Walk/Run for Abilis Raises More Than $140,000

Abilis, the non-profit organization that supports more than 700 individuals with special needs and their families from birth throughout adulthood, recently held its 13th annual Walk/Run for Abilis at Greenwich Point Park. The event brought together more than 700 participants that included athletes in the 3-mile run, walkers for the 1-mile family-friendly walk, volunteers, friends and staff. Through the Walk/Run, Abilis raised more than $140,000 for its programs and services.

This year’s Walk/Run for Abilis was expanded to offer more family-fun activities with a larger children’s area with carnival games run by long-time Abilis supporters Carnival for a Cause, more arts and crafts, a bouncy castle, face painting and the very popular Bubble Bus.

Abilis program participant Joe Lupinacci was this year’s Walk/Run Abilis Ambassador. Joe has been a life-long Abilis client, starting when he was just four weeks old when he received Early Intervention Birth to Three services through Abilis

Today, at 21 years old, he just transitioned from a residential school where he was out-placed.

Abilis worked with Joe and his family to bring him back to his community to be with his friends and family, coordinated an employment path and developed a residential home where he can continue to develop independent living skills.

Joe currently works at the New Canaan YMCA as a pool deck attendant. He has been a great role model for other children and adults going through Abilis’ programs.

“This was one of our most successful fundraising years for the Walk/Run for Abilis,” said Amy Montimurro, president and CEO of Abilis.

Photo credit: Cara Gilbride, Callalily Studios

Photo credit: Cara Gilbride, Callalily Studios

Photo credit: Cara Gilbride, Callalily Studios

Photo credit: Cara Gilbride, Callalily Studios

Photo credit: Cara Gilbride, Callalily Studios

Photo credit: Cara Gilbride, Callalily Studios