locations rotate)
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Varies
Eligibility: Individuals with special needs
Additional Information: Events include a DJ, dancing, and a meal. The location alternates between the Hickory and Newton lodges.
Education & Skill Development
Adult Basic Education (ABE) – Catawba Valley Community College
Adult Basic Education (ABE) is a program designed for adults who function below the high school level. Instruction focuses on reading, writing, math, communication, technology, and workforce readiness.
Provider: Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC)
Contact: Stacee Eason
Phone: (828) 327-7000 ext. 4857
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.cvcc.edu/Academic-Resources/CCR/adult-basic-education.cfm
Location: CVCC Main Campus and Alexander Center (Taylorsville)
Schedule: Monday–Thursday
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Adults age 18 and older
Additional Information: Students complete a placement assessment to determine appropriate instruction level. The program focuses on academic skills, independent living, and job readiness. Some optional certification programs may have additional costs. Transportation is not provided.
Life Skills Program – Catawba County Healthcare
The Life Skills Program is a day program that provides independent living and pre-vocational training for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Provider: Catawba County Healthcare
Contact: Kandi L. Dubuque
Phone: (828) 695-2150
Email: [email protected]
Location: 3060 11th Ave Dr SE, Hickory, NC (with additional community locations)
Schedule: Monday–Friday
Time: Approximately 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Cost: Varies (may be covered through funding programs)
Eligibility: Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Additional Information: Activities include community outings, recreational programs, sensory activities, arts and crafts, computer use, and pre-vocational training. Transportation may be available in limited areas.
Goodwill Catawba County Center (Workforce Development)
The Goodwill Workforce Development Program provides job training, life skills development, and structured daily activities to support individuals in gaining employment and independence.
Provider: Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina
Phone: (828) 465-0371
Location: 413 Thornburg Drive, Conover, NC
Schedule: Monday–Friday
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cost: Varies (based on eligibility and funding)
Eligibility: Individuals who qualify for workforce development services
Additional Information: Participants engage in job skills training, community outings, and structured activities. Some transportation may be available. Many participants are referred through community agencies or residential programs.
Connections Clubhouse
Connections Clubhouse is a psychosocial rehabilitation program that supports adults with mental health conditions through structured daily activities, social interaction, and skill-building opportunities.
Phone: (828) 466-0030
Location: 1629 Southwest Boulevard, Newton, NC
Mailing Address: PO Box 1256, Newton, NC
Schedule: Monday–Friday
Time: Approximately 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Cost: Varies
Eligibility: Adults age 18 and older with a diagnosis of severe and persistent mental illness
Additional Information: Participants contribute to daily operations such as meal preparation, office tasks, and maintenance. The program also offers social activities, wellness programs, employment support, and education assistance.
Best Buddies (Life Skills / Job Skills / Social Group)
Best Buddies is a community-based program that focuses on developing independence through life skills, job readiness, and social interaction.
Contact: Deidra Hicks
Phone: (828) 228-6896 (call or text)
Location: Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, 2613 Wesley Chapel Road, Newton, NC
Schedule: Typically once per month (varies)
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cost: Not specified
Eligibility: Individuals with special needs
Additional Information: This volunteer-led group offers classes and activities focused on independence, community involvement, and workplace readiness. Meeting dates and topics may vary.
Adult Life Programs
Adult Life Programs provides adult day services designed to support individuals while helping them remain active, engaged, and connected to their community.
Phone: (828) 326-9120
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.adultlifeprograms.com
Location: Multiple locations throughout Catawba County
Schedule: Varies by program
Cost: Varies
Eligibility: Adults in need of day services
Additional Information: Programs include structured daily activities, social interaction, and support for maintaining independence. A free trial day visit may be available for new participants.
Therapeutic & Clinical Services
Partners Managed Care Organization (MCO)
Partners MCO manages behavioral health and intellectual/developmental disability services, including funding programs such as the Innovations Waiver and other state-supported services.
