TABLE OF CONTEN
A NOTE FROM DENISE: WELCOME FALL!
Fall is here, and the Lumibility team is embracing the seasonal changes. October is particularly meaningful as we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the vital contributions that individuals with differing abilities make to our workforce. This year ’ s theme, "Access to Good Jobs for All," emphasizes creating opportunities where everyone can thrive.
At Lumibility, we are proud of our robust employment programs that empower individuals with differing abilities to find meaningful and fulfilling work. Whether through job coaching, skills training, or partnerships with local businesses, we see firsthand the incredible potential and contributions each person brings to the workplace.
These successes are a direct result of our staff's dedication and our community's generous support. Their belief in our mission allows us to continue to provide lifechanging services, and thanks to them, we are able to positively impact more lives every year.
As we enter this season of gratitude and reflection, I want to personally thank our team and all of our supporters who stand by us. Together, we are creating brighter futures for all. We wish everyone a healthy holiday season and hope you enjoy our newsletter!
DENISE DAVIAU CEO
Will You Help Transform Lives in Our 2024 Make A Difference Campaign?
This holiday season, your gift will make a profound difference in the lives of over 1,800 children and adults with differing abilities. By supporting our mission, you’ll help enrich their lives and provide the critical services they need to thrive.
Your generosity will support:
eking answers for their baby or toddler’s developmental delays.
Families facing uncertainty about what’s next for their young adult after high school.
Adults finding meaningful, fulfilling employment that they enjoy.
Neighbors striving for greater independence who need assistive devices.
Your gift today will create opportunities and foster positive change for individuals of all abilities.
Click here to give a gift!
AGENCY HIGHLIGHTS
Camp Connect
This August, Lumibility hosted Camp Connect, a week-long summ designed for young adults with autism, ages 16 to 18. It was held at The Oxford Academy in Westbrook, Connecticut. Throughout the week, campers enjoyed going on day trips to the Mystic Aquarium and mini golf at Saybrook Point. Campers also took part in creative arts such as painting, music activities and tie dye.
The week concluded with "Carnival Day," featuring a variety of games and activities for the campers to participate. The standout favorite was the dunk tank, where campers got to drench their favorite Lumibility staff member, marking a fun and memorable end to Camp Connect.
A special thanks to Charles IT and the Aldi Cares Program for their generous support in making Camp Connect possible. Their contributions played a crucial role in providing a fun and fulfilling experience for our campers.
Sip & Savor Launch Celebration
Lumibility’s Sip & Savor event in late August at the historic Shore Line Trolley Museum in East Haven, Connecticut, was an unforgettable evening. It was a great time to connect with supporters, families, board members, and business partners while enjoying tasty drinks and appetizers.
One of the highlights was the trolley rides, which allowed everyone to take in the beautiful views of the Farm River Estuary at dusk. Plus, some guests got a behind-the-scenes look at the museum ’ s trolley restoration and storage areas, offering a unique glimpse into the work that keeps this historic site thriving.
This event was significant, as it kicked off our launch from SARAH Inc. to Lumibility. It was wonderful to share this milestone with those who’ve been with us along the way, and we couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come.
A huge thank you to Shore Line Trolley Museum for hosting and providing free rides. We also thank everyone who joined us in support of making a positive impact on the lives of the individuals and families we serve.
Direct Support Professional Appreciation Week
Every year, Lumibility celebrates DSP
Appreciation Week. During this special week which was September 9th to 13th, we recongized our outstanding DSPs for their dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to those we serve at the heart of our mission.
Our DSPs provide essential support and care daily, empowering individuals to achieve their goals and live more independently. Their contributions make a significant difference, and we are so grateful for their impact.
Throughout the week, we expressed our appreciation with thoughtful gifts and fun Lumibility swag. Our recognition of our exceptional DSPs doesn’t end with DSP Week; we will continue to celebrate their dedication year-round.
ADULT SERVICES
EmploymentPrograms
Stuart’s One Year Anniversary!
Stuart joined HarborChase in Madison in September 2023. Since then, he has developed the skills to operate commercial-grade dishwashing equipment and master using a threebay sink for handwashing. He also performs essential cleaning and maintenance tasks to ensure a safe and compliant kitchen environment.
