Hudson Valley Nonprofit Launches Statewide Disability Resource App

WJFF - The Local Edition - Special Report

Abilities First, a nonprofit based in Wappingers Falls, New York, has an exciting announcement. Developmentally disabled people and their caretakers across the state can now download "Abilibee" for easier access to resources. Their website reads, "No matter where you are, Abilibee can help navigate what comes next from Early Intervention to Adulthood. Abilibee’s planning tools will help you be a better advocate, notify you to start transition planning activities, provide resources and useful information."

Marcy Handler, the  Director of Strategic Initiatives for Abilities First, says the app will be a game-changer for New York families. "When parents go from one place to the next, they're often really confused about what they need to know and what they need to do." The organization won a grant from the state to help solve this problem and, thus, Abilibee was born. Handler explains, "The app is divided into 10 different age groups, starting with early childhood and all the way up to mature adulthood. Each age group has its own focus, whether it's things you may encounter in the school districts like IEP planning every year, or how to look for a job."

The app is now available on the Apple store and Google Play. Listen for more information about what it offers and the problem it aims to solve.