At Fello, our 2Gen approach is person-centered while still recognizing the important role families and communities play in influencing the services and supports people need.
In this episode of Fello Thinking Differently, our original podcast, we explore how our 2Gen approach complements our philosophy of person-centeredness and ensures families have the tools and resources they need.
Jessica Sauers, Director of 2Gen Initiatives, shares how Fello’s approach strengthens outcomes for children, adults, their families, and our communities while keeping the person at the center of every decision.
🎧 Listen to Episode 3: Supporting Families, Strengthening Futures
What Are Fello’s 2Gen Initiatives?
2Gen is about families receiving integrated support so the services they receive are more meaningful and the long-term impact is strengthened—not just for the people we support, but for their families and communities as well.
“It’s about looking at the family as a whole,” said Jessica,” What does not only the child need, but also the family members within the home. What resources or support do they need to be able to grow? We want those services and supports to follow them into their adult life.”
At Fello, 2Gen isn’t just a philosophy—it’s a set of programs designed to meet people where they are and follow them over time. Currently, Fello’s 2Gen Initiatives encompass three key program areas:
Children, Youth & Their Families
Fello’s Children, Youth & Their Families services are designed to strengthen families and create opportunities across their lives. The program provides a range of educational, financial, and community-based supports for children with disabilities and their families, helping each family find the resources and guidance they need. By connecting families to services, coaching, funding, and experiences that fit their unique situation, Fello creates a network of support that helps children and their families grow, thrive, and achieve their goals together.
Community Supports
Fello’s Community Supports provide tailored services for people with disabilities, helping them fully engage in their communities. Supports are flexible and personalized, ranging from supporting daily activities like cooking, running errands, and attending appointments, to opportunities for social connection and pursuing hobbies. Whether someone receives 5 hours of services every week or 80 hours, Community Supports align services with each person’s goals so they can engage more fully with the people, places, and activities that matter most to them.
Entitlements
Fello provides support to people in our services with their entitlements, providing another critical layer of support as people and their families access public benefits such as SNAP, WIC, SSI, SSDI, Housing Choice Vouchers, and Maryland ABLE accounts. By guiding people through applications, renewal processes, and managing these programs, Fello removes barriers and ensures that people with disabilities have continuous access to the resources they need.
Building Lifelong Impact
When services are built with both people and their families in mind, outcomes are stronger and more sustainable. Fello’s 2Gen Initiatives reflect our belief that supporting people with disabilities means recognizing the broader networks of family and community around them, allowing children and families to grow together with services that follow them into adulthood.
At its heart, 2Gen is about creating lifelong impact. By focusing on the needs of the whole family, Fello ensures that people have not only the support they need today but also the tools and opportunities to thrive in the future—building stability, opportunity, and stronger, more inclusive communities.
Keep Listening, Keep Learning
Want to hear more about how 2Gen comes to life at Fello? Tune into Episode 3 of Fello Thinking Differently and join us as we continue to explore bold ideas, better ways, and what it truly means to build community together.
🎧 Listen to Episode 3: Supporting Families, Strengthening Futures