This year, as Fello celebrates 65 years of supporting people with disabilities and building inclusive communities, we’re honoring our legacy by looking back at the movement that started it all.  

Fello was founded in 1961 by a group of families who believed their children deserved a different future than what was available at the time. They came together to advocate for opportunity, dignity, and belonging—fighting for their children’s rights and creating the foundation for the work we do today. 

A Response to Institutionalization 

For much of the 20^th century, if you had a child with a disability, doctors told you there was only one option available: institutionalization. By 1955, over half a million Americans lived in facilities that isolated them from the community and denied them the ability to make decisions. 

Families knew their children deserved more. They believed lives defined by connection, opportunity, and choice were not only possible—they were essential. 

In 1953, these families formally organized as the National Association for Retarded Children (NARC) to advocate for their children’s right to live, work, and thrive in the community. In Maryland, local families were taking action—laying the groundwork for what would become Fello. 

They weren’t alone. Across the country, a movement for disability rights was beginning to take shape, fueled by parents, self-advocates, and allies who refused to accept the status quo. 

Building a Movement 

The early 1960s marked a shift in how the nation viewed disability. President John F. Kennedy, moved by his sister Rosemary’s experiences, brought disability policy to the national stage. His administration launched the first presidential panel on disability and, in 1963, passed legislation that strengthened a community-based approach to supporting people with disabilities. This move signaled a growing acknowledgement that people with disabilities belonged in their communities, not institutions. 

As disability rights activists organized alongside other civil rights movements, people with disabilities began winning their own legal victories. In 1965, Title XIX created Medicaid, providing access to health care services for people with disabilities. Three years later, the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 required that federal buildings be accessible, removing a major barrier to employment, education, and public life. 

Inspired by this growing national movement, Fello’s founders championed rights for children with disabilities in their communities. They built connections, provided resources for families, and offered community activities that created spaces where people with disabilities could belong.  

Their early efforts helped foster a local movement rooted in belonging, equity, and equal rights for people with disabilities. 

In these foundational years, Fello’s work reflected the simple but powerful idea: community is something that you build together. 

From Then to Now 

The grassroots advocacy of Fello’s founders paved the way for an organization that has grown dramatically over the past 65 years. What began as a group of parents advocating for their children has become a statewide network of services, housing, and advocacy designed to support people with disabilities to live the lives they choose. 

Today, Fello carries forward the legacy and vision of its founders by creating opportunities for inclusion, dignity, and choice. Through programs like Living Boldly, our inclusive housing initiatives, and community-focused services, we provide the supports and spaces where people thrive—just as our founders intended. 

Fello’s founding and the civil rights movements of the 1960s were about challenging assumptions and creating new possibilities. That same spirit of innovation and commitment to equity continues to guide Fello today—shaping our programs, driving our advocacy, and strengthening the communities we serve. 

As we celebrate our 65th anniversary throughout the year, we continue to explore and honor the work of our founders. Next month, we’ll take a look at the 1970s, when Fello opened its first home and disability rights activists achieved major victories in the movement. 

As Fello marks 65 years in 2026, we’re reflecting on the service that started it all: housing. 

The latest episode of the Fello Thinking Differently podcast explores how housing has evolved—from a time when options were nearly nonexistent for people with disabilities to today’s focus on choice, accessibility, and community connection. 

In this episode, Judi Olinger, Vice President of Housing Strategy, and Niki Jones, Director of Living Options & Services, discuss:

• What housing looked like for people with disabilities 65 years ago 
• What person-centered housing means today 
• Supporting people at every stage of life—from first apartments to aging in place 
• What’s next for affordable, accessible housing in our communities

Listen now: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify 

Housing Was Our First Service—For a Reason 

From the beginning, Fello has always believed that where someone lives matters—not just as a place to stay, but as a foundation for independence, connection, and opportunity. 

“65 years ago, family members said, ‘We want something better for our kids with developmental disabilities…We want people to be included in the community…’, says Judi Olinger, “and that has been our charge for the last 65 years.” 

That commitment to inclusion, dignity, and opportunity continues to guide Fello’s housing strategy today. 

