AbilityFirst

AbilityFirst Providing programs and resources for children and adults with disabilities, since 1926. Lawrence L.

AbilityFirst was established in 1926 and known as the Crippled Children's Society of Southern California (CCS) for many decades. Frank and Paul Dietrich, both Rotarians, were two of the original founders of the organization and they continued their loyal support throughout their lives. Operating in the greater Los Angeles area, AbilityFirst has 25 facilities which supports individuals with physical and developmental disabilities through after school enrichment programs, job training, community employment, accessible camping, and affordable and accessible housing. AbilityFirst is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) and the American Camping Association (ACA). Some facilities are licensed by the California Department of Social Services and the Department of Developmental Services.

Got questions? We’ve got answers. Tap through our FAQs to learn more about our programs and who we support. 💙
11/28/2025

Got questions? We’ve got answers. Tap through our FAQs to learn more about our programs and who we support. 💙

11/27/2025

Today, we’re grateful for the community that makes AbilityFirst a place of belonging, growth, and possibility. Thank you for supporting us all year long.

🧡 Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at AbilityFirst.

11/19/2025

We’ve got so many exciting ways to support AbilityFirst programs this season!

🏈 Rams vs. Lions VIP Ticket Raffle
Enter to win two VIP tickets + parking at SoFi Stadium!
Last day to purchase: Nov 21 at 3PM
Contact Ms. Gwen: 323-753-3101

🫟 Slime Challenge — Raise $800 to slime a director!
Support the Claremont Center, College to Career program, and Long Beach Center before Nov 27 by donating through this link: https://www.abilityfirst.org/get-involved/donate-now/
Choose the center you want to support in the “Donate To” dropdown.

⚡ LA Chargers Tailgate Raffle Bundle — $260 value
Includes a rolling cooler, blanket, wine, and pretzels!
Last day to purchase: Nov 24
Contact: Darlene — 626-612-6963 or Magally — 626-612-6957

🍽️ Dine & Donate at Taboon Mediterranean
Join us Dec 17, 11AM–8PM, and 20% supports the Long Beach Center!

Your support fuels incredible programs for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Thank you for uplifting our centers in the most fun ways possible! 👏

11/14/2025

Sweet news! 🍫 You’ve got 3 weeks left to shop See’s Candies and support AbilityFirst!

Every bite gives back , helping children and adults with developmental disabilities reach their personal best.

🎁 20–50% of sales go to AbilityFirst
🎁 Free shipping on $75+
🎁 Order by Dec 5 and ship straight to your loved ones!

Give sweetness, share joy, and make a difference this holiday season! ✨

11/14/2025
11/12/2025

💥 BOOM! POW! WOW!
Our ExploreAbility program made a heroic entrance at LA Comic Con this year! From exploring epic exhibits to connecting with fellow fans, the program participants got to experience the magic of comics, cosplay, and creativity up close.

11/11/2025

Why do we 💙 Stroll & Roll? Because where else can you find archery, bocce ball, face painting, the Lakers Girls, and a really great stroll, all in one day! Families, friends, and supporters all came together to celebrate endless possibilities on Saturday.

Huge thanks to everyone who joined us, our amazing sponsors, volunteers, emcees, exhibitors, and performers who made this day shine!

The fun isn't over yet! Visit StrollandRoll.org to be a part of this day...

Why we 💙 Stroll & Roll!What a day filled with positivity, support, and community spirit! Much gratitude to all of the do...
11/09/2025

Why we 💙 Stroll & Roll!

What a day filled with positivity, support, and community spirit! Much gratitude to all of the donors, supporters, and attendees who joined us at our event. Thank you for showing up, cheering loud, and rolling with us!

11/08/2025

We're going live on Instagram! Can't make our event? Stream Stroll & Roll right from your phone.

Get ready to be amazed! Our Stroll & Roll stage is packed with incredible talent featuring performances by Camp Paivika,...
11/07/2025

Get ready to be amazed! Our Stroll & Roll stage is packed with incredible talent featuring performances by Camp Paivika, Dance Street Twinkles, Ian Smith, DJ Severe, the PUSD Cheerleaders, and Straight Up Abilities! Join us on Saturday for a full day of energy, music, and celebration! 🎉

Address

789 North Fair Oaks
Pasadena, CA
91103

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

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Our Story

AbilityFirst provides a variety of programs designed to help people with disabilities achieve their personal best throughout their lives. We do this by: creating targeted programming to help an individual successfully transition from childhood to adult life; providing employment preparation, training, and experience; building social connections and independence; and, offering both our participants and their caregivers an opportunity to refresh and recharge through our recreational activities.

Mission:

AbilityFirst provides programs and services to help children and adults with physical and developmental disabilities realize their full potential throughout their lives.