What if you could hire your own employees, set your own schedule, and decide exactly how your support fits your life? That’s self-direction—a program that gives people with disabilities more choice and control over their services.  

In Episode 10 of the Fello Thinking Differently podcast, Marc Weinstein, Fello’s Senior Director of Self-Directed Services, explores what self-direction offers: independence, freedom, and the rewarding challenges that come with it. The episode also features Lauren Sheeder, a Self-Directed Services participant with Fello, who shares how the model changed her life and her son’s. 

Listen Now: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify 

The Power of Self-Direction 

Self-direction puts people with disabilities in charge. Think of them as the CEO of their own support services—interviewing and hiring employees, managing budgets, and deciding how their support works day to day. 

“[With self-direction], you’re not worried about a program telling you that you can’t do that. ‘No, I’m the boss, and you’re going to make this happen,'” said Marc. 

But self-direction isn’t just about managing services—it’s about opening opportunities for exploration and personal growth. Whether it’s catching a movie, going on a date, or taking a spontaneous day trip, participants have the freedom to make those choices—and the support to make it happen. 

“[Self-direction] helps people live a spontaneous life like you and I want to have,” said Marc. 

Self-direction means ownership. Participants set employee schedules, adjust priorities, and make both big and small decisions about their support. It takes effort—but most participants wouldn’t have it any other way. 

“It’s work. It’s a lot of work. But it’s worth it,” said Lauren. 

A Way of Living 

For many people, self-direction isn’t just a service; it’s a shift in what’s possible.  

“I can go to the YMCA. I can go swimming now. I couldn’t do that before because I didn’t have someone to assist me in changing clothes or getting in and out of the pool safely. It’s really important, and it’s been really good for me emotionally as well as my confidence,” said Lauren. 

That independence creates space not just for personal growth, but also for a deeper connection to the community. 

“For myself, I wouldn’t have imagined being able to be a part of some of the things I do now. I take part in my child’s school activities. I’m part of the PTA. He’s in the Cub Scouts—I’m part of committees for Cub Scouts. I get to go and do things with him with the support of my staff because otherwise I would really struggle,” said Lauren. 

Self-direction expands what participation looks like: at home, in school, and across the community. Lauren discovered this firsthand—after seeing what the model did for her son, she decided to try it for herself.  

“Since my son has started Self-Directed Services, there has been a huge improvement in safety concerns and behavior management,” said Lauren. 

People First 

For 20 years, Fello has offered Self-Directed Services, supporting thousands of people across Maryland. What began with hundreds of participants has grown into a model serving more than 3,500 people today.   

“It’s really an evolution of services for people. They previously didn’t have a lot of say in what their lives looked like. This is just a movement towards self-determination,” said Marc. 

At its core, self-direction reflects a simple belief: people know what they need.  

Fello’s role is to support that by providing the structure and administrative support that allows each person to design services around their goals and priorities. 

“For Fello, we’re rooted in people-centeredness. Whatever we do is for the person. They drive that. Self-direction takes it to the next level,” said Marc. 

Take the Lead 

There’s no one path to independence, and self-direction isn’t the right fit for everyone.  But for those interested in having a greater choice and control, self-direction offers something powerful: the ability to live life your way.  

“Self-direction has really been a benefit for myself and my child, and I know a lot of other individuals who are in self-direction, and it’s made a huge difference for them. So, if you’re able to put the work in or you have a team behind you to put the work in, it’s definitely worth it,” said Lauren. 

Listen to the Full Conversation 

Listen to Marc and Lauren talk about the potential of self-direction for people with disabilities. Tune into Episode 10 of Fello Thinking Differently today. 

Listen Now: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify 

For the second year in a row, Fello’s Family Fund has hit a new milestone, awarding $136,071 to 116 families across Maryland. Each grant helps children with disabilities access therapies, educational opportunities, and other services that build skills and confidence. Behind every grant is a family breathing a little easier—knowing they have access to the support that helps their children grow, thrive, and belong. 