The Power of Choice 

Everyone deserves a home that reflects their goals, needs, and lifestyle. 

“‘Living Options’ is exactly what it sounds like,” says Niki Jones. “It’s looking at [housing] opportunities and options that might be in the community. Where is it? What does it look like? How many floors? Are there stairs? Are there no stairs?—all of those options make it make sense for the person, but most importantly, make them live a life that is safe, happy, and healthy.”  

From accessibility features to neighborhood settings, housing choice is about supporting people in living the lives they choose for themselves. 

When Inclusion is Reality 

Over the last 65 years, housing for people with disabilities in Maryland has changed—and Fello is proud to help lead that change. 

“We have this new property in Severn, in a community,” says Niki Jones. “Before anybody even moved into the home, one of the neighbors found out who we were, what company we were. She left a note on our front door with her name and her phone number that said, ‘We are so excited to have you! Please call us. We’re so excited to meet you!'” 

Inclusion is now the expectation in neighborhoods across Maryland, and Fello is proud to be part of making our communities more accessible, inclusive, and diverse, one neighborhood at a time.  

Open hearts, open minds, and friendly neighbors who welcome all—that’s what inclusion looks like when it’s real. 

Listen to the Full Conversation 

Hear more from Judi and Niki on how Fello continues to expand housing choice and opportunity—now and into the future. 

🎧 Listen now: YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify 

As Fello celebrates 65 years of creating community across Maryland, we are proud to share that, by the end of the year, Fello will begin providing comprehensive services, housing, and support to people in Howard County. 

This expansion reflects both Fello’s deep roots and its future vision. For six and a half decades, Fello has worked alongside people to build access, opportunity, and inclusion statewide. Growing into Howard County is a natural continuation of that legacy. 

“Expanding our impact in Howard County is a meaningful way to honor the spirit of our founders while continuing to meet the evolving needs of people across Maryland,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. 

Our Legacy Continues Next Door 

Howard County is an important next chapter for Fello. There is a growing community of people seeking choice around services in the county. Fello’s experience and approach mean we are ready to support people in new ways. 

“We hear regularly from people in Howard County who are interested in learning more about our services,” said Matt Morgan, Chief Program Officer. “Being able to expand our work there opens new possibilities for people who are ready for what’s next.” 

As demand continues to rise, Fello brings decades of experience creating person-centered services that support people in building the lives they choose. Services will launch in phases throughout the year, guided by ongoing community input and collaboration. 

“Our goal is to grow thoughtfully and in partnership with the community,” Rondeau said. “We’ll continue listening and responding in real-time to the needs of our community.” 

Creating What’s Next 

While this official expansion into Howard County is new, Fello’s connection to the county spans decades. 

Over the past 20 years, Fello has supported hundreds of Howard County residents through Self-Directed Services. Since 2022, Fello Communities has owned and operated an affordable housing unit in the county. Similarly, Fello’s Behavioral Health team has provided support to people there as needs have arisen over the last three years. 

“Since becoming Fello, one of the most encouraging things I hear is how much people want to see this work grow,” said Rondeau. “That excitement reflects trust built over time and a shared belief that people deserve choice and opportunity.” 

Expanding services to Howard County reflects Fello’s long-standing commitment to Maryland. It’s another step forward in a 65-year journey focused on supporting people to live the lives they choose. 

Learn More & Apply for Services 

If you live in Howard County and would like to learn more about Fello’s services, we invite you to explore our website or connect with our Admissions team at admissions@fello.org. 

Fello is pleased to announce that applications for the Family Fund will open on Sunday, February 1, 2026. This year, Fello plans to distribute approximately $132,000, setting a new record for the most money awarded by the Family Fund since its founding in 2017.  

What is the Family Fund? 

The Family Fund is a grant program designed to give children with disabilities access to resources and services that can make a meaningful difference in their lives. Families can apply for grants of up to $2,000 to help cover costs for therapies, adaptive equipment, educational programs, respite care, camps, and other services that improve the quality of their child’s life. 

For many families, these supports are out of reach financially and are often not covered by insurance. Without them, children miss critical opportunities to develop skills, explore new experiences, or simply live more independently. 

