Main Street News

Abilities First launches Abilibee app to empower individuals with developmental disabilities

By Published On: October 3rd, 2024

Abilities First – a Hudson Valley nonprofit provider of educational, vocational, residential, and community-based services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families – launched a free, innovative app named Abilibee on September 26.

With funding from the New York State Council on Developmental Disabilities, the app will transform the ways in which individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as their families and caregivers, navigate their unique journeys from early intervention through adulthood. 

“Abilibee is designed to empower users by putting advocacy, support, and resources – that help navigate New York State’s complex and difficult-to-understand systems – right at their fingertips,” the press release states. 

“Through countless conversations with parents and caregivers, it became clear that navigating the current system for individuals with developmental disabilities is overwhelming,” said Marcy Handler, director of strategic initiatives at Abilities First and project lead for Abilibee. “We wanted to create a solution that would close the gap, providing families with resources they need to confidently advocate and ensure they have access to the support they need and deserve.”

About Abilibee 

The app is a comprehensive, all-in-one lifeline that is designed to guide users through New York State system changes and transitions throughout their lives. Abilibee is also designed to aid parents and caregivers as well and provide them with tools to help them be a better advocate, notify them to start transition planning activities, and provide other useful information. 

Some of the key features of the app include step-by-step transition guidance through New York State system changes, a resource library, a communication log to keep contacts and notes in one place, planning tools for effective advocacy, daily check-ins to track progress and overall well-being, and positive affirmations to encourage holistic wellness. Overall, Abilities First said that “the features are meant to simplify processes and provide essential tools for effective advocacy and daily management.” 

“At Abilities First, part of our mission has always been to empower people facing development challenges and their families,” said Jeffrey Fox, the president and CEO of Abilities First. “The various systems of services and support across New York State can be overwhelming and confusing to navigate. 

“Abilibee represents a significant step forward for New Yorkers with disabilities looking for help and support,” Jeffrey continued. “This new tool is designed to guide people toward the right resources for their needs and age. With better tools and resources, like Abilibee, everyone has the potential to thrive.”

Abilibee is available for free download at www.abilibee.org. For more information, or to be a tester of the app, contact busybee@abilibee.org. For more information about Abilities First, visit their website www.abilitiesfirstny.org