October 2024 - Family Newsletter

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FamilyNewsletter

DearFamilies,

Welcome to October! As we transition into a season filled with vibrant leaves and crisp air, we are reminded of the beauty of change and the importance of connection. This month brings new opportunities for us to cometogetherasacommunity,shareourexperiences,andcelebrateour unique journeys October is all about embracing the cozy season and making wonderful memories together. Whether you ' re looking forward to fall festivities, planning for Halloween, or simply enjoying the beauty of autumn, we hope this newsletter serves as a source of inspiration and connectionwithinourcommunity

AndrewHartigan NortheastArc ProgramCoordinator

PS – If you haven’t yet, we encourage you to take part in our survey for theGPSprogram.Yourfeedbackisvitalinhelpingustailorourservicesto your family’s needs and helping shape the future of the GPS Program. Please take a moment to use the link below to complete the survey! Thankyou!

A Weekend to Remember: Medford Respite

We arrived at our charming rental house in Medford on Friday afternoon. That evening, we strolled to The Ford Tavern for a delectable dinner, conveniently located within walking distance.

Saturday was filled with cultural exploration at the Museum of Science, where the Arctic, Sloth, and AI exhibits particularly captivated us. Later that evening, we participated in a Kids' Test Kitchen cooking class, learning to prepare savory eggplant meatballs.

Our guests departed on Sunday morning, concluding a delightful weekend getaway.

Adventure to Stoneham this Winter for an exciting respiteopportunityandindependentlivingexperience. Guestswillenjoytwonightsofaccommodationsata local Airbnb with a trip to Stone Zoo to view the Zoo lights. Individuals will strengthen their independent livingskillsandengageinanunforgettableexperience. ContactKaileyTaggart

A Weekend To Remember: Respite Program

Join Northeast Arc for an opportunity to unwind, recharge, and discover your potential! We are excited to announce a first-of-its-kind respite program for young adults with disabilities looking to gain independent living skills. Each weekend retreat will provide a wide range of hands-on learning activities as well as unique outings in the community. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet other peers in the community during this shared living experience.

INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS

The retreat offers a relaxing respite opportunity for attendees while giving caregivers time to themselves.

Complete with activities such as cooking classes, budgeting workshops, safety seminars, and everything in between!

Young adults will learn valuable social skills while making new friends in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Social Group

Internet Safety and Digital Citizenship Virtual Series

Overview

We’re excited to announce, in partnership with AT&T and the Arc of the US, a three-part series on Internet Safety and Digital Citizenship

This series aims to empower everyone with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

Series Dates:

October 28th 6PM

November 4th 6PM

November 11th 6PM

The sessions will be virtual and cover internet safety and digital citizenship

Internet safety lessons will teach skills related to recognizing cyber threats, how to keep personal situation secure, and more.

Digital citizenship covers topics related to positive behavior online regarding online relationships and digital media consumption, as well as recognizing and responding to cyber bullying and online hate.

Stay tuned for more details and registration information and we look forward to seeing you there!

For more information, email the Director of Assistive Technology Areeba Khan, akhan@ne-arc org

Healthy Eating Tips & Recipes

For Nutrition information about this recipe, visit https://www myplate gov/recipes/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/blueberry-muffins

For Nutrition information about this recipe, visit https://www myplate gov/recipes/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/pasta-primavera

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

Registration is require. Scan theQRcode toget startedtoday!

Connecting YOU(th) is a monthly get-together for teens and young adults with disabilities. Every second Tuesday of the month, we have a topic for discussion, and we’re always changing and growing in response to what participants want to happen next.

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

LGBTQ+ Community Gatherings

A space to build a support system, and a sense of chosen family, with your community.

Our community gatherings are peer-led support groups that are non-clinical and led by a collective of individuals with lived experience in the group's topic or community. Each community gathering is unique to the population it serves and is created in a peer-led collaborative group process There is no pressure to share to attend We welcome anyone, anywhere that is 18+.

Community Gatherings

Thefollowingarefree,non-clinical,peer-ledsupportgroupshostedbyPeerSupport SpacetakingplaceinEasternTime(EST).Newfriendsarealwayswelcome. Registrationisrequiredforin-personeventssothatwecankeepourgatheringsunder 10peopleasaCOVIDprecaution. Forourvirtualgroups,pleaseusethezoomlinksonthewebsite(oncomputerorzoom phoneapp)toenter

12PMand6PMEachDay,Monday-Saturday **YoumustemailMary@peersupportspace.orgto receivethepasscodesforthedailycommunal gatherings-thisisasecurityprecautiontoensure thatwearekeepingthespaceassafeaspossible**

