Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (March 28, 2023) – The Foundation for Abilities First NY (FAFNY), the fundraising arm for Abilities First, Inc. (AFI), is pleased to announce the addition of three community leaders to its Board of Directors.

The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced OPWDD’s 5-year (2023-2027) strategic plan, which provides a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen supports and enhance services for New Yorkers with developmental disabilities. 

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. - November 4, 2022 - The Abilities First Community Partners Breakfast will take place on Tuesday, November 29, 2022 at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. The Community Partners Breakfast serves as a celebration of Abilities First’s 60-year anniversary, as well as the recognition of Abilities First’s 2022 Honorees and Award Recipients that have made significant contributions to furthering the mission of the organization.

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. - November 1, 2022 - Abilities First is pleased to announce it was awarded an $8,500 grant from ACM Lifting Lives®, the philanthropic arm of the Academy of Country Music dedicated to improving lives through the power of music. 

We proudly recognize the many contributions of our volunteer leadership, dedicated staff members, community partners, donors, and other unsung heroes who remind us every day of the meaning of dignity, generosity, and kindness.

In 2021, Abilities First engaged a consulting firm to assess our organizational culture related to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA), with the intent to address and diminish the impact of bias in the organization to create a safe and supportive workplace. As part of that initiative, the development of an internal DEIA Committee was launched in the Fall of 2021, which was open to all employees to join.

Abilities First will be holding employment fairs on Wednesday, August 11, and Wednesday, August 18, at the Abilities First School at 24 Firemens Way in Poughkeepsie from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

With the ongoing decrease in government reimbursables and funding sources to the IDD industry, interest grew to sustain the mission of Abilities First through its own resources.

Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) is a big change in the lives of young children. Suddenly, they are asked to trust new adults and they need to develop skills with their peers and for classroom participation.

Residents Mariana, Trena, Laura, Kerry, and Sara of Sherwood House recently participated in a three-hour training program alongside their house staff.

For over 36 years, the Prenting Family has had an affiliation and commitment to the mission of Abilities First.

The Foundation for the Handicapped was founded in 1966 by the Wayne, New Jersey Rotary Club. Its mission was to provide long-term, meaningful employment services for adults with developmental disabilities. Similarly to the workshop operated by Abilities First until 2019, the Foundation for the Handicapped became more than a place to acquire skills. Dedicated volunteers and a few paid staff have ensured the opportunity for meaningful and paid work would remain available for these individuals.

At just 18 months old, Sean Fox was diagnosed with autism. His journey in a non-verbal world began with many stops, first with Early Intervention Program, then to school, and then to The Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES). As Sean moved into his teen years, certain behaviors began to develop. Sean’s school at the time felt he needed additional support to continue his progress.

After many years of advocating and searching for a school to support the intensive needs of her son, Jaime, Gabby was feeling desperate and thought she had exhausted all available opportunities in the region. At one clinical pre-admission evaluation of Jaime, she had been told there was likely no school or program in New York State which would be able to support Jaime’s needs, nor one that would likely accept him into its program. And then, Gabby was provided one last school placement referral – Abilities First School in LaGrange.

To learn about Stephanie Hourani's journey is inspiring.

At a few months of age, Karen and Ray Mott noticed there may be some developmental delays in their son Shane.

Wappinger Falls, N.Y. (July 28, 2020) – Amy Bombardieri of Poughkeepsie and Renee MacDonald of Fishkill have joined the Board of Directors for the Foundation for Abilities First NY, the fundraising arm for Abilities First, Inc. Abilities First is a nonprofit organization serving the needs of over 1,400 children and adults with developmental disabilities through educational, vocational, residential and habilitation services in the Hudson Valley.

Wappinger Falls, N.Y. (February 17, 2020) – Anthony F. Morando, Esq. joins the Board of Directors for the Foundation for Abilities First NY (FAFNY). FAFNY is the fundraising arm for Abilities First, Inc., a nonprofit organization serving the needs of over 1,400 children and adults with developmental disabilities through educational, vocational, residential, and habilitation services in the Hudson Valley.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (February 11, 2020) – More than 40 vendors providing support for individuals with disabilities and special needs of all ages will be in attendance at ABILITIES FIRST: A Showcase of Resources for Enrichment and Inclusion. The Showcase will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2020 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at the Poughkeepsie Galleria Mall in Poughkeepsie, New York. Children with special needs and their families can attend the Showcase in a sensory-sensitive environment from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. before the mall opens. Admission to the Showcase is free and open to the public. Abilities First is spearheading the event to bring together resources to enrich the lives of children and adults with any disability whether it be developmental, intellectual, physical, or other.

Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (November 1, 2019) – Abilities First, a premier provider of programs and services for individuals with disabilities in the Hudson Valley, has named JoAnn Parker as their Director of Philanthropy.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (October 30, 2019) – Michael Pine, a Newburgh resident and President of Pine Innovative Planning, joins the Board of Directors for the Foundation for Abilities First NY (FAFNY), the fundraising arm for Abilities First, Inc. Abilities First is a nonprofit organization serving the needs of over 1,400 children and adults with developmental disabilities through educational, vocational, residential, and habilitation services in the Hudson Valley.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (October 23, 2019) – Abilities First announces the merger of Mid-Hudson Association for Persons with Disabilities into its existing continuum of care. The existing MHAPD programs which will merge include Early Intervention Services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities and Family Support Services, which provides support and advocacy for families who have a member with special needs living at home. Programs for financial reimbursement for goods and services related to the care of a family member with a developmental disability, formerly with MHAPD, will continue through Abilities First.

Wappingers Falls, N.Y. (October 7, 2019) – Abilities First, Inc., a nonprofit organization serving the needs of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, will celebrate their mission with music and magic at the 2019 Signature Event on Friday, October 18th, at Changepoint Theatre in Poughkeepsie, New York.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (September 9, 2019) – Abilities First, Inc. announces the return of Early Intervention (EI) to its spectrum of services for children with developmental delays or disabilities. Since 1962, the organization has built a respected reputation in the Hudson Valley for providing a wide range of services including education, residential, habilitation and family support services from birth through life.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (July 29, 2019) – The Foundation for Abilities First NY (FAFNY) welcomes William Van Ornum and Debra Zambito to its Board of Directors. Founded in 2018, FAFNY’s mission is to serve as the philanthropic arm of Abilities First, Inc., perpetuating the organization’s mission in providing individuals with disabilities and their families the support to attain independence, self-determination, integration and acceptance by others through education, exploration and experience.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (July 1, 2019) – Steven E. Howell, CPA, DABFA joins the Board of Directors for Abilities First. Abilities First is a nonprofit organization serving the needs of over 1,400 children and adults with developmental disabilities through educational, vocational, residential, habilitation and family support services in the Hudson Valley.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (June 14, 2019) – Abilities First, a Hudson Valley-based nonprofit providing services to over 1,400 individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, announces Leann Coyle has been promoted to the newly established title of Vice President of Educational Services. Coyle will be responsible for day-to-day operational oversight of all Abilities First educational programs including early education, Universal Pre-K, Special Education Preschool and the Abilities First school-age programs in LaGrange, Hyde Park, Red Hook and New Windsor, totaling an enrollment of over 300 students. She was previously the Director of Preschools and Universal Pre-K. Coyle joined Abilities First in 1998 as Head Teacher at a former preschool site located in Beacon. For over 25 years, Coyle has been dedicated to providing quality educational experiences for preschool children with special needs and fostering life-long learning.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (April 3, 2019) – Abilities First, a nonprofit organization serving the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, will recognize those who have advanced the opportunities for individuals with disabilities seeking employment in the Hudson Valley. Mike Oates, President and CEO of Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation (HVEDC) and AmerisourceBergen will receive the Innovation Award and Henry G. Page, Jr. Business Leadership Awards respectively. The 2019 Abilities First Ambassador of the Year will be awarded to William Eugene Van Ornum, Jr.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (November 2, 2018) — Abilities First, a premier provider of programs and services for individuals with disabilities in the Hudson Valley, has named Maria Darby to a newly established position, as Director of Philanthropy.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (October 23, 2018) – The Foundation for Abilities First NY (FAFNY) announces the appointment of its founding Board of Directors. The mission of the Foundation for Abilities First NY is to serve as the philanthropic arm of Abilities First, Inc., perpetuating the goals of the organization’s mission in providing people with disabilities and their families support to attain independence, integration, and acceptance by others through education, exploration, and experience. The creation of the Foundation for Abilities First NY was officially announced at the annual Community Breakfast Event this past July.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (October 11, 2018) – The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs presented Abilities First employee, Patti Jones-Krause, with the 2018 Code of Conduct Recognition Award at the Abilities First administrative offices in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. on Thursday, October 11, 2018. Patti Jones is one of four individuals in NY receiving the honor.

