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

We’re kicking off 2026—and Fello’s 65^th anniversary—by looking back on a year of remarkable growth and impact. From expanding services to opening new homes and creating more opportunities for people with disabilities, 2025 showed how building inclusive communities changes lives.

65 Years of Vision

Since 1961, Fello has been guided by a commitment to inclusion, opportunity, and community.

Throughout 2026, Fello is celebrating 65 years of creating the inclusive and equitable communities that foster opportunity for all. What began with a small group of families determined to create new possibilities for their children with disabilities has continued to grow into a statewide movement. In 2025, that legacy continued through a year defined by growth, impact, and momentum—setting the stage for an exciting year ahead.  

“As we move into 2026, we do so with momentum, confidence, and gratitude for everyone who makes our work possible,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. “We are continuing our legacy of innovation, advocacy, and building lasting change, together.”

Building Homes, Creating Community

Fello’s first service began in 1975 when we opened our first home for people with disabilities in the heart of the community. Today, that home in Anne Arundel County is still owned by Fello—and people with disabilities continue to thrive there.

Over the last 65 years, Fello has expanded access to safe, affordable, accessible housing that meets people’s needs, goals, and independence. Today, Fello’s housing work serves people with disabilities and the broader community—creating mixed, inclusive neighborhoods where everyone belongs.

“What started as a single house is now a wide network of homes, units, and communities across the region,” said Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development at Fello Communities. “We have more than 150 units we plan to open to people with disabilities and the general public in the coming years, and all of that growth is based on us building upon this important work that began 65 years ago.”

In 2025, Fello focused on what these homes make possible: connection, independence, and the freedom to live life on one’s own terms.

The Best is Yet to Come

Over the last 65 years, the dedication of Fello’s leadership, employees, donors, the people we support, and their families has shaped a dynamic and innovative organization—one that continues to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives and across our communities.

“Fello’s work is centered on the unwavering belief that we have a responsibility to meet the ever-changing needs of our communities,” said Jonathon.

Fello’s 2025 Annual Report reflects the collective legacy and impact of everyone who contributed to Fello’s mission, excellence, and vision in 2025—and beyond.

“We have been meeting our communities’ needs for 65 years, and we have no plans on stopping,” said Jonathon. “The best is yet to come.”

Read the 2025 Annual Report Now

As Maryland prepares for the 2026 Legislative Session, lawmakers, community leaders, and advocates across the state are gearing up for months of debate and decision-making that will shape Maryland’s future.

Each year, thousands of bills are introduced that influence how our state allocates resources, funds services, and sets priorities. The bills that will (and won’t) be passed this year will have major impacts on individual people, families, and businesses statewide.

As the session approaches, here’s what people with disabilities, their advocates, and allies need to know.

2026 Legislative Session: What to Expect

Maryland’s 448^th Legislative Session convenes on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, and will run for 90 days, adjourning at midnight on Monday, April 13, 2026.

During this time, state lawmakers will gather in Annapolis to review proposed laws and budget decisions tied to some of the state’s most pressing challenges. Key issues this year are expected to include Maryland’s budget deficit, energy spending, rising costs of healthcare and education, as well as funding for the Maryland Department of Health.

These conversations will directly impact Marylanders with disabilities. As we prepare for the 2026 Legislative Session, our advocacy is guided by the real experiences, priorities, and voices of the people we support.

“Nothing About Us Without Us”

Fello’s self-advocacy group, Living Boldly, is made up of people we support who meet regularly to strengthen their own quality of life and advocate for change statewide.

As the 2026 session approaches, Living Boldly is preparing for a range of advocacy efforts—from learning about lawmakers and proposed bills to deciding how they want their voices heard this year.

“Our recent meetings have focused on understanding who represents us, what issues are coming forward, and what meaningful advocacy looks like for our group,” said Rylie Shewbridge, Director of Government Relations at Fello.

Fello’s philosophy of advocacy is grounded in the belief that people with disabilities know what they need to thrive. Everything we advocate is aligned with what people tell us matters most to them: choice, access, stability, and opportunity.

Bills We’re Watching

This year’s legislative session is expected to focus heavily on funding, particularly in light of Maryland’s budget deficit. Fello is closely monitoring conversations related to the Maryland Department of Health’s budget, including funding for the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) that falls under it.

