NOVEMBER STAFF NEWSLETTER GUIDED PERSONAL SUPPORTS Upcoming Events Mental Health First Aid Training Free! Upcoming dates:
Annual Performance Discussion: Discussions have started and
Wednesday, November 11
we require staff to respond to
Friday, December 11
emails for meeting requests
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
All-Staff Team Training
click here!
All-Staff Training to take place in November. Date: TBD
Contact Info Matthew Ataya, Program Director Phone: (978) 924 - 5845 Email: MAtaya@ne-arc.org
Gregory Balan, Staffing Coordinator Phone: (978) 924 - 5872 Email: GBalan@ne-arc.org
Vikki Kusumoto, Prodram Director Phone: (978) 924 - 5872 Email: VKusumoto@ne-arc.org
Tymra Morris, Program Coordinator Phone: (978) 924 - 5868 Email: TMorris@ne-arc.org
Gregory Balan Staffing Coordinator 978-924-5872 GBalan@NE-Arc.org
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Shoutout We would like to recognize Taylor H. for the incredible impact she has made in such a short time with our program. Since joining our team, Taylor has demonstrated exceptional dedication, patience, and compassion while supporting her client. Prior to being paired with Taylor, the client faced significant challenges participating in community-based activities. Through Taylor's consistent efforts, understanding, and person-centered approach, the client is now successfully engaging in community sessions on a regular basis. Taylor has built a strong and trusting relationship with her client, creating opportunities for meaningful growth and increased independence. Her commitment to meeting the client where they are and supporting them at their own pace has made a remarkable difference. We have also received wonderful feedback from the family, who shared their appreciation for the positive impact Taylor has had on their loved one's life. Their recognition speaks volumes about the quality of support and care Taylor provides each day. Thank you, Taylor, for your hard work, dedication, and the positive difference you are making. We are grateful to have you on the team and look forward to seeing your continued success!
Keep shining! Your hard work, encouragement, and commitment empower those around you and make a real difference every day.
LIVING FULLER, MORE INDEPENDENT LIVES
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY L ENDING LIBRARY Liberty Tree Mall 100 Independence Way Danvers MA
OPEN HOUSE OCTOBER 21 NOVEMBER 19 DECEMBER 15
COME ANYTIME 9-12 OR 3-6 Click HERE to register
WILDWOOD
STREET FIGHTER
AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society offering 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 (family- friendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month.
S H H T O R RE O N COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
Renaissance Faire
Craft & Specialty Food Fair
NOVEMBER 8 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 80 HESPERUS AVE, GLOUCESTER CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO!
NOVEMBER 13-15 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM 207 BOSTON ST, TOPSFIELD CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!
Holiday Parade
NOVEMBER 29 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM 100 SOHIER RD, BEVERLY CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO!
MERRIMACK VALLEY COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY FAIR
HALLOWEEN COSTUME BALL
Join costumed revelers across three floors of the historic hotel for Salem's bucket-list Halloween event: "Phobia"
A festive Halloween celebration at Salisbury Beach featuring costumes, live music, dancing, and a fun night out for adults! **21+**
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2026
SUN, DECEMBER 06, 2026
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
10:00 AM
120 BELLEVUE AVE HAVERHILL, 01830
4 OCEANFRONT NORTH, SALISBURY, MA
click here to learn more!
click here to learn more!
BILLERICA HOLIDAY FESTIVAL RECEPTION Social Event of the Season in Billerica. A tasting menu of food, as well as water, soda, beer, wine, and cordials FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20 T H 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM 1 DUNDEE PARK DRIVE#2 ANDOVER, MA 01810 click here to learn more!
METRO NORTH COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
WAKEFIELD FARMERS MARKET
KRIS KRINGLE FAIR
Trick or Treat with area businesses. No registration required.
Join us for our third annual Trick-or-Treat for a Cause at your favorite Assembly Row businesses!
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 21ST
SAT, NOV 14, 2026
10:00 AM- 1:00 PM
10:00 AM
GALVIN MIDDLE SCHOOL WAKEFIELD, MA
239 WOBURN ST, READING, MA, 01867 click here to learn more!
click here to learn more!