About the Family Fund 

Since 2017, the Family Fund has provided critical support to families by funding therapies, communication tools, and services that insurance doesn’t cover.  

“Making an impact in the community starts with making an impact in people’s lives. That’s why we started The Family Fund—to support Maryland families raising children with disabilities by funding services, therapies, and communication tools that insurance doesn’t cover. Each grant improves a child’s quality of life, strengthening their family and building a better community for all,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. 

By removing financial barriers, these grants help families access the supports they need to set a foundation for independence, connection, and opportunity. 

Reaching More Families 

This year, the Family Fund awarded 70 fully funded grants and 46 partially funded grants, giving families access to the resources they need to learn and grow. The funding distributed this year increased by over 20% from 2025 and continues to grow steadily each year. 

“Families know what their children need—sometimes they just need the resources to make it happen,” said Jessica Sauers, Director of 2Gen Initiatives. “That’s what the Family Fund does. It closes the gap between what families envision for their children and what’s actually within reach.” 

Making Every Grant Count 

Families can apply for grants of up to $2,000 to help cover costs for therapies, adaptive equipment, and other services that improve their child’s quality of life. The application process is designed to be straightforward and supportive, giving families a chance to share their child’s needs and explain how a grant would make a meaningful difference in their lives.  

This year, The Family Fund received 474 applications—the largest in its history—from families across every county in Maryland.  Requests for specialized therapy and adaptive equipment topped the list of most requested and funded services. 

A committee of more than 30 Fello employees evaluated the grant applications and collectively recommended funding—an approach that ensures fairness, accountability, and decisions reflective of Fello’s values. 

“Over the past several years, the number of grants fulfilled by the Family Fund has increased fivefold, a reflection of both rising costs for families and growing need for therapies and services,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families. “This growth shows how important the Family Fund is, and why continuing to expand resources is critical.” 

Powered By Generosity 

The Family Fund is funded exclusively by generous donors committed to removing barriers for families. Every dollar distributed this year came from supporters who believe children with disabilities deserve access to the services, programs, and experiences that help them thrive.  

“From equine therapy to summer camps, the Family Fund empowers children with disabilities to learn new skills, gain independence, and grow with their peers,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. “Because of our generous donors, families have access to the resources that can truly transform their lives and aren’t able to afford without the Family Fund.”  

Every gift is an investment in access, opportunity, and inclusive communities across Maryland. 

Learn more about the difference donors make in the lives of Family Fund recipients by exploring Because of You. 

Home is more than a place to live—it’s where people feel safe, connected, and valued. It’s where neighbors look out for each other, where communities take shape, and where people have the opportunity to build the lives they choose. 

Fello Communities brings that vision to life. By building homes and investing in neighborhoods across Maryland, we’re creating places where people don’t just live—they belong. 

Built for Belonging  

For nearly two decades, Fello Communities has been building high-quality homes with the stability and support people need to live well. 

Today, we’re creating neighborhoods and communities where people of all abilities and backgrounds can live, connect, and belong.  

By pairing housing with community-focused development, we’re helping neighbors build relationships, access the services they need, and feel part of the place they’re proud to call home. It’s an approach that has shaped Fello Communities into a force for housing equity. Guided by the belief that neighborhoods influence outcomes as much as homes do, we invest in communities—strengthening infrastructure, enhancing service, and creating spaces for neighbors to come together.  

More Than a Home  

The Laura House in Easton, MD, is a reflection of what’s possible when housing is designed with belonging at the center. 

Nearly fully leased, the 6,000+ square-foot mansion-style building features seven two-bedroom apartments, with a mix of affordable and market-rate options. Inside, spacious apartments feature modern finishes inspired by Easton’s historic character, while the design prioritizes comfort, accessibility, and quality.  

What makes The Laura House stand out isn’t just the building—it’s what it represents.  

It brings together people with different backgrounds, incomes, and experiences in one shared place. And it demonstrates how thoughtful, inclusive development can expand access to high-quality housing without sacrificing community character. 

Housing Can’t Wait  

Maryland’s housing shortage is growing. Today, Maryland needs 100,000 homes—a number that could grow to 590,000 in the next 20 years. 

