This year, as Fello celebrates 65 years of supporting people with disabilities and building inclusive communities, we’re reflecting on the history of the disability rights movement and the milestones that helped shape the work we do today.

The 1970s marked a turning point for disability rights. Effective advocacy led to landmark legislation. People with disabilities were finding their voice in greater numbers. Community-based housing was expanding. The future pointed toward greater inclusion. 

But progress isn’t always linear. The 1980s brought new challenges—requiring advocates to protect what they’d achieved while continuing to push for expanded rights and access.

Advocates didn’t step back. They continued the work—defending important protections and pushing for the changes people needed to live more independently in their communities. 

Responding to Early Challenges 

A shift in federal priorities tested the disability rights movement early in the new decade. 

The Reagan administration tightened disability reviews for Social Security benefits, sending termination notices to nearly half a million recipients. Roughly 200,000 people successfully appealed. Public outcry moved Congress to pass the Social Security Disability Reform Act of 1984, raising the standard for termination and strengthening protections during the appeals process. 

At the same time, existing legislation faced new threats. The administration proposed regulatory changes that would weaken the Education for All Handicapped Children Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act—two of the most important disability rights laws of the previous decade.

Parents, self-advocates, and allies mobilized. A nationwide letter-writing campaign sent more than 40,000 messages to the White House. By 1984, those efforts had made an impact—proposed rollbacks on both laws were abandoned. 

The disability rights movement was growing stronger—and harder to ignore. 

Legislative Victories Continue 

While advocates worked to protect existing rights, they also continued to push for new opportunities that would allow people with disabilities to fully participate in community life. 

In 1984, the Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act helped reduce barriers to voting by requiring greater physical accessibility, making it easier for people with disabilities to exercise their right to vote. Decades later, that right still matters. At Fello, members of Living Boldly, our self-advocacy group, learn to use voting machines, supporting confident, informed participation in the democratic process.

Housing also remained a priority. The Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 extended protections to people with disabilities—reinforcing the idea that everyone deserves a place in the community and supporting the broader shift toward independent living.  

At the same time, legislation also addressed conditions in institutions. The Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA), passed in 1980, gave the Department of Justice the power to investigate abuse and neglect in public institutions. In the years that followed, facilities like the Rosewood Center in Maryland came under increased scrutiny for failing to provide adequate care. Rosewood’s population would continue to decline as community-based living alternatives grew. 

These changes mattered because they made everyday life more accessible, giving people greater access to housing, community, and the ability to make their own choices about how they live.  

Progress on a Local Level 

The national energy was only part of the story. Closer to home, Fello was advancing this work in meaningful ways—creating new pathways for people with disabilities to live more fully in their communities. 

In 1981, we opened Langton Green, increasing access to community-based housing and advancing the shift away from institutional living. It was part of a broader commitment to creating places where people could live with independence, stability, and connection. 

As the need for community-based supports increased, Fello expanded. In 1980, we launched a summer vacation program—creating opportunities for people to have new experiences, strengthen relationships, and be part of the community in different ways.  

That focus on opportunity and inclusion continued in 1982, when we co-sponsored College for Living with Anne Arundel Community College, opening doors to learning and personal growth beyond traditional settings. 

By 1987, as the Developmental Disability Administration (DDA) increased support for community-based services, Fello broadened its family and individual support services, paving the way for what would become our Children, Youth & Their Families program—helping families live more independently and build lives rooted in the community. 

National advocates and local organizations like Fello were more determined than ever. Together, they were laying the groundwork for a transformation that was just around the corner. 

The Beginnings of the ADA 

Amid the victories and setbacks of the 1980s, one of the movement’s greatest achievements quietly took shape—the foundation for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

In 1986, the National Council on the Handicapped released Toward Independence, a report that outlined the barriers people with disabilities faced and made a clear case for comprehensive civil rights protections. In 1988, the Council published a follow-up report, On the Threshold of Independence, which included a draft of what would help shape the ADA. 

These reports were part of a broader push for civil rights legislation, highlighting the gap between existing laws and everyday experiences. The ADA was first introduced in 1988 and reintroduced in 1989, gaining momentum as advocates across the country rallied behind it. 

After years of effort, the ADA was signed into law in 1990, securing civil rights protections that the movement had fought decades to achieve. It was a victory built on generations of advocacy, and proof that a movement determined enough can change everything. 

The Movement Moves Forward 

The 1980s were a decade of resilience and progress for the disability rights movement. 

The decade brought challenges, but each one reinforced what advocates already knew: lasting progress requires persistence, and communities grow stronger when people continue to speak up, even in the face of setbacks.

By the end of the 1980s, the movement’s momentum was undeniable—setting the stage for one of the most defining decades in disability rights history.

Next in the series: The 1990s—the impact of the ADA, the expansion of education rights with IDEA, and a landmark Supreme Court decision that affirmed the right of people with disabilities to live in their communities. 