New Windsor, N.Y. (October 9, 2018) – The theme of the ribbon cutting for the Abilities First School at the Straus Family Pavilion was “It Takes a Village.” Abilities First along with local leaders, families of the students and community partners came together to celebrate the opening of the new school that will serve up to 40 students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ages 5-21, from 14 school districts throughout the Hudson Valley. Formerly the Devitt’s Medical Arts Building, the School is located at 59 Windsor Highway in New Windsor and houses 6 classrooms equipped with instructional technology, a sensory gym, and clinical spaces for therapies. Students will transition into the new space on Friday, October 12, 2018.

(New Windsor, NY, September 12, 2018) – As Abilities First continues its expansion into Orange County, Senator William Larkin has secured an additional $245,000 to renovate the nonprofit’s newly acquired facility at 59 Windsor Highway in New Windsor, for the addition of preschool services. Once fully occupied, the 42,000 square foot facility will include the newly constructed Abilities First School for students age 5-21, corporate offices, tenant spaces and four preschool classrooms for 32 students.

New Windsor, NY, August 6, 2018 - Abilities First announces a $30,000 grant has been awarded by Senator William Larkin for smart board technology in classrooms at the Abilities First School, currently under construction at 59 Windsor Highway in New Windsor, NY. The new Abilities First School, which opened its doors in a temporary location in September 2017 is presently completing construction on a state-of-the-art facility, to open in September 2018, and will serve up to 40 students with disabilities, age 5-21, from throughout the Hudson Valley.

Hudson Valley, New York, USA – June 25, 2018 - Abilities First, a regional nonprofit organization, is pleased to announce that Chief Advancement Officer Melissa McCoy is included in CFRE International’s recent announcement of professionals credentialed as Certified Fund Raising Executives (CFREs). McCoy joins just 6,100 fundraising professionals around the world who hold the CFRE designation.  

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (June 4, 2018) — Inspired by the personal and professional commitment of the late Henry G. Page, Jr. to individuals with disabilities, Abilities First has renamed the annual Business of the Year Award to the Henry G. Page, Jr. Business Partnership Award. Henry G. Page, Jr., business owner and life-long member of the region passed away in February 2018 at the age of eighty-one. Mr. Page was a pioneer in business and in life, and that included the kindness, acceptance and support of opportunity to adults seeking employment or vocational experience, as well as to the youngest of individuals, to whom he extended a compassionate interest in. The award is presented annually to recognize a business for their outstanding dedication, interest and support in providing job opportunities and being a friend to our neighbors with disabilities.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (March 20, 2018) – Dina Menzie has joined Abilities First, a Hudson Valley-based nonprofit providing services for over 1,400 individuals people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, as its Chief Program Officer. Dina will be responsible for day-to-day operational oversight of all residential, service coordination, community habilitation, day habilitation, employment, and educational services and programs.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (February 27, 2018) – More than 40 vendors providing support for individuals with disabilities and special needs will be in attendance at ABILITIES FIRST: A Showcase of Resources for Enrichment & Inclusion. The Showcase will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2017 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at the Poughkeepsie Galleria in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. From 9:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., there will be an opportunity for children with special needs and their families to attend the Showcase before the mall opens in a sensory sensitive environment.  Admission to the showcase is free and open to the public. Abilities First is spearheading the event to bring together resources to enrich the lives of children and adults with any disability whether it be developmental, intellectual, physical, or other. The 2017 Abilities First participant of the Year, Jessica Doering, will serve as the Grand Marshall of the event.

Poughkeepsie, NY (January 25, 2018) – Illusionist Chris Dare performed his first Hudson Valley stage show “Dare to Believe” on Thursday, January 25, 2018 benefiting Abilities First, a not-for-profit organization serving the needs of over 1,400 children and adults with developmental disabilities, from pre-school through adulthood throughout the Hudson Valley. The sold out show drew over 200 attendees to the Newburgh Brewing Company in Newburgh, NY.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (January 12, 2018) - Thomas R. Davis, Managing Partner at

Cornwall, N.Y. (September 1, 2017) – The Abilities First School will open its doors in Orange County on September 6, 2017 and will welcome twenty-two students, age 5-21. The school, which will provide programs and services for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will be the school’s first location in Orange County.

