Celebrating 60 Years of Helping Those with Disabilities

Hundreds of people celebrated the 60th anniversary of Abilis, an organization that serves people with developmental disabilities, at its annual meeting Wednesday at First Presbyterian Church of Greenwich.

Formerly known as ARC, Abilis provides employment and other services for people of all ages in parts of Fairfield and Westchester counties. With offices at 50 Glenville St. in Greenwich, and 1150 Summer St. in Stamford, the organization serves people with autism, Down syndrome, and other mental disabilities.

Lolli Ross, the executive director of Abilis, recognized employees, community members, and business owners, for working together to provide jobs and a sense of belonging to her clients. Similarly, she celebrated the achievements of her clients, as they work, learn, and grow.

Elected officials lauded Abilis employees, volunteers, and others for improving the lives of their neighbors. U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, D-4, thanked the Abilis staff members and families of clients for improving the lives of developmentally disabled people. Describing himself familiar with Abilis’ impact, Himes characterized the organization as integral in allowing others to reach their potential.

“We all feel that as Americans we live in a very special country. We talk about our freedom; we talk about our liberty,” Himes said. “But part of being an American means that we believe in our hearts that every American gets to live a life of dignity and independence. And Abilis offers that opportunity to so many of our fellow citizens.”

Greenwich First Selectman Peter Tesei read a proclamation, describing the organization as “fixture in Greenwich. “Abilis truly makes [someone] proud to be a resident of Greenwich,” Tesei said.

State Rep. L. Scott Frantz (R-36) touted the organization similarly. On behalf of the Greenwich legislative delegation including state representatives Livvy Floren, Fred Camillo, and Lile Gibbons, Frantz expressed his hope that the organization continue to operate for another 60 years.

“This is an incredible turnout and this warms my heart. I would like to congratulate all of you at Abilis for what you are doing in this field,” Frantz said. “You have truly set a new bar. To be doing this for six decades is nothing less than truly remarkable.”