SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2026
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4
A Note From Denise
6
Agency Highlights
10
Kidsteps
18
Adult Services
22
Enrichment Services
26
Join Our Team
28
Thank You To Our Donors!
A NOTE FROM DENISE Dear Friends, Staff & Supporters, As we enjoy the final weeks of summer and begin a new fiscal year, I am pleased to share some of the progress and accomplishments across Lumibility. Over the past year, we launched a new Wallingford Enrichment Program, expanded vocational opportunities, and supported more than 50 individuals in securing competitive employment. We also strengthened community partnerships, including our work with High Hopes Therapeutic Riding, creating new opportunities for the individuals and families we support. Through Kidsteps, more than 2,000 children received early intervention services, and our teams completed over 1,200 eligibility evaluations. We continued our legislative advocacy, contributing to Connecticut’s first Birth to Three rate increase since 2017. We remain grateful for the support of our community. This year, grant funding provided more than $150,000 in support across our programs, and our winter campaign received strong support from donors and community partners. As we look ahead, we remain focused on expanding opportunities, strengthening our programs, and ensuring that children, adults, and families receive the support they need. Thank you for being part of the Lumibility community and for helping us continue to enhance skills and transform lives.
Warmly,
DENISE DAVIAU CEO
4 - Welcome Message
5 - Welcome Message
AGENCY HIGHLIGHTS New Program Space in Wallingford! Lumibility is excited to announce the opening of its new Wallingford Enrichment Program space. This thoughtfully designed location will support individuals and families. It offers a welcoming and collaborative environment for everyone. The new space reflects Lumibility’s commitment to enhancing skills and transforming lives. Through Enrichment Services, Lumibility offers person-centered opportunities for participation, learning, connection, and growth. The Wallingford location was designed with the needs of the people we serve in mind. Individuals can take part in supportive programming, build confidence, and work toward personal goals. The space also helps Lumibility collaborate with families, caregivers, staff, and community partners. The new location provides a professional and welcoming setting. It supports teamwork, communication, and continued growth. Lumibility continues to aim to deliver high-quality services and positive experiences. The opening of the Wallingford Enrichment Program space is an exciting step forward. It strengthens Lumibility’s services throughout Connecticut. Visitors, families, community members, and partners are encouraged to join us for our open house on October 15th!
6 - Agency Highlights
7 - Agency Highlights
YOU ARE
INVITED! JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE THE OPENING OF LUMIBILITY'S NEW WALLINGFORD ENRICHMENT PROGRAM! In addition, we are honored to welcome the Mayor of Wallingford for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony. The official ribbon cutting will take place at 4:30 p.m.
LUMIBILITY WALLINGFORD DAY PROGRAM 860 NORTH MAIN STREET
OCTOBER 15, 2026 4:00PM - 5:30PM CLICK HERE TO RVSP!
8 - Agency Highlights
NEW Lumibility Swag Shop! We're excited to celebrate our team and share a fun new way to show your Lumibility pride! Lumibility has partnered with a local vendor with deep connections to our Kidsteps program and a genuine passion for the individuals and families we serve. Together, we're excited to launch our new year-round Lumibility Swag Shop! The Swag Shop features Lumibility apparel and branded merchandise, with new items and designs added throughout the year. The shop is also open to the public, so feel free to share it with friends and family who would like to support and celebrate Lumibility. Even better, 10% of every purchase goes directly back to Lumibility programs.
SWAG Shop 10% of each purchase supports lumibility!
Lumibility.org/swag-store Scan Here!
9 - Agency Highlights
Julie Hall Helps Recognize Legislative Support for Birth to Three Funding As one of the co-chairs of the Legislative-Fiscal subcommittee of the State Interagency Coordinating Council (ICC), our very own Julie Hall, Deputy Program Officer of Children & Family Services, had the honor of presenting Certificates of Appreciation to Representatives Comey, Welander, and Leeper at the June 15th ICC meeting. Representatives Walker, Farrar, Gilchrest, and Exum, and Senator Osten were unavailable for the ceremony, but were also given certificates. Additionally, the group recognized Governor Lamont's commitment to additional funding for the Birth to Three system in the budget amendment and delivered an award to his office, where he came out to meet the group. He heard from Cindy Jackson, ICC Chair, and Julie Hall, and spoke with two parent representatives from the ICC, Robb Dunn and Lisa Opert, about the impact of Birth to Three on their families. The intent of the awards was to acknowledge the legislators' leadership and advocacy efforts in helping to garner additional funding for the Birth to Three system while not adding training burdens. While the system did not receive all the funding needed, it was a great start. The additional funding will be allocated to rate increases that will ultimately support infants and toddlers with delays and/or disabilities. Making this kind of change requires collaboration among groups such as the ICC, members of the public, agencies, and legislators.