Poughkeepsie, NY (August 22, 2017) – Abilities First has announced the 2017 annual award recipients to be honored at their nightclub-themed Signature Event on Friday, October 27, 2017 at the newly renovated Shadows on the Hudson in Poughkeepsie, NY from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (July 5, 2017) – The 2017 Abilities First Golf Classic was held June 26, 2017 at The Powelton Club in Newburgh, N.Y. Over 117 people attended the annual fundraising event and helped to raise approximately $52,000 in support of the Abilities First mission to provide people with disabilities and their families support to attain independence, self- determination, integration and acceptance by others through education, exploration and experience.

New Windsor, N.Y. (June 22, 2017) – Resources for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities will expand in Orange County thanks to the generous property donation of the former Devitt’s Medical Arts Building to Abilities First. The property will be renovated into a state-of-the-art educational facility to serve 40 students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ages 5 – 21. Abilities First will open a temporary location in Cornwall in the fall of 2017 during renovations.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (May 24, 2017) – The Abilities First School hosted its fourth annual prom for its students with intellectual and developmental disabilities on Friday, May 19, 2017. While a rite of passage for many high school upperclassman, what makes this prom different from others is the strong support from family and community involvement. Students, ages 15 – 21, along with their families and fellow alumni were invited to attend the annual school event.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (May 11, 2017) – Shaneka R. Paulin, an Abilities First participant since 1980, shared her inspiring story with Community Breakfast attendees on Thursday, May 11, 2017 at The Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel, Poughkeepsie, NY. Paulin was first diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at 8 months old and despite many challenges and obstacles, has gone on to earning a degree from Marist College and becoming a Paralegal at Rosicki, Rosicki, and Associates, PC.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (May 1, 2017) – The 2nd Annual Abilities First Community Breakfast will be held on Thursday, May 11, 2017 from 8:00 – 9:00 a.m., at The Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel, Poughkeepsie, NY. Abilities First invites the public to the complimentary event to celebrate the organization’s mission “Enriching the Lives of Children & Adults in our Communities.” Abilities First serves over 1,200 children and adults with developmental disabilities through educational, vocational, residential, and habilitation services throughout the Hudson Valley.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (February 27, 2017) – More than 40 vendors providing support for individuals with disabilities and special needs will be in attendance at ABILITIES FIRST: A Showcase of Resources for Enrichment & Inclusion. The Showcase will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the Poughkeepsie Galleria in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. From 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., there will be an opportunity for children with special needs and their families to attend the Showcase before the mall opens in a sensory sensitive environment. Admission to the showcase is free and open to the public. Abilities First is spearheading the event to bring together resources to enrich the lives of children and adults with any disability whether it be developmental, intellectual, physical, or other.

LaGrange, NY (December 1, 2016) – Abilities First received $2,000 from the Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation to support the “Future Steps Playground” Campaign, the creation of an outdoor playground at the Abilities First School. The playground will include an adaptive swing, climbing environments, interactive stations and shaded structures, green spaces and play space. Abilities First students range between 5-21 years of age have intellectual or developmental disabilities and come from 22 school districts throughout Dutchess, Orange, Ulster, Columbia, Greene and Putnam counties.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (October 21, 2016) – Abilities First has teamed up with Poughkeepsie Journal Media to transform Shadows on the Hudson into the late-night spot in the Hudson Valley this Halloween weekend. The OFF THE RECORD After Hours Party for Abilities First, an exclusive late night event for young professionals will take place on October 28, 2016 from 10:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. in Poughkeepsie N.Y.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (September 26, 2016) – Earlier this month, Abilities First, with the assistance of State Assemblymember Didi Barrett, received approval from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) to create an innovative integrated preschool program in Hyde Park, N.Y., the first of its kind in New York State. Slated to open in the 2016-2017 school year, Abilities First will offer the opportunity for students with developmental delays and disabilities ages 3 – 4 to learn side-by-side with other children in an inclusive environment.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (August 10, 2016) - Abilities First has announced the 2016 Annual Award recipients to be honored at their “nightclub” themed Signature event on Friday, October 28, 2016 at Shadows on the Hudson in Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

