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.
Thank you for all you do to support our clients!!
As usual, 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
NOTE: There are events highlighted in this newsletter. If you do not find something that works for you and your client, the links can still lead you to the site where many more events can be found!
Free Father’s Day Admission at the
Sunday, June 15
Advanced Registration Required: Stone Zoo, Stoneham and Franklin Park Zoo
Join us in person or virtually on June 26, when disability advocate Nicole Agois Hurel, Managing Director of Open Door Arts, will moderate a conversation on ways to be more welcoming and provide resources for people of differing abilities, how to navigate life’s changes with resilience and adaptation, and how together we will build a stronger, more supportive and connected community. Event registration is FREE but required for the in-person and virtual experience. In-person seating is general admission. This event will be recorded and shared after the event.
Location: GBH Studios
1 Guest Street, Brighton
North Shore | Community Opportunities
GLOUCESTER JUNTEENTH CELEBRATION
GLOUCESTER CITY HALL
9 DALE AVENUE, GLOUCESTER, MA 01930
Thursday, June 19th
9:00AM-12:00PM
JointheCapeAnnMuseumatGloucester CityHalltocelebrateJuneteenth,theoldest nationallycelebratedcommemorationofthe endingofslaveryintheUnitedStates
Freeandopentothepublic
BEVERLY ARTS FEST
CABOT STREET, BEVERLY
Sat. June 14, 2025
10:00am-4:00pm
BeverlyMainStreetswillbehostingits22nd annualartsfestivalindowntownBeverly. ArtsFestBeverlyisFREEandopentothe publicandhappensrainorshine Come downtowntoCabotStforadayof shopping,livemusic,localfood,and activitiesforthewholefamily.Over125+ juriedartistsandcrafterswillbesettingup toselltheirwaresalongsidelocalretailers andcommunityorganizations.
Wed June 4th 4:00pm - 7:00pm
2025DanversD.A.R.ECarShowseason!
EveryWednesday,starting,Wednesday, April30th(weatherpermitting)andevery WednesdayuntiltheendofOctober. L
ocation:St.Richard’sRichardsChurch. 90ForestStreet,Danvers,MA.
Metro North | Community Opportunities
YOGA IN THE PARKSOMERVILLE, MA
Every Saturday 9-10 AM
REGISTRATIONREQUIRED
FREE!
RelaxandrestorealongtheMysticwithfree riverfrontyogasponsoredbyMassGeneral BrighamHealthPlanandrunbyYogaSix! Reserveyourspothereforourfree9amclass.
OPEN ART STUDIO BEEBE LIBRARY, WAKEFIELD
Friday, June 20 3:30pm-4:30pm
Allagesarewelcome.
Theflowersarebloomingandsowillyour beautifulart.TakinginspirationfromVan Gogh’sSunflowers,wewillbecreatingour ownvaseofflowerstobrightenour homes. Nosign-upisneeded-justwalkin!
COMMUNITY GARDEN PARTY
Friday, June 20
5:00pm-7:00pm
Reading Public Library
Digintosummerwithyourneighborsatour CommunityGardenParty! Whetheryouhaveagreenthumborjustwant toenjoythesunshine,there'ssomethingfor everyonetoenjoy.
IceCream Activitiesandcrafts(allages)
LocalResourcesShowcase freeandopentothepublic
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
2025 POLLINATOR FESTIVAL AT CIDER HILL
Mon Jun 16-Sun Jun 22
Times vary based on activity
Helpusshowsomelovetocreaturesessential toourfoodsupply!Thisweeklongevent featuresafulllineupoffunhappeningswith livemusic,interactivepollinatorwing installation,tastings,hands-onfamily-friendly activities,meetthebeekeepers,hayrides, specialsandworkshops
FreeAdmisson
FRIDAY NIGHT DANCE PARTY AT
Friday’s from 7:15pm-10:00pm
Ralphie B’s Beach Dance Party. 7:15PM-10PM Beachfront Stage. June 27 - August 29 + Thursday, July 3rd
Free fun for all ages.
*There will be no Friday Night Beach Party on Friday, July 4th
Central Middlesex | Community Opportunities
SUNRISE SCRABBLEBURLINGTON, MA
We'llprovidetheboardsanddictionaries,you justshowuptoplaysomefriendlygamesof Scrabble!Youcanchoosetofollowthe traditionalrulesetortomakeyourownhouse rules!Adultswithdiverseabilitiesarewelcome toattend Noregistrationrequired!