When there aren’t enough homes, prices go up, and choices go down—leaving Marylanders on lower incomes unable to afford safe and quality housing. People with disabilities and historically underserved communities are especially at risk of housing insecurity.  

But solving the housing crisis isn’t just about building more units. It’s about building the kinds of communities where people can live near their work, access services, and stay connected to what matters in their lives. 

Building What Comes Next   

Fello Communities is making that possible, building quality homes in vibrant communities that bring people together and empower them to shape their futures.   

“With over a hundred housing units built and eight major development projects underway, Fello is committed to creating new opportunities for Marylanders to live their lives the way they choose in the communities where they want to be,” said Ross Benincasa, Fello Community’s Senior Vice President of Community Development. 

That vision is grounded in a simple idea: when people have access to stable housing, strong communities, and access to support—everything else becomes possible. 

Most people don’t think of Fello as an economic engine. But they should.  

Fello moves $465.6 million through Maryland’s economy—nearly half a billion dollars flowing through working families, local businesses, and communities across the state. That’s the economic force behind our mission to support people with disabilities and build a more equitable Maryland.  

At Fello, our work is grounded in a simple belief: when people have the support they need to build the lives they choose, entire communities grow stronger. Our 2025 Economic Impact Report brings that belief to life—showing how investing in people with disabilities doesn’t just change individual lives, it fuels economic growth across the entire state.  

The numbers tell that story.  

$465.6 Million Moved through Maryland 

In fiscal year 2025 (FY25), that economic activity translated into stable wages for working families, growth for local businesses, and the kind of community investment that builds long-term resilience across Maryland. 

$67.3 Million in Tax Revenue to Drive Maryland’s Future 

Fello’s economic activity generated $67.3 million in tax revenue in FY25—money that funds schools, community services, public safety, and everything else that makes our state a great place to live and work. 

2,602 Quality Jobs Supported 

Fello supported 2,602 jobs across Maryland, generating $177.9 million in labor income. Our 676 direct employees and nearly 2,000 workers hired through contractors and vendors earned stable wages—the kind of economic security that strengthens families and transforms communities. 

Building a Stable and Skilled Workforce 

Over the last eight years, Fello has doubled Direct Support Professional (DSP) salaries, launched a DSP Career Ladder to create advancement pathways, and invested $6.4 million in our award-winning Total Rewards benefits package. When employees are valued, they stay—and the results speak for themselves: a 5% vacancy rate, 15% lower than the national average, and a skilled, committed workforce ready to support people with disabilities in building lives in their communities. 

Empowering Small Business Owners 

As the largest provider of self-directed services in Maryland, Fello helps over 3,500 people with disabilities direct their own services—enabling a population largely excluded from economic participation to become employers and contributors to Maryland’s growth. The 9,500+ DSPs hired by self-directed services participants gain steady employment and financial security, strengthening both families and communities across the state. 

Investing in Community Development 

Through Fello Communities’ capital investments, we contributed $21.3 million to Maryland’s economy and supported 89 construction jobs. More than the numbers, though, is what they represent—affordable housing, support for local businesses, and vibrant communities where neighbors help shape their own futures. 

Economic Investment Rooted in Belonging 

Our economic report proves what’s possible when we invest in people with disabilities. Hundreds of millions of dollars are circulating throughout the economy. Thousands of jobs sustained and created. Local services are improving neighborhoods across Maryland. 

But what matters most is what it all means—people with disabilities as an integral part of economic life. That’s inclusion. That’s equity. 

“The results of our 2025 Economic Impact Report prove that supporting people with disabilities in living the lives they choose isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s essential to a thriving economy,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. “As we continue to expand our services and footprint, we look forward to continuing to play an active role in Maryland’s growth.” 

This year, as Fello celebrates 65 years of supporting people with disabilities and building inclusive communities, we’re reflecting on the history of the disability rights movement and the milestones that helped shape the work we do today.  

