Blossom Hill Opens Day Skills Enrichment Center in Middleburg Heights for People with Developmental Disabilities

MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, Ohio – From the colorful mural at its entrance to the serenity of the sensory room, the new day program at the Abilities Enrichment Center at Blossom Hill offers engaging sights, sounds and opportunities to improve people’s quality of life with an intellectual disability.

The 25,000 square foot facility, located at 7080 Engle Road in Middleburg Heights, had its official grand opening on September 19. By this time next year, Blossom Hill hopes to have served 100 people at the Abilities Enrichment Center.

“It’s the most amazing thing ever,” Jessica Toivonen, Blossom Hill’s executive director of operations, said of the new center. “When individuals come here, they choose what to do each day.

“We hope they leave at the end of the day with a sense of belonging and love.”

Amenities available include an arts and crafts classroom, café, on-site fitness room, movie theater, sensory room, game room, holistic therapy and more. There is also a nurse on staff to care for those with medical needs.

“We are looking to expand to where other people in the community have needs that can be met through a facility like this,” said Marty Gardner, chair of the Blossom Hill Foundation board of directors. .

“The need is astronomical.”

Lisa Kristosik, executive director of Blossom Hill and a registered nurse, explained why.

“After the COVID-19 pandemic, it became very important that people who live with us (in four local residential facilities) have a place to go where they can play and have choices and experiences during the day,” said Kristosik said, adding many places. Previously, enrichment companies fell on hard times and had to close their doors.

“We are very proud to be a part of Middleburg Heights and welcomed with open arms.”

For more information about Abilities Enrichment Center, call 440-892-2042 or visit bloom-hill.org.

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