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May 15th Newsletter

Page 1


Guided Personal Supports

Thank you all for your ongoing effort, teamwork, and commitment. Your dependability and focus on meeting deadlines make a meaningful impact, and we truly value the care you put into ensuring everything is accurate and completed on time. We’re grateful to have such a dedicated and supportive team—please keep up the incredible work!

Friendly Staff Reminders

Staff Check-Ins

I will be reaching out to schedule brief check-ins to those I have not met with in the next coming weeks Please be sure to check your email 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.

Memorial Day

A friendly reminder the office will be closed as we honor those lost on Memorial Day Memorial day is on Monday, May 25 2026 th

We stand steady in uncertain moments, helping others find the strength and confidence that’s already within them.

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.

We’d like to take a moment to recognize Beth F. for her outstanding dedication and advocacy during a recent A.T. assessment. Beth truly exemplified what it means to put our clients first.

She came prepared with a strong understanding of her client’s needs and goals, confidently advocating for supports that would make a meaningful difference. Beth spoke up with clarity and purpose, ensuring the team fully understood how to best support the client moving forward.

Beyond the assessment, Beth’s commitment continued—she even offered to stop by in the mornings to help implement new changes. This level of initiative speaks volumes about her professionalism and genuine care.

Beth is consistently personable, thorough, and goes the extra mile to ensure success. Her efforts in helping establish new routines and supports will have a lasting impact on her client’s progress.

Thank you, Beth, for your dedication!

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!

GETINTOUCH

FindLove Safelyin Boston

Saturday,June6,2026

1:00PM-3:00PM

BostonArea

(Exactlocationdetailswillbeshared withregistrantsclosertotheeventdate)

JoinusforourfirstFindLoveSafelyeventinBoston:asocial gatheringforourfriendsintheIDDcommunityandtheir families.Membersandnon-membersarewelcome!One caregiverperparticipantiswelcometoattendfreeof charge.

Cost:FreeforFindLoveSafelymembers

$20fornon-members

AboutFindLoveSafely

FindLoveSafelyhelpsadultswithintellectualand developmentaldisabilitiesbuildfriendship,confidence,andlove -withthoughtfulmatchmakingandsupportiveguidance.

Familiescanparticipatethroughpersonalizedmatchmakingor throughourvirtualworkshopsfocusedonrelationshipskillsand confidence.

Whetheryou'reamemberlookingforconnectionoracaregiver hopingtosupportsomeoneyoulove.

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 May 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

Barnet GalleryMain Library32 Essex Street, Beverly, MA, 01915

SALEM ARTS FESTIVAL

Downtown Salenm, Massachusetts 01970

June 5 - June 7 2026 th th

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

Providing autism-friendly non-judgmental environments.

For family dining, socializing and connecting with others who share similar joys and challenges. ALL behaviors are welcomed!

Merrimack Valley | Community Opportunities

BOWLING WEDNESDAYS (AGES 18+) AMESBURY, MA

Most Mondays 5:00 p.m.- 6:15 p.m.

REGISTRATIONREQUIRED

TheArcofGreaterHaverhill-Newburyport hostbowlingeventsatGametimeLanes& EntertainmentinAmesbury,MA.Visitthelink andreviewtheavailableslots.

Price:$15.00each

The Arc

ADULT BINGO LAWRENCE PUBLICE LIBRARY

Saturday, May 30h 2:00 p.m.

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of excitement, camaraderie, and the thrill of the win at Bingo Games! Get your dabbers ready and mark your calendars for an afternoon filled with anticipation and fun!!

Registration Required

FIESTA SHOWS CLOWN TOWN ANDOVER

May 15th 2026 - May 17 2026 th 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 PM

May 15, 2026 (Friday) : 6pm to 10pm

May 16, 2026 (Saturday) : 10am to 8pm

May 17, 2026 (Sunday) : 10am to 4pm

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 May 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

Gaming Club

PARLIN MEMORIAL LIBRARY, EVERETT

Every Thursday

2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m.

LevelupyourWednesdayswithourultimate gaminghangout!Grabyourfriendsanddiveinto funNintendoSwitchandPlayStationgames whetheryou'reracing,battling,orteamingupfor co-opfun,there'ssomethingforeveryone No registrationrequired Recommendedforages11 andup ThisprogramwillruneveryWednesday from2:30to4:30PMunlessotherwisenotedon ourcalendar.

Central Middlesex | Community Opportunities

CANOBIE LAKE PARK!

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!

Lowell Area | Community Opportunities

DISCOVERY MUSEUM

Especially For me Inclusive evening

Saturday, May 16th, 2026

5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Thisspecialfreeeveningforchildrenandadults withdisabilitiesorsensorysensitivities,including thosethataredeaf,blind,orautistic

177MainStreet(Route27) Acton,Massachusetts01720

ALTITUDE PARK SENSORY FRIENDLY SATURDAYS

May16,2026@9:00am-10:00am

AltitudeTrampolinePark–Billerica 700BostonRoad Billerica,MA01821

enjoyAltitudeatareducedrateof$12/perperson 9:00am-10:00amwhenyoumentionupon purchase

TRIVIA NIGHT & MUSICAL BINGO

May 20 , 2026 th

Warp and Weft

197 Market St, Lowell, MA 01852, USA

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

North Shore

Lenore Goodwin lgoodwin@ne-arc.org

Metro North

RebeccaOloughlin roloughlin@ne-arc.org

Merrimack Valley

KathyCallahan&MaryEllenD’Angelo kcallahan@ne-arc.org&medangelo@ne-arc.org

Central Middlesex

Deanna Mansfield dmansfield@ne-arc org

Laura Teckman lteckman@ne-arc org

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.

Enchurritos

MORE RECIPES RECIPE CREATOR RESOURCES

Trail Mix Bites
Granola Bars
Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Webinars & Events

Communicating Clearly Under Stress: Strategies for Tough Conversations

Date & Time

Description

May 19th, 2026 1:00 p.m.

Whenstressrises,communicationoftenbecomeschallenging–peoplespeakfaster,listenless,and reactmorestronglythanintended.Inthiscourse,you’lldiscoverhowstressimpactscommunication andlearnpracticalstrategiestoexpressyourselfclearly,evenwhenemotionsareintense.Thisisn’t aboutavoidingdifficultconversations;it’saboutapproachingthemwithconfidence,makingthem saferandmoreproductiveforeveryoneinvolved.

Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health in the Workplace

Date & Time

Description

May 20 , 2026 11:00 a.m. th

Researchshowsthatabout75%ofemployeeshavestruggledwithanissuethataffectstheirmental health-but8outof10workerswithamentalhealthconditionsayshameandstigmapreventthem fromseekingmentalhealthcare.Discusstheimpactofunconsciousbiasandhowstigmainfluences hiring,organizationalsupports,andworkplaceculture.Learntipsforcorrectingnegativeperceptions andreducingstigmainthisone-hourseminar.

Substance Use and Mental Health: Tools to Calm Your Mind & Stay Safe

Date & Time

Description May 27th, 2026 1:00 PM

Learnpracticaltoolstomanagedifficultemotions,staysafe,andcopewithstrongurges.Whetheryou arefacingchallengesyourselforsupportingsomeoneelse,youwilllearnreal-lifetoolsincluding groundingtechniques,waystocalmemotions,strategiestohandlecravings,safetyplanning,and simpleharm-reductionstepsthatworkineverydaysituations.Part2ina3-partseries

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.

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 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.

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

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.

Important Links

ne-arc.org

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May 15th Newsletter by Northeast Arc - Issuu