Friday Newsletter
Staff Reminders
Arc Email: Please be checking your ne-arc email regularly. We recommend that you download the Outlook app on your smartphone.
Zoom Phone: Please make sure you are utilizing your Zoom phone associated with your Northeast Arc account. If you do not have a Zoom phone, please reach out to the Staffing Coordinator.
Progress Notes: All Progress Notes are due in Netsmart by Monday at 9:00 am. Remember to e-sign your progress notes. If you are unable to submit your progress notes on time, please notify the Staffing Coordinator immediately.
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
This March, as we celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we at the GPS program are reminded of our vital mission to empower the individuals we support.
Our dedicated Community Support Coaches, Autism Coaches, and College Navigators work alongside remarkable individuals, helping them navigate life’s challenges and celebrate their unique abilities and contribution to our community
This month gives us an opportunity to highlight the importance of inclusion and accessibility while recognizing the progress we’ve made together. It also reminds us that our work continues as we strive to create a world where everyone has the support they need to thrive.
The Guided Personal Supports (GPS) program remains committed to advancing understanding, promoting acceptance, and creating opportunities for all. Thank you for your continued dedication to this important work!
The Importance of Knowing
Human Rights
Understanding your human rights is important. They ensure dignity, respect, and equal opportunities for all. By being aware of your rights can create an environment that encourages independence, personal growth, and full participation in community life. If you would like to learn more about your human rights, reach out to our Human Rights Officer, Andrew Hartigan.
Your Human Rights include:
Dignity: To be treated with respect, including respect for ethnic and cultural diversity.
Have Questions or Concerns?
Please contact our Human Rights Officer:
Andrew Hartigan Program Coordinator
Guided Personal Supports (GPS) (978) 924 - 5872
ahartigan@ne-arc.org
Self-determination: To make meaningful choices and informed decisions about your life, including taking reasonable risks.
Communication: To communicate with others and fully express yourself, with access to necessary assistance and devices.
Relationships: To visit others, receive visitors, and have friendships and intimate relationships.
Privacy: In personal care, communication, visits, your home, and personal information.
Personal Safety: To feel safe and be free from harm or abuse.
Personal Property: To obtain, keep, use, and dispose of personal possessions.
Education, Employment, and Compensation: To have equal access to education and employment opportunities, and fair compensation for work.
Community Membership: To receive services that promote living in the least restrictive and most typical settings, encouraging meaningful community membership.
Northeast Arc’s Community Resource Center connects individuals and families with valuable resources and events in their local communities. By providing access to these resources, the Community Resource Center empowers families and individuals to actively participate in community life, creating a sense of belonging and inclusion.
Merrie Rothstein mrothstein@ne-arc.org
Christopher Marchese cmarchese@ne-arc.org
Eva Mostoufi emostoufi@ne-arc.org Holly Keane hkeane@ne-arc.org
ASD Adaptive Training Program
Our fitness professionals follow a comprehensive gym program designed to create a safe and beneficial training environment for individuals with ASD.
Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the Gym Setting
Understanding the challenges ad considerations specific to individuals with ASD in a gym environment
Adaptive Exercise Techniques
Learning how to modify exercises and workouts to accommodate the sensory and motor needs of individuals with ASD
Visual Supports and Communication Strategies
Implementing visual schedules, social stories, and other communication tools to enhance understanding and participation
Sensory-Friendly Environment
Creating a sensory-friendly gym space by managing noise levels, lighting, and providing sensory tools
Behavior Management in the Gym
Utilizing positive reinforcement strategies and behavior management techniques to promote positive behaviors
Individualized Fitness Plans
Developing personalized fitness plans based on the individual’s strengths, interests, and goals.
Supportive Coaching and Inclusive Practices
Training coaches and staff on inclusive practices and effective communication to provide a supportive and welcoming environment
Collaboration with Families and Caregivers
Engaging families and caregivers in the gym program to ensure continuity of support and progress monitoring.
International Women’s Day
Program facilitated by the Groveland Council on Aging
Celebrate International Women’s Day with us at Empowered Voices: A panel discussion featuring inspiring women who are making an impact in Groveland and the greater community. This special event will highlight achievements, challenges, and contributions across generations, focusing on resilience, leadership, and the power of shared stories.
