SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2026
STAFF NEWSLETTER GUIDED PERSONAL PROGRAMS
NortheastArc 5K Our greatest strength is our people. Welcome to our newsletter, a space dedicated to celebrating your achievements, sharing successes, recognizing the impact you make every day, and building an even stronger sense of community. Thank you for everything you do to support one another and the people we serve.
Gregory Balan Staffing Coordinator 978-924-5872 GBalan@NE-Arc.org
Northeast Arc
NortheastArc
POSITIVITY MANAGEMENT THAT ENTERS
Changing lives: Discovering abilities.
GPS TEAM UPDATES
STAFF TRAININGS
Check-Ins Tymra and Greg have begun reaching out to both Staff and Clients for Quarterly Check-In’s. Please respond as emails go out.
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.
SURVEY HERE
parcels Company Name: “Northeast Arc”
Mike Frangos Commodore Invitational October 26 at Myopia Hunt Club
"Being different doesn’t mean being less. It just means being you."
— Anja Melissa SHAREPOINT
STAFF LINKS
NE-ARC 5K REGISTRATION
CONTACT US
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.
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Shotuout We would like to take a moment to recognize Margaret R. for her outstanding dedication and commitment to supporting the clients she serves. Margaret consistently goes above and beyond to ensure clients have the opportunity to attend and enjoy the events and activities that matter most to them, no matter where those opportunities may lead. Her unwavering advocacy helps empower clients to make their own choices and fully participate in their communities. Through her reliability, consistency, and person-centered approach, Margaret continues to make a positive impact on the growth and well-being of those she supports. She demonstrates exceptional commitment to providing coaching and assistance while always putting clients' needs first. Thank you, Margaret, for your continued hard work, dedication, and commitment to helping clients thrive. Your consistency, support, and advocacy do not go unnoticed, and we truly appreciate all that you do!
Keep shining! Your hard work, encouragement, and commitment empower those around you and make a real difference every day.
PRACTICAL MAGIC 2
SPIDER-MAN: BRAND NEW DAY
THE END OF OAK STREET
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.
NORTHEAST ARC Tuesday, September 15, 2026 12pm-2pm Center for Linking Lives 100 Independence Way, Danvers, MA
WAYSTONE
MY VOTE MY CHOICE The Department of Developmental Services' (DDS) Office of Human Rights invites individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and/or autism, family and caregivers, agency staff, teachers and staff for school programs with students over age 18, and day programs to a series of free presentations about voting rights for people with disabilities. Learn about: Accessible voting options and accommodations How and where to vote Voting rules for individuals under guardianship Resources/Tools to support voters How to register to vote These presentations provide information to help individuals with I/DD and/or autism understand their voting rights, make informed decisions, and participate confidently in the voting process.
Thursday, September 17 1pm-3pm The Inclusion Connection 439 S. Union Street, Suite 107, Lawrence, MA
BRIDGEWELL Monday, September 21, 2026 12pm-2pm 10 Dearborn Road, Peabody, MA
COMMUNITAS Tuesday, October 6 10:30am-12:30pm 60-D Audubon Road, Wakefield, MA
THE EDINBURG CENTER Thursday, October 15 4:30pm-6pm 205 Burlington Road, Bedford, MA
SEVEN HILLS Tuesday, October 20 5pm-8pm Chelmsford Public Library 25 Boston Road, Chelmsford, MA
tinyurl.com/DDSVotingRights2026 All are welcome to attend. All locations are ADA accessible. RSVP is appreciated to help us plan for space and materials. Please use RSVP form to request accommodations at least 2 weeks in advance.
BOX WITH RECREATION BOXING AT TITLE BOXING
The Northeast Arc Recreation Department runs on a fiscal year calendar starting July 1 and ending June 30. We run our programs in 6 different sessions throughout the fiscal year; all are open enrollment and offer new and exciting programs! Each session runs for 8 weeks at a time. Our schedule is below (approximate dates): Summer Session: July - August Session 1: August - October Session 2: October - December Session 3: January - February Session 4: February - April Session 5: April - June
Recreation Department Hours Monday - Thursday: 10am-6pm Friday: 12pm-8pm Saturday: 10am-2pm
PROGRAM INFORMATION
Program Type: Health and Wellness Occurrence: Weekly When: Tuesdays from 4:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Instructor(s): Dan Bernhardt Gender: Any Age Minimum: 16 years Age Maximum: Fees: $175
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NEW TITLE BOXING MEMBERS Boxing gloves and wraps must be purchased before attending class and are not included in the 8 week series cost. One can purchase this equipment at Title Boxing on the first day of class.
