For the third year in a row, Fello has been honored with a Rosie Award from Health Rosetta—a national award recognizing the outstanding, affordable healthcare benefits we provide our employees and their families. 

The Rosie Awards celebrate organizations making a real difference in employee healthcare across the United States. Out of thousands considered, Fello was one of only 88 recipients, and one of just four nonprofits recognized this year. 

“Earning a Rosie Award for the third year in a row is something we’re incredibly proud of,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. “It reflects years of intentional investment in our employees and a belief that great benefits aren’t just a perk—they’re part of building a workplace where people can thrive.” 

At Fello, we know that when employees feel supported, they bring their best selves to work—strengthening the support we provide to the people and communities we serve. Earning a 2026 Rosie Award reflects that commitment in action. 

Investing in Top-Tier Care 

When it comes to supporting our employees and their families, nothing matters more than their health and well-being. That’s why our healthcare benefits are designed to be not only high-quality but also affordable and accessible. 

Fello hasn’t raised healthcare premiums for employees in over four years, even as national premiums continue to climb. We keep our rates affordable because quality coverage should offer peace of mind, not financial stress. 

We’re also proud to cover the annual deductible for our employees and their families, removing a common barrier to care and giving our team the confidence to access care whenever they need it. 

Through Health Connection, we offer free on-site primary and urgent care at two of our offices for employees and their families. Supplemental services like BetterHelp, ClassPass, and Noom further support whole-person health, helping our employees take meaningful steps toward greater well-being at work and at home. 

“For us, it’s not just about creating a great place to work—it’s about supporting every employee in becoming the healthiest, happiest version of themselves,” said Brandy Stephens, Vice President of People & Culture. “At the heart of our culture is a belief in the unique potential of each team member. Whether their goals are professional or personal, we’re here to help them achieve what matters most.” 

Why Fello Stands Out 

Earning a Rosie Award means more than offering a strong healthcare plan—it reflects our investment in employees and our commitment to sharing what we’ve learned with others. 

A key part of the award is the Health Rosetta Dividend, which measures how efficiently a company manages its health plan and reinvests savings back into the employee experience. By prioritizing affordable, high-quality care, we’re able to invest more in benefits such as education reimbursements and bonuses. 

But innovation alone isn’t enough. We also believe in sharing what we’ve learned so others can benefit. The Rosie Award recognizes organizations that elevate their peers, and we take that responsibility seriously. Whether we’re presenting at the Rosie Awards or publishing what we’ve learned, we’re committed to helping other organizations improve employee healthcare. 

“What’s unique and impactful about the Rosie Awards is the spirit of knowledge-sharing among recipients,” said Cody Skacan, Vice President of Strategy. “We learn from each other, and the paths we create can inspire other organizations to rethink their approach to healthcare. Every lesson or insight shared brings us closer to building a stronger, more empowered workforce for all.” 

Raising the Bar on Employee Well-Being 

Delivering an industry-leading Total Rewards package is one of the ways we invest in the people who make our work possible. 

Each year, we review our benefits and look for new ways to add value for our team. We recently introduced out-of-network reimbursement for mental health services—allowing employees to choose providers they trust without added financial burden. It’s a year-round process that doesn’t have to wait until the annual enrollment period, so we can introduce meaningful new benefits whenever the opportunity arises.  

When our employees are healthy, confident, and empowered to thrive, they’re better equipped to support people with disabilities across Maryland. As we look to the future, we’ll continue evolving our benefits to meet our team’s changing needs—because investing in our people is one of the most important ways we advance our mission.

Maryland’s senior population is growing fast.  

Within the next 20 years, more than a quarter of the state’s residents will be age 65 or older—part of a national trend, as people live longer and stay active as they age. People with disabilities are also getting older and reshaping what aging looks like in Maryland. 

Aging should never mean giving up the life you choose. As people’s needs change, they still want independence, connection, and purpose. At Fello, we make sure our support grows right alongside each person, helping them keep pursuing the interests, relationships, and experiences that make life meaningful. 

Changing Needs at Home 

Home should feel like home—at every age, and through every change life brings. 

People’s needs may change as they age, but that doesn’t mean they should have to leave the place they love. Fello works closely with the people we support to make sure their homes keep pace with their needs.  

