
Mission & History
We are committed to empowering and supporting people with disabilities through an individualized approach, where they live, learn, work, and play.
For over 60 years, The Charles Lea Center has been a trusted national leader in providing innovative care and support for adults with developmental disabilities. With a strong commitment to empowering individuals, the center focuses on person-centered services that promote independence, inclusion, and quality of life. Through dedication, expertise, and a principle-based mission, the organization continues to shape the future of disability services across the country.
The Charles Lea Center Difference
The Charles Lea Center has a long and valued history of providing superior services, well-trained and seasoned staff, and a principle-based mission. For more than 60 years, it has been a national leader, offering services in three states and consulting/training in more than 25 states and Canada.
The Charles Lea Center strives to provide high-quality person-centered services to adults with developmental disabilities. It incorporates the latest in assistive technology so those who receive services can live as independently as they desire.
Charles Lea Center staff work as a team to find creative solutions so those served can be full members of the communities in which they live. The job is not complete until those served are happy, content, and fulfilled.


Regional Presence
The Charles Lea Center operates from its main campus in Spartanburg, South Carolina, with regional offices in North Carolina and Tennessee. These locations allow for expanding outreach and ensuring that more individuals receive essential services, reinforcing the center’s commitment to accessibility and high-quality care.