NORTH CAROLINA, SINCE 1983 Winter retreat · Register your interest ↗
hecHandicapped
Encounter Christ
OUR STORY

Faith at the heart.
People at the center.

Serving North Carolina since 1983, HEC is a volunteer Christian group that welcomes people of all faiths.

HEC retreat participants gathered for a shared discussion

We are all equal.

Our mission is to enrich the spiritual and social lives of everyone who participates. HEC creates opportunities for adults with disabilities to experience community, share their gifts and build relationships.

Participants are part of shaping the experience: as speakers, planners, facilitators and friends. Everyone has something to offer, and everyone has something to receive.

Our retreat tradition pairs participants and volunteers in a buddy system, encouraging mutual support, dignity and connection.

01 / FAITH

A journey of the heart.

Talks, conversation, reflection and worship create space to explore faith together. Our Christian roots sit alongside an open welcome to people of all faiths.

02 / FRIENDSHIP

More than a weekend.

Retreats lay the foundation for relationships that continue through the year. Social gatherings, shared meals and everyday encouragement keep people connected.

03 / DIGNITY

Participation, together.

HEC has a history of working to make retreat spaces more accessible. We invite conversations about what helps each person participate and confirm arrangements for each event.

“A Journey to
the Heart of God”

THE HEC MOTTO

ORGANIZATION DETAILS

A recognized charitable organization.

HEC is listed with the Internal Revenue Service as HANDICAP ENCOUNTER CHRIST, EIN 56-2014537, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Federal tax-exempt recognition dates to November 1997. The IRS Exempt Organizations Business Master File lists its exempt status as 01 (Unconditional Exemption).

IRS organization records ↗

THERE’S ROOM FOR YOU HERE

Every connection starts
with a simple hello.

Talk with the HEC team