On April 13, the 449^th session of Maryland’s General Assembly came to a close. Lawmakers passed a state budget that includes changes to the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). These changes will affect people with disabilities, the services they rely on, and the providers who support them. 

At the same time, the session brought meaningful legislative wins for the disability community and for housing across Maryland. 

Every legislative session brings unique challenges—and this year was no exception. But it also served as a powerful reminder that advocacy matters. When people speak up, it moves our entire community forward.  

Operating Budget Cuts to DDA 

The final budget includes significant reductions to DDA funding. These cuts will affect services and supports across Maryland.  

A total of $126.9 million ($253.8 million with matching federal funds) was cut from the DDA, including: 

• $62.2 million in cuts to community providers 
• $64.7 million in cuts to self-directed services 

Additionally, $72 million was included in a supplemental budget to address a deficit in Fiscal Year 2026. 

Cost Containment Measures 

To manage costs, the state implemented changes affecting both community providers and self-directed services.  

Community Providers

• A dedicated hours policy will be enforced.  
• Community service rates for providers and coordinators will be reduced by 2%.  
• Personal and other support services will be capped at 102% of fully loaded “brick” rates. 

Self-Directed Services 

• Wages for non-family staff were adjusted. 
• Unlicensed vendors will no longer be approved. 
• A weekly hourly cap of 60/40 will apply to family members working as staff. 

Additional Budget Provisions 

A few other important details from the final budget: 

• DDA cannot make additional rate reductions in Fiscal Year 2027 beyond the cost containment measures listed above. 
• DDA must submit monthly reports to budget committees on how these changes are implemented and their impact. 
• The Maryland Department of Health will evaluate a proposed rate increase for Coordination of Community Services (CCS). 
• Language was included to ensure that people receiving State-only funded services will continue to receive them.   

Legislative Victories 

Alongside the budget measures, several bills were signed into law that strengthen protections for people with disabilities and create new housing opportunities. 

Disability Rights 

SB 721 / HB 1015 – Ralph’s Act 

Creates a faster, clearer path for people with disabilities who move to Maryland after losing a parent or primary caregiver to access DDA services, including crisis support if eligible. 

SB 742 / HB 1445 – Maryland Protecting People With Disabilities Act 

Helps ensure that people with disabilities do not lose Medicaid or waiver services due to administrative errors. The law requires agencies to follow federal eligibility timelines, prevents improper terminations, and restores coverage when services are wrongly ended. 

SB 22 / HB 226 – Department of Disabilities – Housing Programs and Affiliated Foundations – Establishment 

Authorizes the Maryland Department of Disabilities (MDOD) to develop affordable and accessible housing programs for people with disabilities and to establish affiliated nonprofit foundations to support these efforts. 

Housing 

SB 325 / HB 548 – Maryland Housing Certainty Act 

Gives approved housing projects five years of protection and sets clear timelines for local government review. 

SB 389 / HB 894 – Maryland Transit and Housing Opportunity Act 

Allows development on more than 300 acres of State-owned land near transit hubs, supporting approximately 7,000 new housing units and generating an estimated $1.4 billion in State and local tax revenue. 

Capital Budget: Easton Crossing 

Fello is honored to have been awarded $2.5 million in the Governor’s capital budget to support the Easton Crossing development in Easton, MD—an investment that helps expand inclusive housing options in the region.   

Reflecting and Looking Ahead 

At the close of the 2026 legislative session, we are balancing real challenges with meaningful progress.  

DDA budget cuts are real, and their impact will be felt by people with disabilities, their families, and the providers who support them. Still, advocacy made a difference.  

Meanwhile, there are real reasons for optimism. New laws will strengthen protections, expand housing, and make it easier for people with disabilities to access the services they need. 

“This session showed that progress isn’t always linear,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO of Fello. “While these budget cuts will have real impacts on people with disabilities, our community’s advocacy made a difference, and we’ll keep pushing forward to expand opportunity and support for Marylanders with disabilities.” 

Fello will continue working alongside the disability community to protect funding, advance inclusive policies, and build a Maryland where everyone can live, work, and belong.  

Stay connected and join our advocacy work by signing up for our Action Alerts, and take action when it matters most. 

Every choice we make today shapes the communities we build tomorrow. That’s why Fello made sustainability a focus of our Leading Boldly strategy, reducing energy use and emissions across our corporate offices and housing properties while staying true to our commitment to creating belonging and inclusion. 

“Sustainable practices are as much about advancing equity as they are about protecting the environment,” said Jonathon Rondeau, President & CEO. “Inclusive communities where people can live their best lives depend on a healthy, high-quality living experience. Embedding environmental stewardship into our work is a natural extension of our mission.” 

