HISTORY
In the early 1980’s a group of parents and concerned clergy members from the United Methodist Church came together in Winston-Salem to form a task force to address the needs of “persons with handicapped needs.” Recognizing that there were insufficient residential programs to help aging parents and foster the independence of young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), these pioneers forged partnerships, advocated, and secured funding to start UMAR. The first residential home in High Point was generously donated by Bill Ervin, and now bears his name.
Across the years, UMAR grew to support adults from all walks of life to LIVE, WORK, and THRIVE in their own communities through group homes, independent and supported living, vocational services and art programs in 11 cities across western North Carolina.
In 2023, UMAR merged with Monarch, a leading provider of services for people with I/DD, mental illness and substance use disorders in North Carolina and Rhode Island. As a division of Monarch, UMAR continues to operate programs and services that change lives every day.
Today, with the help of a dedicated community of families, volunteers, businesses, and churches—UMAR continues to empower adults with disabilities to live their best independent life.
ACCREDITATIONS
As a Division of Monarch, UMAR has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.
A BBB accredited charity is an organization that meets all 20 of the BBB Standards for Charity Accountability based on a review of information and materials provided by the organization.
As a Division of Monarch, UMAR holds Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency, meaning it shares clear and important information with the public about goals, strategies, capabilities, achievements and progress indicators that highlight the difference the organization makes in the world.
Charity Navigator is a charity assessment organization that evaluates charitable organizations in the United States.
MAILING ADDRESS
UMAR Services, Inc.
PO Box 480291
Charlotte, North Carolina 28217
P: (866) 272-7826
ADMISSIONS INQUIRIES
As a division of Monarch, UMAR’s referrals and placements are coordinated by Monarch’s Long-Term Services and Supports Referral Team. If you have questions about a referral or would like more information about services, please contact:
P: (866) 272-7826
[email protected]
MEDIA INQUIRIES
Laurie Weaver, Vice President of Marketing and Philanthropy, Monarch
(704) 986-1536, [email protected]
Andra Eason - Vice President of Marketing and Philanthropy, UMAR
(704) 659-7624 - [email protected]
ARTS CENTERS
Charlotte Arts Center
3015 South Tryon Street, Suite 101
Charlotte, NC 28217
704.348.0994
Lincolnton Arts Center
232 East Main Street
Lincolnton, NC 28092
704.240.9838
Reidsville Arts Center
231 South Scales Street
Reidsville, NC 27320
336.342.5533
Monarch DBA UMAR Tax ID (EIN) | 56-1326126
