Thank you to everyone that has attended a check-in As June progresses, I will continue to meet with staff.
CPR & First Aid Training
CPR and First Aid trainings are currently available. If you have not yet signed up, please do so through the GPS Portal in SharePoint
Progress Notes
Please remember to complete your progress notes in a timely manner. These are required for payroll processing, so staying current is essential.
Support
We remain committed to consistently supporting everyone and providing the necessary resources If there’s anything more we can do, please don’t hesitate to reach out
Juneteenth
A friendly reminder the office will be closed as we celebrate Juneteenth National Independence Day. Juneteenth is on Friday June 19 2026 th
When the path feels unclear, we stand firm, inspiring others to trust the strength they already possess. -August Valentine
IMPORTANT STAFF INFORMATION AND REMINDERS
IMPORTANT: To access your tax documents, go to: Click page Choose UltiPro Choose Pay U.S. Wage and Tax Documents
GPS Staff SharePoint: Please utilize the GPS SharePoint drive for program materials. We will continue to add relevant material here and updated forms.
Please visit the SharePoint Drive here:
Share Point
Arc Email: Please be checking your ne-arc email regularly.
Zoom Phone: Please make sure you are utilizing your Zoom phone associated with your Northeast Arc account.
Progress Notes: All Progress Notes are due in Netsmart by Monday at 9:00 am.
First Aid/CPR Certification: If you have not already done so, please reach out to your supervisor to schedule your manditory First Aid/ CPR training. If you already have a current certification, please send a copy to your supervisor. Please reach out to us to schedule your training.
I’d like to take a moment to recognize and thank the entire GPS team. As I’ve stepped into this role, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with many of you—whether in person, during meetings, or through phone check-ins. One thing that has truly stood out across the board is your dedication. Your effort and commitment are clear and deeply appreciated, and they certainly do not go unnoticed
Thank you for all that
Every one of you contributes in an important way to the work we do each day. Your dedication makes a difference, and the compassion you show your clients truly stands out. Thank you all for the commitment, care, and heart you bring to your roles.
AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! Our Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (familyfriendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month
UNIVERSAL ACCESS PLAYGROUNDS
IN NORTHEASTERN MASSACHUSETTS
Inclusive,barrier-freespacesdesignedforallabilities,includingthosewithphysical,sensory, or developmental disabilities.
NOTE: Playgrounds at schools are not available to the public during school hours
Arlington
Robbins Farm Park
61 Eastern Ave
Beverly Pete’s Park
55 Middlebury Lane
Touch the Sky Playground
Children's Center for Communication/
Beverly School for the Deaf
6 Echo Ave
Burlington
Francis Wyman
41 Terrace Hall Avenue
Cambridge
Louis A. DePasquale Playground
99 Sherman Street
Chelmsford
Friendship Park Playground
270 Old Westford Road
Concord
Guild School
521 Virginia Road
Lowell
Hovey Park
266 Aiken Ave
Durkin Park
294 Chelmsford Street
Last Reviewed: 4/17/2026
Malden
Beebe School
401 Pleasant Street
Medford
McGlynn Elementary
3002 Mystic Valley Pkwy
Peabody
Ross Memorial Park
38 Johnson Street
Brown Elementary School
150 Lynn Street
Sudbury
SMILE Playground
40 Fairbank Rd
Waltham
Universal Access Playground
200 Trapelo Ro d
Westford
Ronan Mcelligo Williams Road
Woburn
Ferrullo Park Main Street
West Newbury
Action Cove
15 Bachelor Str
MEETLAURENBELL SPECIALIZINGIN
WHOISLAUREN
Lauren has been a licensed barber in Massachusetts and New Hampshire for nearly 20 years. She has practiced in the Greater Gardner area snipping and clipping the hair of seniors, those who face mobility challenges, or have special needs inlcuding childrenandadultsontheAutismSpectrum
Specialties:
Children and adults with autism, sensory sensitivities, and special needs
Clients with mobility challenges, neurological conditions, and physical disabilities
Senior citizens
Service Locations:
Private residences
Assisted living facilities
Nursing homes
Adult day programs
Senior centers
HOWITWORKS
Contact Lauren for Pricing Appointments
General inquires
Select the location
Home
Assisted living facility
Nursing home
Adult day program
Senior center
Enjoy a calm, patient personalized service with no rush, no waiting rooms, and no unfamiliar environment!
