TLC Receives $50,000 Grant from Jandy Ammons Foundation to Empower Artists Living with Disabilities Through Arts Access
RALEIGH, N.C. (June 9, 2025) — TLC, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the Jandy Ammons Foundation to commission original artwork by artists with disabilities. The pieces will be featured throughout TLC’s new Austin Collard Residence and Community Center, turning the space into a tribute to creativity, inclusion, and community pride.
Created in partnership with Arts Access North Carolina, the initiative reflects TLC’s commitment to designing environments that are not only functional but deeply affirming spaces that reflect the dignity, personality, and potential of the people who live there. The commissioned art will transform common areas into vibrant, sensory-friendly spaces where residents, families, and staff feel seen, welcomed, and inspired.
“At TLC, we believe that visibility is power—and when people with disabilities are seen and celebrated for their creativity, it transforms how communities understand and value inclusion,” said Sarah Crawford, CEO of TLC. “Thanks to the generosity of the Jandy Ammons Foundation, we’re bringing that belief to life in a tangible way. This artwork will stand as a permanent celebration of the talents, voices, and stories that deserve to be honored and shared.”
Art That Builds Belonging
The grant-funded pieces will be unveiled after all the art pieces have been installed, providing participating artists with the opportunity to speak about their work and the journey behind each creation. The collaboration underscores how public art can foster understanding, emotional connection, and inclusive design.
“This project celebrates the depth of creativity within the disability community,” said Eileen Bagnall, Executive Director of Arts Access. “We’re thrilled to help bring these voices forward in such a meaningful and visible way.”
A Place to Call Home—And a Village to Belong To
More than just a building, TLC’s new Residents Village is a reimagined neighborhood where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and complex medical needs can grow, connect, and thrive. Following the completion of Phase 1, a high-tech, residential facility designed to meet the complex health needs of its residents, TLC is now embarking on Phase 2: transforming two existing residences into an integrated village that prioritizes comfort, independence, and belonging.
The Residents Village includes long-overdue upgrades for staff as well, such as enhanced nursing stations, improved workspaces, and expanded laundry facilities—each thoughtfully designed to support care teams who make dignity-centered care possible every day.
With $9 million raised toward its $9.8 million goal, TLC is just $800,000 away from completing this life-changing project. The organization is now calling on the community to help close the gap and bring this vision fully to life. To learn about TLC and partnership opportunities, visit https://www.nctlc.org/.
About TLC
TLC is dedicated to empowering individuals of all abilities to live their fullest life. For over 55 years, TLC has been a trusted leader in providing comprehensive services, including early intervention programs, therapy, residential care, and family support. Based in Raleigh, TLC supports children, adults, and families through on-site and community-based initiatives, fostering inclusion and improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities across North Carolina.
Collaboration is central to TLC’s approach. By partnering with organizations such as Voices Together and Arts Access, TLC expands its reach and impact, leveraging collective expertise to better serve the community and amplify support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
About Arts Access North Carolina
Arts Access is a nonprofit organization creating impact at the intersection of arts, education and disability. Through advocacy, training, and collaborative programs, Arts Access ensures that individuals of all abilities can experience and create art.
About The Jandy Ammons Foundation
The Jandy Ammons Foundation (TJAF) is a 501(c)(3) grant-making family foundation formed in November 2012 by Heritage Wake Forest developer Andy Ammons and his family. The organization’s mission is to support project-driven endeavors that will enhance wildlife habitats, park settings, educational surroundings, artistic installations, or Christian church mission projects. This is achieved by funding specific projects for nonprofit organizations that utilize a significant volunteer base. TJAF is a true family foundation: Jan Ammons, Andy Ammons, and their son Drew Ammons make up the Board of Directors; the Ammons’ son, Max Ammons, and daughters-in-law, Alex Ammons and Cassie Ammons, serve on committees within the Foundation; daughter Jessie Ammons Rumbley is the executive director.