LaGrange, N.Y. (June 21, 2016) – The Wappingers Ladies Auxiliary – Hearts that Help recently made a donation in support of the Abilities First School’s Future Steps Playground Campaign. The Abilities First School which opened in December in LaGrange, N.Y. was without basketball hoops until the group’s generous gift was made.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (June 20, 2016) – Abilities First announces the opening of the NEW BEGINNINGS art show at the Abilities First Art Garage at 99 Inwood Avenue, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. on Monday, June 20. The show features art by participants of Abilities First programs which was inspired by the recent gallery renovation and presentations by regionally known photographer and Walkway on the Hudson enthusiast Fred Schaeffer.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (June 10, 2016) – The 2016 Abilities First Golf Classic was held June 2, 2016 at The Powelton Club in Newburgh, N.Y. Over 140 people attended this fundraising event for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities in the Mid-Hudson Valley and helped to raise approximately $47,000 in support of the Abilities First mission.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (June 9, 2016) – With the generous support of the Hudson Valley community, the Abilities First School hosted its third annual prom for its students with intellectual and developmental disabilities on Thursday, June 9, 2016 at the Poughkeepsie Elks Lodge #275. Students, ages 15 – 21, along with their families enjoyed a celebratory evening of dinner and dancing to mark the end of the school year. Alumni of the Abilities First School also returned for the special event, including the student whose idea to have the School’s first prom in 2014.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (April 13, 2016) - Abilities First, Inc. announces the continued growth of its board leadership with the addition of three new board members as well as its 2016-2017 executive board and board members.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (April 12, 2016) – On Wednesday, April 6, 2016, over 250 community members attended the 2016 Abilities First Community Breakfast at The Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel in Poughkeepsie, NY to celebrate and share the organization’s mission “Enriching the Lives of Children & Adults in our Communities” and this year’s theme “Building Partnerships to Enhance Workforce Diversity.”

LaGrange, NY (March 4, 2016) – Abilities First’s Chief Advancement Officer, Melissa McCoy, announces a $120,000 grant has been awarded by KeyBank Foundation, whose funding priorities focus is to help communities thrive through improved education and workforce development, to establish The Abilities First & KeyBank Foundation – Workforce Readiness Program at the new Abilities First School in LaGrange. The new Abilities First school and state-of-the-art facility opened in LaGrange in December 2015 and serves over 100 students from throughout the Hudson Valley.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (December 17, 2015) – Abilities First, a not-for-profit organization serving the needs of those with developmental disabilities from pre-school through adulthood, was awarded $2,021.00 from the Cardiovascular Fund of Dutchess County of the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, to provide an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for the Abilities First Seniors’ Neighborhood Center in Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (December 10, 2015) – Abilities First has announced the development of a Workforce Readiness Program for its students with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Many students, ages 14 – 21, will have the opportunity to learn basic job skills due to a three-year major gift from the KeyBank Foundation as part of the Abilities First School - Future Steps Education Campaign.

Ribbon Cutting Held in LaGrange, NY for State of the Art School for Students with Developmental Disabilities LaGrange, N.Y. (December 2, 2015) – The new Abilities First School opened its doors to the community on Wednesday, December 2, 2015. Abilities First, along with the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce, held a ribbon cutting and donor recognition event at the School’s new home at 24 Firemens Way, Poughkeepsie, NY. The School has 83 students and 9 classrooms equipped with instructional technology, adaptive physical education space, a fully outfitted sensory gym and clinical space for therapies. Students attended classes at the new location for the first time on Monday, November 30.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (November 18, 2015) – The ABILITIES event will be held this Saturday, November 21, 2015 from 11 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at Dutchess Community College - Falcon Hall in Poughkeepsie, NY. The event will bring together “Resources to Adapt, Support and Enrich Life” for children and adults with any disability whether it be developmental, intellectual, physical, mental or other. Admission to the expo is free and open to the public. There is abundant accessible parking available, with easy access to Falcon Hall (Gymnasium).

