About Us​

Founded by Lili Vasileff—a devoted single mother determined to create an enriching, meaningful future for her daughter with special needs—Allie’s Dream was born from a powerful vision: that adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve continued fulfillment, purpose, and quality of life long after age 21, when traditional educational supports end.

In 2012, Lili became the first parent in nearly 30 years to be approved by the State of Connecticut to open a Day Service Program (DSO). For several years that followed, Allie’s Dream brought its mission to life through Jump into the Arts, a free summer Saturday program that welcomed adults with special needs and their caregivers into a space filled with creativity, movement, and connection.

Amidst the profound challenges brought on by COVID‑19—felt deeply by agencies, families, and the disability community—Allie’s Dream proudly opened its doors as a full‑time DSO in June 2022. Since then, we have cherished our first three years at the JCC of Greater New Haven, where we are part of a warm, inclusive campus community. It is a place where individuals come together to learn, grow, and build meaningful relationships that truly last a lifetime.