The Buttonwood Park Zoo, owned and operated by the City of New Bedford and supported by the Buttonwood Park Zoological Society, is home to a diverse collection of animals representing regions across Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, and South America.
Established in 1894, the Zoo has long served as a valued community institution, committed to education, conservation, and inclusivity. Over the years, Buttonwood Park Zoo has remained dedicated to ensuring that all guests have access to its facilities and the resources needed to fully enjoy their visit.
Location Information
Address: 425 Hawthorn Street New Bedford, MA 02740
Hours of Operation: 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
BPZOO has introduced two adaptive bicycles for children with mobility challenges, made possible through a donation from Rare Riders.
This addition expands accessibility within the Zoo, enabling more children to navigate and experience the grounds alongside their families.
Sensory Bags Availible
1 in 4 individuals have a sensory need or an invisible disability, These are individuals with PTSD, autism, dementia, strokes just to name a few.
Sensory bags, provided through KultureCity, are now available for guests. KultureCity sensory bags are designed to support individuals with sensory sensitivities and may include items such as noisecanceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads.
UpcomingEvents
Puddle Jumpers
North Shore | Community Opportunities
Meadowbrook Restaurant
Hanson, MA
Theme: Summer Dinner Party
Date: June 15th, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 08:00 p.m.
Location: Meadowbrook Restaurant 1486 Main St
Hanson, MA 02341
Kids: $15
Adults: $30
This event like all Autism Eats events is entirely Autism family friendly and all behaviors are welcome
COMMUNITY ZEN BEVERLY PUBLIC LIBRARY
Every Friday in June 11:30 a.m. -1:00 p.m.
Discover the basics of meditation practice and make contact with our own stability and sanity. Sessions will include brief instruction in sitting posture, teachings for well-being and healing, and practices for working with the mind, along with guided meditation for grounding and centering. Led by Zen Center's founder Joan Amaral
The 18th annual Salem Arts Festival, June 5-7, 2026, in historic downtown Salem, celebrating our Salem 400+ milestone through a vibrant showcase of local art, music, dance, and theatre performances across outdoor stages. This is a free, family-friendly event
Find your balance this summer! Join us for Yoga with Loida every Tuesday at 6 PM this June. This relaxing, beginnerfriendly class is perfect for adults looking to unwind, stretch, and recharge
FIESTA SHOWS WORCESTER CARNIVAL
June 3 - June 7 rd th
June 3, 2026 (Wednesday): 5pm to close
June 4, 2026 (Thursday): 5pm to close
June 5, 2026 (Friday): 5pm to close
June 6, 2026 (Saturday): 1pm to close
June 7, 2026 (Sunday): 1pm to close
Metro North | Community Opportunities
VIRTUAL YOGA
LYNNFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Every Thursday 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Zoom
This is a 60 minute yoga class with our instructor Michelle Powers Register with a valid email at least an hour prior to class start time to receive the link to join the class. You will receive an email with login information a half hour before the class begins
CHESS CLUB DROP-IN. GLASS OFFICE, STONEHAM LIBRARY
Every Thursday in June 7PM-8PM
This drop-in program is for anyone looking to play chess with others. There will not be a staff member leading the meeting Meetings will take place at 7pm on every Thursday of the month in the Marcy Room. While some chess boards will be provided, players are also encouraged to bring their own boards
Ready Player One Games
Every Wednesday in June 2:30—4:30 PM
LevelupyourWednesdayswithourultimate gaminghangout!Grabyourfriendsanddiveinto funNintendoSwitchandPlayStationgames whetheryou'reracing,battling,orteamingupfor co-opfun,there'ssomethingforeveryone No registrationrequired Recommendedforages11 andup
Central Middlesex | Community Opportunities
CANOBIE LAKE PARK!
