The sixth annual Together We Shine inclusive dinner and dance event, put together by the Abilis Youth Board, Abilis staff and sponsors, including the Greenwich Junior United Way, was an unforgettable evening of fun, friendship and festivity for the Abilis community. Held Saturday, April 5, at the First Presbyterian Church in Greenwich, the celebration brought together more than a hundred teens and adults with disabilities who are part of the Abilis community and also included local high school students on the Abilis Youth Board and Greenwich Junior United Way, for a night of music, dancing and fun. The Abilis staff and volunteers escorted the guests to the tropics with a festive Hawaiian Lū’au theme, complete with a “green carpet” ceremonial entrance (instead of the traditional red carpet).
“We are incredibly proud of our Abilis Youth Board and the community spirit they bring to Together We Shine each year,” said Amy Montimurro, CEO and president of Abilis. “This event really reflects the heart of Abilis—celebrating all abilities, building friendships and showing what’s possible when a community comes together to lift up one another.”
The Abilis Youth board, let by Virginia Blum, raised funds through various activities and events all year round to support this special event. The fundraising allowed for a beautiful venue, an amazing DJ, and a full and delicious dinner. The desserts were made by the teens. These dedicated students support Abilis throughout the year by participating in Abilis activities to raise funds, such as plunging into icy waters in the winter in a Polar Bear Plunge, walking and running in the annual Walk/Run for Abilis, holding bake sales and encouraging local businesses to support the organization. These committed young adults see the meaningful outcomes that touch hundreds of Abilis community members’ lives, resulting directly from their hard work. They are an amazing example of the incredible teens in our community.
“The joy at Together We Shine was infectious,” added Montimurro. “Seeing individuals of all ages and abilities dancing together, smiling and feeling seen and celebrated was amazing—it is what Abilis is all about.”
To learn more about Abilis and its programs, services and activities for individuals with disabilities, visit abilis.us
