On Thursday, September 18, Fello Communities celebrated a significant milestone for Easton Crossing with the ribbon-cutting of its new leasing office at 407 Brookletts Avenue. The event, attended by community partners, Easton residents, and local leaders, marked the official opening of the hub that will serve as the front door to Easton Crossing.  Guests heard remarks from Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello, and Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development for Fello Communities, before enjoying refreshments and a tour of the newly completed space. 

Transforming a Community 

Easton Crossing will transform the former 6.5-acre Perdue agribusiness site into a vibrant, walkable, and inclusive neighborhood. The development will add 117 residential units—30% of which are affordable housing—with ground-level commercial space alongside the Rails-to-Trails and Brookletts Avenue. Thoughtful amenities, including green spaces, walking paths, and a central fishing pond, will provide opportunities for connection and recreation.  

The 407 Brookletts building will serve as the leasing and administrative offices for Easton Crossing and other Fello Communities properties across the Mid-Shore. 

A Vision for Inclusive Community 

“At Fello Communities, we believe people deserve more than housing. People deserve homes,” said Jonathon. “And that’s exactly what we’re here to build, and that’s exactly what we’re celebrating today.”  

Ross added, “As a long-time resident of the Eastern Shore, I am honored and excited to be leading so many incredible efforts toward further developing our community and making profound impacts in people’s lives through community development. We are designing Easton Crossing to be a place where people can be their whole selves—at home and in their neighborhood.” 

What’s Ahead 

Construction across the site is moving forward on schedule. Sitework begins next month, with vertical construction on Building 509 planned for February 2026. The first families will move into Easton Crossing in early 2028, with completion of the full project by April 2029. 

Stay Connected 

Fello Communities is building more than housing—we’re building inclusive neighborhoods. Stay up to date on our latest housing initiatives and community developments by joining our newsletter and connecting with us on social media. 

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Forming meaningful relationships—whether romantic or platonic—is a fundamental human need. For people with disabilities, these connections are just as important, yet opportunities to build them aren’t always easy to find. That’s why Fello hosted a Relationship Social on Friday, September 5th, creating a welcoming space where people we support and their Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) could come together to celebrate the power of human connection. 

Breaking Barriers to Connection 

At Fello, we believe everyone deserves opportunities to form meaningful relationships. People with disabilities have the same desires for companionship, love, and friendship as anyone else, but too often face barriers that limit their social opportunities.  

The Relationship Social was designed to help break down those barriers and create an environment where authentic connections could flourish. The event brought together 23 people supported by Fello and 13 DSPs, who shared laughter, conversation, and connection throughout the evening. 

The evening featured games, a soundtrack that kept the party alive, and a presentation by Dr. Karen Harvey, who reminded everyone that relationships take many forms. Dr. Harvey emphasized that meaningful connections do not have to be romantic—platonic friendships are equally valuable and fulfilling. She then guided an interactive session where attendees practiced conversation skills, discovered common interests, and built confidence in a safe, low-pressure environment. 

“The energy in the room was incredible,” shared one DSP. “Watching people light up as they connected with others reminded me why this work is so important.” 

Training That Makes a Difference 

This event was months in the making. Leading up to the social, Dr. Harvey held multiple training sessions for DSPs and the people they support, focusing on how to effectively facilitate relationship-building opportunities. These sessions gave teams practical tools and strategies to encourage connection while honoring boundaries and personal preferences. 

Together, they explored:  

• The history of institutions and the shift toward respect and empowerment.
• Recognizing and supporting different types of relationships.
• Creating inclusive environments for social interaction.
• Understanding consent and personal boundaries.
• Facilitating meaningful conversations and connections.

Building Capacity for Lasting Impact 

At Fello, our commitment to relationship-building doesn’t end after one event. We invest in our team year-round with training and development opportunities that build confidence, strengthen skills, and create better outcomes for the people we support. These trainings ensure that DSPs can confidently support people in pursuing the relationships they want—whether that’s navigating dating, fostering friendships, or simply finding more ways to connect day to day. 

Affirming the Power of Connection 

The success of our Relationship Social wasn’t about numbers; it was about the genuine bonds formed. At Fello, we know that when people have the chance to connect, they discover more joy, confidence, and belonging.  

Creating spaces for relationships is more than hosting an event. It’s how we affirm, every day, that everyone deserves love, friendship, and community.  

Last year, nearly 5,000 Maryland state employees and retirees used the power of their paycheck to support nonprofits—raising $1.88 million for charities through workplace giving. This fall, you have the same opportunity to make a difference in your community through this powerful workplace giving campaign. You can support Fello’s work to empower children and youth with disabilities and their families—directly from your paycheck. 

