Dear Friends of Abilities First,

At Abilities First the Spirit of Inclusion is at the core of our mission. How grateful an individual feels when welcomed amongst community neighbors and co-workers. This couldn’t be more true than for individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities working toward independence and self-reliance.

We are deeply grateful for the growing Spirit of Inclusion seen within our communities, from businesses providing vocational opportunities, growing volunteer interest, community support and more. 

We wish you many opportunities to gather with family and friends this holiday season. Please share with them your ongoing support to the mission of Abilities First and the Spirit of Inclusion.

Pictured above: In the Spirit of Inclusion, the cover artwork for the 2016 Abilities First holiday card was created collectively by 5 participants of the Abilities First DayHab #1 at the Work Training Center in Poughkeepsie. Chessa, Christopher, Matthew, Sarah and Joe’s fingerprints make up the snowflakes in the cover image.

These participants, along with over 150 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, gain life and job skills through employment in the Work Training Center. Many also volunteer within their community at more than 20 local businesses and nonprofits.