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June 26, 2017 | The Hour

It could be that any new movie theater opening is going to draw hundreds of job applicants, but for Valerie Jensen, the 500 resumes that hit her desk in 2014 at the Prospector Theater in Ridgefield amounted to a preview of a problem that persists — too few employers willing to consider people with disabilities for openings in their ranks. Newly updated federal figures last week show an improvement in the percentage of people with disabilities holding jobs — but only a slight increase and statistically on par with job gains in the overall population.

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June 22, 2017 | Serendipity

At this year’s Spring for Abilis Gala, Jeff Zimmerman of Darien spoke about his young son being diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder and the support his entire family received through the Abilis Birth to Three early intervention program. His voice cracked with emotion as he told the gala guests: “We know that this might be a lifetime journey. And we also know that Abilis is there for us and will be there for us every step along the way.” Stories like this underscore the critical work that Abilis does, and that’s why guests help raise over $400,000 during the evening, as part of Abilis’ 65th anniversary celebration. The night raised awareness of Abilis and funding for its programs for people with special needs (currently, the organization serves 700 individuals and their families in Fairfield County).

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June 15, 2017 | Greenwich Time

The fifth-annual Carnival for a Cause entertained kids and adults alike with carnival games and live music, all while raising money for the special needs non-profit Abilis.

Carnival 1 june 2017

The carnival is organized by Greenwich High School freshman Daniella Jones, whose older brother has autism and younger brother has a form of cerebral palsy. Jones’s friends volunteer and provide assistance to help the carnival run smoothly. To date, Jones has raised more than $13,000 for Abilis to provide services and support for individuals with special needs in Fairfield County.

May 23, 2017 | Greeniwch Freepress

Abilis, a non-profit organization that provides services and supports for over 700 individuals with special needs and their families, announced today that its Spring for Abilis Gala, held May 6 at the Tamarack Country Club in Greenwich, raised over $400,000. Over 200 guests participated in the elegant and festive event held to raise awareness of Abilis and critical funding for its wide range of programs designed to help individuals of all ages with special needs achieve their potential and lead fulfilling lives.

Peter Tesei May 2017

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