At the end of July 2025, the Felician IMPACT program in Lodi, New Jersey, completed its first year of operation. An outgrowth of the Felician School for Exceptional Children, this program gives continuing opportunities to disabled individuals for growth after the age of 21.
Felician IMPACT is a transformative day habilitation program designed to empower individuals with disabilities by providing comprehensive support and resources to enhance their quality of life and foster independence. Through person centered planning, skill development and community integration initiatives, the program aims to make a positive and lasting IMPACT on the lives of program participants. Felician IMPACT’s approach focuses on promoting inclusion, self-advocacy, and resilience. Felician IMPACT strives to create a supportive environment where individuals can thrive and achieve their full potential.
The IMPACT program began in September of 2024 with nine clients. The program took over the facility of the former Immaculate Conception High School. When the state sends inspectors, they all marvel at the beautiful building being used by IMPACT. Thirty-six clients are expected this September of 2025.
Thirteen staff members oversee the program. An active marketing program includes partnerships with local support coordination agencies and district transition programs to expand outreach and enrollment.
The IMPACT program has formed a relationship with the National President of UNICO as a key fundraising prospect and formed a fundraising committee with PEGASUS. Various donors have provided laptops or funded activities. IMPACT continues to pursue long-term fundraising partnerships.
The goal of the IMPACT program is to train clients for jobs. If a client gets a job but is not able to maintain it, the client may resume the IMPACT program. But the objective is job training. Right now there are job opportunities at Felician University and at the local BJ’s.
God bless the IMPACT program as it enters its second year.
