Friday Newsletter
Mental Health Mental Health
Awareness Awareness Month Month
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.
We are moving our bowling events to mid-June, so be on the lookout for an email with those dates.
Please be sure to:
Complete all progress notes in Netsmart before 9:00 am on Monday Email missing punches to FSpayroll@nearc.org
Check previous progress notes in Netsmart to ensure all are e-signed Reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns
Spring is the perfect time to encourage our clients to enjoy the outdoors. Please remember to take precautions to keep yourselves and clients safe and healthy.
Prevent Tick Bites: ear long pants and long-sleeved shirts.
Tuck your pants into your socks.
Use EPA-approved insect repellents *CLIENTS SHOULD USE THEIR OWN AND BE AWARE OF ALLERGIES AND/OR SKIN SENSITIVITIES. Avoid heavily wooded areas, tall grass, and leaf litter. Check yourself and encourage clients to check themselves after spending time outdoors.
Be Weather-Aware:
Check the weather forecast before heading out and be prepared for potential changes.
Keep an umbrella or raincoat handy, especially during the rainy season. Protect Yourself from the Sun: Even on cloudy days, UV rays can be strong, so protect your skin. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30) to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. *CLIENTS SHOULD USE THEIR OWN AND BE AWARE OF ALLERGIES AND/OR SKIN SENSITIVITIES. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes and face. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
The warmer weather is a great time to get clients outside for fun and engaging community activities. There are many mental and physical health benefits to enjoying the great outdoors.
Fresh air and natural surroundings provide:
Mental refreshment and reduce stress
increased physical activity
Opportunities for social interactions in new settings
Sensory experiences that can be both calming and stimulating
Even short outdoor activities can be great motivators, creating positive momentum that extends to other areas of their lives.
Greenbelt trails: Gentle Trails in Essex County Massachusetts Rail-Trails: Search your area for rail-trails.
Trustees Trails: Search your area for places to explore within the trustees reservations
TIPS:
Download the free app: ALL TRAILS to keep track of where you are and how far you walk
Bring Water
Remember to use bug spray and tick precautions (page 3) Have fun!
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.
MORE RECIPES RECIPE CREATOR RESOURCES
Chocolate Chip Waffles
Chocolate Covered Pretzel Rods
Five-Spice Chicken
Personal Pizza
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.
Understanding Compassions Fatigue & Burnout
Date & Time
Description
May 6, 2025 01:00PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Does compassion cause suffering? When does it go too far and how can you protect your own wellbeing? Learn the warning signs, who is at risk, and how to restore your emotional energy in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa
Boundary IQ
Date & Time
Description
Work Stress and Burnout Webinars & Events
Date & Time
Description
May 7, 2025 at 1:00PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Creating and maintaining healthy boundaries can be a challenging task. Some people grew up in environments where setting boundaries was not emphasized or valued, resulting in struggles to establish boundaries in adulthood Fear of conflict, a tendency to prioritize others' approval, or past experiences of invalidation or disrespect can also contribute to difficulties in setting and maintaining boundaries. Discuss the role of boundaries in relationships and learn how to implement healthy boundaries in this one-hour seminar sponsored by Polk County, Iowa.
May 13, 2025 1:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Stress is something we all experience in our personal and professional lives. But when stress is severe or prolonged (or both), it can impact our physical and mental health in major ways. Learn practical tips to manage distress to avoid career burnout and discuss effective ways to cope in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa
Understanding Anxiety
Date & Time
Description
May 20, 2025 at 1:00PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
OccasionalOccasional anxiety is an expected part of life. But anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry. An accessible guide to understanding what causes anxiety disorders and the types of anxiety, their symptoms, common misconceptions, and how relationships are impacted. Discuss co-occurring disorders, treatment options, and learn practical tips for managing symptoms and helping others in this onehour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa.
Creating a Low-Stress Environment and Minimizing Crises
Date & Time
Description
May 27, 2025 1:00PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
People are susceptible to strain from a number of sources including work and school obligations, illness, finances, interpersonal conflict, and more Learn strategies to create and maintain a low-stress environment, identify & respond to ‘red flags’, and communicate in times of crisis in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa.
Self-Care and Wellbeing: A Hands-On Approach for Better Health
Date & Time
May 28, 2025 11:00AM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Description It’s normal to experience anxiety, fear, anger, and grief during times of uncertainty. Now, more than ever, it’s important to recognize these feelings and allow time to recharge – but too often we feel guilty for taking time to meet our basic needs. Explore what self-care is, why it’s so important, and practical tips for incorporating self-care into your daily life in this one-hour seminar sponsored by Polk County, 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
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.
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
About Us
Our mission is to alleviate social isolation among older adults through handwritten letters and intergenerational connections.
800,000+ handwritten letters to older adults experiencing isolation 75 campus volunteer chapters
10,000 annual Letter to an Elder Day (Feb 26) participants 27 countries we’ve sent letters
Our Story
We started because of a loving grandpa
“After my grandpa died, I started volunteering with older adults to find a special connection like the one we shared, but I was upset by the chronic loneliness I saw. Some residents would tell me they hadn’t heard from family or friends in months. They didn’t even get something as simple as a letter in the mail. So, in 2013, I wrote a letter. Then another. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to fight a growing loneliness epidemic.”
- JACOB CRAMER
Connect with Jacob →
Would you like to send a letter?
Read this month’s bios and choose which of our elder(s) you’d like to write. New elders are shared on the 1st of every month!
