The Epic Center was born out of a personal journey—and a deep desire to fill a critical gap in services for young adults with disabilities. As their son Coleman approached the age of 22 when children age out of traditional school programs, Bill and Janet Fennelly were struck by the lack of meaningful, ongoing opportunities for social engagement, learning, and growth.

Traditionally, kids like Coleman move from integrated special education programs into state funded day programs, known as Community Based Day Services (CBDS).  But a post-covid labor shortage, along with a burgeoning rise in the over-22 disabled population has maxed out the existing system, leaving hundreds of families without programming. 

Helpless, families attempt to piece together meaningful days for their kids, but a lack of appropriate activities leaves most families resorting to simple outings, like trips to the mall, to a movie, to the library or museum.  Some say they spend hours going for walks.  Parents post on social media and parent support groups seeking help, looking for options, looking for peers and social connections.  Unilaterally, they lament the unbearable loneliness of their kids and the corresponding regression from isolation. 

Janet and Bill knew something had to change. With their son’s future in mind and their hearts full of hope, they began searching for a space to bring their vision to life. That search led them to an old but charming 1692 farmhouse—quaint, warm, and full of character. From the moment they stepped on the grounds, they knew it was something special.