BURLINGTON COPS AND CARS
Every Monday 10:15 AM-12:15 PM Saturday, June 14 10:00am Free Admission
Annual charity car show for the local food pantry. As in past year ' s $20.00 per car, spectators free
Burlington Town Common 5 Bedford Street Burlington
ADULT COLORING
Monday, June 23
10:00am-1:00pm
Woburn Public Library
Coloringisanactivitywethinkofasbeingfor kids However,itcanbebeneficialforadults Comeandexperiencethelatesttrendin relaxation:adultcoloring!Studiesshowcoloring canhaveacalmingeffectontheadultmindand helptopromoteoverallwellness.
Weprovidethebasicmaterials,youbringthe fun!
NoRegistrationRequired
Lowell Area | Community Opportunities
NATIONAL STRETCAR MUSEUM
Open Every Sat & Sun 11AM- 4PM
Learnaboutthehistoryoftransportationin Lowellthroughinteractiveexhibitsand displays,funforallages,especiallyfor children!
Admission$3
THE NETWORK: SOCIAL GROUPLOWELL, MA
See link for details
TheNetworkisasocialnetworkingprogram forneurodiverseadolescentsandyoung adultsagedbetween18-30years Members typicallyidentifyasautisticand/orashaving ADHD
Every Tuesday 5:30PM-8:30PM Free
Want to learn how to play chess or are you an expert who's looking for others who enjoying playing? Join Lowell Chess enthusiasts on Tuesdays in the Pollard Memorial Library Meeting Room All levels welcome Bring a chess set if you have one, but come anyhow, we have some spare sets
Click on the tennis ball for more information
Beginner Level Red Ball
LOVESERVINGAUTISM
Boston, MA Fall 2025 Session at 12:00pm:
Dates
Intro to tennis, basic skills, hand-eye coordination, social skills)
Intermediate Level
Orange Ball
Tennis experience required, adding movement w/drills and games, social skills
Advanced Level Green Ball
Tennis experience required, Rallying on a full-size tennis court, learning rules of tennis for competition, social skills
Inclusion Yellow Ball
Tennis experience required, student enters into typical after-school program or tournament competition, social skills
Ages 7+ yrs old
Cost $90 (6-week session)
Tennis & Enrichment Center
Blue Hill Ave, Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Notes
Participants must wear tennis shoes. Please bring a water bottle to class. Your child may bring his/her own tennis racquet or use a tennis racquet provided at the class.
June is PRIDE Month!
Whatispridemonth?
ThismonthseekstoraiseawarenessinsocietyfromapositivestanceontherightsoftheLGBTQ+ community,aswellastopromotesafespaceswhereinclusionprevailsandviolenceanddiscrimination againstlesbian,gay,bisexual,transgenderandqueer
Themonthisdedicatedtopromotingequalrights,aswellasincreasingLGBTQ+visibilityasasocial groupwhilecelebratingsexualdiversityandgendervariance
OnJune28,1969,policeraidedagaybarinNewYorkCityknownastheStonewallInn.Theeventsparkeda series of riots by people in the LGBTQ community, constituting the major event leading to the gay liberation movement and the modern fight for LGBTQ rights in the US. The month of June was chosen to honorandcommemoratethoseStonewallriots.
Howispridemonthcelebrated?
LGBTQPrideMontheventsattractmillionsofparticipantsfromaroundtheworldeachyear.Today,the celebrationsincludeparades,marches,parties,concerts/shows,workshops,amongotheractivitiesthat takeplaceindifferentnations.
KeepinMind! WhyisPridemonthcelebratedinJune?
JuneisPrideMonth!ButalotofPridecelebrationstakeplaceafterJuneaswell. WhilePrideisacelebration,itisalsoawaytoremindpeopleoftheinjusticesLGBTQ+peoplestillface. Itismorethanaparty!
Therearelotsofdifferentprideflagsthatrepresentdifferentgendersandsexualorientations.
https://locgov/lgbt-pride-month/
ResourcesfortheLGBTQ+Community&Allies (eg supportgroups,therapistsearch) https://namimassorg/resources-for-the-lgbtq-community/
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.
Memorial Day (or 4 of July) th Fruit Flagpoles
MORE RECIPES RECIPE CREATOR RESOURCES
Cheese Toastie
Shepherd’s Pie
Mini Pizzas
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:
Wear 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.
Click the Tick to see a video on how to use duct tape to further aid in tick bite prevention!
