PHOTOS: Huge Turnout and Sunny Skies for 17th Annual Walk/Run for Abilis

Sunday’s 17th annual Walk/Run for Abilis, the non-profit’s signature “friend-raising” and awareness building event, benefited from beautiful fall weather and a large turnout.

Many of those who take part in the do so because they are inspired by the story of a friend or family member with a developmental disability.

The event is a tremendous amount of work to organize. Staff and volunteers were ready for the hundreds who turned out for the double header, which started at 9:00am with a 5K run and ended with a 1K walk at 11:00am. But there was much more. Billy Blanks Jr made the warm ups super fun with his contagious smile and dance moves. Kids enjoyed free activities including the popular face painting and bubble bus.

As of Monday the website noted the $180,000 fundraising goal was exceeded, with $225,649 raised.

Funds raised will support all of Abilis’ programs and services, and help ensure that the organization is able to continue their mission to the more than 800 individuals and families they support annually.

Abilis provides early intervention and customized therapies, as well as family education and advocacy to help individuals achieve important developmental milestones through our Therapeutic Services programs. As individuals approach and enter adulthood, we provide a wide range of Life Services programs, including recreational activities, transition and life skills support, job training, competitive and supported employment, individual life planning, and a choice of residential options.

Abilis Life Services programs are provided throughout Fairfield County, while our Therapeutic Services programs are centered in our Stamford office. Our LEAP transitions services for young adults are centrally located in Greenwich, Stamford, Darien, Norwalk, Westport, and Wilton. Abilis manages over 61 residential homes in Greenwich, Stamford, Darien, and Norwalk, and works with numerous schools, civic organizations, and other community partners to deliver programs to individuals and families when and where they need them most.

See also:

Arch in Bloom’s Pumpkins & Pints 2022: Beautiful Day, Big Turnout