Spring for Abilis Raises over $300,000 for People with Disabilities

Abilis, an organization supporting people with developmental disabilities, generated over $300,000 in its most successful gala to date with Spring for Abilis at The Tamarack Country Club in Greenwich on April 30.

With more than 220 guests, the gala was an elegant affair in which both loyal and new supporters came together to raise awareness and funding for individuals of all ages with special needs in the extended community.

The evening was chaired by three members of the Abilis Board, Christine Lai, Neha Leih and Ulrika Drinkall.

Now in its 65th year, Abilis offers a full range of services supporting those with developmental disabilities from birth through life. While developing new sources of revenue, Abilis continues to rely on state funding for many of its services which is a challenge in light of pending state budget cuts. The proceeds from the Spring for Abilis gala are in important way to help offset this impact.

Abilis President/CEO Dennis Perry and Martha Perry

Abilis President/CEO Dennis Perry and Martha Perry. Contributed photo

“Abilis is fundamental to the Fairfield County community and essential in providing care to the most vulnerable people living here,” said Dennis W. Perry, Abilis President and CEO. “We are fortunate to be part of a community that recognizes the importance of Abilis and is willing to collectively show that support as evidenced by the remarkable success of this event.”

Designer Stephanie Lorraine transformed the Tamarack Country Club’s dining room into a virtual springtime paradise, with flowering cherry branches and twinkling candles towering above the tables. The tables also included a gift for each guest that was handmade and wrapped in cherry blossom-themed paper by people served by Abilis. It was a magnificent setting for the evening, which also featured a compelling video produced by Greenwich-resident, Lindley Pless.

Michael Lorraine, Craig Elkind, and Fred Trump

Michael Lorraine, Craig Elkind, and Fred Trump. Contributed photo

Proceeds from the event will go directly to programs supporting people with disabilities at the Abilis Therapy Center, which includes Birth to Three and Early Intervention services, Customized Therapies, and Family Supports, as well as Abilis Life Services, which include Transition programs for graduates entering into adult life, Employment services as well as Residential services.

Abilis supports over 700 people with developmental disabilities and their families annually in Fairfield County in towns including, Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Stamford, Wilton, Weston, and others. Anyone who was not able to make the event, but would like to contribute can do so by visiting www.abilis.us. Abilis is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and all donations are tax-deductible.

Frank and Lori Mercede with Steven Wise and Abilis Board Member, Lisa Wise

Frank and Lori Mercede with Steven Wise and Abilis Board Member, Lisa Wise. Contributed photo.


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