Sometimes, a small adjustment makes a big difference. That might mean adding grab bars, installing a raised toilet seat, or making another simple modification to help someone continue their daily routines with confidence. For long-term changes, we put permanent supports in place that preserve the feeling of home. 

Our goal is always the same: to help people continue living in a space that reflects who they are and supports the life they want to lead.  

“One person we support experienced a change in their mobility. They needed a wheelchair to move around and could no longer use the stairs,” said Niki Jones, Director of Living Options & Services at Fello. “Instead of moving them away from the place they loved, we installed a portable wheelchair ramp. It was a simple, affordable solution that allowed them to keep living in their home.” 

Sometimes, needs can become complex, and it’s no longer possible to make a home fully safe and supportive. When a move becomes necessary, we make sure no one faces that transition alone. 

“Leaving the place you’ve called home is never easy for anyone,” said Jones. “Change can be overwhelming, so we take the lead—finding a place that’s not only safe and accessible, but also respects each person’s preferences. Our mission is to create the smoothest transition possible, so people can get back to focusing on what’s next.” 

Adapting to physical changes is just one part of aging. This stage of life can also bring opportunities to explore new interests and try new things.  

A Time to Be Yourself 

Everyone has their own interests, routines, and passions—and growing older doesn’t change the things that make someone who they are. 

For some people, that may mean enjoying familiar routines and quiet moments at home. Fello supports those choices by helping keep homes accessible and providing the right support from Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), so people can spend their time in ways that matter to them. 

For others, growing older may create new opportunities to explore interests or dedicate more time to the activities they love. 

“I think of one older gentleman whose love for chess brings him so much joy,” said Jones. “Now that he has more time to focus on what he enjoys, he spends his days playing as much as he wants. Supporting those choices is what we’re here for.” 

For him, chess has become more than a hobby—it’s a way to connect with others who share his passion. 

“What he enjoys most is playing chess with other people his own age. His DSPs often bring him to local gatherings to meet fellow enthusiasts. For him, it’s more than a game—it’s a way to build friendships around a shared passion. For many people, those connections mean everything,” said Jones. 

Whether someone enjoys a favorite routine at home, pursues a lifelong interest, or discovers something new, Fello is there to provide the support that makes those experiences possible. 

Aging with Support, Purpose, & Connection 

Growing older doesn’t change a person’s value, interests, or place in the community. Everyone deserves the opportunity to remain connected, engaged, and supported throughout every stage of life. 

At Fello, we believe aging should come with possibilities. That means adapting support as needs change, honoring each person’s choices, and helping people keep building meaningful lives. 

Together—with families, dedicated professionals, and our wider community—we can create a Maryland where everyone, at any age or ability, has the opportunity to belong and live well.

The new school year is just around the corner. Whether your child is returning after summer break or starting school for the first time, now is the time to make sure they have the support they need to succeed in the classroom. 

That means helping them feel confident and ready to learn—especially if learning hasn’t always come easily. 

Thousands of students across Maryland benefit from special education services through an Individualized Education Program (IEP). An IEP can help students build on their strengths, access the support they need, and thrive in school—and your child may qualify, too. 

If your child has struggled in ways that are difficult to explain, it may be worth exploring whether an IEP could be the right support for them. 

How an IEP Can Help Your Child  

An IEP is a collaborative plan created by parents, educators, school specialists, and other professionals who know your child. It serves as a personalized roadmap that outlines your child’s strengths, needs, and goals for growth. It also ensures access to the support and learning experiences they need to fully participate in the school community.  

IEPs are living documents, reviewed and updated each year to reflect progress and address new challenges. The goal isn’t to focus on what a child can’t do—it’s to support, celebrate, and adapt to each child’s unique way of learning. 

“For decades, IEPs have helped students succeed by focusing on what works for them,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth, & Their Families at Fello. “That often leads to improved academic performance and a real sense of belonging in the school community. The impact goes far beyond their school years, equipping students with confidence and resilience that follow them into adulthood.” 

While there are formal steps to obtaining an IEP, the process begins with parents reflecting on their child’s strengths, challenges, and individual needs.   

