Abilities First Inc.

Founded in 1962, Abilities First is a not-for-profit organization serving the needs of the community, as well as those with developmental disabilities, from pre-school through adulthood. Abilities First has had a long-term commitment of providing a cohesive culture of compassion, empowerment and respect for people with a variety of disabilities through educational, vocational, residential, and habilitation services. It presently serves over 1,400 children and adults throughout the Hudson Valley region of New York State. AF is accredited for the person-centered care by the Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL).

Abilities First’s mission is to provide people with disabilities and their families support to attain independence, self-determination, integration, and acceptance by others through education, exploration, and experience.

For more information, visit www.AbilitiesFirstNY.org or on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/AbilitiesFirstInc and @AbilitiesF on Twitter.

SERVICES AND PROGRAMS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF OUR COMMUNITY

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

Abilities First provides a range of educational services to students, ages 3 – 21, with developmental disabilities including Universal Pre-K in partnership with Hyde Park Central School District, Preschool and School. AF is also a partner in Dutchess Community College’s Think Ahead college program.

HOUSING/RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

Abilities First tailors residences for people with disabilities to best meet their needs.  Residential opportunities range from community based supportive apartment sites to supervised living arrangements to integrated supportive housing.

 HOME AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

Abilities First provides services to support and care for individuals in the home (Respite) or provide skill building activities in the home or out in the community (Community Habilitation).

ADULT DAY SERVICES

Adult Day Services at Abilities First provide meaningful day time activities for people with disabilities from young adulthood to seniors. Programs are community integrated as much as possible to provide a wide variety of experiences and exposure to people and places in our communities.

FAMILY SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY

Abilities First offers support to parents and family members and can assist in care coordination, educational advocacy and provides family education and training seminars.

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

Abilities First provides a wide variety of community-based pre-employment and employment services to match people with opportunities that meet their personal interests and current readiness for employment through partnerships with local business.

Visit http://www.abilitiesfirstny.org/contact-us.php for specific locations in Dutchess and Orange County and contact information.