FAMILY VIOLIN FOR BEGINNERS Shop from more than 35 vendors and crafters while enjoying Halloween-themed activities, and seasonal shopping! SAT, NOBEMBER 7 T H SATURDAYS 9:15 AM 10 DEXTER STREET, SUITE 1 MALDEN, MA 02148 click here to learn more!
central middlesex
COMMNITY OPPORTUNITIES
Pet Photos w/ Santa
Bat Boy: The Musical
NOVEMBER 29 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM 75 MIDDLESEX TNPK, BURLINGTON CLICK HERE FOR MORE!
NOVEMBER 6 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM 40 STOW ST, CONCORD CLICK HERE FOR MORE!
Quilters Guild Show
NOVEMBER 7-8 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 138 CAMBRUDGE RD, WOBURN CLICK HERE FOR MORE!
Lowell
COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
SEASONAL MARKET
CRAFT & VENDOR FAIR
NOVEMBER 7 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM 300 LITTLETON RD, CHELSMFORD CLICK HERE FOR MORE!
NOVEMBER 8 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM 90 GROTON RD, N. CHELMSFORD CLICK HERE FOR MORE!
FESTIVAL OF TREES
FARMERS MARKET
NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 5 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM KENDALL RD, TYNGSBOROUGH CLICK HERE FOR MORE!
SUNDAYS IN NOVEMBER 5:00 - 8:00, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM THE HIVE PUBLIC MARKET 45 MERRIMACK STREET CLICK HERE FOR MORE!
NOVEMBER HOLIDAYS 1ST
World Vegan Day
3RD
National Sandwich Day
4TH
National Candy Day
5TH
National Redhead Day
6TH
National Nachos Day
11TH
Veterans Day
13TH
World Kindness Week
26TH
Thanksgiving Day CELEBRATE ALL MONTH LONG!
Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month National Adoption Month National Family Caregivers Month National Gratitude Month
Date:
Name:
AUTUMN CROSSWORD AUTUMN CROSSWORD PUZZLE PUZZLE Directions: Use the clues to solve the puzzle. 1
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Across 2. A fun fall activity that involves riding on a wagon filled with hay 5. A small nut that grows on an oak tree 6. Another name for the season between summer and winter 7. These change colors and fall from trees during autumn 8. A popular fall drink made from apples 9. A warm piece of clothing worn when the weather gets cold 12. An orange squash that is popular during the fall season
Down 1. A figure placed in a field to scary away birds 2. A gathering of crops from fields and gardens 3. A giant puzzle made by walking through paths cut into a cornfield 4. A large outdoor fire often enjoyed on a cool fall evening 10. A fruit commonly picked and enjoyed during the fall season 11. A warm accessory worn around the neck in cool weather
13. A type of tree known for its colorful fall leaves 14. A sport often associated with the fall season and Friday nights
You can find the answer key at the end of the newsletter!
COMMUNITY 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 Click or scantheQR codetosignuptoreceiveevent newsletters from the Community Resource Specialist in your DDS Office Area.
North Shore
Metro North
Kerry Neenan kneenan@ne-arc.org Merrie Rothstein mrothstein@ne-arc.org
Merrimack Valley
Amie Richards arichards@ne-arc.org
Lowell
Caitlin Lausier clausier@ne-arc.org
Central Middlesex
Holly Keane hkeane@ne-arc.org
Looking for Community Events? Visit ecommunityconnections.org
Resources Community Events Recreational Activities Support Groups Educational Workshops Social Opportunities Special Olympic Events
Contact Us Matthew Ataya, Director of Community Resource Center
CommunityResource Center@ne-arc.org
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 Kathy Callahan &Mary Ellen D’Angelo
kcallahan@ne-arc.org & medangelo@ne-arc.org
Central Middlesex Deanna Mansfield
dmansfield@ne-arc.org
Lowell Area
Laura Teckman
lteckman@ne-arc.org
Contact Us: AdultAutism@ne-arc.org or (978) 624 - 2603
Welcome to The Arc of Massachusetts Action Center Take Action
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.
ACCESSIBLE CHEF Check out these recipes by clicking the images below!