Recognizing What Your Child Needs  

You know your child best. Reflecting on what you’ve seen and experienced can help you notice both their abilities and areas where they may need support. A few thoughtful questions can reveal patterns and help you decide if an IEP might be the right next step. 

How has school been going for my child? If your child has attended school, consider what has come easily and what has been more difficult. Are some subjects or activities consistently challenging? While occasional difficulties are a part of learning, ongoing struggles may signal a need for extra support. 

How’s my child feeling or behaving? How your child manages emotions can offer insight into where they may need support. Strong feelings are a part of growing up, but if emotions are often overwhelming or make it difficult to participate in school, it may be worth a closer look. 

What does my child’s development look like? Every child develops at their own pace, but it can be helpful to notice patterns. If your child speaks less than their peers, struggles with routines, or takes longer to learn new skills, it may be worth exploring where additional support could help. Social growth matters, too—difficulty making friends can affect confidence and learning. 

Your child’s differences aren’t shortcomings—they reveal who they are. This perspective calls for understanding. Disability isn’t something to fix; it’s something to embrace.  

“Every child develops differently, and their personality, social behavior, and pace of learning can’t be measured against a single standard,” said Madeline Cochran, LCSW-C, Lead Behavioral Health Clinician at Fello. “Recognizing individuality is essential—not just for providing the right support, but also for showing you truly believe in their potential.” 

You don’t need to have every answer. If you think your child could benefit from additional support, that’s reason enough to explore whether an IEP could help. Taking that first step is an act of advocacy—one that can open doors to confidence, growth, and joy in your child’s education. 

Beginning the IEP Process in Maryland  

If you believe an IEP could help your child, you can get started today. There’s never a wrong time to request an evaluation, and every family has the legal right to find out if their child is eligible.  

Not every child will qualify for an IEP, and some children with disabilities may not meet the criteria. The only way to know is to begin the process.

1. Gather Your Documents & Information  

Before requesting an evaluation, gather any documents that highlight your child’s strengths and challenges. That includes report cards, teacher notes, records related to school behavior, or outside assessments.  

If your child hasn’t started school yet, your observations are just as important. Pay attention to their behaviors, communication style, and routines, and take note of what you observe. No one has a more valuable perspective than you.

2. Request an Evaluation  

A referral notifies the school that your child may need an IEP. Teachers and staff can make referrals, but so can you—it’s your right as a parent. A referral can be as simple as a dated letter to the principal explaining why you believe your child could benefit from an IEP.  

Once the school receives your referral, they’ll review and respond. If they move forward, they’ll request your written consent to evaluate your child. In Maryland, once you provide that consent, the school has 60 calendar days to complete a thorough evaluation of your child’s strengths and needs.  

3. Receive a Decision  

After the evaluation, an IEP team (which includes you) will meet to review the results and determine your child’s eligibility. If your child qualifies, Maryland requires the IEP to be developed within 30 calendar days of that eligibility decision, through a separate meeting where you can share your perspective, ask questions, and help shape the support your child receives.  

Once the IEP is in place, the school begins providing the agreed-upon supports, with regular check-ins to track progress and adjust support as your child grows.  

“The IEP process stands out because it gives parents a formal seat at the table and ensures their voices are heard,” said Pease. “Advocacy means being present and engaged. Parents provide valuable insight throughout the process—your knowledge and perspective are essential. Educators recognize and rely on what you know about your child, and that understanding is key to meaningful educational planning.”  

Every Step Forward with Fello  

It’s not always clear when your child needs support or how to help them access it. But your involvement can make a real difference, giving them the opportunity to feel included and reach their full potential. 

Just as your child needs someone in their corner, Fello is here to support you along the way.  

Fello’s Children, Youth & Their Families program helps families find and navigate local resources that can make a meaningful difference in a child’s life. Through Project Learn and Project Learn Leadership Academy, we connect families with one-on-one support to help you understand your rights, build stronger relationships with schools, and navigate an IEP with confidence.  

Our goal is to give you and your child the tools to become strong self-advocates. No matter where you are in the process, we’re here to answer questions, guide you, and connect you with resources that help your child succeed. 

What you do today helps build your child’s independence and future success. If you think an IEP may be the right fit, Fello is here to support you and your family every step of the way. 

