AbilityFirst

On this date in 1865, President Lincoln signed the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery. Major Richard Robert Wright Sr., born into slavery and freed after the Civil War, advocated for this day. Today, we honor the resolution that paved the way for freedom for all.

Did you know the Lunar New Year is celebrated for 16 days and celebrations culminate with the Lantern Festival on Feb. 12? May this new year bring joy, prosperity, and new opportunities for growth and connection to our community amidst the devastating impact of the wildfires.

From physical disabilities like mobility and impairments to developmental disabilities like cerebral palsy and autism, and mental disabilities there are many disabilities that are unseen. It’s crucial that we treat all people with disabilities with the same care and attention.

We’re hiring a Job Coach for our Pasadena Center! In this role, you’ll provide training, support, and guidance to help participants develop skills and gain employment. Make an impact by fostering connections and creating opportunities. Apply today! paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php…

There are so many ways for you to set up giving for later in life including pooled income fund, endowment gifts, and bequest. Giving to AbilityFirst isn’t just about making a donation—it’s about creating opportunities that benefit our mission. legacygifts.abilityfirst.org/?pageID=10

Your support helps us provide programs that help children and adults with developmental disabilities reach their full potential. From fostering social skills to promoting independence, your donation makes a direct impact. Donate today and be a part of the change!

Today, on International Day of Commemoration in Memory of Victims of the Holocaust, we honor the millions of lives lost and recommit to building a world rooted in understanding and dignity for all. We ensure that the lessons of the past guide us toward a compassionate future.

🚨 Wildfire Relief Assistance 🚨 Join us for a Drive-up Community Relief Distribution event on Jan. 29 & 30 at 789 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena to pick up essential supplies, including water, food, and household items. ⏰ 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. & 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. Walk-ins welcome!

Were you aware that people with disabilities face twice the rate of unemployment compared to those without disabilities? (source: americanprogress.org) There is still a gap in our labor market. We help those individuals experience more independence. abilityfirst.org/programs/emplo…

A day after the Lawrence L. Frank Center reopened due to the Eaton Fire, our ExploreAbility participant groups cooked up some delicious breakfast -- Eggs Benedict. Stephanie Ko is pictured after making her eggs.

Love working with kids and making a difference? We’re hiring a Community Coach! Help children and adults with developmental and physical disabilities build language, motor, and social skills through fun and engaging activities. paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php…

AbilityFirst is a sanctuary of belonging and meaning. We will serve an even greater purpose in supporting community as they rebuild their lives. AbilityFirst will continue to be an essential part of the response to the devastating fires. abilityfirst.org/get-involved/d…

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere” -Martin Luther King Jr. Today, we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A leader, a dreamer, and a changemaker, his unwavering commitment to equality, justice, and love continues to inspire generations.

Read why AbilityFirst provides essential services to our community and remains a critical mission to empower individuals with developmental disabilities. AbilityFirst was featured in an article for Business in Focus to provide more depth into our programs. businessinfocusmagazine.com/2024/12/from-p…

While some children are unable to resume their academic year in person because of the wildfires, some children are returning from the holiday break. To learn more about the Pasadena Unified School District school calendars, visit: pusd.us/fire-relief.

We love to hear from families who shared their loved ones anticipating their return to our programs in Pasadena, which reopened today. Our PossAbility LA participants volunteered last week at the Dream Center with the drive-through distribution services providing essential items.

The Lawrence L. Frank Center and Fair Oaks Building will reopen tomorrow. Our dedicated facilities team has taken the steps to ensure the buildings are clean, well ventilated and ready to resume programming. We are monitoring the weather and will make any necessary changes.

Both the Lawrence L. Frank Center and Fair Oaks Administrative Building in Pasadena will remain closed today, January 9, and tomorrow, January 10. We will provide an update as to when these sites will reopen. #eatoncanyon #eatonfire #pasadena

Our prayers are with all those affected by the devastating fires, including our heroic firefighters and other first responders. The Lawrence L. Frank Center and Fair Oaks Administrative Building in Pasadena are closed today. We will provide an update when these sites reopen.

This week College to Career is starting a discovery 6 week college curriculum. This will help prepare participants to know what to expect in college courses. You can learn more about our College to Career program through this link: abilityfirst.org/programs/colle…