October 30, 2024 | Press Release.pdf

FORKED RIVER, NJ- Community Options, a leading national nonprofit supporting people with disabilities, held the grand opening of the Daily Plan It in Forked River, making it the eighth location in New Jersey. Lacey Township Mayor Peggy Sue Juliano, along with local and county officials, joined Community Options for the ribbon cutting.

The Daily Plan It, located at 510 South Main Street, Forked River, NJ 08731, is an innovative model that trains and employs people with disabilities while supporting local small businesses. Individual offices are rented to businesses who share amenities including conference rooms, copiers and administrative support. The rental revenues fund competitive wages for employees with disabilities who manage the Daily Plan It.

“I am excited to welcome Community Options to Lacey Township,” said Mayor Peggy Sue Juliano. “Their commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities is inspiring, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they’ll make in our community. I appreciate Community Options including me in their grand opening event.”

Michael Ferrara and Richard LaRocca recently started working at the Daily Plan It. Michael was once institutionalized at the New Lisbon Developmental Center, but after moving to a Community Options home, he has found purpose and independence through meaningful work at the new Daily Plan It. Richard had always wanted to work in an office setting so he pursued the opportunity with his job coach.

“Michael’s journey exemplifies what Community Options stands for—creating pathways for people with disabilities to work and lead fulfilling lives,” said Robert Stack, President and CEO of Community Options. “The Daily Plan It empowers people like Michael and Richard to be valued, productive members of the workforce.”

The Daily Plan It is designed to serve as more than a workspace. It provides small businesses with high-quality office solutions while giving individuals with disabilities opportunities to learn valuable skills and gain financial independence.

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About Community Options, Inc.:

For over 35 years, Community Options has developed housing and employment supports for people with disabilities – supporting thousands of people from over 50 offices across 12 states. Community Options provides advocacy assistance to empower people with disabilities because all people – regardless of ability level – should live and work in the community with dignity, choice and self-determination. For more information please visit our website: www.comop.org and follow us on social media on Facebook, Instagram, and X.