Thanksgiving is a meaningful time to pause and recognize the people who help our mission come to life every day. At AbleLight, that gratitude begins with those who walk alongside individuals with developmental disabilities so they can be loved, secure, and flourishing in their communities.
Behind every safe home, every community outing, every career milestone, and every moment of belonging, there are people showing up with skill, compassion, and faithfulness. This season, we are especially mindful of how their work helps address the challenges many people with developmental disabilities face, including housing insecurity, isolation, employment barriers, and health and wellness insecurities.
Grateful for the People We Support and Their Families
The people we support are at the heart of everything we do. Their resilience, determination, and dreams are the reason our work exists. Families and guardians walk alongside them over many years, providing love, advocacy, and guidance through complex systems and life transitions. Their support helps ensure that individuals are not left to navigate these challenges alone and that decisions remain centered on what is best for each person.
Grateful for Direct Support Professionals and Residential Teams
Home is often where security and stability begin. Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and residential teams make that possible in supported living, shared living, and congregate living settings. They support daily routines, encourage choices, help people stay connected with friends and family, and foster participation in community life. In doing so, they help individuals feel safe, known, and valued.
Grateful for Nurses and Behavior Support Teams
Health and wellness are significant concerns for many people with developmental disabilities and their families. Nurses and behavior support teams play a vital role in responding to these needs. They monitor health, coordinate care, support communication with providers, and help address behavioral and emotional challenges that can affect daily life. Together, they promote safety, stability, and well-being while offering reassurance that each person is receiving attentive, thoughtful support.
Grateful for Employment Supports, Day Program, and Thrift Shop Teams
Community participation and opportunity are essential to a flourishing life. Employment Support teams, Day Program team members, and AbleLight Thrift Shop teams help open these doors. They support people as they learn new skills, prepare for work, explore interests, and contribute to their communities. Together, the teams create welcoming environments where people of all abilities can participate, build confidence, and belong.
Grateful for Donors, Board Members, Faith Communities, and Partners
Donors, Board members, faith communities, volunteers, and local partners are an essential part of our mission. Their generosity, leadership, and shared commitment help sustain services, expand opportunities, and deepen inclusion in neighborhoods and congregations. Their support makes it possible to reach more people and to keep person-centered care at the forefront.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
As we celebrate Thanksgiving, we recognize that advancing our mission is a shared effort. Every role and every act of care helps create a world where people with developmental disabilities can live with security, purpose, and connection.
To everyone who gives their time, energy, and heart to this mission, thank you. Your dedication makes a real difference each day in the lives of people with developmental disabilities.
If you feel called to be part of this work, we invite you to explore opportunities to provide support alongside us by visiting our Careers page.