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