For more than 70 years, the nonprofit Abilis has been helping folks of all ages with special needs in lower Fairfield County, by offering customized services and support. (You may have seen their groups around town, even!) In addition to providing therapies, offering early intervention services, organizing volunteering and events, and doing advocacy work, Abilis also operates 73 residential communities in the area, including in Darien and Stamford. And now, there’s one in Westport, too.
Our new community, located at 136 Riverside Avenue next to Saugatuck Elementary School, boasts five apartments and is housing two Westport natives (residents began moving in in mid-January). “Abilis is all about everything that encompasses a person's life: friendship, fun, work, family, friends—and [a residence in Westport] was the thing that was missing,” says Amy Montimurro, the CEO of Abilis. Having this property gives residents the opportunity to experience independent living while offering access to Abilis’ services and support, including things like managing their finances, transportation, and job searching. There is even one staff person who lives on-site, explains Amy. “They will be there to provide the natural support that each person may need, getting them accustomed to living a more independent life.” And you can’t beat the plumb location, with walkability to downtown and gorgeous riverfront views!
It’s a super exciting addition to town. “One thing we learned when we opened in Darien is that it really became a community,” says Amy. “The individuals that live there support each other, mentor each other, and create the natural support that people need, beyond just our staff.” And beyond the community, Abilis residents and program participants build with each other, the housing complex opening presents another opportunity for the larger Westport community to strengthen its ties with Abilis’ mission. One example: “We’re always looking for employers,” Amy says. “Sometimes people with disabilities get overlooked, but for community members in Westport who have businesses with staffing needs, we have potential employees for them that are skilled, dedicated, reliable, and would really be an asset.”
And Westporters can support Abilis by volunteering— there are tons of opportunities to get involved locally— or attending their upcoming spring gala on April 27th in Greenwich. “Westport really has been welcoming and wonderful,” says Amy.
Visit abilis.us for more information on supporting this great organization and to support our newest neighbors.
“Abilis is all about everything that encompasses a person's life: friendship, fun, work, family, friends.”
“The individuals that live in our communities support each other, mentor each other, and create the natural support that people need.”