What is Workplace Giving? 

Workplace giving lets you donate to a charity of your choosing through your paycheck using payroll deduction. Rather than making one-time or monthly donations on your own, you can set up automatic deductions and choose which charities to support, assigning a percentage of your gift to each one.  

This kind of recurring donation creates a reliable stream of support that nonprofits like Fello can count on throughout the year. Predictable funding allows nonprofits to plan ahead, sustain long-term programs, and serve more people in meaningful ways. And, for state employees, it’s simple and convenient—you give consistently without extra effort. 

Maryland Charity Campaign: Supporting Nonprofit Impact 

The Maryland Charity Campaign (MCC) is Maryland’s annual workplace giving program, providing Maryland state employees a simple and trusted way to support vetted local and national charities. The 2025 campaign runs from October 6 through December 12, and it is only open during this window, so don’t miss your chance to give! 

All participating charities have been pre-screened by the Office of the Secretary of State to ensure that they are legitimate and effective. This screening process gives you confidence that your donation will reach legitimate organizations making real differences in communities.  

This year, the campaign aims to raise $2 million across the state, building on last year’s generosity that benefited nearly 900 nonprofits.  

Important Tax Considerations: Deductions through MCC are taken after taxes, but your contributions remain tax-deductible. Keep your donation records and consult your tax advisor for guidance when filing.  

How to Get Started with Workplace Giving 

Getting started with the Maryland Charity Campaign is easy. Visit https://mcc.maryland.gov/ to create your account. Here you can access everything you need, including FAQs, a comprehensive Giving Guide with approved charities listed and details about each organization, and access to tax receipts for your records. 

To give to Fello, search for our EIN: 52-6047882. You can designate your contribution to fund our work with children, youth, and their families.  

Why Give to Fello Through Workplace Giving? 

When you support Fello through the MCC, your contribution directly funds our Children, Youth, and Their Families program, providing essential services, support, and resources to families raising children with disabilities. Each year, we reach hundreds of children and families across Maryland with educational programs, financial assistance, and direct services.  

Designating Fello as your MCC charity is a simple way to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families who depend on our services. Whether you’re just starting to explore charitable giving or looking for a more convenient way to support causes you already care about, workplace giving offers Maryland state employees a powerful tool for creating positive change.  

At Fello, we believe that when you invest in people, they are empowered to live healthier, fuller lives—both inside and outside of work. That’s why our award-winning Total Rewards package goes beyond a paycheck, offering comprehensive benefits designed to support employee well-being, career growth, and financial security.  

This belief is at the heart of every decision we make—especially when it comes to something as essential as healthcare. That’s why we are proud to share that Fello has once again been recognized on the national stage, earning a prestigious 2025 Rosie Award, presented by Health Rosetta at RosettaFest in Denver, Colorado. This is our second award in two years, a testament to the work we’ve done to make healthcare more affordable, equitable, and effective for employees. 

Winning two years in a row places Fello among a small group of organizations nationwide, leading the way in building better, more sustainable healthcare solutions for employees. Fello was one of 60 winners nationwide, selected from a pool of 2,000 candidates.  For us, the award is evidence that the changes we’ve made are having a meaningful impact on the lives of our employees and their families. 

“Being recognized with a Rosie Award two years in a row demonstrates that our dedication to employee well-being is not a one-time effort—it’s a core part of who we are and how we operate every day,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. “At Fello, we are dedicated to building healthcare that truly supports our employees and their families.”

Rethinking Healthcare from the Ground Up 

Healthcare in the United States can be complex, costly, and confusing for employees to navigate. Traditional plans can leave families weighed down by high premiums, hidden fees, confused about benefits, or having limited access to quality providers.  

Over the past five years, we’ve been able to not only maintain the same low employee premiums, but also continually expand benefits to support whole-person health and well-being. In the past year alone, Fello has introduced free access to wellness platforms like ClassPass, Noom, and BetterHelp, ensuring that fitness, nutrition, and mental health resources are available to everyone.  

One of the most valued and innovative benefits, as expressed by employees, is Fello’s onsite clinic, Health Connection, which offers primary and urgent care services to employees and their dependents, making it easy to access high-quality care with quick, same-day appointments.  

Beyond cost savings, Fello has made an effort to create a seamless, supportive healthcare experience. Fello offers a medical concierge service that helps employees find providers, navigate complex billing issues, and resolve questions about their care—removing confusion and frustration. 

A Model for What’s Possible 

Winning a Rosie Award is not just recognition for what Fello has done—it’s proof that organizations can create a healthcare plan that is both financially sustainable and truly supportive of employees. 

