Mary Lee Foundation

09/02/2026

For nearly 13 years, Billie Ellisor has been a dedicated member of the Mary Lee Foundation family, supporting individuals in both our Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) and Home and Community-Based Services (HCS) programs. In her role, Billie assists clients with their Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), helping them build independence while providing compassionate care, encouragement, and support each day.

What Billie loves most about her job is spending quality time with the people we serve. Whether it's taking clients on walks, playing games, or simply being there to offer support and kindness. She believes what makes the Mary Lee Foundation truly special is the love and care shared by both the clients and staff, creating a community where everyone belongs.

One of Billie's favorite memories is of two cottage roommates who brought endless smiles to those around them. She fondly remembers one client joyfully hugging her roommate, sitting beside her, and laughing together. A simple but meaningful reminder of the friendships and happiness that flourish at Mary Lee.

When Billie thinks of the Mary Lee Foundation, the words that come to mind are love, caring, and joy because of the incredible people who make up our community. She is referring to both the clients and staff whose compassion and kindness create such a special place. Billie hopes others understand that the individuals we serve live full, meaningful lives and, despite the challenges they may face, are capable of accomplishing anything they set their minds to.

Outside of work, Billie enjoys traveling to visit family and friends, fishing, attending church, helping others whenever she can, and firing up the grill for a great BBQ. Her caring spirit and dedication make a lasting impact on the lives of our clients and everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her.

08/31/2026

⛳ TEE UP FOR A GREAT CAUSE! 💚💙

Get your foursome together and join us for the Mary Lee Foundation’s 2nd Annual Golf Tournament! 🏌️‍♀️🏌️‍♂️

📅 September 21, 2026
📍 River Place Country Club
⏰ 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Enjoy a day of golf, fellowship, friendly competition, great food, and fun all while making a difference in the lives of the adults we serve. ❤️

The Mary Lee Foundation provides programs and services that help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other diverse needs live with greater dignity, independence, purpose, and opportunity. Our services include day rehabilitation, therapy, vocational opportunities, housing, a food pantry, and more.

When you play, sponsor, or donate, you’re helping create opportunities for the people we serve to learn, grow, connect, and thrive. 💙💚

👉 Register today and help us swing for a cause!
https://events.golfstatus.com/event/mary-lee-foundation-golf-tournament

08/28/2026

Therapy isn’t just about getting better, it’s about discovering what you CAN do!

Studies have found that only about 4–6% of Medicaid-enrolled adults with intellectual disabilities received occupational therapy, even though OT can help people develop skills for everyday activities, work, and greater independence.

At the Mary Lee Foundation, therapy can look like learning, practicing, laughing, trying something new, and celebrating those “I did it!” moments. 🎉

From physical and occupational therapy to speech and mental health services, our goal is simple: Help every person build skills, grow in confidence, and live their best life.

Because sometimes the biggest victories aren't about taking giant steps, they're about taking the next step. 👣✨

08/26/2026

🐾 Happy National Dog Day! 🐾

Today we’re celebrating the loyal, loving, and sometimes downright silly pups who bring so much joy to our lives! ❤️🐶

And what better way to celebrate than with Billo’s Dog Treats! Made with spent grain from Hold Out Brewing, these tasty treats are a fun way to spoil your four-legged best friend while supporting the vocational program at the Mary Lee Foundation. 🐾💙

📸 Show us your pup! Drop a picture of your dog in the comments and let us see those adorable faces! 🐕🐩🦮🐕‍🦺

Happy National Dog Day from all of us at Mary Lee Foundation!
https://www.maryleefoundation.org/billos-dog-treats/

08/24/2026

In just three months at the Mary Lee Foundation, Jonathan has made a lasting impression with a fun, friendly, and energetic personality that brings great vibes to everyone around. What Jonathan enjoys most about being here is the people. From the very beginning, both staff and fellow clients made
Jonathan feel welcomed and at home, creating a strong sense of belonging.

A favorite staff member is Courtney Haskell, whose encouragement and positivity make every day at Daybreak even brighter. Jonathan describes Courtney as "awesome and fabulous" and says seeing Courtney always brings a smile.

One of Jonathan's favorite things since being at the Mary Lee Foundation is meeting Raquel. Building meaningful friendships has been a highlight of Jonathan's time at Mary Lee, and the connection with a special friend has made the experience even more rewarding.

