AbilityFirst raised $270,000 at its annual Festival of Fall Gourmet Food and Drink event. This year’s festival had more attendees than ever before. The organization introduced a new segment, “Lights Camera … AbilityFirst,” featuring students from College to Career, an individualized educational program where students are supported in an academic or career-focused setting with the goal of transitioning to a job in the community.
Students entertained guests with a short performance highlighting AbilityFirst’s various programs, including after-school enrichment, adult community integration, supported employment and a fully accessible overnight camp, Camp Paivika.
“Contributions from this year’s Festival of Fall will positively impact AbilityFirst participants’ lives. The money raised will be used for programs to help participants build independent living and social skills and gain confidence, while helping participants develop skills that are important for them to achieve their personal goals,” shared AbilityFirst CEO Lori Gangemi. “We could not do this important work without the help from our donors, corporate partners, volunteers and the generosity from so many supporters in the community.” Honorees included Assembyman Chris Holden, longtime AbilityFirst supporters Lena Longo and the Longo family along with the Los Angeles Chargers. Welcome remarks by co-chairs Steve Brockmeyer and actress Jane Kaczmarek rounded out the evening’s festivities.
Students entertained guests with a short performance highlighting AbilityFirst’s various programs, including after-school enrichment, adult community integration, supported employment and a fully accessible overnight camp, Camp Paivika.
“Contributions from this year’s Festival of Fall will positively impact AbilityFirst participants’ lives. The money raised will be used for programs to help participants build independent living and social skills and gain confidence, while helping participants develop skills that are important for them to achieve their personal goals,” shared AbilityFirst CEO Lori Gangemi. “We could not do this important work without the help from our donors, corporate partners, volunteers and the generosity from so many supporters in the community.” Honorees included Assembyman Chris Holden, longtime AbilityFirst supporters Lena Longo and the Longo family along with the Los Angeles Chargers. Welcome remarks by co-chairs Steve Brockmeyer and actress Jane Kaczmarek rounded out the evening’s festivities.
