Director

Abby Garrity

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Abby is an Occupational Therapist and the founder of Flourish Community Services, a mission-driven agency rooted in inclusion, community engagement, and person-centered practices. She holds a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Thomas Jefferson University. Abby began her career providing behavioral wraparound services for individuals with disabilities and has since dedicated herself to creating supportive, community-based programs that empower people to lead self-directed lives.

Inspired by her sister, Abby built Flourish on the belief that services work best when individuals are in the lead and staff walk alongside them. When she's not working, Abby enjoys life with her husband, two kids, and two dogs—usually with a cup of coffee in hand and a good book nearby.

Activities Coordinator + Peer Resource

Olivia Garrity

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Olivia is a Peer Support Specialist at Flourish Community Services, where she plays a key role in planning and coordinating meaningful community activities for participants. As an autistic adult, Olivia brings a valuable perspective to the team—offering insight on sensory considerations, accessibility, and inclusive practices based on her own lived experiences.

Olivia is actively involved in Community Support Services, volunteers weekly, and helps ensure Flourish's activities reflect the real interests and strengths of the people we support. Whether she’s building weekly event calendars or sharing suggestions for new group outings, Olivia’s creativity and compassion shine through in everything she does.

Outside of work, Olivia enjoys writing blog posts, drinking coffee, and teaching her niece all about Sesame Street.

Chester County DSP Supervisor

Erin Garrett

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​Erin holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications and Graphic Design from Elizabethtown College. She began working in this field in July 2023, but has always had a passion for helping others and bringing smiles to those around her. In addition to working directly with individuals on her caseload, Erin supports Flourish by providing supervision, collaborating with other Direct Support Professionals, and monitoring how clients are progressing toward their goals. Erin has held leadership roles across various jobs and programs, reflecting her strong sense of initiative and teamwork.

Outside of work, she enjoys nature, sports, and astrophotography, and loves to travel—especially to new restaurants and sports arenas. Hockey and baseball games are some of her favorite outings.

Delaware County DSP Supervisor

Joanne Zapata

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Joanne is a Direct Support Professional Supervisor with a strong background in employment support, coaching, and job development for individuals with diverse abilities. At Flourish, she provides supervision and guidance for participants and staff in Delaware County and across Pennsylvania, making sure services are person-centered and truly supportive of each individual’s goals.

Joanne is known for her thoughtful approach, creative problem-solving, and unwavering belief in the potential of every person she supports. When she’s not visiting community sites or checking in with staff, you can probably find her sharing a laugh (and a latte) with Olivia at Yo’ Coffee in Media.

Program Supervisor & Community Support Specialist

Julia Ellis

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Julia is a Community Support Specialist & Program Supervisor known for her positive energy and creative spirit. With a background in caregiving and education, she brings compassion and encouragement to every interaction—whether she’s guiding staff, supporting participants, or brainstorming meaningful community activities.

Based in Downingtown with her three beloved cats, Julia fills her free time with painting, playing guitar and ukulele, and creating art that reflects her joyful outlook. Her calm, upbeat presence helps create spaces where people feel heard, supported, and inspired to grow.

Behavior Specialist 

Shelby Rushie

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Shelby holds a Master’s in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis from Capella University and a Bachelor’s in Behavioral Science from Wilmington University. With a strong background in behavioral support, recruiting, and career services, she has worked in various settings, from educational and clinical environments to staffing and recruitment, helping connect professionals with opportunities in the behavioral field.

Outside of work, Shelby enjoys spending time outdoors, whether hiking new trails, capturing nature through photography, or discovering new coffee spots. A lifelong advocate for inclusion and opportunity, she dreams of opening a coffee truck that provides meaningful employment to individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities, combining a love for coffee with a passion for making a difference.