November 30th, 2024

We Need Your Help - please consider a donation to help support our work!

Dear Friend of SKILLS, Inc.,

The generous support we’ve received over the last year has allowed more Mainers with intellectual and developmental disabilities, brain injuries, autism, and other disabilities to live their most independent and fulfilling lives. It’s with deep thanks that I write to share about one of our triumphs in 2024 - the launch of Opportunities Driving School - made possible through the generosity of an Innovations grant from the State of Maine, Office of Aging and Disability Services. With grant support now ended we ask you to consider a gift in any amount to SKILLS, Inc. to help make 2025 our most impactful year yet.

Opportunities Driving School:

-Opened in May 2024 and is the 1st in Maine dedicated to helping adults with disabilities learn to drive, gaining independence of travel

-In 6 months, 18 individuals successfully completed Driver’s Education, 10 received their Learner's Permit

-2 individuals received their Driver’s License after completing Opportunities Driving School enabling independence and employment

-Employs 2 DOT-licensed Drivers Education instructors, both experienced and certified as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs)

-State of the art driving simulator allows individuals to be screened for readiness, gain driving skills, and build comfort before taking to the road

Opportunities Driving School instructor Andrea Householder says of the program, “we are providing individuals with the opportunity to improve their lives by gaining more independence. By providing the chance to earn their Driver’s License we are also providing them with a positive hope to gain a sense of self confidence and value. Thus reducing the stigma of being an individual with disabilities and seen more as a person with ABILITIES.”

We are eager to see what 2025 brings at SKILLS, Inc., and know that our entire team is committed to making it our most impactful year yet. Please consider making a year end gift to support our work.

In gratitude,
Kristin Overton, Executive Director