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.

Suzanne Mariconti and WLA President Lynette Macina were recently welcomed with hugs and Thank Yous from the appreciative students. They had the opportunity to tour the school and see the students playing basketball with the adjustable height backboards and hoops. Many of the over 100 students at the Abilities First School have physical disabilities and are in wheelchairs or other adaptive equipment.

“Abilities First appreciates the interest and outreach extended to our students by the Wappinger’s Ladies Auxiliary. The interest in assuring the gym equipment was adaptable for all students to enjoy was greatly appreciated,” said Abilities First Chief Advancement Officer Melissa McCoy.

The new hoops have added a significant element to the adaptive physical educationThe process of facilitating learning, or the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, beliefs and habits. We believe all children and adults can benefit from quality education. program as well as “A lot of fun,” commented student Nicholas Diaz.

This month, the Abilities First School kicks off its Future Steps Playground Campaign, to build a fully accessible playground and supply adaptive recreational equipment for its students. The community is asked to consider personal, business or grant opportunities in support of the $200,000 fundraising goal. For more information or to make a donation go to http://gvgb.co/futuresteps or contact Melissa McCoy at 845-485-9803 x 223 or melissamccoy@abilitiesfirstny.org.