The DDA oversees the approval of waiver services and how people with disabilities and their advocates navigate Maryland’s disability services. As budget decisions unfold, Fello will be paying close attention to any proposed cuts or changes that could impact services.

“There have been proactive steps taken by the provider community and the DDA over the last several months in anticipation of increased budget scrutiny,” said Matt Morgan, Chief Program Officer at Fello. “We are prepared to offer thoughtful recommendations that address fiscal realities while protecting services people rely on.”

Fello is also watching legislation related to housing and community development.

“There are almost a dozen bills related to affordable housing, new construction, and community development already being drafted that our teams are aware of,” said Rylie. “Fello consistently supports bills that expand access to affordable housing and strengthen inclusive communities, and we will be tracking these bills closely.”

Will You Be an Advocate? Sign Up for Action Alerts

The success of Maryland’s 2026 Legislative Session is up to us—all of us.

“Last year, the people we support, our employees, and Fello’s community of advocates came together and were incredibly powerful in shaping the outcomes of the 2025 Legislative Session,” said Rylie. “Lawmakers commended our community on how many calls, emails, and letters were sent—it really influenced the issues being discussed.”

Will you join us in advocating for the services, funding, and opportunities people with disabilities across Maryland deserve? Sign up for Fello’s Action Alerts to stay informed and take action when it matters most.

At Fello, the holiday season is about more than gifts—it’s about creating meaningful memories for children with disabilities and their families. This year, Fello’s Holiday Giving program paired 251 children with donors across the state who gave generously to provide gifts for 99 families this holiday season.

Person-Centered Gift Giving

One of the most unique aspects of Fello’s Holiday Giving program is the ability for families to ask for exactly what their children want and need. The gifts children receive from Fello and the community are based on their wish lists, which are created by the people who know them best.

“The way we do things at Fello is completely individualized,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families. “Every gift is specifically chosen for them.”

Parents apply for the program in the fall, providing detailed wish lists, including specific links, specific colors and sizes, and notes about sensory or physical considerations. Applications are reviewed by a committee, and approved applications are matched with a donor completely anonymously.

“Our donors go above and beyond, shopping for the children on their list like they shop for their own children,” said Caroline Slobodzian, Director of Development at Fello. “It is an incredible feeling to see boxes of gifts coming in from donor families, companies, and organizations who really care about children in their community having a happy holiday season.”

Whole-Family Support

At Fello, part of our 2Gen philosophy of supporting children with disabilities is supporting their families, too—which includes not just their parents, but their siblings.

“We provide gifts for children with disabilities, as well as their siblings without disabilities,” said Jessica Sauers, Director of 2Gen Initiatives. “Making sure that families who are struggling have meaningful gifts to give to all their children is incredibly important in terms of our family-centered approach to support.”

In addition to gifts for the children, families receive grocery store gift cards tailored to family size, ensuring that every family can make a special meal for the holidays.

“Many families are facing impossible decisions about what necessities they put their money toward,” said Sara. “Providing this support to parents helps the entire family experience the holidays with joy and dignity.”

Creating Opportunity, Creating Memories

Holiday Giving is a 100% donor-funded program. When you give to Fello, you join a legacy of people showing up in meaningful ways for children with disabilities and their families in our communities.

“Our donors are changemakers who give with their whole hearts,” said Caroline. “When you give to Fello, you can feel good knowing that every dollar you give is going toward putting a smile on a child’s face as they open a gift, or a smile on a parent’s face as they pull dinner out of the oven.”

At Fello, we don’t fundraise to keep the lights on. We fundraise to make sure children with disabilities and their families in our communities are thriving.

“Our donors aren’t just buying gifts, they are creating core childhood memories for children with disabilities and their families,” said Caroline.

To learn more about our Holiday Giving program, how to apply for support, or how to purchase gifts for a family next year, click here.

As we close out 2025, I want to extend my sincere thanks to you for being part of a remarkable year for Fello.

This year was one of meaningful growth and transformation. Together, we expanded our reach to support more people than ever before, strengthened our teams, and introduced Fello as our new name—one that reflects our commitment to connection, belonging, and opportunity for people with disabilities across Maryland.

None of this progress would be possible without the dedication, collaboration, and trust of our partners, supporters, and community members. Your belief in our mission helps fuel real impact—opening doors, expanding access to services and housing, and advancing inclusion in tangible ways.

As we look ahead to 2026, we are proud to celebrate Fello’s 65th anniversary and energized by the work still to come. We remain deeply committed to building a future where everyone belongs.

