On February 10, Fello at The Mall opened its doors in the Annapolis Mall, marking the start of an exciting new chapter of belonging in the community. 

Our vision was simple: create a warm, inclusive space where people with disabilities, their families, and neighbors could come together, find support, and make memories in a place they already knew and loved. 

Just over six months later, Fello at The Mall has become a celebrated part of the Annapolis Mall, welcoming more than 2,000 visitors and creating meaningful opportunities for connection, learning, and access. 

Curiosity Leads to Community 

Many visitors arrive curious about the space, and each visit gives us a chance to share our story, values, and mission. By the end of the conversation, those new to Fello leave energized and ready to show their support. 

“People often express how much they appreciate what we’re doing. They see how Fello at The Mall can bring people together and are inspired by its potential,” said Cynthia Stockton, Manager of Fello at The Mall. “It’s encouraging to meet so many neighbors who are excited about a space created for everyone.” 

That enthusiasm spreads. Visitors are quick to share what they’ve learned with friends, family, and neighbors: Annapolis now has a space thoughtfully designed for people with disabilities. That word of mouth has carried our message throughout the community—Fello at The Mall is here, open, and ready to help people live life on their own terms. 

Building Trust from the First Visit 

At Fello at The Mall, every interaction matters. For the families who visit us for resources and support, feeling respected makes all the difference. 

“Families come to us expecting to be heard and supported, and that’s the most important part of our work,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth & Their Families. “Searching for resources can leave people feeling overwhelmed. A friendly, empowering conversation can put any family at ease.” 

Our Information & Resource Specialists are the first people families meet when they walk in. They listen first, working to understand how they can help each family, then guide them toward the right support—whether that’s connecting them with local resources or inviting them to apply for Fello’s supportive services. 

For families interested in working with Fello, we help them get started right away. 

“What makes Fello at The Mall so convenient is that we can work with families to take the first steps toward support during their very first visit,” said Pease. “We determine eligibility early, so families can quickly start connecting with our network of services to support their children now and in the future.” 

Where families go from there is entirely up to them. But having the option to walk in without an appointment and access resources while enjoying a day at the mall creates a natural pathway to inclusion. 

A Place for Everyone 

Events at Fello at The Mall give people with disabilities a chance to be themselves. Our Create & Connect gatherings offer opportunities to socialize, discover new interests, and feel a sense of accomplishment in a fun, supportive environment. 

The first three events featured everything from karaoke to arts and crafts, and attendance grew with each one, from 12 participants at the first event to 70 at the most recent, held over two dates. That growth reflects how much people value the chance to connect and be part of the community here. 

“Our Create & Connect events have really taken off,” said Stockton. “There’s one person Fello supports who’s come to every single event—and now she’s proud to volunteer and help run them. That’s exactly what these gatherings can do for someone’s confidence and independence.” 

Everyone is invited to make the space their own. People we support have used it to spend time with friends, while organizations like Anne Arundel County Public Schools have booked the space for staff trainings. Mall vendors and outside companies have also started reaching out, eager to host their own events here. 

As more families, neighbors, and organizations discover what’s possible, Fello at The Mall continues to embody what a true community space should be: open and buzzing with energy. 

What Six Months Has Built 

Fello at The Mall has become more than just a place to visit for an afternoon—it’s a powerful example of what intentional, inclusive design can accomplish. 

What began as an ambitious idea is now an essential resource and gathering place for the Annapolis community. By meeting people where they are, Fello has shown what a truly connected community can look like. 

And we’re just getting started. More events, new opportunities, and ongoing support are on the horizon. In the meantime, stop by and say hello—we’re here for you.