“I see too many families debating whether to pay for speech therapy or groceries, electric bills or leg braces,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families. “The boost that the Family Fund provides—whether that’s a few hundred dollars or the full $2,000—means everything to the families who need it most.” 

The Family Fund Creates Brighter Futures 

The Family Fund was created in 2017 because Fello saw a clear need: families of children with disabilities face tough financial choices that no parent should have to make. The fund ensures that every dollar raised goes directly back to supporting children—creating access to life-changing therapies, adaptive tools, and opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. 

The impact of the Family Fund extends beyond individual families—it strengthens communities, empowers children, and provides a tangible way for donors to see the difference their contributions make. 

Read about some of the families who received a Family Fund grant last year, and the impact it made on their lives.  

Apply for the Family Fund Starting February 1 

Applications for the 2026 Family Fund open February 1 and will remain open until February 21, 2026. Families with children who have disabilities under the age of 21 are encouraged to apply. 

The application process is designed to be straightforward and supportive. Families are asked to share information about their child, their needs, and how the Family Fund grant will make a meaningful difference for their child. Each application is then reviewed carefully by a committee to ensure that grants are awarded to children who will benefit the most. 

Fello’s team is available to support families with the application process, if needed. If you have questions about eligibility, need help completing the application, or want guidance on what information to include, please contact resources@fello.org.  

A Growing Legacy of Support 

Since its launch, the Family Fund has grown from distributing $14,000 in its first year to awarding over $113,600 to 96 children in 2025 for therapies, educational assistance, respite care, camps, and more. 

“We are incredibly grateful that the community sees the need for this program and understands its importance,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development. “The Family Fund has grown tremendously every year thanks to the generous gifts of donors in our community.” 

Every dollar raised for the Family Fund is granted back to the community, helping ensure that more children have access to the supports and opportunities they need to thrive. 

Support for Every Family 

While the Family Fund provides critical financial support, every family can access guidance, resources, and programs through Fello’s Children, Youth, & Their Families services, even if they are not awarded a grant. Families can explore other therapies, respite care options, educational support, and community programs tailored to their child’s needs. 

“We know that not every family will receive a Family Fund grant, but that doesn’t mean support isn’t available,” said Sara. “We encourage families to reach out, connect with our team, and learn about the many resources that can help their child thrive.” 

Fello staff are available to answer questions, provide guidance, and connect families with resources that meet their child’s needs. Families can contact resources@fello.org for personalized support at any time.

On Tuesday, The Baltimore Banner hosted its annual Inside the Legislative Session event at the Graduate Annapolis, bringing together Maryland’s top policymakers, business leaders, and community advocates to discuss the policy choices shaping our state. Among the featured conversations was “Social Safety Net in the Trump Era,” a timely panel that included Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello, alongside leaders from across the public and nonprofit sectors.

The panel explored how potential shifts in federal policy could impact the programs and systems that millions of Americans rely on—from health care and housing to food access, education, and disability services. For Maryland, where thousands of people depend on these supports to live, work, and thrive in their communities, the stakes could not be higher.

As Jonathon emphasized during the panel, “When we talk about potential shifts in federal policy, we are really talking about people’s lives. Programs tied to health care, housing, food access, education, and disability services are not abstract line items. They are the systems that allow millions of Americans to live with stability, dignity, and opportunity. Decisions made at the federal level ripple quickly to the local level, and it is essential that those choices protect the supports communities rely on every day.”

Why the Social Safety Net Matters

The social safety net is more than a collection of programs—it is the foundation that allows people to stay housed, remain healthy, and participate fully in community life. During the discussion, Jonathon offered a powerful way to think about how these systems function together: “I often use the metaphor of playing Jenga when talking about these programs. They depend on one another to maintain a complete, stable structure of support for the people we serve. Removing or weakening any one of them can have a disruptive impact at both the personal and the policy level.” For people with disabilities, these systems often determine whether someone can live independently, access employment, or receive the supports they need to succeed.

As national conversations turn toward budget cuts and restructuring of federal programs, the panel focused on what those changes could mean on the ground. Jonathon spoke to the importance of protecting and strengthening these systems, emphasizing that a strong safety net is not just about crisis response, but about long-term stability, dignity, and opportunity.