Blueberry Pancakes
Guacamole
Lasagna
Apple Pie
more recipes
recipe creator
resources
Webinars & Events Raising Resilient Children: Nurturing Emotional Strength and Adaptability Nov 9, 2026 01:00 PM
CLICK HERE!
The ability to navigate hardships with confidence & courage protects a person’s long-term health and happiness. Explore strategies for building emotional strength and discuss practical techniques to help children navigate setbacks, manage stress, and develop a positive outlook on life in this one-hour seminar with a licensed therapist.
Holiday Stress & Self Care November 10, 2026 1:00 PM
CLICK HERE!
The “most wonderful time of the year” doesn’t always feel that wonderful. Demands on our time and energy often leave us feeling tired, disappointed, and depressed. Learn effective strategies to manage holiday stress, prioritize self-care, and get the support you need in this one-hour seminar with a licensed therapist.
Strategies for Tough Convesations November 11, 2026 11:00 AM
CLICK HERE!
When stress rises, communication often becomes challenging – people speak faster, listen less, and react more strongly than intended. In this course, you’ll discover how stress impacts communication and learn practical strategies to express yourself clearly, even when emotions are intense. This isn’t about avoiding difficult conversations; it’s about approaching them with confidence, making them safer and more productive for everyone involved.
Low Cost / No Cost Psychotherapy Resources If you are having a mental health crisis or need emergency assistance, dial 911 or contact local emergency services 7 Cups https://www.7cups.com/ 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://doctorondemand.com/ 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://etherapypro.com/ 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 ($160.00/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
LifeCourse Library
LifeCourse Framework Our Core Belief: All people have the right to live, love, work, play, and pursue their own life aspirations.
What is Charting the LifeCourse? Charting the LifeCourse IS: 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
Charting the LifeCourse IS NOT: 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
Introduction to the LifeCourse Framework 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.”
Quick Reference Tools for the Framework Download the LifeCourse Infographic
Download the Principles Overview
Download the LifeCourse Taxonomy
1st & 3rd Tuesdays of Every Month 6:30PM - 7:30PM
Join us on the last Tuesday of each month from 5:30pm-7:00pm for our Rainbow Group Meeting! P
CLICK HERE TO JOIN
The Most Comprehensive Career Exploration Program Available For Students with Disabilities
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.
LIVE MENTORSHIP
Mission 1: Self-Exploration Our video-based assessments guide students in creating their own Career DNA™, a unique 25-point "Career Needs Fingerprint" highlighting the results of 7 intuitive exercises
Mission 2: Career Exploration Students now explore and evaluate aligned careers to identify which ones excite them most. With support from their mentor, they then compare these careers point-by point to their Career DNA.
Mission 3: Soft Skills, Outreach, & Career Path Using our comprehensive toolkit and soft skills training from their Mentor, they connect with professionals and conduct informational interviews to learn what it's really like to work in the field.
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 Scan the QR code on Zoom
Meet new people Build community Social connection Promote health Well-being
Mondays 10am-12pm 1 Market St, Ste 203 Lynn, MA 01901
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.
1.
Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the Gym Setting Understanding the challenges ad considerations specific to individuals with ASD in a gym environment
2.
Adaptive Exercise Techniques Learning how to modify exercises and workouts to accommodate the sensory and motor needs of individuals with ASD
3.
Visual Supports and Communication Strategies Implementing visual schedules, social stories, and other communication tools to enhance understanding and participation
4.
Sensory-Friendly Environment Creating a sensory-friendly gym space by managing noise levels, lighting, and providing sensory tools
5.
Behavior Management in the Gym Utilizing positive reinforcement strategies and behavior management techniques to promote positive behaviors
6.
Individualized Fitness Plans Developing personalized fitness plans based on the individual’s strengths, interests, and goals.
7.
Supportive Coaching and Inclusive Practices Training coaches and staff on inclusive practices and effective communication to provide a supportive and welcoming environment
8.
Collaboration with Families and Caregivers Engaging families and caregivers in the gym program to ensure continuity of support and progress monitoring.
Call today to learn more about about our training program! (978) 362-3891
WWW.ECOMMUNITYCONNECTIONS.ORG
Find: Free Events 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.
Your Human Rights include: Dignity: To be treated with respect, including respect for ethnic and cultural diversity.
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 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