May 25, 2021 

Dear Abilities family and friends, 

What a whirlwind over the last four weeks! With guidance from DDD, our day programs opened at reduced capacity on April 27, 2021. The return rate for our CRP workshop continues to grow…currently at 70%. We are absolutely thrilled to see many faces in-person again! Our reopening transition is safe and methodic, as logistics and coverage are determined.  

Our greatest need at this time (I know we’re not alone), is the recruitment of dedicated and passionate team members. We are hiring DSPs, Employment Specialists and Drivers to join the best of the best here at Abilities. If you know anyone who would be a great fit with our family, please have them send an email to recruitment@abilitiesnw.com or call 908-689-1118. Those we serve need you! #bealifechanger

NJACP held its’ 2021 Stars Recognition event virtually this year, highlighting persons served throughout the state, and their individual achievements. We were proud to nominate Michael Adams from our Employment Pathways Division. Michael has worked hard over the last year, and achieved his goal of working in the food service industry. You may get a chance to see him in action at Enzo’s. Congratulations Michael!!  

Here are a few great happenings and shout-outs to share: 

  1. So grateful for our latest staff major milestones – congratulations and many thanks to: 35 years - Sue Z. and Karen S.  25 years – Sharon W. 
  2. Our Behavior Support Team is growing! Two of our team members, Karen L. and Matt P. will be working hard to become Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT) under the guidance of our BCBAs, Ashley and Yami. Best wishes Karen and Matt! 
  3. Our formal Art program is coming back! Our very own Colette B. will be leading our Art services under the direction of Music & Arts Developer, Patricia. We are so excited!!  
  4. Congratulations to PossAbilities Thrift Boutiques for record sales in both March and April. Wow! Way to go Poss team!! possabilitiesthrift.com
  5. Check out our amazing webinar series taking place every Tuesday at 6PM. These informative webinars cover a variety of topics, with Karen Menke, Outreach and Care Coordinator as the host. abilitiesnw.com/other-happenings.php  
  6. Our Abili-Tees golf outing is scheduled for Monday, June 28, 2021! Join us for a fantastic day at Panther Valley! abilitiesnw.com/golf-outing.php 
  7. If interested, our 2019-20 Annual Report may be found at abilitiesnw.com/reports-resources.php  

Grants, grants, grants!! A shout out of sincere thanks to our state, local and community grant partners who have recently supported us: 

  • TJX Foundation – Employment Services 
  • Warren County Human Services – Career Exploration 
  • Warren County Cultural and Heritage Division – Music and Arts 
  • Cathay Bank – COVID-19 support 
  • Affinity FCU Foundation – Employment Services 
  • Visions Foundation – Storage Shed 
  • Investors Bank – Tablet Technology 
  • NJ DOL DVRS – Summer Paid Student Internship – for more info on this student opportunity, contact Karen at kmenke@abilitiesnw.com 
  • Kessler Foundation – Benefits Counselor 
  • Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation - Technology 

Just like Spring flowers, it truly feels as if we are finally awakening from this very dark time. We couldn’t be any more excited than to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic with each and every one of you. Thank you for staying positive and patient through it all. 

Please remember to honor our fallen service members this Memorial Day, and have a safe and healthy summer season! 


Many blessings and best regards, 
Cynthia B. Wildermuth, CEO