At Fello, this perspective is central to the work. From housing and behavioral health to employment and community-based supports, Fello’s services are designed to meet people where they are and help them build the lives they choose—work that depends on smart, compassionate public policy.

About the Panel

Inside the Legislative Session offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from leaders navigating the intersection of policy, funding, and community impact. The “Social Safety Net in the Trump Era” panel brought together voices from government, advocacy, and service delivery to unpack how proposed federal shifts could affect Marylanders.

Panelists discussed the importance of state-level leadership, the role of nonprofits in filling gaps, and the need for collaboration across sectors to ensure no one is left behind. The broader event also included conversations with state officials about Maryland’s budget and legislative priorities for the year ahead.

Fello’s Role in Strengthening Communities

At Fello, advocacy and direct service go hand in hand. Whether through building inclusive housing, expanding access to behavioral health care, or supporting people in finding meaningful work, Fello operates at the point where policy becomes lived experience.

Jonathon’s participation in this panel reflects Fello’s ongoing role as a voice for people with disabilities and the communities that support them. By contributing to these high-level policy conversations, Fello helps ensure that the realities of everyday life—housing stability, access to care, and community connection—remain at the center of decision-making.

As Maryland navigates an uncertain federal landscape, conversations like those at Inside the Legislative Session are critical. They create space to confront challenges, share expertise, and push for policies that uphold dignity, opportunity, and inclusion for everyone.

Governor Moore recently released his FY2027 budget proposal, which includes significant changes to the Developmental Disabilities Administration’s (DDA) budget.  

Here’s a breakdown of what’s being proposed—and what it could mean for people with disabilities across Maryland.  

The Big Picture 

The FY2027 budget proposal includes a $150 million cut in state funding (which is about $300 million in total when federal matching funds are included). Even with the cuts, the DDA’s overall budget will still grow by 8%.  

This is because FY2026 costs were higher than originally budgeted, and those higher costs are carried into FY2027. In other words, the FY2027 budget starts from a higher baseline than expected, which is why the overall budget is growing despite specific funding cuts. Good news: Despite a current $300 million state budget deficit, the administration has stated it will not reduce DDA funding in FY2026.  

Three Things to Watch 

Fello is closely watching several proposed changes that could directly affect people who rely on DDA services and the providers who support them.  

There are three main changes that have been proposed, including stricter rules for one-to-one staffing, new budget caps, and changes to Self-Directed Services. 

1. Stricter Rules for One-to-One Staffing (Dedicated Hours) 

What’s changing: The DDA would more strictly enforce existing rules that limit when a person can receive one-to-one (dedicated) staff support instead of shared staffing.  

Who’s affected: About 3,800 people with disabilities and over 200 community providers. 

What this could mean: 

• Providers would be required to complete additional training on how the rules are applied.  
• Increased oversight of how dedicated staffing hours are approved and used. Ongoing concern about whether people with higher or more complex support needs will get the level of staffing they require. 

Estimated Budget Impact:

• $54.2 million in savings for the State of Maryland 
• $108.4 million total with federal matching funds. 

2. New Budget Cap Per Person 

What’s changing: The proposal would set a new $500,000 annual limit on how much the state can spend on services for any one person receiving DDA supports. 

Who’s affected: About 1,600 people currently have budgets at or above this amount, with 824 already spending $500,000 or more. 

What this could mean: 

• An exceptions process will be created for people who need more support. 
• This change would require state approval and a public comment period (expected in March). 

Estimated budget impact: 

• $33 million in savings for the State of Maryland 
• $66 million total with the federal matching funds 

3. Changes to Self-Directed Services 

What’s changing: 

• Wages for employees of Self-Directed Services participants would be set using standard labor data, instead of individually determined rates. 
• The current wage exception process would be eliminated so that all employees make wages aligned with the defined customary and reasonable rates. 

Who’s affected: About 4,000 people using Self-Directed Services and their 10,000+ employees. 

What this could mean: Self-Directed Services employees will be paid wages that are more like what employees with similar job roles and responsibilities as employees at community providers are paid. 

