Family Newsletter October 2025 by Northeast Arc

Guided Personal Supports

October Newsletter

Dear Families,

As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, October brings a season of change and new opportunities. For many of us, this time of year is filled with community events, cozy gatherings, and moments to celebrate the unique strengths of our loved ones.

In this issue, you’ll find:

✅ Fall Activities & Events – Accessible and inclusive happenings in our area

✅ Tips for Seasonal Transitions – Helping adults adjust to schedule changes and sensory shifts

✅ Resources & Support – Local programs and helpful tools

We know that autumn can bring both excitement and challenges whether it’s navigating Halloween festivities, preparing for cooler weather, or finding social opportunities that feel welcoming. Our goal is to provide ideas, resources, and encouragement to make this season enjoyable for everyone. Thank you for being part of this community. Together, we continue to create spaces where every adult can thrive, feel included, and live a life full of meaning and joy.

Here’s to a wonderful October!

—Andrew Hartigan

Accessible Spaces

All Abilities Activities

Connecting individuals and families to their communities and creating a sense of belonging through events and resources.

COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER

NortheastArc’s Community Resource Center connects individuals and familieswith valuable resourcesand events in theirlocal 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 belongingand inclusion.

DDS Northeast Region Community Resource Specialists

ClinicalDrivingEvaluations,AdaptiveDrivingTraining, andReadinesstoDriveAssessments OwnedandoperatedbyOccupationalTherapists

Thegold-standard evaluationformedically complexand/orolder adultdrivers Evaluationsforthose lookingtodrivewith adaptiveequipmentsuch ashandcontrols,spinner knobs,andleftfoot accelerators.

forneurodiversenew drivers.

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.

TheBlueEnvelopeisasimpleyetpowerfultoolthat holdsadriver'slicense,registration,andcontactcard Its trueimpactliesinthecommunicationguidelines printedontheoutside,designedtohelplaw enforcementrecognizeandadjusttheirapproach wheninteractingwithdriverswhohaveautism

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, scan the QR code or visit: www.mass.gov/info-details/blue-envelope-program

Apple Picking

OCTOBER 11, 2025 OCTOBER 12, 2025 10:00 AM

We are a performing arts program that offers affordable adaptive singing, dancing, and acting classes for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We also have a 501c3 nonprofit organization that funds our efforts.

Students learn to express themselves through creative group music and movement activities while gaining confidence and appreciation for the arts. We offer personal attention to meet each person's specific needs. All classes culminate in a live performance for friends and family. Special Stars is dedicated to helping each individual discover their own personal strength, talent, and potential. Click here for more information:

Fall Session Sept 1-Oct 25 Registration closed but contact them for future sessions

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

North Shore | Community Opportunities

HALLOWEEN ON THE HILL

LONG HILL

576 ESSEX STREET BEVERLY

Every friday in October sensory friendly hours from 3:30 - 4:30pm (exlucdes 10/31)

Registration required

TOPSFIELD FAIR

207 BOSTON ST, TOPSFIELD

Oct 3- Oct 13

*Oct 6* “Sensory Day” 11am - 9pm

Somanydifferentridesandattractions

Animals,vendors,performances, agriculturaleducation,andmore.

Ticketsboughtinadvancearenonrefundable.

HARVEST

Sat, Oct 18 11am - 5pm

Come enjoy Rockport’s local charm and bountiful harvest while you explore the scenic downtown and immerse yourself in festive seasonal activities. Whether you’re a longtime local or just visiting, this is the perfect way to experience the magic of autumnbythesea

Merrimack Valley | Community Opportunities

BOWLING WEDNESDAYS (AGES 18+)

- AMESBURY, MA

Most Wednesdays 4:30-6:00 PM

REGISTRATIONREQUIRED

TheArcofGreaterHaverhill-Newburyport hostbowlingeventsatGametimeLanes& EntertainmentinAmesbury,MA.Visitthe linkandreviewtheavailableslots.

Price:$15.00each

METHUEN FALL FESTIVAL & COSTUME CONTEST

GREYCOURT PARK

Sat, Oct. 18th 12 - 3pm

MayorNeilPerryinvitesyoutojointhemfor thisfreecommunityeventfilledwithmusic, acostumecontest,games,giveaways,and tonsofcandy.

SMOLAK FARMS FALL FESTIVAL

Every weekend in Oct. Times vary

Get ready for a weekend full of farm fun with Halloween Spooktacular and Trunk or Treat events curtesy of Smolak Farms. Check line for more details!

Metro North | Community Opportunities

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR VENDOR AND CRAFT FAIR

WAKEFIELD LODGE OF ELKS

Sat, Oct 25 11 - 3pm

9th Annual Halloween Spooktacular Fair. Fall and Halloween products from over 30 local crafters and vendors. Get a jump on your holiday shopping. Free Trick or Treating for the kids.

STONEHAM 300 ANNIVERSARY TH PARADE, FESTIVAL, & DRONE SHOW STONEHAM COMMONL

Sat, Oct. 4 Parade 3:30pm Festival 4:30pm Drone show 7pm

There will be music, food and games on the Stoneham Town Common after the parade until just before 7 pm.

MALDEN DONATION FAIR & CLOTHING EXCHANGE

BREAD OF LIFE, 54 EASTERN AVE, MALDEN

Sat, Oct. 18 10 - 2pm

CometoBreadofLifewithyourin-kind denotableitems.SupportthenonprofitshereinMaldenthathelpyour followcommunitymembers.Follow linktoseeparticipatingorganizations andtheirneeds.

