Our History

For over 40 years, we have continued to expand our services to support people with disabilities across Cape Cod. Below is a listing of major milestones.

For an overview of our programs, watch this video.

  • 1968  – Cape Abilities is founded as Nauset Workshop in Orleans on Cape Cod. A workcenter setting provides jobs for Cape Codders with disabilities.
  • 1973  – The first workcenter in Hyannis opens.
  • 1975 –  Residential Services program is established.
  • 1982 –  The Cochran Center is established in Eastham.
  • 1988 – The Lyndon Center opens in Hyannis.
  • 1991 –  Nauset Workshop is renamed Nauset, Inc. to reflect the expansion of services beyond a workcenter setting.
  • 1994 –  Arts program launched. Expanded employment opportunities through the establishment of a contract with NISH for services at Air Station Cape Cod in Bourne.
  • 1997 –  Falmouth office opened.
  • 1998 –  Residential program expands to include Shared Living. Cape Abilities Vending business launched.
  • 2001 –  The Day Habilitation program is established in Hyannis.
  • 2002 –  Welcome to Cape Cod, a Cape Abilities business, is launched.
  • 2005 –  Nauset, Inc. is renamed capeAbilities to reflect our work with people with disabilities across Cape Cod.
  • 2006 -  Cape Abilities Farm launched in Dennis.
  • 2008 – capeAbilities name is renamed Cape Abilities. Cape Abilities Farm in Dennis and Marstons Mills donated to Cape Abilities.
  • 2009 – Cape Abilities Consignment & Thrift Shop opens in Barnstable Village.
  • 2009 – Centerville Pie Company forms a collaboration with Cape Abilities to employ people with disabilities in their company and raise awareness for Cape Abilities.
  • 2010  – Centerville Pie Company and Cape Abilities are featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show.
  • 2011 – Cape Abilities forms a partnership with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to create employment for people with disabilities at WHOI.
  • 2011 – Cape Abilities Farm to Table opens in Chatham, featuring Cape Abilities Farm products plus local art and more.
  • 2011 – AppsAbilities is launched to make full use of technology that can benefit people with disabilities.
  • 2012 – Completed our new greenhouse at the Lyndon Center in Hyannis, creating additional jobs for our participants and increasing our yield of tomatoes, annuals and other crops for Cape Abilities Farm.
  • 2012 – Purchased home in Sandwich to launch new residence for adults with brain injuries.