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!
Summer Session July 7-August 29 Registration opens on June 10th
NortheastArc’sRecreationprogramgivesourclientstheopportunitytoengagewith peers and find events they will enjoy. Although you cannot attend recreation with your clients, this is a great resource to show them and to work on signing up for eventsduringyoursessions. For more info and registration, visit https://tinyurl.com/nearc-rec
Summer Session July
7th – August 29th
Extravaganza! Salem Ferry
Zumba @LTM
4:30pm-5:15pm
Monday Cooking @ LTM
5pm-6:30pm
Yoga with Kat @ LTM
5:30pm-6:15pm
Zumba @LTM
4:30pm-5:15pm
Monday Cooking @ LTM
5pm-6:30pm
Yoga with Kat @ LTM
5:30pm-6:15pm
Boxing @ TITLE Danvers
4:30pm-5:15pm
Studio Art @ LTM
5:30pm-6:30pm
Boxing @ TITLE Danvers
4:30pm-5:15pm
Studio Art @ LTM
5:30pm-6:30pm
Zumba @LTM
4:30pm-5:15pm
Monday Cooking @ LTM
5pm-6:30pm
Yoga with Kat @ LTM
5:30pm-6:15pm
Boxing @ TITLE Danvers
4:30pm-5:15pm
Studio Art @ LTM
5:30pm-6:30pm
Zumba @LTM
4:30pm-5:15pm
Monday Cooking @ LTM
5pm-6:30pm
Yoga with Kat @ LTM
5:30pm-6:15pm
Boxing @ TITLE Danvers
4:30pm-5:15pm
Extravaganza! King’s Bowling
Bowling @Sunnyside Bowladrome
4pm-5:30pm
Drums Alive Fitness @ LTM 5pm-6pm
Bowling @Sunnyside Bowladrome
4pm-5:30pm
Extravaganza! Painting with a Twist
Golf @ Sun N Air 4pm-5pm
Drums Alive Fitness @ LTM
5pm-6pm
Bowling @Sunnyside Bowladrome
4pm-5:30pm
Drums Alive Fitness @ LTM 5pm-6pm
Bowling @Sunnyside Bowladrome
4pm-5:30pm
Studio Art @ LTM
5:30pm-6:30pm
Drums Alive Fitness @ LTM 5pm-6pm
Gaming Club @ LTM 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Thursday Cooking @ LTM 5pm-6:30pm
Golf @ Sun N Air 4pm-5pm
Gaming Club @ LTM 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Thursday Cooking @ LTM 5pm-6:30pm
Golf @ Sun N Air 4pm-5pm
Gaming Club @ LTM 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Thursday Cooking @ LTM 5pm-6:30pm
Golf @ Sun N Air 4pm-5pm
Gaming Club @ LTM 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Thursday Cooking @ LTM 5pm-6:30pm th th th
WEEKEND 11th Friday Night Happening Curious Creatures @6 Southside 6pm-8pm Saturday Transportation Activity Cider Hill Farm @ Amesbury MA 10:30am-2pm **Transportation provided from LTM** Tie Dye Day @ 6 Southside 11am-1pm Richardson’s Mini Golf @ Middleton MA 10am-12pm
Saturday Activity Hike and Lunch @ Breakheart, Saugus MA 11am-1pm Saturday Activity
Friday Night Happening Friday Night Happening
BINGO Night @LTM 6pm-8pm Summer-ween Celebration @ LTM 6pm-8pm Friday Night Happening
Christmas in July Dance @ Peabody Knights of Columbus 6pm-8pm
Summer Session
July 7th – August 29th
Zumba @LTM
4:30pm-5:15pm
Monday Cooking @ LTM
5pm-6:30pm
Yoga with Kat @ LTM
5:30pm-6:15pm
Zumba @LTM
4:30pm-5:15pm
Monday Cooking @ LTM
5pm-6:30pm
Yoga with Kat @ LTM
5:30pm-6:15pm
Zumba @LTM
4:30pm-5:15pm
Monday Cooking @ LTM
5pm-6:30pm
Yoga with Kat @ LTM
5:30pm-6:15pm
MONDAY 4 11 25
Zumba @LTM
4:30pm-5:15pm
Monday Cooking @ LTM
5pm-6:30pm
Yoga with Kat @ LTM
5:30pm-6:15pm
Boxing @ TITLE Danvers
4:30pm-5:15pm
Studio Art @ LTM
5:30pm-6:30pm
Boxing @ TITLE Danvers
4:30pm-5:15pm
Studio Art @ LTM
5:30pm-6:30pm
Bowling @Sunnyside Bowladrome
4pm-5:30pm
Drums Alive Fitness @ LTM
5pm-6pm
Bowling @Sunnyside Bowladrome
4pm-5:30pm
Drums Alive Fitness @ LTM
5pm-6pm
Boxing @ TITLE Danvers
4:30pm-5:15pm
Studio Art @ LTM
5:30pm-6:30pm
Bowling @Sunnyside Bowladrome
4pm-5:30pm
THURSDAY
Golf @ Sun N Air 4pm-5pm
Gaming Club @ LTM 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Thursday Cooking @ LTM 5pm-6:30pm
Golf @ Sun N Air 4pm-5pm
Gaming Club @ LTM 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Thursday Cooking @ LTM 5pm-6:30pm
Friday Night Happening
Guided Paint Night @ LTM
Boxing @ TITLE Danvers
4:30pm-5:15pm
Studio Art @ LTM
5:30pm-6:30pm
Drums Alive Fitness @ LTM 5pm-6pm
Golf @ Sun N Air 4pm-5pm