Our Impact

Four years into Leading Boldly, we’ve made real progress toward our sustainability goals. We’re not just creating a greener future—we’re strengthening the communities we serve and showing what’s possible when organizations lead with purpose and responsibility.

Improving energy efficiency 

• 90% of Fello properties have completed energy audits—and we’ve acted on every recommendation to create more comfortable, energy-efficient homes. 
• 11 properties have been identified for solar panel installation, expanding access to renewable energy. 
• Fello’s Linthicum office was upgraded to LED lighting, cutting lighting energy use by 43% and overall energy use by 16%, reducing both costs and environmental impact. 

Transitioning from fossil fuels 

• All oil and propane residential units have been converted to electric, creating safer, more efficient homes. 
• 73% of our vehicle fleet is now hybrid—and every future vehicle will be, too, reducing emissions across our daily operations. 
• EV charging stations are installed at Fello corporate offices and some Fello residential locations, with plans to expand to more residential properties, making it easier to support cleaner transportation choices. 

Reducing waste in the workplace 

• Every kitchenette at Fello corporate offices has reusable dishware, reducing everyday waste. 
• Energy-efficient dishwashers have been installed to reduce water use, supporting more sustainable daily operations. 
• Compostable products have replaced single-use plastics across our locations, reducing what we send to landfills. 

Expanding the Right Way 

Fello’s sustainability work isn’t separate from our mission—it’s part of it.  

As we increased our workforce, entered new counties, and invested in community development, we also ensured that our operations reflected our values. It was intentional—every choice we made was designed to benefit the people we serve, strengthen the communities we’re part of, and care for the planet we all share. 

“Our efforts are making a real difference, but what excites me most is the example we’re setting,” said Cody Skacan, Vice President of Strategy. “Fello is growing rapidly, but we’re growing mindfully. We’re proof that organizations large and small don’t have to choose between expanding their impact and doing right by the environment.” 

Just Getting Started 

Our commitment to sustainability doesn’t end with the completion of Leading Boldly. We’ll keep adopting sustainable practices, furthering our use of renewable energy, and rethinking how we work every day. 

Environmental stewardship is one way we show up for our communities. Even small changes add up to something big—healthier ecosystems, cleaner air and water, and stronger communities where people can thrive.  

“Sustainability isn’t something one organization can achieve by itself,” said Rondeau. “It takes all of us. When we commit to it together—in our offices, our operations, our communities—that’s when lasting change happens.” 

At Fello, we recognize that supporting people with disabilities means understanding that mental wellness and daily life are deeply connected. Since 2020, our Behavioral Health team has helped people with disabilities and mental health diagnoses build the tools and strategies each person needs to navigate life on their own terms—strengthening independence, inclusion, and opportunity. 

Our team includes licensed clinicians and behavioral health associates who specialize in supporting people with complex and overlapping needs. But the Behavioral Health team doesn’t stand alone.  Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are essential partners in this work and collaboration is critical to providing the best possible support to the people we serve. 

DSPs are present in the daily lives of the people Fello supports. That closeness gives them a window into each person’s world. By partnering with DSPs, Fello’s clinicians support with strategies built around real experience—what happens at home, in the community, and everywhere in between. That makes all the difference when developing support that fits each person. 

A Partnership That Builds Confidence 

Whether just starting out or with decades of experience, all DSPs benefit from access to Fello’s Behavioral Health team. The partnership helps build confidence, strengthen their skills, and creates new ways of seeing and responding to the people they support. 

For Sandy, that relationship made all the difference. A new DSP with Fello, she wasn’t sure how to support Joe when he felt overwhelmed and reached out to the Behavioral Health team for guidance. Together they explored Joe’s behavior from a different perspective and offered advice on how to meet him in the moment. 

What began as a quick conversation to bounce ideas off each other grew into a comprehensive Behavior Support Plan for Joe and a much more confident Sandy. 

That’s partnership in action—clinicians and DSPs learning and teaching each other, leading to an integrative approach to support. 

Communication Makes the Difference 

Effective support depends on effective communication—and that’s as true for DSPs as it is for the people they support. 

When Denise, a DSP, needed to navigate a difficult conversation with the person she supported, she turned to the Behavioral Health team to brainstorm. The team met with Denise to address her concerns, create a shared plan, and practice communicating. When the time came, all three met together, with the clinician supporting in real time, modeling techniques that created a healthy, safe dialogue.  

That experience didn’t just help Denise in that moment—it strengthened her ability to better communicate with the people she supports going forward. 

Support That Follows 

At Fello, we believe exceptional, person-centered support happens through collaboration. 

DSPs bring deep, firsthand knowledge of the people they support. Clinicians bring specialized clinical expertise. Together, they offer behavioral health support that follows people wherever they go—at home, in the community, and everywhere in between. 

That’s what partnership makes possible: support that adapts, responds, and grows with each person so they can live the lives they choose and feel good about who they are.