The Township of Nutley continues its commitment to ensuring adult residents with disabilities have access to resources and programs to aid them toward meaningful employment within the community. 

On March 24, Mayor John V. Kelly, III and the Nutley Department of Public Affairs and Health, in partnership with the Rise Beyond Committee, the Nutley Board of Education and the Nutley Chamber of Commerce, welcomed families of adults with disabilities to its second informational session held at Nutley High School to hear from representatives of multiple organizations who assist adults with disabilities in their goals.  

“We put the Rise Beyond Committee together in an effort to help fill the knowledge gaps,” stated Mayor Kelly upon welcoming the families who filled the high school media center. “The more I learn, the more I realize there’s so much I don’t know. I can only imagine what it’s like for anyone else who has to navigate it. There’s a lot we can take away and a lot of information to take in tonight.” 

Attendees heard testimonies from parents Lori Firodilino and Kimberly Donohoe, who shared their adult children's journeys toward employment. While their sons have been able to find jobs they enjoy, both mothers expressed concern that their sons are not being financially compensated at this time questioning if their employment is being viewed as voluntary. Discussion was centered around a shared hope that more employers will educate themselves about hiring adults with disabilities and for society at large to reduce the stigma and embrace the neurodivergent population. “We don’t want our kids graduating to the couch,” stressed Donohoe. An attorney, Donohoe also informed parents about the value of guardianship. 

Presentations were made by representatives of Project Hire (The Arc of New Jersey),

the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and Supportive Choices. Each organization outlined their process for working with individuals seeking employment in great detail, allowing families in the audience to see the many options that are available, ask questions and voice concerns. As Mikki Fuller of DVR stated, “It’s our goal to be that missing puzzle piece between our adult with disabilities community and meaningful employment.” 

On behalf of the Nutley Chamber of Commerce, which represents 220 Nutley businesses, President Joe Graziano stated their commitment to the grassroots education of local businesses to alleviate fears of hiring people with disabilities. “We are working hard through education to make that happen,” Graziano promised. 

“If there is anything you think Nutley can do better for the special needs community, please let me know,” added Mayor Kelly. 

A video of the presentation is available to view on the Township of Nutley YouTube channel at https://bit.ly/NutleyRise25. For more information about the Rise Beyond initiative, please call the Nutley Department of Public Affairs and Health at 973-284-4976.