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About ABS
Ability Beyond Sight (ABS) is transforming lives and perceptions through the power of touch.
What began in a Bergen County basement with a bold idea—inspired by time-tested models from Japan, Korea, and China—has become a movement redefining workforce inclusion in the U.S. wellness industry.
From Legacy to Leadership For over a century, blind and visually impaired individuals across the Far East have shaped massage therapy into a cultural cornerstone, blending art, science, and livelihood. In South Korea, a 1913 law reserved massage therapy for blind practitioners, establishing a lasting model of empowerment through touch.
Today, ABS carries that legacy forward—drawing from proven global models and, building on the success of the I-AM Possible Pilot Program in Bergen County, NJ, we are proud to launch the Train-to-Hire Program as the next chapter in workforce inclusion.
The Catalyst: I-AM Possible Launched in 2015 with four blind massage therapists, ABS delivered over 1,000 complimentary massages across New Jersey, reshaping public perceptions, forging lasting partnerships, and earning county-wide recognition. This two-year pilot became proof of concept and fuel for the future.
Our Mission
"Empowering blind and visually impaired individuals through transformative training, employment, and inclusion; proving that ability isn't seen — it's felt."
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The Equation for Transformation
70%
Unemployment
70% unemployment rate among blind/VI
Untapped Talent
Untapped workforce with proven excellence in the art & science of massage therapy for centuries
$54B
Massage Industry
$54 billion massage industry facing a shortage of massage therapists - Projected 20% job growth from 2021-2031
Unmatched opportunity for transformation
Opportunity + Inclusion = Economic Empowerment
The Grand Finale: A Celebration of Possibilities
As ABS’s Two-Year I-AM Possible Pilot Program came to a close, the journey wasn’t ending— it was just beginning.
To honor this milestone, ABS hosted a Community Wellness Evening, uniting supporters,
sponsors, pastors, and community members in recognition of breakthrough and belonging. What
unfolded wasn’t just a celebration, it was living proof of transformation.
Testimonials poured in, revealing: The profound impact of blind and visually impaired massage
therapists The undeniable power of inclusion in wellness and workforce development The
resounding recognition that gave rise to Train-to-Hire
With the pilot’s legacy now sealed, the future stands wide open. ABS is launching Train-toHire—a bold new chapter expanding opportunity, breaking barriers, and declaring that employment for blind individuals is no longer the exception…It’s the expectation.
Shining a Light: Community Voices & Impact
I wasn’t sure what to expect from a blind massage therapist, but I stand completely corrected. Not only was it the best massage I’ve ever had, but it showed me the incredible skill, precision, and focus these therapists bring to their work. Nancy is leading something extraordinary, and I fully support her mission—this program proves that talent and dedication know no limits.
Jennifer Z.
Event Sponsors
Testimonials
Real voices. Real impact. These aren’t just testimonials—they’re the heartbeat of change.
As Featured In
Massage Magazine
“A Groundbreaking Nonprofit”
WFME Radio
Spotlight on inclusion and faith-driven leadership
Recipient
For innovation and accessibility
Blind, Bold & Beautiful
Silvana and Kency exemplify strength, talent, and resilience. Their success proves that ability is defined not by sight—but by skill, heart, and vision.
A Career Pathway, Not a Charity - From Pilot to Pathway: Launching What’s Possible
The Train-to-Hire Initiative Building on the success of the I-AM Possible Pilot Program, ABS launches the Train-to-Hire Initiative—a structured, scalable career pathway designed to prepare blind and visually impaired individuals for success in the wellness industry.
Led by Master Massage Therapist and ABS Board Chair Dawud Ali, and delivered in partnership with local massage school, the program blends tactile-centered instruction—modeled on successful Far East frameworks—with a state-approved massage therapy curriculum. Together, we’re turning training into transformation and inclusion into impact.