Panel Highlights:
Insightful discussions from dynamic women leaders
An open Q&A session for meaningful audience engagement
Practical takeaways to inspire and empower your own journey
International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women ’ s achievements, and this event offers a wonderful opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate together. Whether you ’ re seeking inspiration or looking to honor the women in your life, we invite you to join us for this empowering afternoon. Let’s celebrate the strength, wisdom, and resilience of women in Groveland and beyond!
International Women's Day (March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality.
IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. IWD is not country, group or organization specific.
#IWD2025 #AccelerateAction https://www internationalwomensday com/
LOCATION
Veasey Memorial Park
201 Washington Street Groveland, MA 01834
DATE & TIME March 8, 2025 2:00 PM
Relationships, Family, and Mental Health
Date & Time
Description
Mar 12, 2025 01:00-02:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
The complicated nature of mental illnesses can make relationships challenging, and caregiver stress the emotional and physical stress of caregiving is common. Learn strategies to set boundaries, respond to difficult behavior, and manage your own stress in this one-hour webinar sponsored by Polk County, Iowa.
Discrimination, Fear, and Mental Health in LGBTQ+ Communities
Date & Time
Description
Mar 13, 2025 11:00 AM-12:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
LGBTQIA+ adults are three times more likely to experience a mental health disorder than people who identify as straight. Discuss what factors impact this statistic, how to find supportive professionals, ways of coping, and how to be a true ally in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa.
Understanding Psychotherapy
Date & Time
Description
Mar 25, 2025 01:00-02:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
How does talk therapy work? Who benefits? How do you find a good therapist? Discuss the reasons why people go to therapy, what the process truly looks like, and how to find a qualified professional in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa
Webinars & Events
Understanding Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Date & Time
Description
Mar 26, 2025 01:00-02:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder is an eating disorder characterized by very selective eating habits, a disturbance in eating patterns, or both. Separate myths and facts and explore the signs and symptoms, prevalence, and treatment of this often-misunderstood diagnosis Learn practical tips to manage symptoms and support loved ones in this one-hour webinar sponsored by Polk County, Iowa.
Understanding Loneliness and Building Social Connections
Date & Time
Description
Apr 2, 2025 11:00 AM-12:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
People can be alone and not feel lonely, or be surrounded by others and still experience feelings of isolation. Explore the causes of loneliness, how it spreads through social networks, and the impact of loneliness on our physical and mental health in this one-hour seminar Learn practical tips to strengthen current relationships and make new connections in this one-hour seminar sponsored by Polk County, Iowa.
The Science Behind Confidence & Self-Esteem
Date & Time
Description
Apr 3, 2025 011:00 AM-12:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
People with low self-esteem and self-confidence often see themselves in a distorted way that can negatively impact their personal relationships, work, and education. Explore protective & vulnerability factors in self-esteem and learn practical tips to overcome self-limiting beliefs and strengthen self-confidence in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa.
If you are having a mental health crisis or need emergency assistance, dial 911 or contact local emergency services
7 Cups https://www7cupscom/ This free online text counseling service connects customers to volunteer listeners who offer non-therapeutic advice Anyone can sign up, including teenagers who are looking for other (trained) teenagers Access to licensed therapists is available for $150 per month. 7 Cups does not accept insurance.
Blah Therapy https://blahtherapy.com/ Free 24/7 anonymous peer chat. Subscriptions for unlimited professional therapy cost $60-$90/week. Blah Therapy does not accept insurance.
Bliss by the Centre of Interactive Mental Health Solutions https://cimhs.com/ Free selfguided online cognitive behavior therapy program for depression Bliss does not offer therapy appointments
Doctor on Demand https://doctorondemandcom/ 24/7 access to doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and other medical experts anytime, including weekends, holidays, and late at night. You can also talk to professionals not related to mental health, including urgent care doctors. Doctors on Demand accepts insurance. If you don’t have insurance, a 25-minute session is $129 and a 50-minute session is $179. Initial psychiatrist appointments cost $299, and 15-minute follow-up appointments are $129.
eTherapyPro https://etherapyprocom/ Access therapy services via video call, phone call, or text chat Free 3-day trial session, though a credit card is required After the trial period, the cost is $40/week ($16000/month) eTherapyPro does not accept insurance
Important Considerations for Online Therapy
Confidentiality, Privacy, and Unreliable Technology Confidentiality is just as important for online therapy as it is for in-person therapy Because information is relayed online, privacy leaks & hacking are a concern Technology problems can also make it difficult to access treatment when you need it
Not Appropriate for Severe & Persistent Mental Illness The scope of online therapy can be limited and may not be effective for more complex situations. For people with an addiction or complex symptoms of a mental health condition, online therapy is not to be recommended unless other in-person therapy is also involved in the treatment plan.
