About our Non-Profit:
In the United States, only 58% of young autistic adults have held paying jobs (A.J. Drexel Autism Institute). This staggering statistic, along with the success of other autism friendly businesses, inspired the creation of Pawsability Dog Club.
Pawsability provides essential services for dogs while harnessing the therapeutic power of animals and job training to empower neurodivergent individuals for employment success.
When neurodivergent individuals turn 21, they often experience what is known as “falling off the cliff,” losing access to Department of Education services and facing significant barriers to paid employment due to a lack of vocational training and career guidance. This gap can result in financial stress, social isolation, and a decline in mental well-being for these individuals and their families.
At Pawsability, we believe neurodivergent individuals deserve to be gainfully employed and active participants in their communities. We offer vocational training in a supportive work environment, equipping autistic adults with the skills and confidence to pursue meaningful careers in the pet care industry.
Inspired by personal experiences, Pawsability’s co-founders created a non-profit to address this critical need and to establish programs that support the broader neurodivergent community.
If your dog can’t enjoy our services in Bushwick, you can still help us achieve our mission by making a donation!
The 3 ways Pawsability delivers against its mission:
1) Vocational Job Training: our flagship program equips autistic adults with the skills needed for careers in pet care. Over 70 hours, trainees learn animal handling, customer service, and facility management, while exploring diverse career opportunities in animal welfare by visiting local pet care businesses. Graduates earn certificates, personalized reference letters, and job search support, including resume writing and interview preparation, to help them secure employment in the pet care industry. This opportunity is primarily for autistic individuals seeking a career in pet care; however, other neurodiverse individuals seeking a career in pet care are welcome to apply and join if space permits. We prioritize individuals who are enthusiastic about pursuing career opportunities.
2) Paws & Pizza: Students from special education schools across NYC participate in single-day sessions that introduce them to pet care careers. Activities include interacting with small dogs, assisting with a dog bath, and learning about career opportunities in the pet care field—helping students explore possibilities before transitioning to adulthood.
3) Canine Connections: This monthly, four-session community education program is designed for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who benefit from personalized one-on-one support. Participants gain foundational knowledge about dogs, including understanding body language, exploring breeds, and developing essential animal care skills, fostering a passion for working with animals.
If you are interested in any of the 3 pillars above, please fill out the form and someone will be in touch!
Meet our Board of Members
Jillian Forman is the Co-Founder, Executive Director and Chair. As the Executive Director, she works full time at Pawsability overseeing operations, programming and development.
Justin Forman is the Co-founder, Treasurer and the team lead on the Finance Committee. He works at Google as a Senior Partner Manager.
Sandra Gluck is a Co-Founder, Secretary and serves on the Programs Committee. She is also the co-founder of the Gluck Family Foundation.
Michele Hamburger, a board member since 2023 and member of the Development Committee, brings significant fundraising expertise to the organization. As Executive Director of the Frances Hamburger Institute (FHI), she skillfully cultivates strategic partnerships and secures high-value items for the annual online silent auction, directly contributing to the organization's growth.
Valorie Levine has served on the board since 2022 and is a leading member on the Programs Committee. Valorie is a former Applied Behavior Analysis Therapist who specialized in providing support for autistic children. She works for Galileo as Director of Regional Operations.
Hal Mendel has served on the board since 2022 and is an active member on the Finance Committee. He leverages his successful entrepreneurial background to assist with the organization’s finances and operations strategy.
