ABILITIES FIRST Enriching the Lives of Children and Adults in Our Communities Founded in 1962, Abilities First is a not-for-profit organization serving the needs of the community, as well as those with developmental disabilities, from pre-school through adulthood. Abilities First has had a long-term commitment of providing a cohesive culture of compassion, empowerment and respect for people with a variety of disabilities through educational, vocational and habilitation services. It presently serves over 1,200 children and adults throughout the Hudson Valley region of New York State.