Nancy De Siervo
Founder
Nancy, the founder and visionary behind Ability Beyond Sight (ABS), is a force of transformation in the wellness industry. As the Spa Director at a major franchise, she shapes the brand’s strategic direction, vision, and growth, consistently exceeding sales goals.
ABS, from its inception, embodies Nancy’s dream—a universal platform fostering camaraderie among all people. It raises public awareness, shifts attitudes, and celebrates the healing power of touch for individuals who are blind. Nancy’s mission is clear: to empower licensed Massage Therapists on their journey to personal and economic freedom, culminating in employment and entrepreneurial success.
Her commitment to community service has garnered radio interviews, massage write-ups, and the prestigious 2016 New Jersey Salute to Champions Award for promoting inclusivity. Nancy holds an associate’s degree in business from Bergen Community College, is a New Jersey Board Certified skincare specialist, and boasts numerous day spa certifications. Her touch transcends boundaries, leaving a lasting impact.
Natalie Fedorchenko
Treasurer
Master Esthetician - has been an esthetician for over 15 years and has a strong passion for helping clients look their best and always goes above and beyond to achieve that. With a background in teaching and spa management, Natalie always strives to put the client first and caters to their needs. She believes in educating clients and working with them to obtain the best results for the skin and well-being of a person. Natalie’s approach to skin health is cultivating balance from the inside out and developing healthy habits. She specializes in services ranging from customized facials to more advanced treatments such as micro current, micro needling, acne, and skin tag removal targeting specific concerns and signs of aging. Natalie is a certified Gua Sha Massage provider, Acne Specialist and also an Oncology Certified Esthetician.
Fred Di Tecco
Member
Fred is the owner of OnTimeWebDesign.biz LLC and has an extensive background in all areas of marketing, multi-media advertising and website design. He enjoys helping business owners craft their social media content and Google Business Profile updates. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family and giving back to the community with his NewJerseyCarShows.com website.
Dawud Ali
Board Chair
Dawud Ali, the Founder/CEO of A Friend In Knead, is a remarkable individual who has seamlessly blended arts, entertainment, spirituality, and holistic living. As a master massage therapist and trainer, he has made significant contributions to the field.
His achievements include being an approved provider by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) and earning the prestigious title of 2024 New Jersey Massage Champion. Beyond massage therapy, Dawud is also a talented musician and a certified audio engineer. In addition to his personal accomplishments, Dawud is deeply committed to community service. He serves as the CEO of Alu Cultural Arts & Mentoring Program (ACAMP), a nonprofit organization that provides music and fine arts education in the Bronx, NY. Furthermore, he holds the position of Board Chair at Ability Beyond Sight (ABS), an organization dedicated to advancing the careers of visually impaired massage therapists.
A Friend In Knead (AFIK) has touched lives across various settings, from hospitals and wellness centers to boxing gyms, festivals, spa parties, weddings, and corporate events. Their mission is to create an oasis of calm, relaxation, pain relief, natural anti-aging, healing, and customized care within the community. Dawud’s presence brings warmth, empathy, harmony, and art to any spiritual, therapeutic, or healing environment. His commitment to soulful well-being is truly commendable. Dawud’s favorite quote, “where the spirit does not work with the hand there is no art”- L. Da Vinci.
Christine Howell
Secretary
Christine has dedicated countless hours over the years to volunteering at soup kitchens and feeding the homeless. With a background in food service and retail, she brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to her volunteer work. Her unwavering commitment to serving those in need has made a significant impact on her community. With a compassionate heart and a tireless spirit, Christine ensures that everyone she encounters feels valued and cared for. Her efforts not only provide nourishment but also bring hope and dignity to the lives of many. Christine is very excited to be part of the Ability Beyond Sight Organization, where she continues to exemplify the true spirit of volunteerism and community service.
Join Our Movement
Ability Beyond Sight is revolutionizing the massage industry—not just through employment, but through transformation. With each supporter, ABS deepens its impact. Together, we are rewriting the narrative. Together, we are illuminating a new path forward.