Estimated budget impact:  

• $62 million in savings to the State of Maryland 
• $124 million total, including federal matching funds

What Happens Next 

The Governor’s proposed budget will be reviewed by the General Assembly during the legislative session. Lawmakers may accept, change, or reject different parts of the proposal before a final budget is approved.  

Several of the proposed changes, especially the new budget cap and updates to Self-Directed Services, would require additional state approval and public input before they could take effect. 

Fello is working closely with the Maryland Association of Community Services (MACS), other advocacy groups, the DDA, the Governor’s Office, and legislators to better understand how these proposals would be implemented and who would be affected.  

Fello’s leadership is particularly focused on the impact these changes will have on:

• young adults transitioning to services 
• people on the DDA waiting list 
• People with more complex support needs 

More information will become available as the budget process continues through the legislative session. 

Join Us in Advocacy  

As we head into the 2026 legislative session, consider joining our efforts. Whether it’s contacting your representatives, attending advocacy events, or staying informed, your involvement matters.  

Together, we can continue to push for policies that make a meaningful difference for people with disabilities and their families.  

To stay in the loop about policy priorities and advocacy alerts, sign up to receive Fello’s monthly newsletter.   

On Tuesday, Fello officially cut the ribbon on Fello at The Mall, marking an exciting new chapter for connection, access, and inclusion in Annapolis, MD. 

Located inside the Annapolis Mall, the space will officially open to the public on February 10, giving community members an accessible, welcoming place to learn about Fello, connect with employees, and explore programming—all in a familiar, everyday setting. 

During the event, attendees heard from Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello; Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families; and Carol Beatty, Maryland Secretary of Disabilities. Each spoke about what the space represents and how having Fello present at the mall removes barriers and creates new opportunities for connection. 

“Fello has been known for providing not just person-centered, but family-centered support for decades,” said Rondeau. “This space will allow us to continue that legacy and usher in a new era of access, opportunity, and connection.” 

This welcoming space was designed to meet people where they already are—creating an easy, approachable entry point to Fello’s services, resources, and community-building work. Community members, legislators, partners, and supporters gathered for the ribbon cutting to celebrate what this space represents: opportunity, visibility, and belonging. 

Relive the celebration, view photos from the ribbon cutting here: https://bit.ly/45Ub3T8

A Hub for Community & Connection 

From the start, Fello at The Mall has been shaped by a simple but powerful idea: community works best when everyone has a place in it. The space offers a central hub to learn more about Fello, connect with employees, explore resources, and engage with programming in a setting that feels open and accessible. 

Fello at The Mall will be home to Fello’s Children, Youth & Their Families program, and attendees heard from Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families, about how they could access the space.  

“Families will be able to walk right in during regular mall hours—even on the weekends—and get information, resources, and support right away,” said Pease.  

Expanding Access Through Inclusion 

Fello at The Mall is more than a physical location—it’s a reflection of Fello’s commitment to creating inclusive spaces that are embedded in everyday life. By bringing services and support into a familiar, high-traffic setting, Fello is expanding access and making it easier for people to connect, learn, and belong. 

“This brand-new space reflects Fello’s commitment to listening to the people they serve and responding with meaningful action,” said Carol Beatty, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Disabilities. “We’re proud of the impact Fello has made across Maryland and look forward to expanded access to support and services for families here in Annapolis.” 

The space officially opens on February 10, and community members are invited to stop in, connect, and see firsthand how Fello is creating opportunities for connection, inclusion, and belonging. 

The Snowflake Ball returned this January with a simple goal: to bring people together for a night of connection, music, and celebration. 

Held on Saturday, January 10, at the BWI Hilton Hotel, the sold-out event welcomed 300 people from across the region for an evening that felt both familiar and special. An annual tradition for many, the Snowflake Ball offers a chance to reconnect, dress up, and enjoy time together outside of everyday routines. 

Throughout the night, the dance floor stayed busy as the DJ kept the music going, while others moved easily between conversations, dinner, and the photo booth, capturing moments with friends. A buffet dinner offered a variety of options, and raffle prizes added an extra layer of excitement, with every attendee receiving a ticket to participate. 