At Fello, this work reflects our larger mission to foster inclusive, equitable communities where everyone has the opportunity to live the life they choose. By ensuring our employees have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare, we are living out that mission internally and setting an example for others to follow. 

Every September, Fello joins providers across the country in celebrating Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Recognition Week—a time to honor the people who make the biggest impact in the lives of the people we support and in the communities we share.  

From September 7-13, Fello will celebrate the more than 400 DSPs across our organization who show up every day with compassion, dedication, and a deep belief in what’s possible. They will be honored all week long for the essential role they play, not only in supporting people with disabilities but also in creating space for independence, belonging, and community. 

What Is a Direct Support Professional?  

At Fello, everything starts with connection, and no one builds connection quite like DSPs.  

A DSP is someone who works directly with people with disabilities to support them in living the life they choose. This can include support with daily routines, building skills for work and community life, providing transportation, coaching, and serving as a trusted partner in setting and reaching personal goals.  

DSPs are there for the big moments—moving into a first home, starting a new job—and the everyday ones, like cooking dinner together or going for a walk outside.  

At Fello, being a DSP is more than just a job—it’s a career rooted in empathy and respect. DSPs are trusted partners, advocates, and problem-solvers, supporting people to make choices, stay connected, and access the opportunities that matter most to them.  

Impact in Action: Lebrone’s Story 

Lebrone, a DSP at Fello, has long been committed to helping people with disabilities live fuller, more connected lives. His journey to Fello was inspired by an earlier experience in the field and a desire to make a difference in his own community.  

“I wanted to continue my efforts to assist the people in the community that I live in, to have a better opportunity of being involved in daily activities,” he explains. 

For Lebrone, the impact of his work goes far beyond daily tasks. One of his most meaningful moments came when the parent of the person he supports passed away.  

“They really leaned on me for emotional support and advice on how to cope with the loss. They looked at me as more than a worker, as a trusted friend,” he recalls. 

Being a DSP is not always easy, but it is a career Lebrone loves.  

“One thing I wish people understood more about being a DSP is the work is not always easy, but it’s rewarding to be able to help other people accomplish personal life goals that at one point may have seemed like a difficult task,” he says.  

The person he supports also shared how much this connection means. “Lebrone has taken me to different museums, and we travel to a lot of places I’ve never been before. He even tries to get me to eat new foods sometimes,” they said. Their favorite activity together is visiting the library. “Every day he picks me up, so I don’t have to stay in the house all day, and we do fun stuff,” they added. 

For Lebrone, these moments—big or small—are what being a DSP is all about: building trust, creating opportunities, and showing up for someone in ways that truly matter. 

Showing Our Gratitude  

Throughout DSP Recognition Week, we will be celebrating in ways big and small to show our appreciation. Fello will host three food truck days open to DSPs, the people they support, and all our employees who support and lead behind the scenes.  

Fello is also providing bonuses to DSPs as a thank-you for the incredible impact they make every day. These efforts are just one way we’re honoring the dedication and heart our DSPs bring to Fello. 

Join Us in Saying Thank You 

This week, and every week, we invite you to celebrate the DSPs who make a difference. Send a note, share a story, or simply say, “We see you, and we appreciate what you do.” 

To every DSP at Fello: Thank you for your commitment, your compassion, and your belief in what’s possible.

Earlier this month, Fello joined county leaders, legislators, and community partners at the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) 2025 Summer Conference in Ocean City, MD. The conference brought together more than 3,000 participants, 350 exhibitors, 110 speakers, and featured more than 55 information sessions.  

MACo is an opportunity for local leaders to earn, connect, and share ideas about how to strengthen Maryland’s communities. For Fello, it is an annual opportunity to make sure the voices of people with disabilities are part of those conversations. 

Shaping Policy for People with Disabilities 

This year’s theme, Funding the Future: The Evolving Role of Local Government, focused on how Maryland’s counties plan and budget for the future. Part of ensuring a strong, community-centered budget is making sure people with disabilities have access to the opportunities and resources they need, like housing, healthcare, and community supports.   

The conference began with Fello sponsoring Funk & Bolton’s annual MACo Reception, which drew more than 200 attendees. During the conference, Fello had the opportunity to sit down with leaders to discuss our priorities, share ideas, and collaborate on future initiatives to strengthen communities across Maryland. 

By taking part in sessions on local funding and policy, Fello engaged directly with legislators and county leaders to protect important programs from cuts and to make the case for stronger investments that build inclusive and equitable communities across the state. 