LAKE PARK 85 NORTH POLICY STREET, SALEM, UNITED STATES
Saturday, June 6 , 2026 th 10:30 a.m.
Cost:$25.00 ��
PleasejoinNationalGrid'sEmployee Associationforafamily-fundayatCanobie LakePark!Getreadyforthrillingrides, deliciousfood,andgreatcompany.A cateredlunchisincludedwithyourticket purchase Kids3andunderarefree Find Joy in Self-Expression FREE Weekly art program designed specifically Free
ART DROP IN LEXART PAINT STUDIO 130 WALTHAM STREET, LEXINGTON
Tuesdays 2pm-4pm
SENSORY FRIENDLY DAYS DAVE AND BUSTERS IN WOBURN
Every first and third Tuesday
Enjoy a welcoming environment with the music turned down and the lights turned up, making it a perfect evening for everyone.
Private FUNction Room will be available for you to sit, relax, and order food during the event!
You can choose to pre-order power cards
$25 Power Card with 135 chips + Unlimited Play Walk-ins welcome if you would prefer to not order anything in advance!
Join for a fun and exciting multi-media Trivia Night! Games start at 7! followed by musical Bingo!
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
Northeast Arc’s Adult Autism Support Center assists adults with Autism ages 18 and older within the Northeast region, enabling them to flourish in their everyday lives. Our Center creates an environment that encourages personal growth, social inclusion, and self-advocacy. Northeast Region Areas & their Adult Autism Specialists
Lowell Area Contact Us: AdultAutism@ne-arc.org or (978) 624 - 2603
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
Fish and Chips
Meatball Pasta Bake
Ice Cream Sunday
Walking Tacos
Webinars & Events
Substance Use and Mental Health: Communication, Boundaries, & Crisis Management
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
National Crisis Resources
If you have a mental health crisis and need emergency assistance – call 911
Calling a mental health helpline can serve a variety of purposes, including:
Support: Mental health crisis hotlines are set up to provide support during any crisis, guiding callers through suicidal thoughts, psychotic breaks, or manic episodes. If you are concerned about a family member or friend, calling a hotline can help you learn how to best help a loved one.
Education:
Helplines provide information about mental health and the effects that mental illness can have on people and their loved ones.
Referrals: Hotlines can connect callers to treatment centers that are tailored to their individual needs.
Treatment: Helplines can provide information about what to expect from mental health treatment providers and how treatment can help
Mental Health Helplines
SAMHSA National Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Disaster Distress 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 Or Text: “TalkWithUs” to 66746
Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
Veteran’s Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255
YouthLine (Teen Crisis Line): 1-877-968-8491 Or Text: TEEN2TEEN to 839863
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
ANAD Helpline (Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders): 1-888-375-7767
Additional Helplines
The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ Youth): 1-866-488-7386
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender National Hotline 1-888-843-4564
National Institute on Drug Abuse Hotline: 1-800-662-4357
The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
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 ”
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.
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.
Accessible Spaces
All Abilities Activities
Connecting individuals and families to their communities and creating a sense of belonging through events and resources.
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.
Have Questions or Concerns?
Please contact one of our Human Rights Officers:
Jeffrey Boucher
Assistive Technology Coordinator
Family Supports (978) 924 - 5624 jboucher@ne-arc.org
Amanda Spartichino
ASC Coordinator
Your Human Rights include:
Dignity: To be treated with respect, including respect for ethnic and cultural diversity.
Family Support ASC (978) 924- 5830 aspartichino@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.