Lack of Response to Crisis Situations If a person is experiencing suicidal thoughts it can be difficult or impossible for the therapist to provide direct assistance. If you are having suicidal thoughts, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8 (US & Canada) or 1-800-273- 8255 for support and help from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
Ethical and Legal Concerns Online therapy eliminates geographic restraints, making the enforcement of legal and ethical codes difficult. Therapists can treat clients from anywhere in the world, and many states have different licensing requirements and treatment guidelines It is important to confirm your therapist's qualifications and experience before starting the treatment process
50/50 FOR EMPLOYMENT FIRST CONFERENCE
Join 50 Career Seekers and 50 Workforce Development professionals to create an inclusive workforce.
When & Where Featured Speakers
Thursday, April 3
9am to 3pm
Hogan Campus Center
College of the Holy Cross
1 College Street, Worcester, MA
Adriana Mallozzi
Exec. Director of Mass. REquipment, Entrepreneur, & Professional with a Disability
Doug Crandell
Public Service Faculty at Univ. of Georgia, Author of “Twenty-Two Cents an Hour,” & Sibling Advocate
Our Vision
To provide a barrier free pathway for individuals of all abilities to discover and achieve their most meaningful purpose in life.
Our Mission
To blend cutting-edge technology with personalized mentorship to empower people of all abilities to discover and achieve their most fulfilling path in life.
TheMostComprehensiveCareer ExplorationProgramAvailableFor StudentswithDisabilities
Mission1:Self-Exploration
L I V E M E N T O R S H I P
Mission2:CareerExploration
Ourvideo-basedassessments guidestudentsincreating theirownCareerDNA™,a unique25-point"Career NeedsFingerprint" highlightingtheresultsof7 intuitiveexercises Studentsnowexploreand evaluatealignedcareersto identifywhichonesexcitethem most Withsupportfromtheir mentor,theythencompare thesecareerspoint-bypoint totheirCareerDNA.
Mission3:SoftSkills, Outreach,&CareerPath
Usingourcomprehensive toolkitandsoftskillstraining fromtheirMentor,they connectwithprofessionalsand conductinformational interviewstolearnwhatit's reallyliketoworkinthefield.
Please Note: Prior to attending any recreation activities, registration and an intake is required.
Please Note: Prior to attending any recreation activities, registration and an intake is required.
OurCoreBelief: All people have the
About having different conversations
A different way of thinking
Encouraging high expectations
Having life experiences to move the trajectory in the desired direction
Integrating multiple types of support
Only for professionals to use
Just about the “tools”
A “program”
Designed for just one specific age group
Solely for people with disabilities and their families
Watch Dr Sheli Reynolds share how her experience growing up with a brother with a disability impacted and informed the development of the LifeCourse framework and tools In this 18-minute video you will also learn about each of the principles and why they are important to supporting your “good life ”
BLUE ENVELOPE PROGRAM
THE BLUE ENVELOPE PROGRAM IS AN EFFORT TO EASE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM AND LAW ENFORCEMENT DURING MOTOR VEHICLE OPERATOR INTERACTIONS.
ThecoreideaoftheBlueEnvelopeisstraightforward yetimpactful Itinvolvesaspeciallydesignedenvelope thatholdsadriver'sessentialdocuments license, registration,andacontactcard However,its significancegoesbeyondjustastoragesolution The envelopefeaturescriticalcommunicationguidelineson itsexterior,specificallytailoredtoassistlawenforcement officersinrecognizingandadaptingtheirapproach wheninteractingwithadriverwhohasautism
THIS INITIATIVE ADDRESSES SEVERAL KEY OBJECTIVES:
Enhancing Understanding Reducing Anxiety
Streamlining Communication Encouraging Preparedness
The Blue Envelope is more than just an envelope; it's a symbol of our commitment to inclusivity and understanding. It represents a step forward in ensuring that every driver, regardless of their neurological differences, can experience a sense of safety and respect on the road.
Through this program, we aim to build bridges between law enforcement and the autism community, fostering a culture of awareness and compassion that benefits everyone involved.
For more information, visit: www.mass.gov/info-details/blue-envelope-program
Thegold-standard evaluationformedically complexand/orolder adultdrivers Evaluationsforthose lookingtodrivewith adaptiveequipmentsuch ashandcontrols,spinner knobs,andleftfoot accelerators.
Accessible Chef is a collection of free visual recipes and other resources to help teach cooking skills to individuals with disabilities at home or in a special education.
Check out our website for visual recipes, resources, and our recipe creator!
What kind of resources are available to teach cooking skills?
Visual Recipes
Visual recipes make use of task analysis, which is an evidence-based approach for breaking down a complex task into manageable steps. Each task is separated into discrete skills, and individuals can learn to complete skills in a specific order to learn new tasks. Students may require visual, physical, or verbal prompts to complete each skill, and prompts may be gradually removed as the individual becomes more independent. Visual recipes share similarities with PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) and curricula created with Boardmaker.
Assistive Technologies
Assistive technologies are available in a variety of low and high tech options. Cooking apps can be found in the Apple app store, and include images of cooking supplies, actions, and appliances that can be combined into recipes and viewed on a phone or tablet. Parents and teachers can also produce video or audio-based prompts, which can be played on phones, tablets, computers, or portable DVD players.
Kitchen Equipment
Kitchen equipment can be adapted to make cooking easier and safer for individuals with physical disabilities. Ideas for adapting kitchen equipment can be found in the resources section. Many challenges in the kitchen can be solved with a combination of creativity, adaptation, and practice.
Check out these recipes by clicking the images below.
Peer support
You are not alone! Come join us for a peer led support group.
Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 2 pm to 3 pm
Scan the QR code or Click here to join
GRATEFUL ASPECTS
young adults peer support group
Mondays 3pm-4pm on Zoom
Scan the QR code
LGBTQ+ Community Gatherings
A space to build a support system, and a sense of chosen family, with your community.
Our community gatherings are peer-led support groups that are non-clinical and led by a collective of individuals with lived experience in the group's topic or community. Each community gathering is unique to the population it serves and is created in a peer-led collaborative group process There is no pressure to share to attend We welcome anyone, anywhere that is 18+.
Community Gatherings
Thefollowingarefree,non-clinical,peer-ledsupportgroupshostedbyPeerSupport SpacetakingplaceinEasternTime(EST).Newfriendsarealwayswelcome. Registrationisrequiredforin-personeventssothatwecankeepourgatheringsunder 10peopleasaCOVIDprecaution. Forourvirtualgroups,pleaseusethezoomlinksonthewebsite(oncomputerorzoom phoneapp)toenter
12PMand6PMEachDay,Monday-Saturday **YoumustemailMary@peersupportspace.orgto receivethepasscodesforthedailycommunal gatherings-thisisasecurityprecautiontoensure thatwearekeepingthespaceassafeaspossible**
For more information, visit https://peersupportspace. org/communitygatherings-1 Daily Communal Gatherings
North Shore | Community Opportunities
BINGO NIGHT - LYNN, MA
Wednesday, March 12
5:30-7:00 PM
JoinusforaFreeFamilyBINGONight!
Therewillbefood&beveragesandprizesfor bingo!
FOUR LEAF CLOVER WATERCOLOR -GLOUCESTER, MA
Saturday, March 15 10 AM-12 PM
LearnaboutIrishhistoryonCapeAnn. Findafour-leafcloverinaspecial “lucky”scavengerhunt,thenmakeyour ownwatercolorpaintingforSaint Patrick’sDayusingsaltandother techniques.
MAPLE SUGARING SATURDAYSTOPSFIELD, MA
Saturday, March 15
Sessions from 10:30 am - 3:30 PM
Onaguidedwalk,learnhowtoidentifya sugarmapletree,observetappingandsap collectionmethods,watchthesapbeing boileddowninthesugarhouse,andgeta sweettasteofthefinalproduct Tourslast aboutanhourandruninallweather
Metro North | Community Opportunities
INTRO TO PHOTOGRAPHY -MALDEN, MA
Saturday, March 8
4:00-6:00 PM
Thisbeginner-friendlyFREEworkshopwill introduceyoutothebasicsofphotographyin awaythatinspiresconfidenceandexcitement toexplorefurther.
Free,inexchangeforcompletingasurvey abouttheworkshopimmediatelyfollowing.
WE HIKE TO HEAL, WOMEN’S GROUP -STONEHAM, MA
YARN & YAP -MALDEN, MA
Tuesday, March 18 Starts at 6:00 PM
Bringyourknittingorcrochetprojectto workonwhilechattingwithothercrafters! Pleasenotethatthisisnotaclass.No registrationrequired.