Provider: Partners Health Management
Phone: (877) 864-1454
Location: 1985 Tate Blvd SE, Hickory, NC
Cost: Varies (based on eligibility and funding programs)
Eligibility: Individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities or behavioral health needs
Additional Information: Individuals and families may request to be placed on the Innovations Waiver waitlist if not immediately eligible for services. It is recommended to follow up periodically to confirm placement on the waitlist. Additional services may include Community Living and Supports (CLS) and other support options depending on eligibility. Processing times for services may vary.
The Counseling Group – PEERS Social Skills Program
The Counseling Group offers social skills groups, including the PEERS program, an
evidence-based intervention designed to help young adults develop meaningful social
relationships.
Provider: The Counseling Group
Phone: (828) 322-9130
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Location: 106 Third Ave NE, Hickory, NC
Schedule: 8-week sessions (dates vary)
Time: Typically 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Cost: Approximately $400 (may be partially reimbursed by insurance)
Eligibility: Ages 18–28 with autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or related needs
Additional Information: Participants learn conversational skills, social interaction strategies, handling conflict, and relationship-building techniques. Attendance with a “social coach” (parent, caregiver, or trusted adult) is required. This is a structured and research-based program.
Events & Special Programs
Night to Shine
Night to Shine is an annual prom-style event for individuals with special needs, sponsored by local churches as part of a nationwide initiative. The event provides a memorable evening of celebration, including music, dancing, and personalized support.
Provider: Hosted locally by SOMA Church
Phone: (828) 333-7007
Location: Varies (recent locations include Hollar Mill or SOMA Church campus in Hickory, NC)
Schedule: Annual event (typically early February; dates vary)
Time: Approximately 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Individuals with special needs
Additional Information: Participants may be paired with a volunteer “buddy” for the evening. The event may include dinner, a live DJ, formal attire assistance, hair and makeup services, and a limousine ride experience. Pre-registration is required due to limited space.
Parents for HOPE – Stomping Out Stress Retreat
Parents for HOPE offers an annual retreat designed specifically for caregivers of children with disabilities or medical conditions. The event provides an opportunity for rest, connection, and support in a relaxed environment.
Contact: Zondra Moss (Founder)
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.parents4hope.org
Location: Charlotte, NC (specific location provided upon acceptance)
Schedule: Annual event
Application Timeline: Typically opens in early May
Event Timing: Late June or early July (dates vary)
Cost: Varies (contact for details)
Eligibility: Parents and caregivers of children with disabilities
Additional Information: This is a caregiver-only event. Activities may include meals, social events, and wellness opportunities. Participants are responsible for arranging childcare during the retreat.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering is a great way to build skills, give back to the community, and create meaningful connections. The following organizations offer a variety of opportunities for individuals, families, and groups. Availability, age requirements, and schedules may vary.
Food & Community Support
Hickory Soup Kitchen
Provides meals and support services to individuals in need within the community.
Location: 110 2nd St. Place SE, Hickory, NC
Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Volunteer Opportunities: Food preparation, serving meals, stocking shelves, unloading deliveries, cleaning, laundry, and pantry support.
The Corner Table
A community kitchen that provides meals and support to individuals and families.
Location: 122 N. Main Ave, Newton, NC
Phone: (828) 464-0355
Volunteer Opportunities: Meal preparation, serving, cleaning, stocking, and assisting with special events.
The Backpack Program (The Corner Table)
Provides food assistance to students by preparing and distributing weekend food bags.
Location: 1925 Tate Blvd SE, Hickory, NC
Phone: (828) 464-0355
Volunteer Opportunities: Packing food bags, sorting groceries, preparing distributions
Meals on Wheels (Catawba County)
Delivers meals to homebound individuals and supports community nutrition programs.
Location: 3030 11th Ave Dr SE, Hickory, NC
Phone: (828) 695-5600
Volunteer Opportunities: Meal delivery, food preparation, packaging, and pet food distribution
Ashure Ministries
Provides food, clothing, and assistance to individuals and families in need.
