Ability Beyond Announces April 24 “Gala & Beyond”

Ability Beyond, a nonprofit headquartered in Bethel, CT and Chappaqua, NY, announces its April 24 “Gala & Beyond” to raise funds for critical programs and services for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, brain injury and neurological disorders throughout Connecticut and New York.

The event, featuring award-winning comedian Christine O’Leary as Master of Ceremonies, will begin at 6 pm at the Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury with limited socially-distanced outdoor seating in a heated tent. The gala will be held in accordance with the latest COVID-19 safety measures and added precautions.

Those who prefer to tune into the gala virtually can order dinners-to-go from the Amber Room or select a fun “Party in a Box” which includes matching décor, surprises and a snack kit to bring the in-person gala vibe to your own home.

Jane Davis, President and CEO, said that the funds raised by the annual gala will support Ability Beyond’s operations and help provide essential services to thousands.

“Now more than ever, we need your support,” she said. “I invite our community to join our ‘Party with a Purpose’ as we continue our commitment to provide loving, supportive homes, employment, day and clinical programs and support services to more than 3,000 people each year.”

Davis explained that although the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted operations over the past year, Ability Beyond nimbly pivoted to ensure that clients were able to receive online services and participate in social programs and virtual classes. She also noted that the COVID precautions and protocols that were put in place in its more than 100 group homes resulted in one of the lowest rate of transmission among similar settings.

“Every dollar counts in helping us continue to operate safely and continue to provide stability and enrichment for our clients,” she said.

Ability Beyond thanks its 2021 gala supporters including Diamond Sponsor Maplewood Senior Living, Platinum Sponsor Mulvaney Mechanical, Inc., Gold Sponsor Bedoukian Research, and Silver Sponsor Fairfield County Bank.

For sponsorship and registration and silent auction information, please visit www.abilitybeyond.org or email Tracy Conte at tracy.conte@abilitybeyond.org.

About Ability Beyond:

Ability Beyond is a nonprofit headquartered in Bethel, Conn. and Chappaqua, N.Y. Each year, Ability Beyond provides a wide range of services for more than 3,000 people with a disability that inhibits their activities of daily living.

Services include residential alternatives, employment training, career counseling, job placement services, cognitive and life skills instruction, clinical and therapeutic support and volunteer and recreational activities throughout Connecticut and the Hudson Valley.

For more information about Ability Beyond visit www.abilitybeyond.org.