Saturday, March 29
11:00 AM-1:30 PM
Join"WeHiketoHeal"Ambassador, Kayla,forthisFREEWomen'sGroup HikeatMiddlesexFellsReservationin Stoneham,MA.
Merrimack Valley | Community Opportunities
ST. PATRICK’S DAY LUNCHHAVERHILL, MA
Friday, March 21
12:00-2:00 PM
TheHaverhillCouncilofAgingishavingaSt. Patrick’sLuncheonwithmusicbyJoeLeary.
Requiredticketsare$20eachand reservationsmaybemadebycallingPaulaat 978-374-2390,ext 391
A WOMEN’S PANEL DISCUSSIONGROVELAND, MA
Saturday, March 8
Starts at 2:00 PM
CelebrateInternationalWomen’sDaywithus atEmpoweredVoices:Apaneldiscussion featuringinspiringwomenwhoaremakingan impactinGrovelandandthegreater community.
PLANT, PAINT, CROSS-POLLINATE
Saturday, March 8 10:30 AM-1:30 PM
‘Plant Paint Cross-Pollinate’ (PPC) is a public art mural project led by artist Jenn Houle. Participants will paint Butterfly Mural signs then plant and keep the seeds of native pollinator-friendly species and share ‘Seed Stories’ personal connections to place & plants
Lowell Area | Community Opportunities
MILL CITY SKILL SHARE -LOWELL, MA
Saturday, March 29
Doors open at 10:30
MillCitySkillShareisafree,communityfocusedeventopentothepublic!Webelieve inmakinghands-onlearningandcreativity accessibletoeveryone,andwewelcome adultsandadult-supervisedchildrentojoinus foradayofexplorationandfun
HOLISTIC ARTS, CRAFTS & PSYCHIC FAIR -CHELMSFORD, MA
Saturday, March 8
Starts at 11:00 AM
Exploreavarietyofvendorsoffering handmadeitems,crystals,essentialoils, herbalblends,GemstoneandCrystaljewelry, Decor,TieDyeandmore.
BINGO NIGHT! -CHELMSFORD, MA
Every Thursday Weather Permitting
Doors open at 3:30 pm. Ticket sales begin at 5:00 pm. Games begin at 6:45. Minimum admission is $5, and includes 10 games. Four special games are played, and carry an additional cost of $1 per card. All prizes are CASH prizes!
Central Middlesex | Community Opportunities
CASTLEBERRY SPRING CRAFT FESTIVAL -WILMINGTON, MA
Embracetheseasonandexperiencethe CastleberrySpringArts&CraftFestival. Discoverover150boothsfeaturing handmadeart,handcraftedtreasures,and delicioustreats.It’sacelebrationofseasonal creativityyouwon’twanttomiss!
March 15-16 10:00 AM-5:00 PM Saturday, March 22 10:00 AM-2:00 PM
PIXEL PARADISE, FRIDAY NIGHT SMASH -LEXINGTON, MA
Every Friday Night
6:00-9:00 PM
Jointhisweeklyeventtocompeteagainst othersinNintendo’sSuperSmashBros.Every Fridayfrom6-9pm,$5entryfee.
Connect with organizations and vendors who can help you with home electrification, non-car modes of transportation, composting, sustainable gardening, and so much more
GPSTeam
AboutUs
The Guided Personal Supports (GPS) program focuses on preparing individuals to acquire skills in different aspects of their lives. By promoting independence, community integration, skill building, and navigating the challenges of life, we believe that the individuals we support will find success in their day to day lives.
OurServices
The GPS program offers a a wide range of services which include:
In Home Supports
Autism Coaching/Pre-Engagement
College Navigation Agency with Choice
Assistive Technology
Social Group
A Weekend to Remember: Respite Program
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT https://tinyurl.com/GPSprogram
FamilyContact
978-924-5872
ahartigan@ne-arc.org
KristyAparo
Program Director
Oversees all aspects of the program ’ s day-to-day operations.
Staffing Coordinator
Supervises and manages per-diem staff, ensuring quality support
Program Coordinator
Serves as the primary liaison between the program, families, and individuals we support.
Project Manager
Oversees and directs the weekly social group and A Weekend to Remember: Respite Program.
MatthewAtaya
AndrewHartigan
KaileyTaggart
ne-arc.org