By the 1970s, the momentum built by advocates in previous decades was beginning to transform the country. Disability rights leaders pushed for stronger civil rights protections, people with disabilities began organizing to advocate for themselves, and Americans started questioning whether institutions were the right place for anyone to live.  

It was a decade that would bring landmark legislation, growing public awareness, and a new vision for community living—changes that also shaped Fello’s work here in Maryland.  

Civil Rights Take Center Stage 

In the early 1970s, the disability rights movement gained momentum as people with disabilities, families, and advocates across the country continued pushing for stronger legal protections and greater recognition of their rights.  

Their leadership helped reshape federal policy throughout the decade.  

In 1975, the Education for All Handicapped Children (EHA) Act guaranteed children with disabilities the right to a public education. For the first time, schools were required to provide the services and supports students needed to thrive.   

Building on Kennedy-era legislation originally passed in 1963, Congress enacted the Developmentally Disabled Assistance and Bill of Rights (DD) Act in 1975, strengthening protections for people with disabilities and recognizing their right to services that promote independence and community participation. 

But it was Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 that became the first federal law to prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities. Despite its landmark passage, Section 504 went unenforced for years—prompting disability rights advocates to stage nationwide sit-ins at federal offices. Within weeks, activist pressure succeeded in securing enforcement of the regulations. 

The achievements of the 1970s were the result of focused advocacy, collaboration, and the voices of people directly impacted by barriers. That same energy fueled the rise of self-advocacy groups, giving people with disabilities the opportunity to speak for themselves, lead change, and shape the communities they call home.  

Self-Advocacy Reaches a New Height 

As people with disabilities began making their voices heard, the Independent Living Movement (ILM) emerged, grounded in the belief that people with disabilities deserve the same civil rights, opportunities, and control over their own lives as anyone else.  

Around the same time, the People First movement began, led by and for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Its message was simple and powerful: people are more than their disabilities. Today, People First has grown into an international network, inspiring self-advocacy worldwide. 

The self-advocacy movements of the 1970s showed that advocacy is not just about laws or policies—it’s about giving people the tools, support, and confidence to speak their truth.  

That same spirit continues today through Living Boldly, Fello’s self-advocacy program. Consisting of 36 members with disabilities throughout Maryland, Living Boldly members represent themselves, their ideas, and their interests to shape a more inclusive community for everyone. As they work with legislators and decision-makers, they also invest in themselves by learning new skills and techniques that empower them to speak confidently and lead change in their own lives and beyond.  

Advocacy has always been at the heart of Fello’s work. In the 1970s, that advocacy naturally extended to housing, because having a home in the community is central to independence, belonging, and full participation in life.  

Rethinking Housing 

For decades, institutional life remained hidden from public view, and people with disabilities had little choice about where or how they lived. In the 1970s, journalism and public awareness fueled the debate about what it truly meant for people with disabilities to live with dignity and highlighted the urgent need for change. 

One of the most widely viewed reports came in 1972, when journalist Geraldo Rivera exposed the conditions found in the then-largest state-run institution for people with disabilities in the nation. The footage shocked millions of Americans and sparked a national conversation about dignity, care, and human rights. Maryland experienced a similar moment when the documentary Throw Away the Key uncovered what was really happening at Rosewood, a notorious institution outside Baltimore. 

As the public confronted the realities of institutions, it became clear that true inclusion starts with a home—a place where people can live safely, participate in community life, and make choices about their daily lives. Across the country, group homes grew in numbers. By 1977, nearly 1,000 group homes operated across the U.S., providing people with disabilities the support they needed while living in neighborhoods, participating in daily life, and being part of a community. 

Fello was part of this transformational shift. The first group home in Maryland opened in 1971, the same year that Fello opened its first group home on Benton Avenue in Linthicum. Today, Fello still owns that property, which continues to provide housing to the people we support. Additional homes followed in Linthicum and Annapolis in 1975, and by 1978, Fello launched Alternative Living, Inc., an apartment-based community living program. 