10 - Kidsteps
11 - Kidsteps
Thank You to Our Kidsteps Team for Their Advocacy Efforts!
12 - Kidsteps
13 - Kidsteps
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The Ripple Effect One parent recently reflected on how grateful she was that she made the decision to refer her child to Birth to Three and participate in services. Through her experience, she shared that she learned so much, not only about supporting her child’s development, but also about herself as a parent and how to confidently advocate for her child’s needs. Because this parent also works within her community, the impact has extended even further. She shared that she now has a true understanding of Birth to Three and can confidently explain the program to friends, families, and others she encounters through her work. Her experience shows how Birth to Three’s impact can create a ripple effect, helping other families recognize when support may be helpful and feel confident taking the first step.
Finding Her Voice at the Family Table When another family began Birth to Three services, their daughter was communicating in ways that were often difficult for her family to understand. This was especially challenging during everyday routines like mealtimes, when she had preferences, comments, and needs she wanted to share but could not yet express clearly. Today, she is using words and beginning to put multiple words together. While her growing communication skills are exciting, her family has seen the greatest impact in their daily routines. Mealtimes have become more enjoyable as she is increasingly able to tell her family what she wants, what she does not want, and what she is thinking. For this family, progress is measured not only in words, but also in less frustration, stronger family connections, and a little girl increasingly able to make her voice heard. 14 - Kidsteps
Cherish the Children Foundation Grant Brings Relief to a Local Family Michelle T. and Liz J., two of Kidsteps' shoreline therapists, recently went above and beyond to support a family facing significant financial challenges related to ongoing health concerns. Recognizing the family's needs, they worked closely with them throughout the Cherish the Children Foundation grant application process, providing guidance and encouragement at every step. Thanks to their dedication and advocacy, the family was approved for funding that helped ease the burden of outstanding debt and provided much-needed financial relief during a difficult time. This meaningful outcome reflects Kidsteps' commitment to supporting the whole family, helping remove barriers, and connecting families with resources that strengthen their ability to care for and nurture their children.
15 - Kidsteps
Supporting the Whole Family, One Routine at a Time One family recently shared how challenging sleep had become in their home. Their child was having difficulty sleeping independently, and the parent wanted to help him get the rest he needed while also getting some much-needed rest herself. During a Birth to Three visit, the therapist helped the parent better understand what developmentally appropriate sleep looks like at her child’s age. Together, they explored strategies that were realistic, responsive to his developmental needs, and felt right for their family. By the very next visit, the parent was excited to share their success. Her child was sleeping independently in his own space! This family’s experience highlights how meaningful progress can happen within the routines that matter most. By providing families with information, coaching, and strategies they can use with confidence, Birth to Three can make a difference not only in a child’s development but also in the well-being of the entire family.
16 - Kidsteps
How to Request an Evaluation To request a Birth to Three early intervention evaluation, you can do ONE of the following: 1. Call Child Development Infoline’s toll-free intake number at 1-800-505-7000 2. Complete the online referral form on the Birth to Three System website: www.birth23.org 3. Download the referral form from the Birth to Three website and fax your referral to 1800-571-6853 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.
17 - Kidsteps
ADULT SERVICES
18 - Adult Services
Billy Continues to Make a Difference at High Hopes! Billy has been supported by Lumibility for more than 20 years, and today he continues to make a difference in his community through volunteer work at High Hopes Therapeutic Riding. Each week, Billy helps tidy the horse stalls and contributes to the program's daily operations. Opportunities like this are made possible through the dedication and support of our staff. By encouraging community involvement and helping individuals explore their interests, our teams empower individuals like Billy to build confidence, develop valuable skills, and take meaningful steps toward their future employment goals.
19 - Adult Services
Click the link HERE to watch his “Day in the Life”!
