Congressman Kean visits Abilities

Tours Washington-based programs for individuals with disabilities

U.S. Rep. Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ) visited Abilities of Northwest Jersey Inc. on March 13 for a tour of the facility and the opportunity to see programs that serve local residents with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Abilities serves more than 80 individuals with disabilities at its Washington headquarters, which is home to its Community Rehabilitation Program, Washington Day Program, and Medical Special Needs Program, as well as the organization’s administrative offices.

Members from Abilities and ACCSES NJ sit around the board room table with Congressman Kean Jr. and his staff.
From left to right are Mohsen Badran, President/CEO of ACCSES NJ; Cindy Wildermuth, CEO of Abilities; Jacob Caplan, Director of Advocacy and Government Affairs, ACCSES NJ; Sue Zukoski, COO of Abilities; Oliver McIntosh, Legislative Correspondent; Erin Darreff, District Director; and Congressman Kean.

During the congressman’s visit, Abilities’ management had the opportunity to discuss:

  • program and employment choices for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,
  • preservation of Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), and,
  • support for the Workplace Choice and Flexibility for Individuals with Disabilities Act, bill H.R. 553 (2023) sponsored by U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-WI) that will significantly increase career opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

“It is critical for organizations like Abilities to have the support of our legislators at every level of government. Advocacy to maintain and increase employment choices for persons with disabilities is one of our top priorities. We are grateful for Congressman Kean’s visit and engagement with our team.”

Cynthia Wildermuth, CEO Abilities of Northwest Jersey