If you have questions about IEPs or would like to connect with Fello’s Children, Youth & Their Families team, please email resources@fello.org. 

At Fello, we work hard to build a culture where everyone feels valued—because that’s what our team means to us. When employees feel respected, empowered, and supported, they’re better equipped to provide the exceptional support people with disabilities and our communities deserve. 

But it’s one thing to say we care about our culture. It’s another to have our team say it too. 

We invited Fello employees to share their perspectives through the Baltimore Business Journal’s (BBJ) annual Best Places to Work survey. Their responses didn’t just earn us recognition—they confirmed what we’ve always believed: Fello is a place where people are proud of their work and know they belong. 

Recognized as a Top Workplace 

Every year, the BBJ names the Greater Baltimore area’s top workplaces. Only the highest-scoring companies earn the Best Place to Work designation. The results come directly from employees, who complete a confidential survey about what it’s like to work at their company. 

Fello was proud to be selected as a 2026 Best Place to Work—one of just 50 companies chosen. We were also one of only eight in the large company category, and the only nonprofit in that group. 

“Being named a Best Place to Work is a tremendous honor for Fello,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. “What makes this designation especially meaningful is knowing it comes from our team’s own experiences. Whether in the community or in the office, our people-first philosophy shapes everything we do—and we’re committed to empowering our team to do their best. We’re grateful to be recognized for it.” 

Culture by Design 

The culture we’ve built didn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of years spent investing in our people—so they can continue giving their best to those we support—and creating a workplace where people want to grow, contribute, and stay for the long term. 

From free on-site primary care for employees and their families to a Career Ladder that gives Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) a clear path to advancement, everything about our culture is built on an idea: find out what matters most to our people, and make it happen. 

Being recognized by the BBJ is a big moment for Fello, but it’s not the end of the journey. We’re always looking for ways to grow, because we want Fello to be the place where people who believe in inclusion can build meaningful careers and make a difference every day. 

We’ll keep listening, keep investing, and keep finding new ways to support the people who make Fello what it is. That’s the culture we’re building at Fello—today, and for years to come. 

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. 

The 2000s brought cultural change for people with disabilities across the United States. As more institutions closed and community supports expanded, people with disabilities gained new opportunities and began to feel like they truly belonged. 

By 2010, many people with disabilities who once lived in institutions were now active members of their communities. People with disabilities increasingly had the opportunity to direct their own lives as laws, policies, and support systems evolved to advance greater independence, choice, and inclusion. 

Policy Furthers Participation 

As community support services received more funding and institutions continued to close, people with disabilities began to make more decisions about where they lived, worked, and how they spent their time. New legislation helped make those choices possible.  

In 2010, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) became law, marking a significant advance in health care access for people with disabilities. For the first time, young adults could stay on their parents’ insurance until age 26, and insurers were prohibited from denying coverage or charging more due to a pre-existing condition.  

The ACA also expanded protections against discrimination in health care and created new Medicaid options—including the Community First Choice (CFC) option—to help states provide home and community-based services that support people living in their communities rather than institutions. 

The 2014 Home & Community-Based Services (HCBS) Settings Rule continued the shift away from institutions by requiring that Medicaid-funded services be delivered in truly integrated community settings. States developed transition plans that brought services into compliance with the rule while giving people greater choice and control over their lives. Fello had embraced these principles nearly a decade earlier through Chesapeake Neighbors (now Fello Communities), which separated housing from support services and gave residents more control over where and how they lived. 

Texas enacted the nation’s first Supported Decision-Making law in 2015—giving people with disabilities the right to make their own choices with guidance from trusted supporters, rather than having a guardian make decisions for them. More than half the country would go on to pass similar laws. Economic doors began to open as well—the ABLE Act of 2014 allowed eligible people with disabilities to pursue greater financial independence by opening tax-free savings accounts without risking their benefits.  

Together, these policy changes reflected a growing national commitment to dignity, autonomy, and full community participation. At Fello, we saw the same momentum in Maryland and continued to expand programs and partnerships that helped make inclusion a reality.   

Leading Fello Forward 

By 2010, Fello had spent nearly 50 years supporting and advocating alongside people with disabilities. Over the decade, we strengthened that commitment and laid the groundwork for who Fello is today. 

