WAPPINGERS FALLS, NY – August 6, 2026 – Abilities First will welcome community leaders, elected officials, donors, volunteers, partners, and supporters on Friday, September 18, 2026, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the expansion and transformation of the Abilities First Education Center at Straus Family Pavilion.

The event marks the completion of a collaborative campus improvement project made possible through the generosity, leadership, and partnership of local elected officials, foundations, businesses, volunteers, and community supporters who came together with one shared goal: creating an even better learning environment for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“The completion of these projects represents the determination of our organization and our many supporters to equip this facility with the best possible resources and functionality for our students,” said Dr. Jeffrey Fox, President & CEO of Abilities First. “Every improvement made to this campus reflects the generosity, commitment, and shared vision of many of our partners who share our belief that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.”

Among the many improvements celebrated are five new classrooms that expand educational opportunities for young learners, a new roof that protects the future of the campus, an expanded accessible playground that better meets the needs of students, and campus beautification projects that have transformed the learning environment into a more welcoming space for children and families.

These enhancements were made possible through the vision and early leadership of the late Senator William J. Larkin Jr., along with the continued advocacy of Senators James Skoufis and Rob Rolison and Assemblymember Chris Eachus. We are deeply grateful for the generous grant support of the William and Elaine Kaplan Family Foundation, the heartfelt private donations of Mr. Che Leo King, on behalf of James Kish, and countless individual donors, and the invaluable volunteer hours contributed by Leadership Orange, local businesses, and numerous community organizations across our region. More than a celebration of a campus expansion, the ribbon cutting honors the extraordinary partnerships, generosity, and shared vision that transformed the campus and created new opportunities for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

"This celebration belongs to everyone who helped make it possible," added Dr. Fox. "Whether through advocacy, philanthropy, volunteerism, or partnership, every contribution has helped create new opportunities for the children and families we serve."

The ceremony will include remarks from community leaders, a ceremonial ribbon cutting, recognition of the many partners who contributed to the project, guided tours of the expanded campus, and a reception immediately following.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Friday, September 18, 2026
11:00 a.m.
Abilities First Education Center at Straus Family Pavilion
59 Windsor Highway
New Windsor, NY

Reception and campus tours will immediately follow the ceremony.

Guests are asked to RSVP by September 15 to events@abilitiesfirstny.org.