I was trying to remember when I first heard the name “Ability First,” and I could not remember a specific date when I first became interested in this organization, and began to support it. 

As if on cue, in assisting me to jog my memory, I came across a local free paper, Warner Center News, which I had saved from December 13, 2007. On the front page, was the headline “Put Another Name On Your List…Give Locally to Needy Charities.”   I had saved the paper specifically because it mentioned AbilityFirst.

What is AbilityFirst? To quote the article from Warner Center News:

“Ability First …in Woodland Hills…is a residential and community outreach facility for physically and developmentally challenged children and adults.” 

The article went on to list what articles were needed to help out, and included large tricycles, miscellaneous art supplies, batteries, and canned goods.  Since the time that article was written, the kids’ program was ended because of budget cuts. In California, it is becoming common that cuts are being made, even for essential services. I consider that kids’ program as an essential service. When I was told by Amy, on one of my visits to the Woodland Hills facility, I was stunned and upset. I do not say this lightly. If I had what is considered a fortune, I would have sunk most of it into reopening that school.

To me, AbilityFirst rises above the factual description of a “residential and community outreach facility.” It is a place of love. Those of us who are considered blessed because we are not “physically and developmentally challenged,” are the ones who are sometimes “challenged.” Many of us are emotionally challenged, in comparison to the kids and adults at AbilityFirst.  We have not been gifted with knowing how to express unconditional love.

Unconditional love is what I receive at AbilityFirst. When the kids program was still open, I got a friendly “hello” and big smile. I thought that the friendliness would be gone. I received the same greeting about three weeks ago when I visited to collect some flyers to help to circulate for the fundraising drive that is now going on for the facility. The adults in the program were performing their jobs, but they still, while the fingers kept working, sent out a warm “hello.”

The staff with whom I have interacted, and usually it is Amy, are friendly and helpful. I have never met anyone having a “bad day.” I recently got to meet the new director Richard Briseno, when I dropped by with some fruit that I was donating. The front door swung open and this gentleman stepped forward and greeted me in a very friendly manner.  I had no idea who he was. I explained that I was looking for Amy, to whom I usually drop off fruit and goodies. Mr. Briseno and I chatted for a brief period. I was very impressed with his demeanor and felt that the residents and staff would be in good hands.

A few months ago, I received a letter dated June 25, 2010, advising me that because I have included Ability First in my estate plan, I am now a member of the Legacy Society. The truth be told, my “estate plan” consists solely of a life insurance policy that I at times have struggled to keep up with. God has been gracious, and that policy is current. I intend to keep it that way. I am fiercely determined to be able to give what I can to organizations that help the helpless, and those that contribute to the preservation of this country. Theirs is oftentimes a thankless job.

 It was gratifying to know that I was now part of the Legacy Society, but what caught my attention even more was the first edition of the AbilityFirst Magazine, with a photo of Matteo Paturza adorning it. Matteo has a face that is beautiful. Yes, he is handsome in a traditional sense, but the beauty of the face transcends mere physical beauty. The beauty is to be found in the spirit and light that seem to emanate from that innocent face. On reading “A Day in the life” of Matteo, one learns that he cannot walk or speak. He does not have to speak words. His smile speaks volumes. I was not surprised to further learn from the article that Matteo is “always happy, always joyful,” and “smiles all the time.”   AbilityFirst is making a difference in Matteo’s life. His mom Sharon gave her kudos:

The AbilityFirst staff…are well trained, professional and they have a genuine concern for the kids. It’s like a family. It’s just a phenomenal organization.”

I totally agree.

“Looking beyond disabilities…focusing on capabilities…expanding possibilities” is the slogan listed on the AbilityFirst Website. From what I have observed up close, AbilityFirst is doing exactly that. Michael Griggs sums it up in describing what Camp Paivika, one of the facilities and services offered, has done for him:

“When I think of my many blessings and the best things that my mother and father ever gave me, Camp Paivika comes to mind…. If you are tired of letting your disability define you, if you just want to meet some amazing people or need help on your journey of self-discovery, Camp Paivika is the ideal place.”

Amen, Michael. “Camp Paivika is an ideal place,” and so is the entire AbilityFirst organization. In this the season of peace, joy and love, I challenge all of us who have been blessed, to give of those blessings. Visit AbilityFirst, read about, share in ability nurtured by care and love.