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (November 2, 2015) – The ABILITIES event will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2015 from 11 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at Dutchess Community College - Falcon Hall in Poughkeepsie, NY. The event will bring together “Resources to Adapt, Support and Enrich Life” for children and adults with any disability whether it be developmental, intellectual, physical, mental or other. Admission to the expo is free and open to the public.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (October 22, 2015) - Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro outlined plans to expand the County’s “Think DIFFERENTLY” initiative, including the addition of a “Special Needs Advocate” position, in his 2016 Executive Budget at a tour yesterday of Abilities First’s new state-of-art school for those with developmental disabilities in the Town of LaGrange. The County Executive was joined by Abilities First CEO Jeffrey Fox, as well as representatives from Dutchess County departments and other community agencies that serve those with disabilities for a early look at the school, which is slated to open on November 30th.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (August 20, 2015) – The Abilities First’s Signature event has been rescheduled to October 16, 2015 from 6:30 – 11 p.m., at Shadows on the Hudson, Poughkeepsie, NY. The Hudson Valley will come together for this annual event to help raise funds for the organization and celebrate and honor the community’s support for the 1,200 children and adults with developmental disabilities that Abilities First serves.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (August 17, 2015) – Abilities First will host the Monticello Motor Club Challenge, an adrenaline-fueled fundraiser on Monday, September 21, 2015 at North America's premier automotive country club and private race track, Monticello Motor Club in Monticello, N.Y. Proceeds will benefit the programs and services of Abilities First, a not-for-profit organization that serves the needs of the community, as well as those with developmental disabilities.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (July 28, 2015) - Abilities First’s Annual Golf Classic was held July 27, 2015 at Trump National Golf Club – Hudson Valley in Hopewell Junction, N.Y. Over 130 golfers and 30 volunteers attended this fundraising event for people with developmental disabilities in the Mid-Hudson Valley and helped to raise approximately $40,000. The event’s major sponsors included Wendy’s, Rose & Kiernan and Marvin and Company, P.C. CPAs, DRA Imaging, First Student, MVP Health Care and iHeartRadio.

LaGrange, N.Y. (July 2, 2015) – Abilities First, Inc. CEO, Dr. Jeffery Fox announces that M&T Bank has made a $30,000 leadership gift in support of the Abilities First - Future Steps Education Campaign. The Future Steps Education Campaign supports the needs of a new school which is currently under renovations at an existing facility in LaGrange, NY.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (June 8, 2015) – Abilities First School held its Prom on Friday, June 5, 2015 at the Poughkeepsie Elks Lodge #275 for its students with disabilities. Over 20 of the School’s upperclassman attended the formal. Each student received superlative awards like Most Likely to be President, Best Dancer, Most Likely to Work for the FBI, Best Celebrity Impersonator, Best Classroom Helper and more.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (July 6, 2015) - Abilities First has announced the 2015 Annual Award recipients to be honored at their “nightclub” themed Signature event on Friday, September 11, 2015. David & Lynn Melby will be recognized as the 2015 Outstanding Volunteers for their years of leadership and support to Abilities First. Equally supportive of their time and direct support to the mission of Abilities First, Rose & Kiernan, Inc. will be honored as the 2015 Outstanding Community Leader.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (June 3, 2015) - Abilities First, Inc. announces the continued growth of its community leadership with the addition of new board members and its 2015-2016 officers. “As Abilities First continues to grow and expand to meet the evolving needs of the community, it is vital that we continue to maintain the distinguished leadership which our organization has been privileged to benefit from since its inception. We are pleased to welcome Halliday Clark, Dr. C. Ryan Kinlaw, Joseph Hines and Kim Williams to our Board of Directors, as well as thank our new officers for their leadership” said Abilities First Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Jeffery Fox.

LaGrange, N.Y. (May 22, 2015) – The future of educational services for students with disabilities is about to evolve. Abilities First, Inc. announces construction-renovation has begun on a new state-of-the art school for students with developmental disabilities. When complete, the new school will include 9 classrooms with instructional technology, adaptive physical education space, a fully outfitted sensory gym, clinical space for therapies, and a fully accessible playground. Occupancy will take place sometime during the 2015- 2016 school year.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (May 12, 2015) - Abilities First, Inc., a not-for-profit organization providing a wide range of services to people with disabilities, is presenting a new educational series that will cover topics relevant to families of persons with disabilities, allowing them to take an active role in managing the personal affairs of their loved one. The first seminar in the series will feature an introduction to Estate Planning and Guardianship and is free and open to the public.

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (May 6, 2015) - Abilities First, Inc., a not-for-profit that serves over 1,500 children and adults throughout the Hudson Valley region, unveiled a new tagline, “Enriching the Lives of Children & Adults in Our Communities.”

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. (February 4, 2015) - Abilities First will host a Universal Pre-K Open House on Wednesday, February 18th, from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m., at its UPK location at 4327 Albany Post Road in Hyde Park. Faculty and staff will be available to discuss the full-day program, the teaching curriculum and provide a tour of the facility. The Open House is open to the public and provides information for current enrollment, as well as for those interested in the 2015-16 school year.