Jonathan is currently learning how to count money and continues to build valuable life skills each day. Jonathan also hopes people understand that individuals with disabilities are loving, caring people who make wonderful friends.

Looking ahead, Jonathan's dream is to become a youth pastor and make a positive difference in the lives of others. Outside of the Mary Lee Foundation, Jonathan enjoys going to the mall and spending time with friends.

Jonathan's joyful spirit, enthusiasm, and caring heart are a wonderful addition to the Mary Lee Foundation family, and we look forward to seeing all that the future holds.

08/21/2026

⛳️ IT’S ALMOST TIME TO HIT THE LINKS! 🏌️‍♀️🏌️‍♂️

The countdown is on for the Mary Lee Foundation’s 2nd Annual Golf Tournament! 🎉

On September 21st, we’ll gather at River Place Country Club for a day filled with great golf, good friends, plenty of fun, and—most importantly—a chance to make a difference in the lives of the people we serve. ❤️

Every swing, every putt, and every sponsorship helps support the programs and services that make a difference every day at the Mary Lee Foundation.

📅 September 21, 2026
⏰ 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 River Place Country Club

Whether you’re joining us on the course, sponsoring a team, or supporting us from the sidelines, we’d love to have you be part of the day!

🏌️ Grab your team. Bring your game. Make a difference!
Link - https://events.golfstatus.com/event/mary-lee-foundation-golf-tournament

08/19/2026

Help us Celebrate! 🎉
We are so excited to announce Phyl Bijou as this month’s Mary Lee Foundation Employee of the Month! 💙

Since joining the Mary Lee Foundation, Phyl has consistently shown what it means to be an exceptional caregiver. Dependable, compassionate, hardworking, and always willing to jump in wherever needed, Phyl never hesitates to lend a helping hand, whether supporting his assigned clients or stepping in to help else.

Phyl brings empathy, genuine respect, and a warm smile to every interaction. His ability to listen, connect, and build meaningful relationships helps our clients feel welcome, valued, and cared for. 😊

From day one, Phyl has brought enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a desire to learn and grow. His positive attitude is contagious, and his dedication inspires those around them.

Phyl truly embodies the mission and values of the Mary Lee Foundation. 👏

08/17/2026

💙 Happy National Nonprofit Day! 💙

Today we’re celebrating National Nonprofit Day and all the people who choose to make a difference! 🌟

At the Mary Lee Foundation, we’re incredibly grateful for the staff, volunteers, donors, families, community partners, and supporters who help us create opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Every donation, volunteer hour, encouraging word, and act of kindness helps us continue our mission. Together, we’re creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, belong, and thrive. 💙

Today, we celebrate not only what nonprofits do, but the people who make the work possible.

Thank you for being part of the Mary Lee Foundation family! 🥰
If you would like to partner with us too please go to https://www.maryleefoundation.org/

Mary Lee Foundation is a 10 acre city block of property in South Austin providing supportive, accessible & affordable environment for adults with diverse needs.

08/14/2026

Life is a blank canvas, and every day gives us a new opportunity to create something beautiful. ✨

You don’t have to do everything perfectly, you just have to keep showing up, trying new things, and putting your own unique mark on the world. Every small step, new skill, kind word, creative idea, and smile matters!

At the Mary Lee Foundation, we believe progress comes in all shapes and sizes, and every accomplishment is worth celebrating. 🎉 Our clients remind us every day that there is no one right way to create something beautiful.

So today, celebrate the little wins, color outside the lines, and keep creating your masterpiece! 🖌️🌟
Have a fantastic Friday, everyone! 💙😊

08/12/2026

🎨✨ The walls of the Mary Lee Foundation are becoming a gallery of inspiration!

Our office is proudly displaying artwork created by our incredibly talented clients, and we couldn't be more excited to share it. Each painting tells a story, showcases a unique perspective, and reflects the creativity, imagination, and heart of the artist behind it.

These aren't just paintings, they're reminders that talent comes in many forms and deserves to be celebrated. Every brushstroke reflects the incredible abilities of the individuals we serve.

If you visit the Mary Lee Foundation, be sure to take a moment to admire these amazing works of art. You just might discover your new favorite artist. ❤️🎨