About Abilis
Abilis (ABLE-ISS), a nonprofit (501c3) agency, previously was known as Greenwich ARC. It began in Greenwich in 1951, when parents and the local Junior League and Community Chest joined forces to help children with developmental disabilities.
Today, Abilis meets the myriad needs of people with developmental disabilities - not only in childhood, but throughout their lives.
- Abilis works in schools, civic organizations and with families in Greenwich, Stamford, Darien and throughout Fairfield County and into Westchester County in New York state.
- Abilis provides employment services for adults and residential support to adults in more than a dozen homes owned by Abilis in Greenwich and Stamford, as well as to people living more independently in apartments and condominiums.
Many families work with us for weeks or months. For others, the journey lasts years or even a lifetime. In every case, Abilis’ respect for people – their dreams, dignity and personal preferences – guides the way. Abilis provides people with the support and advocacy they need to build able lives and strong communities.
Abilis believes:
- All people deserve to live, learn, work and enjoy life based upon their personal preferences.
- Each person’s own strengths and dreams for the future deserve acknowledgement and respect.
- All people deserve access to resources, opportunities and skills that enhance their ability to advocate effectively for themselves.
- People with disabilities have the same rights as all people. They deserve good health care and safety, meaningful choices, achievement, friendship, fulfilling work and a comfortable place to live.
Our Programs:
Abilis needs to raise funds for every program it operates. Some programs are nearly 100-percent supported by grants and contributions.
Services to Youth
Birth to Three designs family-centered programs for infants and toddlers with suspected and/or confirmed developmental delays and provides services if appropriate.
Abilis Autism offers evaluations and support for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and a range of behavioral concerns. Abilis’ team of experts also provides training to families, as well as training and technical assistance to school districts throughout Fairfield County and into Westchester County, N.Y.
Family Resources has a full menu of options for children and teens and their families, from inclusive recreation, sports and community-based activities to workshops and parent-to-parent networking. Abilis also is one of the few agencies in the area to provide emergency respite services to families in crisis.
Services to Adults
Employment Services nurtures independence. Individualized courses of study in money management, using public transportation and other daily skills help prepare people for careers. Abilis staff also works with employers from the public and private sectors to develop work and community opportunities in Fairfield County that match the abilities and dreams of adults served. Workers supported by Abilis are fully insured and provide high-quality, reliable service at competitive rates.
Residential Services offers alternatives based on the needs and desires of each individual, from homes in Greenwich and Stamford that are indistinguishable from others in the neighborhood to more independent living in apartments, condominiums and homeshare arrangements.
Community Network provides an array of adult recreation and leisure opportunities, allowing individual choice and the degree of support necessary to fully participate in the community. Activities include dining out, shows, sporting events, ski trips and other vacations to popular spots across North America, as well as more structured social groups.
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Enabling Independence
Building Community
Impacting Society
A complete support network for individuals across the lifespan and their families.
Providing opportunities for individuals to gain confidence and succeed.
For more information about Abilis contact:
Lolli Ross
Executive Director
203-531-1880 x104 or email:
Amy Samalin
Director of Adult Services
203-531-1880 x128 or email:
Karen Feder
Director Youth Services
203-324-1880 x302 or email:
50 Glenville Street, Greenwich, CT 06831