Over 50 years later, housing remains a cornerstone of Fello’s work. Through Fello Communities, we maintain over 100 housing units throughout Maryland, and we’re continuing to expand with new developments throughout the region—all advancing our vision of quality and inclusive housing for all. 

Building Something Better 

The 1970s were a defining decade for the disability rights movement. Civil rights victories expanded accessibility and recognized the dignity and potential of every person. Acts of self-advocacy had an individual and collective impact nationwide. And for the first time, Americans were asking hard questions, with communities across the nation rethinking housing, creating opportunities for people to live with independence, connection, and choice.  

What happened nationally was reflected at the local level. Fello’s work—from advocacy and self-advocacy programs to creating homes in the community—set the stage for the person-centered communities we continue to build today.  

The lessons of this decade continue to guide us: change is possible when people speak up, communities listen, and systems evolve to put people first. As Fello celebrates 65 years of supporting people with disabilities, we carry this commitment forward, building on the progress of the past and creating more equitable, inclusive communities for the future.  

Next in the series: The 1980s—a decade of continued growth for the disability rights movement, a national shift away from institutionalization, and Fello’s expansion into family and individual support services. 

As Fello continues to grow its presence across Maryland, we’re opening a new kind of door—one that meets people right where they are. 

In Episode 9 of the Fello Thinking Differently podcast, Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO, and Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families, explore the vision behind Fello at The Mall. Located inside Annapolis Mall, the 5,900 sq. ft. space provides people with disabilities and their families a place to drop in for resources, support, and connection. No appointment needed. 

In this episode, Jonathon and Sara also discuss: 

• What inspired Fello to open a space in Annapolis Mall 
• How the space is designed to be welcoming and accessible to all 
• What families can expect when they walk through the door 
• How Fello at The Mall strengthens community connection in Annapolis

Listen Now: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify 

Increasing Access in Everyday Spaces 

Fello’s work has always centered on meeting people with disabilities and their families where they are: in their neighborhoods, communities, and lives. We build services around each person’s unique goals and needs, reducing barriers to information and support along the way. 

Access shouldn’t require multiple steps. With Fello at The Mall, we’ve created a place where people can walk in, ask questions, and receive the resources they need without an appointment. 

“Here at the Annapolis Mall, where there is still traditional mall shopping, there’s also a richness of community,” said Jonathon. “We want to be where people are coming anyway and create that level of accessibility so we can include people with disabilities and their families right here.” 

Opening a space in a familiar public setting makes support easier to access and part of everyday life. 

Designed with Accessibility in Mind 

From the moment you arrive, Fello at The Mall feels different. An Information & Resource Specialist greets each visitor and learns about their interests, needs, and how Fello can support them. 

“From there, we can offer information, resources, and referrals to other team members within Fello—making it a person-centered approach to working with their families,” said Sara. 

The space was intentionally designed to be accessible—physically and operationally. It’s not a traditional office setting; it’s an open, welcoming environment where people and families can start a conversation about their goals and explore what support looks like. 

“It doesn’t feel like a storefront at the mall,” said Jonathon. “It feels like an intentional space that people can come for resources.” 

And because the focus is community, there’s something for the entire family. 

“We want to support the whole family, so we want to make sure that the resources we’re offering support not just the children, but any family members, parents, and everyone involved,” said Sara. 

A Continued Commitment to Annapolis 

Fello has long been part of the Annapolis community.

“Annapolis has been a big part of who we are, who we’ve been, and who we will be in the future,” said Jonathon. 

Fello at The Mall builds on that foundation. The space is a hub for creating new connections, strengthening partnerships with neighbors and community partners, and opening new pathways for people to learn about and access services, advocacy, and community engagement. 

“Families are really used to having to jump through hoops to be able to access services and resources for their children,” said Sara. “And I think having a space here at the mall is going to break down one more barrier for them, creating an accessible space where they can come in at their time and on their schedule, and get the support they need for their children.” 

Listen to the Full Conversation 

Listen to Jonathon and Sara talk about what Fello at The Mall means for families and the future of community connection in Annapolis. Tune into Episode 9 of Fello Thinking Differently today. 

Listen Now: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify