Gavin & Friends, by SARAH Tuxis, is a day program for adults with disabilities created by Linda Toscano and lovingly named after her son, Gavin, who has autism. Gavin has always been the heart and inspiration behind Linda’s vision to create a place where adults with differing abilities could truly thrive. That vision became a reality in 2024 with the opening of Gavin & Friends in the heart of downtown Guilford.
Linda’s journey toward this milestone began in 2022 when she purchased the historic Guilford Cotton Shop on Boston Street. Her goal was deeply personal—to establish a safe, enriching environment where Gavin and others like him could continue to learn, grow, and live fulfilling lives after aging out of the Guilford Special Education program at age twenty-two.
After a year and a half of renovations, the once-historic shop was transformed into a vibrant space that now serves as both a home and a hub for connection, creativity, and community. Gavin & Friends offers adults with disabilities a supportive environment to gather, build life skills, and engage in meaningful activities. The facility features an arts and crafts room, spaces for practicing daily living skills, a recreation and multimedia room, eat-in kitchen, barber shop and nail salon, sensory and music rooms, lounge, respite care apartment, and a dedicated training room for staff. Thoughtful details such as ADA-compliant bathrooms, chair lifts, and other accessibility enhancements ensure comfort, safety, and inclusivity throughout.
Just steps from Guilford’s town green, Gavin & Friends offers endless opportunities for participants to connect with the community—whether volunteering, working, or simply enjoying the spaces shared by all who call Guilford home. What began as a mother’s dream for her son has become a lasting gift for countless families, offering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming place for adults of all abilities to belong.
Watch the latest program development and updates here.
Gavin & Friends is a day support program overseen by SARAH Tuxis that focuses on cultivating independence, building life skills, and fostering social involvement for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Housed at 69 Boston Street in the heart of downtown Guilford, CT, Gavin & Friends has a strong focus on community engagement.
Our individuals love volunteering for Meals on Wheels, Hole in the Wall consignment, and at the SARAH Tuxis office. We are always looking for ways to give back to our community, so please reach out to us if you are in need of enthusiastic volunteers!
For more information, please contact:
Linda cherishes the lasting relationships she builds with her clients, remaining a trusted advisor long after their real estate journeys conclude.
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