Hickory – As the City of Hickory continues work on the Community Enhancement Project for Individuals with Disabilities Study, adults (ages 18+) with disabilities are invited to provide their important feedback on resources and opportunities in Catawba, Caldwell, Burke, and Alexander counties.

This survey will give respondents an opportunity to share important feedback that covers their needs, awareness of resources, usage, perceived service gaps, and hopes for the future.

The online survey will be open from June 21 through August 20 and is now available on the homepage of the City of Hickory’s website, www.HickoryNC.gov, and directly at the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Z3WY2QN.

Paper copies of the survey will also be available at participating public libraries in Catawba, Caldwell, Burke, and Alexander counties. Respondents may complete the online survey at participating libraries as well.

For the purpose of this study, the term “disability” is defined as “an impairment caused by a physical, mental, cognitive, or developmental condition that substantially limits major life activities and is verifiable or regarded as present.”

Survey respondents who need assistance with taking the survey may designate a proxy to assist them with completing the survey.

The City will also be conducting focus groups at residential and day program sites to gather input for the study.

The City of Hickory launched the Community Enhancement Project for Individuals with Disabilities in January. The purpose of the project is to examine existing offerings, identify gaps in service, and increase the quality of life for citizens with disabilities by using innovation, best practices, and collaborative partnerships.

For additional information about the project or assistance with the community survey, please contact Special Projects Manager Natalie Jackson at [email protected] or 828-851-6473.