Summer is in full swing! As we embrace the warmer weather and longer days, it’s important to stay safe while enjoying outdoor activities. The summer heat can be intense, so remember to check the weather forecast before planning your sessions with you coach. This simple step helps ensure you’re prepared with plenty of water, sun protection, and backup indoor plans if needed. Whether you‘re exploring local parks, attending community events, or simply spending time outside, staying hydrated and taking breaks in the share will help you make the most of your summer adventures.
We hope you have a great start to your summer and find valuable connections in the pages ahead. Here’s to a season filled with growth, fun, and meaningful experiences!
Best regards,
Matthew Ataya Northeast Arc
Guided Personal Supports (GPS) Program Director
COMMUNITY HEAT ALERT
Protect your community from heat
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
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.
TABLETOP BOARD GAME GROUP BURLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Thurs, July 3 6:00pm-8:45pm
Drop-in for an evening of strategic tabletop fun at the Burlington Public Library Board Game Group Whether you ' re a seasoned gamer or a curious newcomer, we welcome those age 16+ to get hooked on the amazing hobby of tabletop board games.
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
ANDOVER, MA
JULY 3, 2025 @
ANDOVER H.S. – 80
SHAWSHEEN RD.
HAVERHILL, MA
JULY 1, 2025 @
RIVERSIDE PARK – 163
LINCOLN AVE.
METHUEN, MA
JULY 5, 2025 @
PLEASANT VALLEY ST.
BEVERLY, MA
4TH FIREWORKS
OF JULY
MARBLEHEAD, MA
JULY 4, 2025 @ BARGE
800’ OFF WEST BEACH –121 WEST ST.
LYNN, MA
JULY 3, 2025 @ BARGE
NEAR RED ROCK – 76
MARINE BLVD.
LOWELL, MA
JULY 4, 2025 @
JULY 4, 2025 @ BARGE IN MARBLEHEAD
HARBOR –
COMMERCIAL STREET
WHARF
SALEM, MA
JULY 4, 2025 @ DERBY
WHARF– 160 DERBY ST.
LEXINGTON, MA
PEDESTRIAN
WALKWAY – AIKEN STREET
JULY 2, 2025 @ LEXINGTON HS
BASEBALL FIELD –
WORTHEN RD.
Boston Red Sox Down Syndrome Awareness 2025
PURCHASE TICKETS
Join us for the Boston Red Sox and MDSC’s 2025 Down Syndrome Awareness Game at Fenway on Sunday, August 3 at 11:35am, when the Red Sox take on the Houston Astros!
Get your tickets to watch from the stands with our group as the Red Sox recognize integral members of our MDSC community during the pre-game ceremonies. Then, enjoy the game with fellow MDSC-ers as we cheer on the Sox, all the while celebrating and raising awareness for our loved ones with Down syndrome.
We can't wait to gather again for this special occasion with our community!
Date: Sunday, August 3, 2025
Location: Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts
PLEASE NOTE THE UNUSUAL START TIME FOR THIS GAME
Pre-Game Ceremony: Approximately 11:10am
Game Time: 11:35am
Ticket Cost: $50 (limit 12 tickets per family- if you would like more, email redsox@mdsc.org)
Seat Location: Right Field Grandstand, Section 5. Other sections may be added as our group expands. (Accessible seating available upon request Email redsox@mdsc org)
Supply is Limited!
*To access your tickets, you will need to download the MLB Ballpark App from the App Store. Click here for step-by-step instructions
For any questions or additional information, please email redsox@mdsc.org.
SUN
SUMMER MUSIC
Peabody Summer Concert Series (Starts July 13) 6 - 8pm
Leather City Common, 73 Lowell St.
Bandstand Concert Series (Starts July 6) 6:30pm, Stage Fort Park, Gloucester
Sundays in Patton Park Concert Series (Starts July 6) 5pm, Hamilton
Danvers Concert Series (Starts July 7, Mondays & Wednesdays), 6pm, Lawn of the Peabody Institute Library, 15 Sylvan St. Danvers
Music at the Beach (Starts June 30), 6:30pm, Back Beach in Rockport
Middleton Summer Concert Series (Starts July 7), 4pm, Town Common Bandstand, 48 S Main St. Middleton
MON
Beverly Concert Series (Starts June 22) 6pm, Lynch Park
July 1,, 2025 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.
What is High-Functioning Depression
Date & Time
Description
July 2, 2025 at 1:00PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Persistent fatigue, low self-esteem, poor concentration, and feeling hopeless puts people at higher-than-average risk for suicide and selfharm, and symptoms can continue indefinitely without treatment. Discuss the signs and symptoms of persistent depressive disorder, what causes it, and who is at risk in this one-hour seminar sponsored by Polk County, 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.
Understanding Loneliness and Building Social Connections
Date & Time
Description
July 9, 2025 at 1:00PM 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.
Setting Healthy Boundaries in Relationships
Date & Time
Description
July 9, 2025 11:00AM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Maintaining a balance between caring for loved ones and setting healthy boundaries for yourself can be challenging. Learn how to express your own needs without guilt, strike a healthy balance between caregiving and self-care, and tips for negotiating compromises in this one-hour seminar sponsored by Polk County, Iowa.
Anxiety at Work
Date & Time
July 15,, 2025 1:00PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Description While stress at work is common, constant and overwhelming anxiety can negatively impact productivity, confidence, and overall health. Discuss common anxiety triggers and learn practical strategies for managing stress, setting boundaries, and building resilience 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
Click on the tennis ball for more information
Beginner Level
Red Ball
LOVESERVINGAUTISM
Boston, MA Fall 2025 Session at 12:00pm:
Dates
TBD
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
Time
Sundays 12pm-12:45pm
Ages
7+ yrs old
Cost
$90 (6-week session)
Address
Sportsmen’s Tennis & Enrichment Center 950 Blue Hill Ave, Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Phone (617) 288-9092
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.
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
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!
Welcome to NAGLY!
With over 5,000 square feet, NAGLY is one of the largest LGBTQIA+ youth centers in the country. Learn more about our space, programs, clubs, groups, and more by watching the videos and by clicking here.
Groups,
Clubs, & Programs
Mental Health Counseling
Upcoming Events
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+.
For more information, visit https://peersupportspace. org/communitygatherings-1 Daily Communal Gatherings
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
MORE RECIPES RECIPE CREATOR RESOURCES
Cheese Toastie
Shepherd’s Pie
Flagpoles
Mini Pizzas
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.
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.
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
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 and CRC
Oversees all aspects of the Guided Personal Supports (GPS) and Community Resource Center.
MatthewAtaya
Program Director
Manages general operations of the GPS program. Supervises our autism coaches and college navigators
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.
Family Services
Project Coordinator
Oversees and directs the weekly social group and collaborates with programs under Family Services.
VikkiKusumoto
AndrewHartigan
KaileyTaggart
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.