After nearly 20 years of leadership, Executive Director Kate Rollason retired. In 2017, Jonathon Rondeau joined Fello as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), bringing a renewed vision to advance equity and expand opportunities for people with disabilities across Maryland. 

During his first year, Jonathon introduced a strategic plan built on three priorities: creating seamless support for people with disabilities and their families, building an excellent employee experience, and establishing a strong foundation for sustainable growth. 

One of the earliest and most impactful initiatives to emerge from this work was the launch of the Family Fund in 2017. Designed to help cover the costs of therapies, adaptive equipment, and vital services not covered by insurance, the Family Fund quickly became a lifeline for families across Maryland. Nearly a decade later, it remains a powerful example of that early commitment in action, with 2026 marking its most successful year yet. 

Jonathon’s leadership shaped the years that followed. As demand for community-based support grew across Maryland, we expanded where and how we showed up—whether in workplaces or in daily life. 

Working for Fair Wages 

For nearly a century, Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act has allowed employers to pay people with disabilities less than minimum wage (i.e., subminimum wage), often limiting employment opportunities to sheltered workshops. Ongoing advocacy—especially throughout the 2010s—led to real progress toward fairer workplaces. 

Between 2010 and 2019, the number of employers participating in the federal subminimum-wage program was cut in half—a sign that U.S. companies increasingly recognized the value people with disabilities bring to the workforce.  

States also began taking action. In 2015, New Hampshire became the first state to eliminate subminimum wages. Other states followed, enacting legislation to end or phase out the practice—including Maryland in 2016. 

Fello continued to build on the employment initiatives launched in the 2000s. Early in the decade, Fello partnered with Project SEARCH to help young adults successfully transition into meaningful employment—a partnership that continues today.  

We also expanded our workforce development program to reach more people, creating new job opportunities and strengthening relationships with businesses across Maryland. By the end of the decade, both the number of people in the program and the number of employer partners had doubled. 

Community Impact 

The progress of the 2010s reflected a growing national belief: people with disabilities deserve equal rights, equal opportunity, and equal respect. 

Legislative victories, fairer wages and employment options, and continued advocacy helped people with disabilities participate more fully in their communities. 

At Fello, those same principles shaped the work we did every day. Building on the vision of our founders, we invested in new programs, strengthened community partnerships, and continued creating opportunities for people with disabilities to live with greater independence and connection.  

The decade closed with a clear sense of momentum. The foundation had been laid for even greater transformation—and Fello was ready to lead it. 

Next in the series: The 2020s—a global pandemic that reshaped community-based care, mounting pressure to end subminimum wages, and a new chapter as Fello.

July is Disability Pride Month—a time to celebrate the disability community, honor the progress of the disability rights movement, and reflect on how we can all help build a more inclusive world. 

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law 36 years ago, transforming accessibility and civil rights protections across the country. Disability Pride Month honors that progress while reminding us that inclusion is ongoing work—work that continues today through advocacy, community, and everyday acts of belonging. 

Creating space to celebrate disability pride helps normalize it. Every conversation, shared experience, and advocacy effort deepens understanding and brings us closer to communities where everyone truly belongs. 

Whether you’re a family member, a Direct Support Professional (DSP), a friend, or an ally, here are five meaningful ways to celebrate Disability Pride Month. 

1. Take a Deep Dive into Pride 

One of the most powerful ways to honor Disability Pride Month is to support people with disabilities in embracing their own sense of pride. This means following their lead—not defining what pride should look like for them.  

“Everyone carries a self-image that shapes how they see both themselves and the world around them. For people with disabilities, it’s often those closest to them who try to define that image,” said Niki Jones, Director of Living Options & Services at Fello. “When we empower people with disabilities to discover and embrace their self-worth independently, we do more than uplift how they see themselves—we affirm that their self-image is truly their own.” 

Activity: My Story, My Way 

Invite someone you know to share what disability pride means to them, using whatever mode of communication feels most comfortable. That could include conversation, artwork, pictures, music, or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). 

The goal isn’t to shape their perspective, but to give them space to express themselves authentically and on their own terms. 