For more information, visit https://peersupportspace. org/communitygatherings-1 Daily Communal Gatherings

2024 Topsfield Fair

America's oldest agricultural fair, will return to Topsfield, Massachusetts in early October. It will feature agricultural exhibits, livestock competitions, carnival rides, and local food. Signature events like the giant pumpkin contest are expected to return, celebrating the region's agricultural heritage while entertaining visitors of all ages

Sensory Day

October 4 - 14, 2024

Sensory Day is an opportunity for a more sensory sensitive experience to the Topsfield Fair for families who have family members with autism or sensory processing disorders. Vendors will have no flashing lights, music or announcements. Sound for entertainment and stages will be lowered and announcements on the grounds will be limited and turned down as well. This will be held on Monday, October 7.

Monday, October 7

www.goatstogo.farm/events www.goatstogo.farm/events

REST,RELAX,REJUVENATE

CAREGIVERRESPITEGETAWAY

Providing care for a family member is a rewarding yet stressful job. TILL recognizes that everyone can use a break to rest and recharge. The care you provide to your family member is invaluable and to help you provide this care well into the future, we're offering an overnight respite opportunity to give families a much needed night off and an opportunity to meet other families who share many of your experiences.

Please join us on one of the following dates:

September 14th-15th October 12th-13th

November 9th-10th

December 7th-8th

YouwillbetreatedtoaroomattheResidenceInninBurlington,MA, convenientlylocatedat400DistrictAvenue,rightnexttotheBurlington Mall.Aftercheck-in,you'llhavethenighttoyourselvestogooutto dinner,doerrands,seeamovie,orrelaxatthehotelandusethefitness roomandindoorswimmingpool.Whatyoudoistotallyuptoyou.Inthe morning,enjoyahotbreakfastandjoinasmallgroupofotherfamily caregiversinasocialconnectionsgrouptoshareexperiencesand discusschallengesandsuccesseswithoneanother.Allroomshavea kitchen,kingbedandpulloutcouch.TILLwillprovidetherespitestaff orcanpayforacaregiveryoualreadyknow,suchasafamilymember orfriend,toprovidecareforyourlovedoneathome.

THISPROGRAMISAVAILABLEATNOCOSTTOYOURFAMILY

Thanks to funding from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Respite Innovations Grant.

If you're interested in participating, please contact Ilana Gordon-Brown at ilana gordon-brown@tillinc org for more information or to begin the enrollment process

For Upcoming Dates and More Information, visit https://www.discoveryacton.org/visit/especially-me

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

14 Cedar Street #213, Amesbury MA 01913 978.378.4660

www.TEKCollaborative.org info@tekcollaborative.org

OUR MISSION

To provide internet enabled devices to anyone in need. The digital divide is a global problem. Our goal is to form strategic partnerships with businesses, organizations, schools, and government offices to create an ecosystem of device access, internet access, and education.

Provide FREE devices to those most in need EDUCATION

Partnerships and programs that bring technology to people KINDNESS

Offering people a hand up, not a hand out.

Northeast Arc’s Recreation program offers individuals the opportunity to participate in active and healthy recreation as well as leisure activities for enjoyment, relaxation, development, and personal growth.

August 26 to October 19

Please Note: Prior to attending any recreation activities, registration and an intake is required.

August 26 to October 19

Please Note: Prior to attending any recreation activities, registration and an intake is required.

North Shore | Community Events

HALLOWEEN ON THE HILLBEVERLY, MA

Friday, October 11 4:00-5:00 pm

JoinusatLongHillforourSensory& AccessibleFriendlyDaysatHalloweenon theHill!Thisoffersadedicatedhourwitha reducednumberofguestsandaquieter sensory-sensitiveenvironmentinthemidst ofourHalloweenontheHillevent.

CORN MAZE AT CONNOR’S FARM - DANVERS, MA

See Website for Tickets and Info

Diveintoaprehistoricworldasyou navigatethroughourmostexcitingmaze yet Perfectforallages,thisadventurewill haveyouexploringtwists,turns,and surprisesaroundeverycorner Bringthe wholefamily,challengeyourfriends,and seewhocanconquerthemazefirst!

HOLLOWED

Salem'sonlyJack-O'-Lanternfestival,known as"HollowedHarvest:WickedLabyrinth", returnsforits4thseasonwithevenmore Jack-O'-Lanternmagicthaneverbefore! Preparetobeblownawaybyhundredsof intricatelycarvedJack-o'-Lanterns,anepic spiderwebtunnel,andmuchmore!Visit websiteformoredetails

Metro North | Community Events

BOO AT THE ZOOSTONEHAM, MA

October 19 & 20 9:00 am-4:00 pm

Takesomespookysnapswithcostumed charactersattheZoo'sfrontentrance from9:00am-1:00pm,wanderthrough animalhabitatsandcollectterrifyinglytasty treatsonthetrick-or-treattrail,get creativeatartsandcraftstations,and muchmore!Don’tmissoutonthefun!

