Building Futures & Friends: Empowering Individuals with Disabilities

By: Jessica Susolik

In the heart of Orange County, a remarkable organization is making a significant impact in the world of special education and support for individuals with disabilities. Building Futures & Friends (BFF), founded by Nicole Fusaro, is not just another support group—it's hope, empowerment, and community for those who need it most.

A Vision Born from Experience

With nearly 30 years of experience as a special education teacher, Nicole Fusaro brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role as founder of BFF. "Our mission," Nicole explains, "is to ensure individuals with disabilities have access, resources, and opportunities to develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive independently."

This mission is personal for Nicole. Having witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families, she set out to create an organization that would fill the gaps in existing support systems.

Comprehensive Support for Every Need

BFF offers a wide range of services designed to support individuals with disabilities at every stage of their journey:

1. Advocacy: BFF provides crucial support for families navigating the complex world of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). "There's a lot of special ed lingo and acronyms," Nicole notes. "We help parents understand what it all means and ensure their child is getting the support they need from their school district."

2. Consultation: For families needing more personalized support, BFF offers consulting services. This can include providing qualified staff to support children after school or on weekends, allowing parents some much-needed rest.

3. Enrichment Programs: BFF's year-round social hangouts are a cornerstone of their services. These programs, which run every Saturday and on school holidays, offer a mix of fun activities and skill-building exercises. "We do different things like going to the pool, the beach, bowling, movies, trampoline parks, and museums," Nicole shares. "It's about getting kids out of the house, off electronics, and amongst friends—all while being supported by adults who have expertise in working with children with special needs."

4. Summer Camps: During the summer months, BFF's social hangouts expand to full-week programs, providing consistent support and engagement for participants.

5. Upcoming Day Program: In January 2025, BFF plans to launch a day program for individuals 18 and older. "This program will teach job skills, functional skills, and ways to work in the community," Nicole explains. "Our goal is to help clients volunteer, potentially secure jobs with the support of a job coach, and increase their independence."

A Unique Approach

What sets BFF apart is its commitment to inclusivity and personalized support. The organization maintains a 1:4 staff-to-participant ratio, ensuring each individual receives the attention they need. 

Moreover, BFF's programs are open to both individuals with disabilities and their typically developing peers. This inclusive approach fosters understanding, friendship, and a sense of community among all participants.

The Team Behind the Mission

Nicole's dedication to quality support is reflected in her hiring process. "I want to see them in action," she says of potential staff members. "Anyone can write a beautiful resume, but I want to see that they're there for the right reasons—doing what's best for the child and treating them equally."

This careful selection process has resulted in a team of 12 employees that Nicole describes as loving, supportive, and always focused on what's best for the participants. "We may not want to go to Chick-fil-A every Saturday," she laughs, "but if that's what the kids want, that's what we do."

Looking to the Future

As BFF continues to grow, Nicole has her sights set on expanding their reach and capabilities. The organization is currently seeking donations for a van or three-row passenger vehicle to support their upcoming day program and enhance their ability to transport participants to various activities.

How You Can Help

BFF's work is made possible through the support of the community. If you're inspired by their mission, consider donating through their website at www.futuresandfriends.org. Every contribution, big or small, helps BFF continue to provide these crucial services and expand their reach.  In addition to financial contribution, BFF is always looking for people to come and hang out with our friends.  

For those in Orange County with family members who could benefit from BFF's services, reach out to learn more about how they can support your loved one's journey towards independence and fulfillment.

Building Futures & Friends is more than just an organization—it's a community dedicated to ensuring that every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to reach their full potential and build a brighter future. With Nicole Fusaro at the helm and a dedicated team by her side, BFF is changing lives, one social hangout, one IEP consultation, one skill learned at a time.