Location: 245 East North Street, Newton, NC
Phone: (828) 465-1702
Volunteer Opportunities: Sorting donations, stocking pantry, assisting clients, organizing clothing, and cleaning
Thrift Stores & Donation Centers
Resource Warehouse (Safe Harbor)
Supports individuals and families through a thrift store model and resource distribution.
Location: 331 US Hwy 70 SW, Suite 109, Hickory, NC
Phone: (828) 256-2695
Volunteer Opportunities: Sorting, pricing, stocking shelves, organizing, and cleaning
Hospice Resale Shops (Carolina Caring)
Resale shops that support hospice services through donated goods.
Locations: Hickory (Viewmont and Hwy 127 areas)
Phone: (828) 267-9894
Volunteer Opportunities: Sorting donations, stocking, organizing, and cleaning
Habitat ReStore
A retail outlet supporting Habitat for Humanity’s housing initiatives.
Location: 1615 8th St. Dr. SE, Hickory, NC
Phone: (828) 327-7467
Volunteer Opportunities: Retail support, stocking, organizing, and cleaning
Animals & Outdoor
Humane Society of Catawba County
Provides shelter and care for animals while promoting adoption and humane treatment.
Location: 3224 20th Ave SE, Hickory, NC
Phone: (828) 464-8878
Volunteer Opportunities: Dog walking, cat care, cleaning, adoption events, and fundraisers (Training required)
Rising Hope Farms
Offers therapeutic horseback riding and equine-assisted programs.
Location: 3775 Bethany Church Road, Claremont, NC
Volunteer Opportunities: Horse handling, side walking, barn maintenance, and fundraising
Housing & Community Building
Habitat for Humanity (Catawba Valley)
Builds and repairs homes for individuals and families in need.
Volunteer Opportunities: Construction, home repair, organizing, and fundraising
Education & Schools
Classroom Connections
Provides school supplies to teachers and classrooms in need.
Location: Hickory, NC (location may vary)
Phone: (828) 461-6737
Volunteer Opportunities: Sorting supplies, filling teacher requests, organizing inventory
Faith-Based & Community Support
The Salvation Army
Provides a wide range of community services including food assistance and shelter support.
Locations: Hickory, Conover, and Maiden
Volunteer Opportunities: Shelter support, food pantry assistance, thrift stores, and seasonal programs
Local Churches
Many churches offer volunteer opportunities such as:
Volunteer Opportunities:
Meal preparation and service
Event support
Administrative assistance
Flexible & Community-Wide Opportunities
Accessible Parks & Community Spaces
The following parks and community spaces in the Catawba County area offer accessible
features such as inclusive playground equipment, wheelchair-friendly surfaces, or environments that may be supportive for individuals with disabilities. Features may vary by location.
Zahra Baker All Children’s Playground
This playground is specifically designed to be inclusive for children of all abilities, offering a variety of accessible and sensory-friendly play features.
Location: Lenoir-Rhyne Blvd area, Hickory, NC
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Open to all
Additional Information: Features include adaptive swings, accessible play structures, sensory-friendly equipment, and wide pathways suitable for mobility devices.
Conover City Park
Conover City Park offers a variety of playground features and open space suitable for
individuals with different ability levels.
Location: Behind the Conover Post Office, Conover, NC
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Open to all
Additional Information: The park includes accessible play equipment and space for flexible, supervised play.
Kiwanis Park
Kiwanis Park provides open recreational space and playground equipment in a community
setting.
Location: Hickory, NC
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Open to all
Additional Information: While not fully enclosed, the park offers open areas and walking paths that may be suitable for supervised play.
Southside Park
Southside Park offers playground areas and open space that can support a variety of
recreational needs.
Location: Newton, NC
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Open to all
Additional Information: This park may provide a less crowded environment, which can be helpful for individuals who benefit from quieter spaces.
St. Stephens Park
St. Stephens Park is a larger park with multiple recreational features, including trails and open
spaces.
Location: Hickory, NC
Cost: Free
Eligibility: Open to all
Additional Information: The park includes walking trails, playgrounds, and open areas. While not specifically designed as a sensory park, it offers quieter spaces that may be beneficial for some individuals.