Having a Seat at the Table 

Throughout the week, Fello joined discussions on health, Medicaid and Medicare, federal policy, and housing. Fello’s presence ensured the goals, needs, and perspectives of people with disabilities were included in shaping Maryland’s future. 

“Being at MACo gives us the chance to connect with leaders across the state and remind them that people with disabilities are their constituents, their neighbors, and their community members,” said Rylie Shewbridge, Fello’s Director of Government Relations. “Representation matters, and our presence ensures that these voices are not only heard but valued in shaping policy.” 

Moving Forward, Together 

Events like MACo are opportunities for Fello to advocate for change while building relationships that last beyond the conference. These relationships will help shape public policy, funding, and budgets in the year to come. 

Fello is committed to making sure people with disabilities remain at the center of decision-making when it comes to housing, healthcare, and services in their communities.  

Together, we can create a Maryland where every community is equitable, accessible, and fully inclusive. 

On Thursday, September 18, 2025, Fello will celebrate the opening of the first completed building of Easton Crossing. This first building is 407 Brookletts Avenue, which will serve as the administrative and leasing office for Easton Crossing, one of the most highly anticipated community development projects in Easton.  

The ribbon cutting for 407 Brookletts marks an important first step toward in the construction and launch of Easton Crossing. Community members are invited to attend, enjoy breakfast and light refreshments, and celebrate this milestone together. 

Join Us  

Building the Foundation 

407 Brookletts will serve as the leasing hub for both Easton Crossing’s future residents and commercial tenants, as well as the hub for supporting all Fello Communities properties across the Mid-Shore. The opening of this office marks the visible start of a larger transformation—turning a long-vacant property into a neighborhood built for connection and community.  

“This ribbon cutting is the start of something bigger,” said Ross Benincasa, Senior Vice President of Community Development for Fello Communities. “Easton Crossing will bring new homes, new opportunities, and new energy to Easton. This is the first step in that journey—and there’s much more to come.” 

What is Easton Crossing? 

Easton Crossing will transform the 6.5-acre site of the former Perdue AgriBusiness operation into a vibrant, walkable neighborhood. With all six planned buildings now fully approved, construction is underway to deliver: 

• 117 new residential units, with 30% designated as affordable. 
• Ground-level commercial space along the Rails-to-Trails and Brookletts Avenue. 
• Community green space, walking paths, and a fishing pond, offering amenities for both residents of Easton Crossing and Easton’s wider community.

The development has been shaped by community collaboration—through stakeholder meetings and neighborhood engagement—to ensure it reflects the needs and vision of the Easton community. The result is a project that is inclusive, accessible, and deeply connected to the community it serves. 

Next Steps 

Throughout 2026, there will be additional progress as sitework for the entire footprint of Easton Crossing is completed—including stormwater management, fiber installation, underground infrastructure, and surface parking. Once the sitework is complete, vertical construction can begin. 

The next milestone in Easton Crossing’s journey is Building 509, a multifamily building featuring artist lofts and a unit for people supported by Fello, fulfilling the vision of Easton Crossing as a place full of creating inclusive, vibrant spaces that connect housing, community, and opportunity. 

On Thursday, the Community Hub at Port Street Commons was buzzing with excitement as Fello hosted a back-to-school celebration for the residents. The event brought together neighbors for an afternoon of fun and preparation for the new school year. 

The goal was simple: Help kids start the school year feeling prepared and supported. Every child went home with a backpack full of school supplies—pencils, notebooks, folders, crayons, and more—so they could step into their classrooms ready to learn. And because no celebration is complete without a treat, families cooled off with ice cream while enjoying time to relax, chat, and build connections. 

While the main focus was providing school supplies, the celebration was also about fostering relationships among neighbors and with the Fello team. Moments like these strengthen the bonds that turn housing into community. 

“At Fello Communities, we don’t just provide housing—we build relationships,” said Keenan Troxler, Assistant Director of Property Operations. “We stay engaged with residents, listen to their needs, and create opportunities for connection and support.” 

This event was a reflection of Fello’s commitment to not just creating housing but also community. By investing in the well-being of our tenants’ children and bringing neighbors together, Fello strengthens connections, provides practical support, and opens doors to opportunity. 

What is Port Street Commons? 

Port Street Commons opened its doors in November 2024, blending affordable housing, vital services, and welcoming community spaces to reflect the full diversity of the people who call Easton home. The Residences at Port Street include nine affordable housing units for people earning up to 65% of the Area Median Income, with two fully accessible units. More than just another housing development, Port Street Commons is a vibrant community built by Fello Communities with purpose and consideration. At Fello Communities, we believe we are more than landlords; we are neighbors who stand alongside residents, offering support wherever. However, it’s needed because we genuinely want everyone to succeed. 

