Our History
The Association For Community Living was founded 60 years ago by five young and committed mothers of children with developmental disabilities who believed that their children had the right to grow up in their own communities, experiencing dignity, independence, choice, and fulfillment. The Association – the first agency of its kind in Hampden County – is proud to still uphold their inspired vision today, and proud that its presence now extends across Western Massachusetts.

Our Work
As an innovator and leader in social services, The Association provides a continuum of support from infancy to old age with comprehensive services in five major areas - supported living, family services, employment services, social entrepreneurship, and recreation and enrichment. The Association supports 2,387 individuals with autism, Down syndrome, fragile X, and other developmental disabilities and 1,900 families in 102 cities and towns in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, and Worcester Counties. It employs 595 full- and part-time staff and has 207 volunteers.

How You Can Help
The Association relies heavily on funding from the state to support its annual, fiscally sound $21.8 million budget. Shrinking allocations have impacted The Association, though, threatening the depth of services it can provide to children with developmental disabilities and their families. Your contribution on Valley Gives Day will ensure continued quality services that include respite for family members and caregivers, education, financial assistance, information and resources, training, and family and individual support.

Learn More At
www.TheAssociationInc.org

On Facebook at The Association For Community Living