More than a dance, the Snowflake Ball reflects Fello’s belief that everyone deserves access to experiences that are joyful, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed. Every detail of the evening was planned to create an environment where people could participate in ways that felt right for them and fully enjoy the moment. 

For many attendees, the Snowflake Ball is one of the few large-scale social events each year created with accessibility and belonging at the forefront. It serves as a reminder that community life includes celebration, recreation, and shared experiences—and access to those moments matters. 

Events like the Snowflake Ball matter because they create space for belonging. They remind us that inclusion isn’t just about access to services or supports—it’s also about access to fun, celebration, and shared experiences that build community. 

As the evening came to a close, it was clear why the Snowflake Ball continues to be a meaningful tradition. It’s not just an event, but a reflection of Fello’s ongoing commitment to building communities where people feel connected, included, and welcomed—on the dance floor and beyond. 

The Snowflake Ball will return in January 2027. Tickets will go on sale in the fall and will be available until the event sells out. 

This year, Fello is celebrating 65 years of impact, advocacy, and inclusive community-building alongside people with disabilities across Maryland. To mark this milestone, Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello, joined the Fello Thinking Differently podcast to reflect on Fello’s 65-year legacy in our communities and how it continues to shape our work—today and beyond.

In this episode, “65 Years of Impact: The Story of Fello”, Jonathon shares how Fello began, what has guided our work for more than six decades, and why those values guide our work today. From our earliest days advocating for inclusion to the person-centered services and inclusive communities we support today, Fello has always been shaped by listening to people and building the services people tell us they want and need. 

As we celebrate Fello’s 65^th anniversary, take a few minutes to listen as Jonathon details how it all began and why it still matters for the people we support and our communities today.

Listen Now: YouTube – https://bit.ly/44ZeaJ5 | Apple Podcasts – https://bit.ly/4973P0e | Spotify – https://bit.ly/4973P0e

A Legacy of Excellence & Possibility

For 65 years, Fello’s work has been guided by a simple but powerful idea: people with disabilities deserve the same opportunities, access, and connection as anyone else. From advocacy and direct services to housing and community development, Fello’s approach has always centered the voices, goals, and choices of the people we support.

“The people we support—their ideas, stories, needs, and best interests—are at the heart of everything we do,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. “We have been creating the services people tell us they need for 65 years, and we are continuing that legacy in our 65th year and beyond.”

Over the last six and a half decades, Fello has grown in scale and reach, but many of the values that guide our work—choice, inclusion, opportunity, and access—continue to define who we are.

Innovation Rooted in Community

Building on a 65-year legacy of listening and inclusion, Fello continues to evolve by responding to real community needs. Today, our person-centered services champion the rights of people with disabilities and invest in what matters most: real opportunities, strong relationships, and inclusive, equitable communities. 

“Fello wasn’t started necessarily to be a provider of services,” said Jonathon. “Today we provide a whole array of services, but really at the beginning, it was, ‘How do we change what’s happening in our community so children and adults with disabilities can be fully included?'”

Fello’s commitment to innovation, thoughtful growth, and strategic risk-taking has shaped Fello into the organization it is today—one that continues to challenge assumptions, create new opportunities, and build inclusive communities where people with disabilities can thrive.

How Fello Innovates & Creates What’s Next

In this episode, Jonathon explores Fello’s reputation for innovation and improvement and how our choices as an organization keep us responsive, competitive, and leaders in the community.

Jonathon Rondeau: So, our focus on equity and inclusion and creating communities that people with disabilities can be fully included in is the foundation of who we are today.

Alex: Right.

Jonathon: But as an organization that’s 65 years old, of course we’ve evolved, we all evolve over time–we better! But I think our core of who we are hasn’t changed. I think we are a lot more focused on our values, and what those values mean for both the people we serve and our employees.

Check out the full conversation with Jonathon Rondeau to learn more about Fello’s future wherever you get your podcasts.

YouTube – https://bit.ly/44ZeaJ5 | Apple Podcasts – https://bit.ly/4973P0e | Spotify – https://bit.ly/4973P0e