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.
04/09/2026
In April, Lawry’s Restaurants, Inc. is hosting a special promotion to support AbilityFirst. When you dine at Lawry’s The Prime Rib, Tam O’Shanter, or Five Crowns, you can donate $20 to AbilityFirst—and Lawry’s will match your gift.
As AbilityFirst celebrates 100 years of impact, we honor a meaningful legacy. In 1926, Lawrence L. Frank helped establish what is now AbilityFirst. Today, that partnership continues to transform lives and strengthen our communities.
04/04/2026
Early bird pricing for our Food & Wine Festival celebrating AbilityFirst's Centennial is ending today! Don’t miss your chance to secure tickets at the best price before they’re gone.
Join us on Sunday, June 7 for an unforgettable celebration of 100 years of impact. Enjoy tastings from dozens of restaurants, fine wines, craft cocktails and spirits, exciting auctions, and inspiring stories that highlight the life-changing work of AbilityFirst.
Help expand opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to reach their personal best!
Tickets: abilityfirst.org/festival
03/27/2026
Making memories at the farm! 🐥 Our participants from the East LA Center headed to Montebello Barnyard Zoo for a day of discovery and fun. Swipe to see some of our favorite moments! 📸
03/27/2026
Join a passionate community of food and wine enthusiasts to celebrate 100 years of AbilityFirst impact at our 2026 Food & Wine Festival Sunday, June 7, 2026. Your support changes lives and expands opportunities for children and adults with disabilities. You will shape the future of AbilityFirst and the next 100 years of greater inclusion, belonging, and impact.
Our PossAbility program is designed for adults who are ready to take the next step in their journey—whether that’s entering the workforce or becoming a local leader through volunteering.
Jessica, our Program Director, breaks down exactly who this program is for and how we help participants navigate their path to independence.
Ready to learn more? Click the link in our bio to explore our adult programs. 🔗
03/19/2026
Only 2 DAYS LEFT ⏰🍫
Our See’s Candies fundraiser is almost gone! Don’t miss your chance to grab your favorites and support our programs at the same time. Help us continue creating opportunities, building community, and empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities every day.
A century of impact, seen through the eyes of leadership 💙 Our PossAbility Program Director, Jessica, reflects on what 100 years of AbilityFirst means for the communities we serve and the future we’re building together.
03/09/2026
Navigating college can be overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. We asked our College to Career participants to share their very best tips to get them through the semester.
From using campus accommodations and managing stress, to pushing through the tough days and leaning on your AbilityFirst family.
Swipe through for some real, honest advice from Jesse, Gabe, Manuel, Luis, and Teresa! 👉
Ready to build your skills and thrive both on campus and in the workplace? Tap the link in our bio to learn more about our College to Career program. 🔗
What is the best piece of college advice you’ve ever received? Drop it in the comments below! 👇
03/07/2026
Two Weeks Left to Shop See's Candies! 🍫
There’s still time to treat yourself and give back! Give your friends and family the gift of chocolate while supporting AbilityFirst services for children and adults with developmental disabilities.
AbilityFirst is proud to recognize Comerica Bank, a division of Fifth Third Bank, N.A., as a longstanding and valued partner in advancing our mission and expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Behind their support are stories of empowerment—from employment and education to community and residential programs—making a lasting impact on the individuals and families who rely on AbilityFirst.
As we celebrate more than a decade and a half of collaboration, we extend our deepest gratitude to Comerica Bank for standing with AbilityFirst and believing in the power of inclusion. Thank you, Comerica Bank, a division of Fifth Third Bank, N.A., for helping us build brighter futures together!
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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.
Vision:
At AbilityFirst, our vision is of a society that values each individual and provides the opportunity for all people to lead full and productive lives.
Values:
Trust Belonging Personal Best
AbilityFirst stands for, and alongside, people with developmental disabilities and their families. We create a welcoming environment where everyone feels they belong and are valued. Our first consideration is always for the well-being of our participants, and — through the mutual trust that we share — each person is supported to achieve his or her personal best. At AbilityFirst we look beyond disabilities, focus on capabilities and expand possibilities.