Darius's Passion for Helping Others Darius is always making a meaningful impact in his community! With support from Lumibility’s Individualized Supported Employment (ISE) Program, Darius has transformed his passion for helping others into meaningful action through his volunteer work at Loaves & Fishes New Haven. Every Thursday for the past year, Darius dedicates his time to organizing and sorting food donations, helping ensure that everyone in his community has access to nutritious meals and essential resources. 20 - Adult Services
Lumibility and Yale Continue Their Commitment to Inclusive Healthcare Education Lumibility is proud to continue our longstanding partnership with Yale University School of Medicine. Together, we are helping educate medical residents on providing person-centered care for a diverse range of patients, with a particular focus on individuals with differing abilities. As part of this collaboration, individuals from our Adult Services Programs met with medical residents through both a panel discussion and simulated medical appointments to share their personal experiences navigating the healthcare system. By sharing their voices and experiences, individuals are helping to create a more informed and compassionate healthcare community for people of all abilities. We are grateful to Yale University School of Medicine for its continued partnership and commitment to advancing inclusive healthcare education. 21 - Adult Services
ENRICHMENT SERVICES
A Day of Discovery at Rose Orchards Individuals in our Wallingford Enrichment Program recently enjoyed a wonderful outing to Rose Orchards, where they spent the day exploring the beautiful grounds, connecting with nature, and meeting some friendly farm animals. Community outings like this play an important role in our Enrichment Programs by helping individuals build social connections, explore new environments, and engage with their local communities.
22 - Enrichment Services
Making Memories at Ray of Light Farm Nothing beats a day at the farm! Individuals from Lumibility's Westbrook Enrichment Program enjoyed a memorable visit to Ray of Light Farm, where they spent the day exploring, learning, and connecting with a variety of farm animals. From meeting friendly goats and sheep to observing other animals up close, the visit provided a hands-on experience that was both educational and fun. Community outings are an important part of our Enrichment Programs because they provide opportunities for learning beyond the program while fostering social connections and independence. Click HERE to watch their adventures at Ray of Light Farm! 23 - Enrichment Services
Making the Most of Summer at Wallingford Enrichment Program This summer, individuals in our Wallingford Enrichment Program made the most of the warm weather by spending time outdoors and enjoying a variety of activities with friends. The warm weather provided the perfect opportunity to get outside, stay active, and enjoy everything the season has to offer. Throughout the day, staff and individuals played games, blew bubbles, and shared plenty of laughter as they spent quality time together. The simple joys of being outdoors created opportunities for social connection, recreation, and memorable experiences. Whether competing in friendly games or watching bubbles drift through the air, everyone enjoyed a day filled with fun, friendship, and smiles. At Lumibility, opportunities like these help individuals build connections, explore their interests, and engage with their community in meaningful ways. 24 - Enrichment Services
Lumibility participates in High Hopes Horse Show Individuals from our Westbrook Enrichment Program recently participated in the annual Horse Show at High Hopes Therapeutic Riding. Surrounded by family, friends, and supporters, participants proudly showcased the skills they had developed during their time in the program. Throughout the event, individuals demonstrated their ability to handle and guide horses through a variety of obstacle courses, highlighting their confidence, dedication, and connection with the animals. The day concluded with a ribbon ceremony, where each individual was recognized for their hard work and achievements. Congratulations to everyone who took part in this special event! We are incredibly proud of all they accomplished and grateful to High Hopes Therapeutic Riding for providing such a meaningful and rewarding experience. 25 - Enrichment Services
JOIN OUR TEAM! At Lumibility, we’re proud to provide the highest-quality services to more than 2,100 children and adults with differing abilities across Connecticut, but it’s our team who makes that possible. We’re thankful for the compassionate, creative, and dedicated individuals who bring our mission to life every day. If you’re looking to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to explore opportunities to join us.
Featured Positions DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL WESTBROOK We are seeking to hire Direct Support Professionals for our Westbrook Day Program. You will provide the environment and support necessary to promote appropriate social skills and positive behaviors that will enhance skills, transform lives, and foster community presence.
LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER NEW HAVEN We are seeking to hire an exceptional Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Haven to evaluate and assist children and families with the development, implementation, and review of curriculums to meet their needs and promote positive outcomes.
Click here to view our openings! 26 - Join Our Team
27 - Join Our Team
THANK YOU SUPPORTERS! We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our donors and foundation partners, whose support benefits our programs and the individuals and families we serve. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Alexandra Dilger Award Fund, Branford Community Foundation, Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT Foundation, Chelsea Groton Foundation, Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, Inc., Community Foundation of Middlesex County, Inc., Crippled Children's Aid Society, Dime (Bank) Foundation Inc., Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, Eversource, Frank Loomis Palmer Fund Trust, Guilford Foundation, John H. and Ethel G. Noble Charitable Trust, The Madison Foundation, Inc., Marilyn Lichtman Foundation, 4Imprint One by One Charitable Giving, R. S. Gernon Trust, and Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Trust Fund.
Did You Know? 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. AND MORE... Click below! To learn more and choose how YOU want to make a difference, visit bit.ly/LumibilityWaysToGive 28 - Thank You Donors
29 - Thank You Donors
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