Chrysalis Advantage Point fosters possibilities for people with developmental disabilities

Kim Gasuras
·3 min read

Nestled in the heart of Crawford County at 1890 Bucyrus-Nevada Road near Bucyrus, Chrysalis Advantage Point is a place of support and empowerment for individuals with developmental disabilities.

“We began our adventure of providing community-based day habilitation services to individuals with developmental disabilities through a grant received by Ohio’s Department of Developmental Disabilities,” said Chrysalis Advantage Point Director Amanda Moran.

The doors of Chrysalis Advantage Point opened in February 2016.

Moran said Chrysalis is created under its parent company, Abilities in Action, which was developed in 2012 by Moran’s mother, Kimm Kessinger. Abilities in Action is designed to place people with disabilities into jobs with local employers.

Chrysalis Advantage Point team member Ashley Weiler works with client Melody Fulton during a recent event at the agency.
Chrysalis Advantage Point team member Ashley Weiler works with client Melody Fulton during a recent event at the agency.

“Chrysalis is a great option for adults that are not quite sure about work, need to learn new skills or those that are more interested in recreational/volunteering," Mora said. "Abilities in Action is focused on vocational rehabilitation for people with disabilities, vocational evaluation, pre-employment transition services for students ages 14-21 and our summer youth work experience.”

Support is person-centered, catering to unique needs

Moran said since the beginning, Chrysalis Advantage Point has been committed to providing tailored recreational and vocational services that cater to the unique needs and desires of participants while also addressing the needs of the community.

“Chrysalis doesn’t just offer services, it fosters a revolution of possibilities for individuals with disabilities, weaving innovation into every aspect of support, transforming challenges into opportunities for empowerment and growth,” Moran said.

She said adaptability and continuous improvement are at the core of everything she and her team of six staff members do.

“Our range of hands-on programs and activities are carefully crafted to suit individual preferences, ensuring that each participant receives the personalized attention they deserve,” Moran said. “With a dedicated team of six staff members, we serve 30 individuals, all united in our mission to enrich lives and foster meaningful connections in our community.”

Community partners provide opportunities

Moran said she and her team’s dedication to community engagement is evident in the ever-expanding network of partnerships with businesses and organizations.

“Through volunteer and paid work opportunities, Chrysalis actively contributes to the community by providing essential services such as cleaning, clerical support, event setup, meal delivery and more,” Moran said. “We are proud to have partnered with over 40 local businesses since our inception in 2016, and we continue to seek out new opportunities for collaboration.”

Rex Hart helps keep the Bucyrus Little Theatre clean for guests and cast members through Chrysalis Advantage Point.
Rex Hart helps keep the Bucyrus Little Theatre clean for guests and cast members through Chrysalis Advantage Point.

The agency’s newest community partners include the Moose Family Center and Ohio Specialty Services (OSS) Transportation in Bucyrus as well as the Galion Health Department and Real Life Nazarene in Galion.

“Recently, Chrysalis was selected by the Department of Developmental Disabilities to participate in a service delivery innovation grant. With this grant, we have been able to invest in smart technology, new curriculum and cutting-edge communication devices,” Moran said. “These advancements enable our participants to maximize their independence both within our facilities and out in the community, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.”

Moran said as she and her team continue to expand the network of community partners, businesses and organizations interested in making a positive impact are invited to explore collaboration opportunities with Chrysalis Advantage Point.

“Whether through short-term projects or long-term partnerships, we are committed to creating mutually beneficial relationships that enhance inclusivity and support for individuals with developmental disabilities,” Moran said.

For more information on how businesses and organizations can partner with Chrysalis Advantage Point, contact community engagement coordinator Macy Ault at 419-617-1564.

“Join us in our mission to empower individuals and enrich communities,” Moran said. “Together, we can make a difference.”

This article originally appeared on Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum: Chrysalis Advantage Point provides job support in Crawford County