Leadership Overview
Abilities First has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and administration.
Driven by a commitment to empowerment, Abilities First champions independence for individuals with disabilities and their families, fostering community integration and acceptance through dedicated services and advocacy.
Driven by a commitment to empowerment, Abilities First champions independence for individuals with disabilities and their families, fostering community integration and acceptance through dedicated services and advocacy.
Leadership Roles at Abilities First
Maggie Rollwagen - President & Chief Executive Officer
Maggie Rollwagen, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Abilities First, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Rollwagen guides the mission to support individuals with disabilities and their families, ensuring services foster independence through exploration and experience. This leadership role involves championing the organization's commitment to education, integration, and advocacy for diverse abilities. Rollwagen ensures that the core values of self-determination and community acceptance are embedded across all programs. By focusing on creating a world where people with disabilities are fully integrated, Rollwagen drives the strategic vision for Abilities First. The President & Chief Executive Officer oversees all departmental functions, aligning them with the goal of promoting recognition and value for diverse abilities. This executive's focus remains on expanding the reach and impact of Abilities First's services across New York.
Tom Wheeler - President & Chief Executive Officer
Tom Wheeler, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Abilities First, spearheads the strategic direction and comprehensive management of the organization. Wheeler's leadership ensures the effective delivery of services designed to empower individuals with disabilities and their families toward greater independence. This executive oversees the integration of educational, experiential, and advocacy programs, reinforcing the organization's mission. Wheeler drives initiatives that promote self-determination and foster community acceptance, aligning operational efforts with the vision of full community integration. The President & Chief Executive Officer is responsible for cultivating partnerships and resources that advance the recognition and value of diverse abilities. Wheeler's tenure focuses on enhancing the organization's impact and reach, ensuring Abilities First remains a leader in supporting individuals across various life stages.
Jeffery Fox - President & Chief Executive Officer
Jeffery Fox, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Abilities First, commands the strategic vision and operational leadership of the organization. Fox directs the core mission of empowering individuals with disabilities and their families, fostering independence through diverse experiences and educational opportunities. This executive champions the principles of integration and advocacy, ensuring that Abilities First actively promotes the recognition and value of all abilities. Fox's leadership ensures a consistent focus on self-determination and community acceptance, driving initiatives that facilitate full integration into community life. The President & Chief Executive Officer oversees the strategic allocation of resources and guides departmental efforts to expand the organization's reach and impact. Jeffery Fox's role is critical in shaping the future direction of Abilities First, reinforcing its commitment to creating an inclusive society.

Kimberly Ryder - Chief Financial Officer
Kimberly Ryder, the Chief Financial Officer at Abilities First, manages the organization's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Ryder oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation, ensuring fiscal responsibility across all programs. This leadership position is crucial for sustaining the organization's mission of supporting individuals with disabilities and their families. Ryder ensures that financial strategies align with the goals of promoting independence, education, and advocacy. The Chief Financial Officer plays a key role in securing funding and managing investments to support the expansion of services and community integration efforts. Kimberly Ryder's expertise is vital in maintaining the financial stability required for Abilities First to continue its impactful work in fostering self-determination and community acceptance.
Kelly Martinez - Chief Administrative Officer
Kelly Martinez, the Chief Administrative Officer at Abilities First, directs the operational infrastructure and administrative functions that support the organization's mission. Martinez oversees human resources, IT, and general operations, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery for individuals with disabilities and their families. This role is fundamental to enabling the organization's focus on education, integration, and advocacy. Martinez ensures that administrative processes facilitate the pursuit of independence and community acceptance. The Chief Administrative Officer manages internal systems and policies that uphold the organization's commitment to recognizing and valuing diverse abilities. Kelly Martinez's oversight is critical for maintaining the operational capacity needed to advance self-determination and foster inclusive community life across Abilities First's service areas.
Ellen Griffin - Chief Financial & Administrative Officer
Ellen Griffin, the Chief Financial & Administrative Officer at Abilities First, provides integrated leadership over both financial stewardship and operational administration. Griffin manages the organization's fiscal health, including budgeting and financial reporting, while simultaneously directing administrative functions essential for program delivery. This dual role ensures that resources are optimally allocated to support individuals with disabilities and their families in achieving independence. Griffin's oversight is critical for maintaining the operational efficiency that underpins Abilities First's dedication to education, integration, and advocacy. The Chief Financial & Administrative Officer ensures that financial and administrative strategies collectively advance the organization's mission of promoting self-determination and community acceptance. Ellen Griffin's comprehensive management is vital for the sustained growth and impact of Abilities First.
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