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 ”
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.
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.
North Shore | Community Opportunities
AUTISM FRIENDLY DINNER & MAGIC SHOW - PEABODY, MA
Tuesday, June 3
6-8 PM
OneMainRestaurantinPeabody,MAis hostinganAutismFriendlyDinnerandMagic Show!Thecostis$30 00foradultsand $20 00forchildren Pleasevisitthelinkto register
ADULT LEGO CLUB - DANVERS, MA
Tuesday, May 6 6:30-8:30 PM
JoinusfortheAdultLegoclub!Come hangoutoutwithfellowbrick enthusiasts.Legoofyourtroublesand getcreativethroughtheartofplay!No experiencerequired,nopressurefor skill,justbringyourcreativityand willingnesstohavefun.
SPRING PICKLEBALL CLINICPEABODY, MA
May 10 - June 21 5:30-6:30 PM
REGISTRATIONREQUIRED
Pickleballclinicofferedforathletesages16 andover,nopriorexperienceneeded
Metro North | Community Opportunities
YOGA IN THE PARKSOMERVILLE, MA
Every Saturday 9-10 AM
REGISTRATIONREQUIRED
FREE!
RelaxandrestorealongtheMysticwithfree riverfrontyogasponsoredbyMassGeneral BrighamHealthPlanandrunbyYogaSix! Reserveyourspothereforourfree9amclass.
BOSTON ROLLER DERBY LOBSTAH ROLL - EVERETT, MA
Sunday, April 6 1:00-2:30 pm
PURCHASETICKETS
Getreadyto'PinchPinchPinch'forBRD's 2025LobstahRoll!Youwon'twanttomiss thisweekendofheadtoheadrollerderby battle.
TEA, TREATS AND ART FOR CACHE - MEDFORD, MA
Saturday, May 10
3-5 PM
Tea,TreatsandArtwillfeaturetea, treats,aguidedartactivityledbylocal artistChelseaBrown,anda performancebytheTuftsacappella grouptheJacksonJills.
Merrimack Valley | Community Opportunities
BOWLING WEDNESDAYS (AGES 18+)
- AMESBURY, MA
Most Wednesdays 4:30-6:00 PM
REGISTRATIONREQUIRED
TheArcofGreaterHaverhill-Newburyport hostbowlingeventsatGametimeLanes& EntertainmentinAmesbury,MA.Visitthelink andreviewtheavailableslots.
Price:$15.00each
KAYAKING - TBD
Tuesday, May 27 11:00 AM-2:00 PM
REGISTRATIONREQUIRED
ThisisaguidedkayakpaddlewithPlumIsland Kayak.Afteranon-landorientationandonwaterdemonstrationtheparticipantswillthen practicetheirskillswithaleisurelypaddle.See linkformoreinformation.
Price:$40.00each
Saturday, May 17 10:30 AM-12:00 PM
REGISTRATION REQUIRED
This class is about getting together with our peers and having an open discussion about life’s challenging subjects Dating has been a popular request. This is a great time to brush up on important reminders.
Central Middlesex | Community Opportunities
SUNRISE SCRABBLEBURLINGTON, MA
Every Monday 10:15 AM-12:15 PM
We'llprovidetheboardsanddictionaries,you justshowuptoplaysomefriendlygamesof Scrabble!Youcanchoosetofollowthe traditionalrulesetortomakeyourownhouse rules!Adultswithdiverseabilitiesarewelcome toattend Noregistrationrequired!
HISTORY OF NINTENDO WITH ONEUP GAMES - BURLINGTON, MA
Thursday, May 8 5-8 PM
Stepintoawalkable,playableNintendo experience!FromtheclassicNEStothe modernSwitch,experienceeveryeraof Nintendohistorywiththisinteractivegaming eventfromOne-UpGames
MAY THE 4 BE WITH YOUBURLINGTON, MA TH
Sunday, May 4 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Families and fans of all ages, throw on your favorite Star Wars costume and join us at Wildwood Park for a morning of Star Wars themed fun! There will be characters, a Millennium Falcon inflatable and lightsaber training. (Preregistration is required for the lightsaber training!)
Lowell Area | Community Opportunities
FREE COMIC BOOK DAYBILLERICA, MA
Saturday, May 3 10:00 AM-2:00 PM
FreeComicBookDayisback!We'llbe celebratingattheBillericaPublicLibraryon May3rd,from10-2pm.Funforthewhole family.Cosplaywelcomed.
THE NETWORK: SOCIAL GROUPLOWELL, MA
See link for details
TheNetworkisasocialnetworkingprogram forneurodiverseadolescentsandyoung adultsagedbetween18-30years Members typicallyidentifyasautisticand/orashaving ADHD
VISIT WITH CALVIN THE THERAPY DOG - CHELMSFORD, MA
Saturday, May 17 10-11 AM
Come to the Children's Room and meet Calvin the therapy dog! He loves to hang out with people of all ages, likes getting gentle pats, and is an all-around good boy
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
Director of GPS & CRC
Oversees all aspects of the Guided Personal Supports program and the Community Resource Center..
MatthewAtaya
Program Director
Manages day-to-day operations of the GPS program. Supervises perdiem in GPS program
AndrewHartigan
Program Coordinator
Serves as the primary liaison between the program, families, and individuals we support.
KaileyTaggart
Family Services
Project
Coordinator
Oversees and directs the weekly social group and coordinators with other programs under Family Services.
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
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.
Important Links
ne-arc.org
