It Started With A Need.
It Grew Into A Community.

Envisioned in 2000 by Gail and Eric Vaughn, And Brought To Life Through A Community Of Dedicated Supporters, the Serving Cup Began As A Grassroots Nonprofit Creating Social Opportunities For Adults With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities (I/dd). What Started As Inclusive Coffeehouse Gatherings Soon Grew Into A Broader Mission: Building Lives Of Dignity, Independence, And Connection.

As families shared their struggles, one need became clear—affordable, inclusive housing was nearly impossible to find. In response, The Serving Cup refocused its mission to address this critical gap.

In partnership with Lutheran Services Carolinas and Habitat for Humanity of Wake County, we developed Building Independence—a sustainable housing model that supports adults with I/DD in living independently while staying connected to their communities. With education, family engagement, and long-term stability at its core, this initiative empowers individuals to thrive, not just live.

The Serving Cup is a powerful example of how a local community partner can help bring trusted organizations together around practical solutions and a shared belief that everyone deserves a place to belong.

Building Independence

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Building Independence

Org chart

Teams

Offices

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