Abilities United champions people with developmental and physical challenges and provides the training, education, and support they need to lead the lives they choose.

Description:
Abilities United is a not-for-profit organization for people with developmental (mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, and Down Syndrome) and other disabilities , who live in the Bay Area. Abilities United has been accredited by CARF, a national accreditation commission, since 1980.

Abilities United offers services to infants, children, and adults with developmental and other disabilities and their families. Abilities United's services include the Infant Development Program, Milestones Preschool, Respite Services, Creative Recreation, L.E.A.R.N., Independent Living Services, Employment Services, and the Betty Wright Swim Center @ Abilities United. Through this lifetime of services, Abilities United:

• Reduces and prevents developmental delays
• Supports families and caregivers
• Teaches community living skills
• Provides job placement and support
• Educates the community
• Creates community partnerships
• Enables people with developmental and other disabilities to continue to be valued members of the community
  
  

History:
During the 1950s, parents of children with developmental disabilities realized the need for community services to support their efforts to raise their children at home. In 1963, they created Abilities United to promote education and training for children with developmental disabilities, educate the public, and advocate for services. Gradually, Abilities United expanded its focus to include both children and adults and added new services as needs became apparent.

Contact people:

Lynda Steele, Executive Director, (phone), (email) Wendy Kuehnl, Marketing Director, (phone), (email) Peter Beckh, Associate Director, (phone), (email)

Main office number: (650) 494-0550
Office fax number: (650) 855-9710

Address:

525 East Charleston Road Palo Alto, CA 94306 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.abilitiesunited.org/

Directions:

From 101 take San Antonio Road and turn right on Charleston Road. Drive through 2 stop lights (including Middlefield Road) and turn right into 525 East Charleston Road.   Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: California Avenue,   Walk distance (in minutes): 30   Nearest Bus Stop: 500 block East Charleston Road, 1 minute walk

Miscellaneous Information

Besides English, which languages are spoken at your agency?
	American Sign Language, Spanish, Hebrew
What is the minimum age for volunteers at your agency?
	14 years old
Is your agency wheelchair accessible?
	Yes
Does your agency have the capacity to host groups of more than 10?
	Yes
Does your agency have the capacity to host groups of more than 20?
	Yes