Stuart is responsible for helping manage the organization and upkeep of kitchen equipment, including pots, pans, and utensils, contributing to the smooth operation of the kitchen. His weekly cleaning duties help maintain health and safety standards within the facility.
Well-liked and respected by his colleagues, Stuart is recognized for his hard work and dependability. He has even supported the team during major holidays, such as Thanksgiving and the Fourth of July, showing his dedication to staff and residents. Congratulations to Stuart on his one-year milestone at HarborChase!
Jordan’s New Chapter at HomeGoods!
Jordan joined our Individualized Supported Employment (ISE) Program earlier this year with the goal of finding meaningful work within his community. Through determination and consistent effort, we are thrilled to announce that Jordan was hired as a merchandising associate at HomeGoods!
Jordan's success resulted from extensive preparation, including resume writing, mock interviews, and guidance to dress for success, all with the support of his job coach. Jordan is now set to embark on this exciting new chapter at HomeGoods, bringing his passion and dedication to his new role.
Our Employment Transitional Crew
Visits the Shore Line Trolley Museum!
Before our Sip & Savor event, Josh had the opportunity to have a spotlight role in the Sip & Savor promotional video alongside Denise. Thank you, Josh! After filming, the Employment Transitional crew enjoyed a trolley ride at the Shore Line Trolley Museum. They learned about the Farm River Estuary, a complex and fragile ecosystem. After the ride, the conductor gave them a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum ' s historic trolleys and restoration process. The crew is excited to return for more experiences.
In-HomeSupports(IHS)
Meet Joe!
Joe has actively participated in the Individualized Home Support (IHS) program since March 2017. He enjoys staying physically active by taking light walks or engaging in chair yoga, which helps him maintain his health and mobility. One of Joe's favorite activities is working on meal-related tasks such as researching recipes, grocery shopping, and cooking. He particularly enjoys making soups and Italian dishes, with sausage and peppers being one of his specialties. In addition, Joe is fond of creative activities, including drawing, painting, and diamond art. He recently volunteered at Lumibility, helping out the administrative team by adding stickers to Kidsteps books.
Joe is always excited to spend time with Shannon, his Community Support Specialist, and enthusiastically speaks about her whenever he gets the chance. He also takes pride in completing light household tasks like laundry, dusting, and washing dishes. These activities help him maintain a sense of independence and contribute to his daily routine.
Joe is a very social individual and enjoys being an active member of his community. With the support of his staff, he frequently visits local restaurants and stores, where he enjoys chatting with the people around him. Joe is well-known and well-liked in his community, and his friendly, outgoing nature makes him a beloved presence wherever he goes.
More About Our In-Home Support (IHS) Program...
In-Home Supports (IHS) are available for those living outside of the family home. Individuals utilizing this support have the opportunity for assistance with activities and tasks that enable them to live in their chosen community. Su f assistance with meal preparation, grocery shopping, budge housekeeping, to assistance with coordination and transpor appointments. The purpose of this service is to allow an ind level of support to maintain their home.
Assistive Technology & In-Home Supp
Kara and Michelle are enjoying their new Brava Smart Oven, a technology recommended by Lumibility’s Assistive Technology department! Recently, Jamie Martin, our Assistive Technology Manager, visited their home for a comprehensive evaluation to assess their needs and support their journey toward greater independence. As part of this effort, Kara and Michelle received the Brava Smart Oven to help them work toward their goal of cooking healthy meals on their own. With the assistance of their dedicated support staff and Jamie's expert guidance, they have learned how to use the smart oven and mastered pre-setting some of their favorite meals.
This technology has significantly enhanced their confidence in the kitchen. By using the Brava Smart Oven, Kara, and Michelle have made great progress toward achieving their individualized independence goals while embracing healthier eating habits!
EnrichmentPrograms
2nd Annual Luau Party
The North Haven Enrichment Program hosted its 2nd annual Luau Party, a lively event that brought together individuals from our North Haven, Madison, and Westbrook programs. The festivities began with a dance party led by the North Haven group, and as guests from Madison and Westbrook arrived, the excitement only grew.
Attendees engaged in a variety of activities, from ring toss to karaoke, with each completed activity earning a raffle entry for the chance to win prizes generously provided by our staff. Notably, individuals from all three programs took home a prize, adding to the day's excitement. The event was a huge success, with everyone already eagerly anticipating next year ’ s celebration!
