Independence Fitz You began in 2020 when our founder, Abby Bell, saw an opportunity to effect positive change in the local IDD community. She envisioned a supportive environment that empowers adults with intellectual and developmental differences to recognize their potential and use their skills and strengths to create full, vibrant, and integrated lives.
Our story is one of commitment, compassion, and continual growth. We desire to build a more inclusive society where every individual is valued and supported in their journey toward greater autonomy and achievement.
Independence Fitz You – based in West Chester, PA and a recognized provider to those in Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties – is an approved provider of the ID/A Waivers (PFDS, Community Living, Consolidated) and the PA Adult Autism Waiver.
At IFY, we provide a variety of person-centered services that promote independence, community engagement, social connections, and job fulfillment.
COLLABORATIVE.
CAPABLE.
COMPASSIONATE.
Abby is the owner and founder of Independence Fitz You. She received her BS in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and her MS in Occupational Therapy from Ohio State University. Over many years, she gained invaluable knowledge while working as an OT in various institutions across the country. She chose a career in human services because she truly enjoys meeting and learning from new people, fostering meaningful relationships and helping others to navigate and overcome obstacles.
Abby founded IFY in 2020 when she realized her passion for using her skills and experience extends beyond the traditional healthcare settings. Her journey has been rewarding, one marked by growth, learning and – most importantly – the opportunity to positively influence the lives of others. She believes in the transformative power of collaboration and finds meaning in partnering with her clients to support them in defining and achieving greater independence.
When she’s not “working,” you can find Abby tackling life’s adventures with her husband and two wonderful daughters. She has a love of hiking, reading, traveling and any and all things true crime. If you’re in West Chester or the surrounding areas and seeking support for yourself or a loved one, she would love to connect. Together, you can navigate challenges, set goals and celebrate achievements. Cheers!
Jesse Laycock is a dedicated Program Director at Independence Fitz You. She joined the team in 2024, eager to contribute to an organization that aligns with her deep-seated passion for helping others. Her professional journey spans over two decades, during which she cultivated a robust background in the art of building, growing, and managing small businesses. Her expertise is particularly concentrated in several key areas, such as small business management and strategic growth; fostering quality, long-term client relationships; and quality program management. These specializations form a cohesive skill set to promote success – not just for IFY – but ultimately, for the clients and communities we serve. Jesse has always been driven by a passion for helping people – which is evident in her kind and patient demeanor – and she strives to make a tangible, positive impact on the lives of others. She is committed to channeling her experience, skills, and unwavering dedication into creating meaningful and lasting positive change for our clients and their families.
Beyond her professional life, Jesse resides in Downingtown, PA with her husband and two children. She enjoys spending quality time with her family, cooking, gardening, traveling and being outdoors.
Brandon Liddick is one of IFY’s Program Directors. He joined the agency in July of 2024 with aspirations of making a positive impact on their clients. He first gained experience working with those with intellectual and developmental differences as a student at Kennett High School when he was selected as their school ambassador. In this role, Brandon acted as a much-needed support to any students who needed a friend, such new students or students who struggled to connect with their peers. He did what he could to help them feel valued and included, whether that meant sitting with them at lunch or walking with them to class. Empathy and compassion came naturally to him, and he has not forgotten the smiles he put on his buddies’ faces. After graduating from West Chester University in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Brandon worked in several industries, including Hospitality, Manufacturing and Agriculture. Although he enjoyed these experiences, he wanted to find something meaningful and enjoyable – an opportunity to, once again, lift people’s spirits. He found that in IFY and, since joining the team, has capitalized on every opportunity to bring more smiles to more faces.
When not dedicating his time to his clients, Brandon likes to watch movies with his mom and devise ways to make her laugh. In the fall, Brandon coaches inside linebackers at his alma mater, Kennett High School. Go birds!
Lauren is a Licensed Behavioral Specialist consultant with over 10 years of experience supporting individuals with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities across educational, residential, and community-based settings. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from West Chester University and her Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis from Saint Joseph’s University. Lauren joined IFY in April of 2024 as their lead behavior specialist and head of the agency’s Behavior Services branch. Lauren is passionate about using the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis to support meaningful behavior change, to increase independence, and to improve quality of life. She values a collaborative approach and works closely with clients, families, and team members to develop practical, person-centered strategies.
In her free time, she enjoys being outdoors, traveling and spending time with family, friends, and two golden retrievers – Summer and Benny.
Each client receives regular visits from management, all of whom work closely with them, their families and their support network to address goals and optimize progress.
We offer a wide range of services in order to address all areas of adult life – functional life skills, behavior management, emotional regulation, communication skills, socialization and relationship-building.
Clients are supported in engaging with and contributing to their local communities, fostering social connections and meaningful involvement.
We have established connections throughout the local community, and our job services are focused on helping clients procure and maintain competitive, integrated employment – promoting their strengths in an inclusive community setting.
Connect with us today, and let’s create a life that FITZ!