HALLOWEEN HUSTLE 5K FUN RUN - WAKEFIELD, MA

Saturday, October 26

Starts at 10:00 am

Runnersofallagesandabilitiesare welcome.Allproceedswillgotothe FirefighterReliefFundwhichwillhelp supportourmembers,neighboringtowns, andtheirfamiliesintimesofneed.We lookforwardtoseeingyouthere!

HARVEST HANGOUT -

Saturday, October 19 10:00 am-1:00 pm

JoinusforourfirstHarvestHangoutin MarketSquare!Enjoyafestivemorningfilled withfestivesnacks,funactivitiesforthekids, andachancetocapturespecialfamily momentswithpersonalizedpumpkins.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26

Merrimack Valley | Community Events

FALL FESTIVAL WEEKENDNORTH ANDOVER, MA

October 5 & 6 8:00 am-4:00 pm

Joinusforaspook-tacularstarttothe Halloweenseasonwithhop-onhayrides,cow rides,Halloween-themedhayrides,pumpkin picking,livemusic,andtastyfalltreats.It'sthe perfectweekendtocelebratewithfamilyand friends,packedwithfunactivitiesforeveryone toenjoy Don'tmissthefirstweekendofour Halloween-themedFallFestival!

SALISBURY BEACH

SPOOKTACULAR HALLOWEENSALISBURY, MA

October 24-25 4:00-8:00 pm

Thearea’smostfunHalloweenparty–on BroadwaySalisburyBeach!Decorateyour vehiclesandhandouttreatsandswagto thekiddosastheytrick-or-treatfrom trunktotrunk.On10/25,watchtheHowlO-WeenCostumePetParadeandjointhe GreatPumpkinStroll.

FALLinLOVEwithNewburyport!Joinusas welistentolivelocalbands,endulgeintasty treatsfromlocalfoodtrucks,andbrowse itemsmadebylocalcraftersandartisans.

Lowell Area | Community Events

LOWELL ASIAN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL - LOWELL, MA

Oc 8:

Join us for this amazing cultural and cinematic experience as we screen short and feature films from across the country for a weekend celebrating art, culture, and diversity. The festival's goals is to celebrate the vibrancy of Lowell’s diverse community as well as to promote Lowell as the arts and film destination

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULARMERRIMACK, NH

Saturday, October 26 2:00-4:00 pm

Callingallghouls,ghosts,andgoblins!Join usfortheHalloweenSpooktacularat CampSargentonSaturday,October26 from2-4PM!There’llbeghoulishgames, funcrafts,snacksandatrunk-or-treat!It’s afreefamilyeventpackedwithspookyfun forallages.

Wednesday, October 13 Starts at 10:00 am

ComeandcelebratetheFallseasonatthe WestfordHarvestFair!Explorethevarietyof vendorsshowcasingtheircrafts,services,and holidayitems Enjoydeliciousbakedgoodsfor sale,andenterintowinover20rafflebaskets! Thisisaneventyouwon’twanttomiss!

Central Middlesex | Community Events

ANNUAL HARVEST FESTIVALCONCORD, MA

Saturday, October 5

10:00 am-2:00pm

Join us for our annual Harvest Festival to support Pediatric Care at Emerson Hospital A day of family fun featuring games and prizes, hayrides, live music, PYO pumpkins, 4-H animals, a silent auction and a la cart food. All pumpkin sales during the festival will go towards Pumpkins for Pediatrics at Emerson Hospital. Admission for this event will be sold online and at the door.

CASTLEBERRY FALL CRAFT FESTIVAL - WILMINGTON, MA

October 26-27 10:00 am-4:00 pm

Exploreadiversearrayofcraftsmanship andcreativitywithover150booths, offeringsomethingforeveryoneto discover.Embracethespiritoftheseason andexploreamyriadofWoodCrafts, TraditionalBroomcornBrooms&Brushes, OriginalPaintingandmuchmore.

HELLO PUMPKIN: FALL VENDOR AND CRAFT FAIR - LEXINGTON, MA

Saturday, October 19 11:00 am-3:00 pm

HostedbytheKnightsofColumbus,come andjoinsomeFallandHolidayshoppingatits best!With30+localcraftersandvendors,you areboundtofindtheperfectgiftforfriends andfamily EntryandparkingareFREE!

ne-arc.org

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October 2024 - Family Newsletter by Northeast Arc - Issuu