Central Middlesex | Community Opportunities

WOBURN PORCHFEST

WOBURN PUBLIC LIBRARY

Sat. Oct. 11

(Rain date: Sun Oct 12)

Thisisanopportunitytoshowcasesomeof theamazingtalentthatthiscityandregion haveandisachanceforpeopletoget togetheroutdoorsandenjoyitalltogether.

Freeforalltoattend,justlistenforthemusic inyourneighborhood,headonoverand enjoytheday!

HOWL-O-WEEN PARTY! THE PARK AT BURLINGTON MAL

Sat. Oct 25th 1 - 3pm

Getinthehalloweenspiritandenjoyafunfilleddaywithyourpup!Activitiesinclude:pet costumecontestsat1:30pmand2:30pmwith prizes,dogtreatsamplesfromBostonBarkery andYappyHouratCommonCraftwithour friendsfromGreatDogRescueNewEngland.

CASTLEBERRY FALL CRAFT FESTIVAL SHRINERS

Oct, 25 & 26 10 - 4pm

With over 175 booths, this curated marketplace showcases a diverse selection of handcrafted treasures, including artisan pottery, cozy upcycled mittens, intricate decorative paintings, custom-built furniture, and so much more.

Lowell Area | Community Opportunities

LOWELL HARVEST CELEBRATION DOWNTOWN LOWELL

Sat. Oct. 11th All Day

AutumnMarketplace, HarvestHustle5k Run/Walk,PumpkinDecorating,ChiliCookOffandmore!

OPEN STREETS LOWELL Downtown, Lowell

Sat. Oct 4th 12:00pm-4:00pm

An all-volunteer DIY Lowell Project Team is organizing Lowell's very own pilot Open Streets event. It's free fun - family and student friendly! For one afternoon, Merrimack Street between Kirk and Central will be closed to vehicular traffic and open to you! FREE

FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL CHELMSFORD-LOWELL ELKS

Sat, Oct. 11th 11 - 3pm

KickofftheFallSeasonatTheFallHarvest Festival!

EnjoyaFallDayoutdooratthePavillion. Thiseventwillfeature: 50Artisans&Vendors,Food,CashBar, Music,Games&more

Berklee Music Lessons Program for Adults with Autism

Scan or click the QR code

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.

Curried Sausages

MORE RECIPES RECIPE CREATOR RESOURCES

Brownies

Veggie Sushi

Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

NORTHSHORE FARMER’S MARKETS

Beverly Mondays,3-7pm,RantoulStandRailroadAve https://www.beverlyfarmersmarket.org/

Gloucester

Wednesdays,2:30-6:30pm,BurnhamField,9SargentSt.Gloucester https://www.backyardgrowers.org/backyard-growcery

Ipswich

Thursdays,3-6:30pm,MiddleGreenatHall-HaskellHouse,36S.MainSt. https://www.ipswichhomegrownmarket.com/

Lynn(StartsJuly10)

Thursdays,11am-3pm,LynnCommons https://thefoodproject.org/farmers-markets/

Marblehead

Saturdays,9am-12pm,MarbleheadVeteransMiddleSchool,217PleasantSt. https://marbleheadfarmersmarket.com/

Rockport

Saturdays,9am-1pm,HarveyPark,Mt.PleasantSt.andBroadway https://www.rockportexchange.org/events

Salem

Thursdays,3-7pm,DerbySquare,32DerbySt https://salemfarmersmarket.org/

Swampscott

Sundays,10am-1pm,SwampscottTownHall,22MonumentAvenue https://swampscottfarmersmarket.org/

Topsfield(StartsJuly9)

Wednesdays,4:30-7pm,TopsfieldTownCommon https://www.topsfield-ma.gov/recreation-department/pages/homegrown-market

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

Rhymes to mind!

As the weather cools down, hiking is a great activity. Please remember to be wary of ticks and poison ivy!

I suggest downloading this free app:

Unpaid version offers offline maps that you can follow and track your route, replays your hike when you are done, and shows miles walked and elevation.

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, cover your legs, and use tick precautions

Have fun!

978-741-0077 |

Disability Resource Center (DRC) is a cross-disability organization providing service to any person, regardless of age, who identifies as living with a disability.

Serving Communities Across the North Shore & Beyond Including Beverly, Danvers, Lynn, Peabody, Salem, Wakefield, and more.

Free Services Offered

Information & Referral: Housing, transportation, benefits, legal rights, veterans services, and more.

Independent Living Support: Peer mentoring, assistive technology, selfadvocacy, financial management.

Transition Services: Options Counseling: Support for staying or returning to community living

Transition to Adulthood Program (TAP): For youth (14?21) with IEP/504 plans.

Affordable Housing Workshops

Accessible Business Surveys

Peer Support Groups

Community Access Advocacy Team

A great way to practice letter writing and social skills!

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

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 ”

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

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 Meet

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.

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.

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.

YourPoint ofContact

Kristy Aparo is the Director of GPS & CRC. She oversees the general operations of the GPS program and the Community Resource Center (CRC). You can reach out to Kristy if you have any questions about filing a DPPC or Mandated Reporting.

Matthew Ataya is the Program Director for the GPS program. He manages day to day operations of all GPS programs and is the supervisor for our Autism Coaches and College Navigators.

Vikki Kusumoto is the Staffing Coordinator for the GPS program. She assists with staffing our programs, onboarding new staff, and is the supervisor for our Community Support Coaches under In-home Supports, Agency with Choice, and MCB.

Andrew Hartigan is the Program Coordinator for the GPS program. He communicates with the clients and families that we support. If you are unable to reach Vikki or Matthew, Andrew will be your next point of contact.