Gaming Club @ LTM 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Thursday Cooking @ LTM 5pm-6:30pm
Saturday Activity
Bowling @Sunnyside Bowladrome
4pm-5:30pm
Drums Alive Fitness @ LTM 5pm-6pm
Golf @ Sun N Air 4pm-5pm
Gaming Club @ LTM 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Thursday Cooking @ LTM 5pm-6:30pm
Friday Night Happening
Tie Dye Dance @ Endicott College 6pm-8pm
Saturday Transportation Activity Dance Class with Kim @ LTM 11am-1pm
Chunky’s Movie @ Manchester NH 10am-2pm
**Transportation provided from LTM**
Friday Night Happening
STEM Night @ LTM 6pm-8pm
Friday Night Happening 6pm-8pm
Summer Fun @ 6 Southside 6pm-8pm
Saturday Activity
Salem Willows @ Salem MA 11am-1pm
Saturday Activity NO PROGRAM LABOR DAY WEEKEND
*LTM= Center for Linking Lives at the Liberty Tree Mall
Webinars & Events
Understanding Toxic Relationships
Date & Time
Description
Jun 17, 2025 at 1:00PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Toxic relationships are characterized by controlling, manipulative, or abusive behaviors that slowly wear away at a person's self-worth, selfesteem, and overall happiness. Learn to recognize the signs of a toxic relationship and discuss communication skills, accountability, and personal boundaries in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa.
Understanding Hypochondria and Somatic Symptom Disorder
Date & Time
Description
Jun 18, 2025 1:00PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Somatic symptom disorder is diagnosed when a person becomes extremely focused on physical symptoms like pain, fatigue, or weakness – often without a clear medical cause. This intense focus on physical symptoms can cause major distress and interfere with a person’s ability to function normally. Explore the mind/body connection and how psychological factors can contribute to real physical symptoms in this one-hour seminar sponsored by Polk County, Iowa
Understanding ADHD
Date & Time
Jun 18, 2025 11:00AM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Description Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is more than hyperactive people and short attention spans. Explore the causation, symptoms, and treatment options for ADHD and learn practical tips to manage symptoms and support loved ones who are struggling in this one-hour seminar sponsored by Polk County, Iowa.
Webinars & Events
Understanding Agoraphobia
Date & Time
Description
Jun 25, 2025 11:00AM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Often believed to be a fear of leaving the house, agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder that runs much deeper Join us to develop a more thorough understanding of what agoraphobia is, what causes it, and how it is treated. Learn tips to manage symptoms and support loved ones in this one-hour seminar sponsored by Polk County, Iowa.
Understanding Motivation and Procatination
Date & Time
Description
July 1, 2025 at 1:00PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Almost everyone procrastinates sometimes But if you continue to put things off, then regret it and feel bad about yourself afterward, it’s easy to get caught in a cycle that can have a negative impact on your physical & mental health. Explore the reasons why people procrastinate and learn techniques to get and stay motivated in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa.
Understanding Hoarding
Date & Time
Description
July 3, 2025 11:00 AM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Hoarding is a compulsive behavior that involves much more than keeping extra papers around. Explore the reasons people hoard, common symptoms of hoarding, and the impact hoarding has on both the individual and the family 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
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.
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