Together, we are Fello. Together, we belong.

For nearly two decades, the Snowflake Ball has been one of Fello’s most beloved annual traditions: a night dedicated to celebrating the relationships, joy, and connection that define our community.  

The Snowflake Ball will return on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the BWI Hilton. Tickets are now sold out.

The Snowflake Ball brings together people with disabilities, their guests, and Fello employees from across the region. It is an opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate together with an evening of fun.  

This year, all 200 tickets were claimed on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Joselyn Hall, a Receptionist at Fello Linthicum, is excited to attend her first-ever Snowflake Ball. “I’m looking forward to meeting the people I support at the front desk every day outside of work—DSPs, Fello team members, people in Day Services, and office staff,” she said. “I’m looking forward to just having a good time and taking pictures!” 

That spirit of connection and celebration is what the Snowflake Ball is all about.  

At Fello, community isn’t just something we talk about. It’s something we create together. 

Event Details 

Tickets were $40 per person, and Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) attended for free when accompanying someone they support.

What to Expect: 

• Dinner: A delicious buffet, including vegan and gluten-free selections. 
• Dancing: A lively DJ playing your favorite songs and plenty of space to enjoy the music with friends. 
• Photo Booth: Fully accessible, designed so everyone can participate and capture memories of the night. 
• Raffle Prizes: Every guest receives a raffle ticket, and exciting prizes are drawn throughout the evening. 

Recommended Dress: 

• Semi-formal or festive attire: Wear something that makes you feel great and ready to celebrate!

If you have questions about the event, please contact events@fello.org.  

Giving Tuesday is a global day of generosity held each year on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. It’s a chance to support the causes and communities that matter most.  

This year, Giving Tuesday falls on December 2, and Fello’s goal is to raise an additional $10,000 for our Family Fund, a grant program that provides Maryland families with access to the therapies, programs, and resources that their children with disabilities need, but insurance doesn’t cover.  

You can be part of the next child’s story of possibility this Giving Tuesday by generously supporting our Family Fund, knowing you are making a real difference in the life of a child in your community. 

What is the Family Fund?  

Founded in 2017, the Family Fund helps families access the life-changing services, therapies, and resources their children with disabilities deserve that are out of reach financially.  

“Families often have significant out-of-pocket costs and expenses, and it is a real financial barrier to access the resources and experiences their children need,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families. 

The Family Fund is more than a grant program—it’s a lifeline for families across Maryland. 

The Impact Only You Can Make 

The Family Fund is 100% supported through generous donations, grants, and community partnerships. Since its founding, the Family Fund has supported hundreds of children across Maryland and has awarded nearly $400,000 to improve the quality of life of children with disabilities. 

“Every dollar donated goes directly to families, making a real, tangible difference in the lives of people right here in our own community,” said Sara. “The Family Fund represents the heart of what we do at Fello—removing barriers and creating access.” 

By easing the financial burden on families, the Family Fund ensures that children with disabilities can be a part of their communities with the support they need and deserve.    

Every Grant is a Story 

By third grade, Trey began to pull away from other children. He wanted to connect, but starting conversations, reading social cues, and building friendships felt overwhelming. Equine therapy offered a way to build confidence and communication skills—but it was financially out of reach for his family.  

Thanks to the Family Fund, Trey was able to begin therapy without his family sacrificing essentials like groceries or bills. Today, he has a new confidence, new skills, and new ways to connect with others.  

“To the donors, I would just say thank you,” said Trey’s mother. “They are part of the reason why my son is able and capable of doing great things today.” 

Trey is just one of the many lives transformed through the Family Fund.  

On Giving Tuesday, be sure to check out the stories of Tanner and Karleigh, who have each gained new skills, confidence, and opportunities to participate more fully in their communities.  

Their journeys are a reminder that every gift, no matter the size, opens doors for children with disabilities and their families. 

You Can Be Part of a Family’s Story 

This Giving Tuesday, you have the power to create more stories like Trey’s. 

Donate Today: Every contribution brings us closer to our $10,000 goal. Your gift, no matter the size, will directly benefit children and families in our community. Click here to donate now. 

Share Our Work: Connect with us on social media and share our mission with friends and family. You can also share this blog or tell others why you support the Family Fund. 

Together, we can ensure that every child has access to the therapies, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed. 