2. Learn About Disability Rights History 

Disability pride carries deeper meaning when we understand its roots. Learning about the advocates who challenged barriers and changed laws helps us appreciate both the progress that’s been made and the work that continues today. 

Fello’s The Movement That Made Us series provides a decade-by-decade exploration of the history of the disability rights movement. Reading it together creates an opportunity to reflect on the victories and milestones that have shaped what it means to live with a disability today. 

• The Movement That Made Us: The 1960s 
• The Movement That Made Us: The 1970s 
• The Movement That Made Us: The 1980s 
• The Movement That Made Us: The 1990s 
• The Movement That Made Us: The 2000s 
• The Movement That Made Us: The 2010s

The disability rights movement was driven by self-advocates dedicated to making a difference—and that spirit lives today. Anyone can be a self-advocate, and Disability Pride Month is the perfect time to begin. 

Activity: Write a Letter to Advocate for Disability Funding 

Work together to write a letter to your elected officials. Encourage the person to share their story and why disability services are vital—not just for themselves, but for the broader goal of inclusion. Find your elected officials here. 

If they find this activity meaningful, encourage them to stay engaged. Fello’s Living Boldly group empowers people with disabilities to raise their voices and advance rights across Maryland—and new members are always welcome. 

3. Explore the Community Together 

Some of the most memorable moments happen when we step outside our routines and experience something new together. Shared experiences like these create opportunities for growth, confidence, and connection. 

Set aside a few hours to visit somewhere that matches the interests of the person in your life—a new restaurant, a tucked-away coffee shop, or a park they’ve always passed but never explored. Often, the most meaningful adventures are the ones closest to home. 

“Home activities will always have their place, but people with disabilities often feel most fulfilled when they’re out in the world engaging, connecting, and contributing as neighbors and community members,” said Jodie Colombo, Director of Day Services. “An active life builds self-pride and strengthens our sense of belonging in the neighborhoods where we live and work. That’s something that benefits everyone.” 

Activity: Pride Walk 

Invite friends and family to join a neighborhood walk while everyone wears or carries something that represents disability pride—such as a shirt, a pin, or a flag. It’s a simple, visible way to celebrate together and stand with people with disabilities in your own community. 

4. Attend a Local Disability Pride Event 

Disability Pride Month is celebrated with events across the country—and in Maryland, there’s no shortage of opportunities to come together, connect, and belong. 

• Baltimore’s Annual Disability Pride Arts Fest offers free, inclusive art workshops and performances celebrating the creativity and leadership of the disability community. 

• Montgomery Parks’ Disability Pride Outside features accessible and adaptive outdoor experiences—kayaking, guided boat tours, and birding—so that everyone can participate. 

• The City of Frederick’s Cultural Connection brings the community together for an evening of art that highlights the experiences and contributions of Frederick’s disability community through creative expression. 

Activity: Free Events at Fello at The Mall 

Every month, Fello at The Mall, located in the Annapolis Mall, hosts free, accessible events designed for people with disabilities and their families. On July 28 and August 1, join us for an afternoon of crafting and creating—and an opportunity to learn about Fello’s services and connect with resources in your community. 

5. Reflect on Your Own Journey 

Disability Pride Month isn’t only for people with disabilities. It’s an opportunity for everyone to consider how we each contribute to building a more inclusive community. 

Take some time this month to reflect on your own attitudes and beliefs about disability. Are there assumptions or biases that might be holding you back from being a stronger advocate? Where is there room to expand your understanding or challenge your perspective? 

Those questions aren’t always comfortable—but growth rarely is.  

“Pausing to reflect on our own beliefs and envision the future we hope to create is one of the most important steps we can take when supporting and advocating for people with disabilities,” said Joan Green, Director of Community Engagement. “Being the best advocates we can be is a lifelong journey of checking in and showing up. It takes intention, and it’s always worthwhile.” 

Make This Month Matter 

Disability Pride Month is a reminder that inclusion isn’t built through one big moment. It’s built through everyday choices—listening with intention, creating opportunities for connection, advocating for accessibility, and celebrating the unique strengths and experiences of people with disabilities.  

However you choose to celebrate, what matters most is being there—for the people in your life, for the broader disability community, and for the inclusive Maryland we’re working to build together.