AbilityFirst

Specialties

AbilityFirst’s Lawrence L. Frank Center in Pasadena offers programs for children and adults with developmental disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and epilepsy. The center serves the San Gabriel Valley region of Southern California, including the communities of Pasadena, Glendale, Monrovia, Altadena, Sierra Madre, Arcadia, Rosemead, San Marino, South Pasadena, and Temple City. Established in 1968, the center is named for AbilityFirst founder and past president Lawrence L. Frank, who was a prominent resident of Pasadena. The center features two large activity rooms, a sensory room, rewards room, a computer lab, an outdoor swimming pool, two outdoor patios and an outdoor play area.

History

Established in 1926.

AbilityFirst was established in 1926 and known as the Crippled Children’s Society of Southern California (CCS) for many decades. Lawrence L. Frank and Paul Dietrich, both Rotarians, were two of the original founders of the organization and they continued their loyal support throughout their lives.

Becoming AbilityFirst

When our organization was founded, the name reflected the thinking and norms of the time. The ensuing decades, however, brought dramatic change. We expanded to provide programs for adults, as well as children. We also broadened our mission in order to meet the needs of those with developmental disabilities, as well as those with physical disabilities. Development disabilities include autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and epilepsy.

In 2000, the organization adopted the name AbilityFirst to better reflect our mission, our vision for the future, and our commitment to celebrating the unique abilities of every individual.

Meet the Manager

Michael B.

Manager

Michael Barkyoumb is director of the Lawrence L. Frank Center, and has worked with AbilityFirst for seven years. Michael holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology, and a master’s degree in Public Administration. He has also completed two years post-​graduate work in Kinesiology/​Physical Education. Michael’s particular specialty is creating unique programs for people with disabilities. He has been a Rotarian and was a Vice President of the Lions Club, and is currently a member of the Kiwanis Club of Pasadena and a Magician Member of the Magic Castle in Hollywood.