In December 2024, the Colin Farrell Foundation announced it had granted 16 U.S. organisations between $10,000 and $50,000 to expand adult disability services.
The award cycle drew 236 applications nationwide, and Sayrs Consulting’s independent review panel selected the finalists based on impact, sustainability and innovation.
Recipients will tackle gaps that appear when school‑based programs end near age 22, offering housing, vocational training, recreation and inclusive employment.
Bluebirds Farm in North Carolina will use a social‑enterprise model to teach life skills, while New Leaf in Oklahoma will expand integrated housing and job placement. In Florida, Independence Landing is adding culinary workforce training to its residential program.
The foundation will monitor progress quarterly, with all projects slated to launch new initiatives by June 2025, according to foundation director Maya Patel. "These grants will give families the stability they need," Patel said.
Farrell, who has publicly advocated for people with Angelman syndrome, hopes the program inspires other philanthropists to support adult disability services.