One year after opening, Port Street Commons is already reimagining what’s possible when it comes to creating community and fostering inclusion. 

In Episode 6 of our Fello Thinking Differently podcast, Judi Olinger, Vice President of Housing Strategy, and Keenan Troxler, Assistant Director of Property Operations, reflect on the first year of Port Street Commons.  

Together, they discuss the sense of community that has come to define Port Street Commons, and why leaders across Maryland are looking to it as an example of what is possible when housing development puts people first. 

Not Your Traditional Developer  

At Fello Communities, tenants are more than residents—they’re neighbors and members of a community. That philosophy guides every aspect of our work, from property management and tenant services to maintenance support and leasing partnerships. 

“At Fello Communities, we certainly do strive to be the best landlords ever, the best property management company of all time,” said Keenan during the interview. “We want to offer the premier tenant services and experience for all of our tenants…I can certainly attest that the team we have truly thinks with their heart.” 

From responsive and supportive Maintenance Technicians to leaders who approach the design, construction, and pricing with the best interests of residents in mind, Fello Communities is redefining what it means to develop housing. Port Street Commons is an example of heart-driven leadership creating a lasting impact in a community.  

We’re Successful “When We Change People’s Lives” 

At Fello Communities, success isn’t just measured in occupied units; it’s measured in the lives we impact. 

“Our teams go above and beyond what’s required to truly meet the needs of our tenants,” says Keenan. “For instance, not too long ago, we hosted a back-to-school social event at Port Street Commons, where we were able to provide back-to-school supplies for eight of the children living there. Things like this set us apart from traditional landlords and also from the traditional tenant experience.” 

Creating positive tenant experiences goes far beyond responding quickly to maintenance requests and answering questions about leases. It means being there when it counts.   

Whether it’s a kindergartener starting school or a senior seeking accessible housing, Fello Communities strives to create an experience where residents feel supported and valued. Judi recalls an early team discussion about success: 

“When we hired new Maintenance Technicians, we asked, ‘What does it mean for us to be successful?’ One of the guys looked up and said, ‘When we change people’s lives.’ That’s what we’re talking about when we’re talking about the impact we strive to create.” 

It’s More Than a Building. It’s a Community 

Port Street Commons isn’t just housing; it’s a thriving, interconnected community. Neighbors know each other’s names, families gather on the playground, and the nearby Rail Trail connects residents to the broader Easton community.  

“We want to try to build personal relationships with each and every one of our tenants,” said Keenan. “And everybody knows each other…I think it’s just amazing how we’ve been able to form this cohesive community within the building.” 

Fello created Port Street Commons with a vision of it being a space where everyone could feel like they belong. “It has exceeded every expectation we had,” said Judi.  

Affordable Housing Can Be Beautiful Housing 

Port Street Commons offers nine affordable units, including two accessible units and one reserved for families transitioning out of homelessness in partnership with Talbot Interfaith Shelter. Each unit is thoughtfully designed with 42-inch counters, granite countertops, in-unit washer/dryer, and high-quality finishes—proof that affordability doesn’t mean compromising on quality. 

“When people walk into our units for the first time, they are stunned,” Keenan says. “You would never know it’s an affordable unit. This is about creating opportunity for everybody.” 

Units provide affordable housing options for working families who might otherwise be priced out of the area. 

What’s Next for Easton 

The success of Port Street Commons is inspiring the next wave of Fello Communities projects: 

• Laura House – A 7-unit mansion-style home in downtown Easton, including two affordable units and one for Talbot Interfaith Shelter. 
• Silo Court – A two-acre development with 28 townhomes, a mix of three- and four-bedroom units, 25% reserved for families earning 85% AMI or below. 
• Easton Crossing – Transforming a 6.5-acre grain silo site into a mixed-use development with 117 residential units, parks, retail, and 30% affordable housing. 

Each project builds on the foundation laid by Port Street Commons: intentional, inclusive, and community-centered housing.  

Join Us in Building What’s Possible 

Port Street Commons shows what happens when housing is designed around people, not profit. It’s a place where neighbors become a community, and residents thrive in spaces that are welcoming, supportive, and beautiful. 

“Our job isn’t finished,” Keenan reminds us. “But developments like Port Street Commons are a glimpse of what’s possible when organizations like Fello think differently.” 

Learn more at fellocommunities.org and listen to Episode 6 of the Fello Thinking Differently podcast.