Abilities First, Inc.

01/20/2026

It’s Taylor Tuesdays and we are absolutely loving this moment! 💖

Taylor, one of our incredible Employment Services participants, is rocking the gift with purchase from —and it’s too cute not to share!

Confidence looks good on Taylor, and so does supporting local businesses that believe in inclusion. Thank you Sierra Lily for being such a treasured community partner.

We love Taylor Tuesdays ! Today she is modeling the gift with purchase from . Spend $150 on any full priced Brighton pieces, this bag is YOURS! How cute is this petite bandanna love crossbody 😘🤗

01/19/2026

Today, on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we pause to honor a legacy rooted in compassion, empathy, dignity, and justice for all.

Dr. King reminded us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” Today, and always, we recommit ourselves to service, inclusion, and the belief that every person deserves opportunity, respect, and belonging.

01/17/2026

Join us for a Walk-In Interview Event with Abilities First’s Supportive Employment Services Department!

🗓 Friday, January 23, 2026
⏰ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 70 Overocker Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603

We’re currently hiring for the following roles:

🔹 Vocational Specialist (Job Coach)
Support individuals at community job sites through training, supervision, and creative engagement. Monday–Friday | 40 hrs/week. $17.90–$19.90/hour.

🔹 School to Work Vocational Specialist
Work with students ages 14–21 to support their transition from school to adult employment. Mon–Thurs 7:45am–4pm | Fri 8am–2pm (37 hrs/week). $18.16–$20.16/hour.

🔹 Employment Specialist I & II
Provide training and support at community-based job sites through ACCES-VR and OPWDD programs. 40 hrs/week | Flexible schedule (days/evenings/weekends as needed). $18.16–$20.16/hour (based on level).

If you’re looking for meaningful work that makes a real impact, we’d love to meet you!

Learn more or apply here: https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/Details/3846015/ABILITIES-FIRST-INC/Walk-In-Interviews-Employment-Services-Program-January-232026-AT-10AM-2PM

01/16/2026

Tune in to Voices of Abilities First! Join us as Brenda, Director of Day Habilitation, shares insight into our Day Hab programs and highlights the incredible Direct Support Professionals who support individuals every day.

📻 When: Tuesday, 1/20/26
⏰ Time: 11:00 AM
📍 Where: WTBQ Radio @ AM 1110 / FM 93.5

It’s a meaningful conversation about independence, inclusion, and the people who make this work possible.

01/14/2026

Our Life Skills friends enjoyed a day of indoor fun, games, and great company at Fun Max—proving winter days are better when spent having fun together! 💙

01/12/2026

Join us for a Family Support Services training that breaks down the guardianship process from a parent’s real-life perspective. Speaker Kristine Mansfield will share her experience, insights, and practical tips to help families feel prepared and supported.

You’ll learn what to expect, how to get ready, and how to apply for FSS funding to assist with guardianship fees.

This session is open to families of individuals who are OPWDD eligible. Self-Direction participants must have the class added to their budget before attending. We hope you’ll join us for this informative and supportive training!

RSVP to Gina Carminucci by 1/16/26, 845-475-3217 ext. 1197

01/07/2026

Modeling awesomeness! ESP Melonie and Sundiatta are starting the journey to 2026 by doing what they do best—showing up as their authentic, confident, and amazing selves.

As we look ahead to 2026, we’re excited for all that’s to come—more growth, more connection, and more moments that celebrate abilities, individuality, and community.

01/07/2026

Hiring Event Update: Due to an unexcepted emergency our Abilities First Residential hiring event has been canceled and will be rescheduled for a later date.

We appreciate your understanding and flexibility. Updated details, including the new date and time, will be shared soon. Thank you for your continued interest in joining the Abilities First team—we look forward to connecting with you!

01/07/2026

Due to inclement weather, Abilities First – Hyde Park School will be operating on a 2-hour delay today, Wednesday, January 7th, 2026.

Stay warm and safe! ❄️

01/06/2026

Don't miss this New Year opportunity!

We’re hosting Walk-In Interviews for our Residential Program in Wappingers — no appointment needed.

📅 Wednesday, January 7, 2026
⏰ 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Abilities First
99 Inwood Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY

Now Hiring – Full & Part Time. Multiple shifts available | $17.90–$19.90/hr*

If you’re ready for a fresh start, meaningful work, and a supportive team — stop by and interview on the spot!

For more information on this position or to apply directly, visit: https://ow.ly/A88a50XRZhT

*Pay rate based on driving eligibility.

01/06/2026

Kicking off the New Year with an unforgettable night of excitement!

This past Saturday, twenty of our friends were treated to an incredible evening at the MJN - Majed J. Nesheiwat Convention Center , cheering on their favorite wrestlers and soaking in all the action — and it happened because of you.

To the generous donors of the Foundation for Recreational Activities, thank you for making this experience possible. From the VIP welcome to the unforgettable meet-and-greet, every moment was made real through your support.

A special thank you to Paul Lloyd and Awesome Championship Wrestling, whose dedication and vision brought this event to life and created memories our community won’t soon forget.

When you invest in moments like these, you’re not just funding an event — you’re creating joy, connection, and lasting memories. Thank you to everyone who believes in and supports what we do. 💙

To learn more about supporting the FAFNY Recreational Fund, email joannparker@abilitiesfirstny.org!