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.

Abilities First will recognize KeyBank as the 2016 Outstanding Community Leader. KeyBank has had a strong commitment in investing in 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. More and the workforce to build thriving communities. They have contributed greatly to the advancement and success of Abilities First through long-term support of the Abilities First School-to-Work programs and most recently strengthened the Abilities First School students’ resources for 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. More and workforce development through the establishment of The Abilities First & KeyBank Foundation – Workforce Readiness Program. KeyBank employees have also demonstrated “Community is Key” by volunteering at the Abilities First School on KeyBank’s Neighbors Make the Difference Day, a company-wide initiative to give back to their local communities.

Renée Bulla will be recognized as the 2016 Outstanding Volunteer for her years of leadership and support to Abilities First. Bulla has most recently served as Board President from 2014- 2015 and Chair of the Marketing & Advancement Committee. Her continued support of Abilities First through her leadership, fundraising and marketing efforts has made a significant impact in heightening awareness of the organization within the region.

Renée Bulla is Vice-President of Client Services at Momentum Advertising & Design, a full-service marketing and advertising firm. Bulla spends a significant amount of her focus supporting many local nonprofits. She sits on the board of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce and currently serves as co-chair of the PR/Marketing and Snow Ball (Gala) Committees and has also served on the board or led committees with the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce and The Chamber Foundation.

“We are honored to have such strong and productive partnerships like those we have with Renée Bulla and with KeyBank. It is only through partnerships and collaborations with socially conscious members of the community that we make our world a better place for people with disabilities. Our honorees have made significant contributions to the strength of our organization which transforms directly into positive outcomes for people we serve.” said Dr. Jeffery Fox, Chief Executive Officer of Abilities First.

Renée Bulla and KeyBank will be accepting their awards at the Abilities First Signature Event on Friday, October 28, 2016 at Shadows on the Hudson. Soulsystem Orchestras, an eleven piece live band will be the featured entertainment for the nightclub-themed event. Attendees will experience progressive dining, a cigar lounge, tastings from regional spirits and a host of other unique entertainment experiences. Abilities First will be announcing more details of the evening in the coming months.