Outing to Mystic Aquarium
In September, individuals and staff from our Enrichment Programs enjoyed a fun-filled day trip to the Mystic Aquarium. They explored a range of exciting exhibits, both indoors and outdoors. Outside, they watched Beluga whales swimming and saw sea lions playfully interacting with each other, putting on a show for everyone. Inside, some had the chance to touch cow nose rays in the Ray Touch Tank, while others explored and observed sea turtles, sharks, and other marine life
After seeing all the exhibits, everyone e experiences. The group is already lookin
Labor Day Cookout Fun!
Our North Haven Enrichment Program hosted its first Labor Day Cookout, which was a hit! Participants and staff took advantage of the beautiful weather by playing cornhole and creating chalk art on the pavement. The activities offered a great way for everyone to connect and have fun together.
After the games, everyone enjoyed a delicious grilled lunch prepared by our staff. This successful event marked the start of what we hope will become a valued annual tradition for our community. The North Haven Enrichment Program looks forward to continuing it in the years ahead!
Alvin’s Success Story
Birth 2 Three has been a great resource for our whole family. Having the continuum of care at ome has been especially helpful when navigating ong waits to see specialists. The staff from Birth o Three has not only been supportive in our son ' s are but empathetic and compassionate. Alvin eally has gone from being diagnosed with "failure o thrive" to thriving!”
Evaluation
ention evaluation, you can do ONE of the following: ber at Child Development Infoline at 1-800-505-7000
Complete the online referral form on the Birth to Three System website www.birth23.org 2. Download the referral form from the Birth to Three website and fax your referral to 3. 1-800-571-6853
If you would like Kidsteps to conduct the evaluation, please specify our name when you go through the intake process. Without this request, your child will automatically be placed with the next available program in your town based on the existing rotation schedule. For any inquiries, don't hesitate to reach out to us at 203-453-7592.
Early Start Denver Model Training
Kidsteps Team 7, which serves families in Middletown, Cromwell, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Glastonbury, has been awarded a generous $4,000 grant from the Ensworth Charitable Foundation.
This funding will offer families of children diagnosed with autism essential resources, such as books that explain the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), and provide fun, engaging activities to enjoy together while advancing their child’s skills. It will also continue our commitment to equity in services by providing resource books to families in their home language.
The grant also funded enrollment in the ESDM Introductory Workshop through UC Davis for seven Kidsteps therapists. This training further equips our team to effectively implement the evidence-based ESDM curriculum, which has been proven to improve developmental outcomes for young children with autism.
Additionally, we are grateful to The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut for their $7,500 grant, which enabled ten therapists from Kidsteps Teams 4 and 5/6, serving Eastern CT to attend this valuable training and provide their families with
JOIN OUR TEAM!
We are hiring! At Lumibility, we provide the highest-quality services to over 1,800 children and adults with differing abilities across the state of Connecticut.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at hr@lumibility.org before you submit your application.
FeaturedPositions
EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL-JOB COACHES
We are looking to hire Employment Support Professional-Job Coaches to join our Employment Program team. In this role, you will provide direct support service to people with differing abilities in competitive and supported employment and/or volunteer sites.
LCSW EARLY INTERVENTION DIAGNOSTIC SPECIALIST
We are looking to hire an LCSW Early Intervention Diagnostic Specialist. You will be providing early intervention evaluation, assessment, plan developm and consultation to infants, toddlers, and their fam enrolled in our Birth to Three Early Intervention Pro
THANK YOU DONORS
We would like to thank to the Liberty Bank Foundation and the Eversource Energy Foundation for their generous support of Lumibility’s Transitional Services for young adults. We also wish to thank the R.S. Gernon Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee, The Ensworth Charitable Foundation, and The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut for their grants supporting Kidsteps services.
DidYouKnow?
With our transition to Lumibility, there are now more ways than ever to support programs for children and adults with differing abilities:
Monthly Giving – Set up a monthly donation at Lumibility.org. It’s easy, secure, and your contribution makes an ongoing impact.
Donate Your Old Vehicle – It is free and tax-deductible! Donate your used car to support Lumibility’s mission.
IRA/RMD Gifts – Give from your IRA’s required minimum distribution and enjoy potential tax benefits.
To learn more and choose how YOU want to make a difference, visit bit.ly/LumibilityWaysToGive