At Fello, our 2Gen approach is person-centered while still recognizing the important role families and communities play in influencing the services and supports people need. 

In this episode of Fello Thinking Differently, our original podcast, we explore how our 2Gen approach complements our philosophy of person-centeredness and ensures families have the tools and resources they need.  

Jessica Sauers, Director of 2Gen Initiatives, shares how Fello’s approach strengthens outcomes for children, adults, their families, and our communities while keeping the person at the center of every decision. 

🎧 Listen to Episode 3: Supporting Families, Strengthening Futures 

What Are Fello’s 2Gen Initiatives? 

2Gen is about families receiving integrated support so the services they receive are more meaningful and the long-term impact is strengthened—not just for the people we support, but for their families and communities as well. 

“It’s about looking at the family as a whole,” said Jessica,” What does not only the child need, but also the family members within the home. What resources or support do they need to be able to grow? We want those services and supports to follow them into their adult life.” 

At Fello, 2Gen isn’t just a philosophy—it’s a set of programs designed to meet people where they are and follow them over time. Currently, Fello’s 2Gen Initiatives encompass three key program areas: 

Children, Youth & Their Families  

Fello’s Children, Youth & Their Families services are designed to strengthen families and create opportunities across their lives. The program provides a range of educational, financial, and community-based supports for children with disabilities and their families, helping each family find the resources and guidance they need. By connecting families to services, coaching, funding, and experiences that fit their unique situation, Fello creates a network of support that helps children and their families grow, thrive, and achieve their goals together.  

Community Supports  

Fello’s Community Supports provide tailored services for people with disabilities, helping them fully engage in their communities. Supports are flexible and personalized, ranging from supporting daily activities like cooking, running errands, and attending appointments, to opportunities for social connection and pursuing hobbies. Whether someone receives 5 hours of services every week or 80 hours, Community Supports align services with each person’s goals so they can engage more fully with the people, places, and activities that matter most to them.  

Entitlements  

Fello provides support to people in our services with their entitlements, providing another critical layer of support as people and their families access public benefits such as SNAP, WIC, SSI, SSDI, Housing Choice Vouchers, and Maryland ABLE accounts. By guiding people through applications, renewal processes, and managing these programs, Fello removes barriers and ensures that people with disabilities have continuous access to the resources they need.  

Building Lifelong Impact 

When services are built with both people and their families in mind, outcomes are stronger and more sustainable. Fello’s 2Gen Initiatives reflect our belief that supporting people with disabilities means recognizing the broader networks of family and community around them, allowing children and families to grow together with services that follow them into adulthood. 

At its heart, 2Gen is about creating lifelong impact. By focusing on the needs of the whole family, Fello ensures that people have not only the support they need today but also the tools and opportunities to thrive in the future—building stability, opportunity, and stronger, more inclusive communities. 

Keep Listening, Keep Learning   

Want to hear more about how 2Gen comes to life at Fello? Tune into Episode 3 of Fello Thinking Differently and join us as we continue to explore bold ideas, better ways, and what it truly means to build community together. 

🎧 Listen to Episode 3: Supporting Families, Strengthening Futures 

Fello is proud to announce that Jose Ochoa, Vice President of Finance, has been named a 2025 Maryland’s Hispanic Leadership Award recipient by The Daily Record. A new awards program, Maryland’s Hispanic Leadership Awards, honors the growing and powerful force of Hispanic leaders in Maryland’s economy, recognizing outstanding leaders across Maryland for their professional accomplishments, community involvement, and commitment to mentoring.

Jose was selected for his exceptional contributions to Fello’s mission and work in the community. Since joining Fello in April 2024, Jose has played a pivotal role in guiding the organization through a year of extraordinary growth and change. A dynamic and accomplished financial strategist, he navigates the complexities of funding streams, resources, and budgets to maintain a strong financial position while driving innovation and growth. Jose’s steady, solutions-focused leadership style has helped ensure stable growth while embracing strategic opportunities to expand services for people with disabilities statewide.

“Jose brings a global perspective to every room he is in, ensuring that we are always seeing our work in the context of what other organizations, nonprofits, and countries around the world are experiencing and offering,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO at Fello. “His passion and personal connection to disability services drive him to ensure that Fello remains innovative, person-centered, and ready to grow with the people we support across Maryland.”

Jose will be recognized at the Awards Celebration on September 24, 2025, at Gertrude’s Restaurant at the Baltimore Museum of Art.