Our Mission
To empower autistic and neurodivergent individuals with innovative vocational training and holistic career support services.
About our Non-Profit:
For neurodivergent and autistic adults, the transition into adulthood often means "falling off the cliff." Upon turning 21, many lose essential support services and face steep barriers to employment, leading to a reality where only 58% have ever held paying jobs (A.J. Drexel Autism Institute).
Pawsability Dog Club was founded to change that narrative.
We bridge the gap by providing vital care services for dogs while creating a supportive training ground for neurodivergent adults. Through our Vocational Training Program and Career Development Services, we teach hands-on job skills and provide the holistic career guidance needed to succeed. Because we believe everyone deserves to be gainfully employed, active, and valued in their community.
Foundation Partners
Thanks to the generous support of our foundation partners, we will continue expanding and improving our services to benefit our program participants and strengthen our local community.
Neuroinclusive Businesses
Established in 2026, the Pawsitive Partner Collective is a network of pet care businesses dedicated to fostering neurodiversity within their teams. We are honored to showcase the founding members of this initiative and encourage you to support these neuroinclusive organizations.
Free Programs for Autistic and Neurodivergent Individuals
Vocational Training Program & Career Development Services
Our flagship program equips autistic and neurodivergent 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. This opportunity is for autistic and neurodiverse individuals who have job readiness skills and are enthusiastic about seeking careers in the pet care industry.
Upon graduation, alumni gain access to our Career Development Services (CDS) to help them secure meaningful employment. CDS provides comprehensive support, including resume refinement, interview preparation, professional communication drafting, and online job search strategies. Once employment is secured, we also offer temporary, virtual and on-site job coaching to ensure a smooth transition for the employee and employer.
Paws & Pizza
Students from special education schools across NYC and and day habilitation programs 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.
Schools and organizations we have hosted: P.S. 35, P373K, P811M, Brooklyn Autism Center, The Cooke School, Manhattan Star Academy, Manhattan Children's Center, The ARC, JCC, The Summit School, Mickey Mantle School, Autistic Adults NYC, Tribeca Prep, and more!
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.
Elizabeth Pullman has served on the board since 2023 and chairs the Development Committee. Leveraging two decades of fundraising expertise, Elizabeth drives significant annual growth for our key fundraising efforts. She leads Operations Strategy for CloudTrucks' Virtual Carrier business
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.
Questions? Fill out the form below & we’ll be in touch.