NORTHEAST ARC ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SUPPORTS
e h T t e a t e m e M
MEET AREEBA AND JEFF, WHO WORK AT THE NORTHEAST ARC. ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY IS ANY DEVICE OR SERVICE THAT SUPPORTS INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES, ENABLING THEM TO PARTICIPATE MORE INDEPENDENTLY IN LIFE. THIS TECHNOLOGY CAN RANGE FROM SIMPLE ADAPTATIONS OF EXISTING PRODUCTS TO HIGHLY SOPHISTICATED AND SPECIALIZED DEVICES. Staff Spotlight: Areeba Khan
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY HELPS INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES LEARN, LIVE INDEPENDENTLY, FEEL INCLUDED IN THEIR COMMUNITIES, AND SUCCEED AT HOME, SCHOOL, AND IN THE WORKPLACE.
Areeba Khan is Northeast Arc’s Director of Assistive Technology, leading efforts to expand access to technology that helps people with disabilities live more independently and stay connected to their Assistive Technology Lending Library communities. With degrees in Biomedical Engineering and Rehabilitation Technology, she brings The Assistive Technology Library at both expertise and innovation to her Northeast Arc's Center for Linking Lives gives individuals the opportunity to try & borrow role. assistive technology, communication devices, accessibility tools, & smart home Areeba oversees the Assistive Technology Lending Library and is products that support greater independence. passionate about increasing access Through a partnership with Easterseals, many to assistive technology across devices are also available for convenient Massachusetts and beyond. local pickup across northeastern Massachusetts. Fun Fact: Areeba’s lifelong goal is to make assistive technology more accessible around the world
“Assistive technology is critical because it helps individuals with disabilities learn, live independently, feel included in their communities, and succeed at home, school, and in the workplace,” -Jo Ann Simons, president and CEO, Northeast Arc.
Staff Spotlight: Jeff Boucher Jeff Boucher is Northeast Arc's Assistive Technology Coordinator. After beginning his career at Perkins School for the Blind and later supporting young adults in transition programs at Milestones Day School, Jeff found his passion in helping people with disabilities achieve greater independence. He oversees the Assistive Technology Lending Library and specializes in identifying practical technology solutions that empower individuals in everyday life.
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
Malden Beebe School 401 Pleasant Street
Beverly Pete’s Park 55 Middlebury Lane
Medford McGlynn Elementary 3002 Mystic Valley Pkwy
Touch the Sky Playground Children's Center for Communication/ Beverly School for the Deaf 6 Echo Ave
Peabody Ross Memorial Park 38 Johnson Street
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
Brown Elementary School 150 Lynn Street Sudbury SMILE Playground 40 Fairbank Rd Waltham Universal Access Playground 200 Trapelo Road Westford Ronan Mcelligott Park Williams Road Woburn Ferrullo Park Main Street West Newbury Action Cove 15 Bachelor Street
Last Reviewed: 4/17/2026
https://tinyurl.com/NEUniversalPlaygrounds
DEAF OUTREACH EVENT
SALEM TR OL LEY
ToursofSalem
ASL Video
27SEPTEMBER,2026
9:00AM-11:00AM
EXPLORE THE RICH HISTORY, FAMOUS LANDMARKS, AND UNIQUE CHARM OF SALEM ABOARD A COMFORTABLE TROLLEY. 8 Central Street, Salem, MA 01970 THIS EVENT IS FREE TO ALL DEAF INDIVIDUALS TRANSITIONING OR SUPPORTED BY DDS WHO ARE LIVING WITH HEARING INDIVIDUALS IN A RESIDENTIAL GROUP HOME, SUPPORTED LIVING, AND SHARED LIVING AND THEIR FAMILY MEMBERS
RSVP Alex Avram at aavram@workinc.org
FAMILY FUN Run, Walk, and Roll FEST FOR
INCLUSION
Northeast Arc
Changing lives. Discovering abilities.
$10 TO WALK | RAISE $50 OR MORE TO GET A T-SHIRT $35 TO RUN | INCLUDES T-SHIRT
INTERESTED IN SPONSORING OR DONATING? PLEASE VISIT NE-ARC.ORG/5K
BALLOON ART, BUBBLES, FACE PAINTING, KIDS FUN RUN + MORE MUSIC, SWAG + SAMPLES FROM OUR FRIENDS AT MARKETSTREET LYNNFIELD
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2026 REGISTRATION OPENS 7:30A.M. RUN + WALK 9:00A.M.
FUN FEST 9:30 - 11A.M.
NORTH SHORE COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL
FOOD TRUCK/CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL
Enjoy global food, live performances, crafts, and family fun at this annual community festival!
Sample delicious eats from dozens of food trucks while enjoying live entertainment and local artisans!
SUN, SEPTEMBER 27
SAT-SUN, SEPTEMBER 19-20
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
MAIN STREET, PEABODY
NORTH WASHINGTON SQUARE, SALEM
click here to learn more!
click here to learn more!
ANNUAL HAUNTED HAPPENINGS PARADE
HOCUS POCUS CRAFT FAIR
Kick off Halloween in Salem on October 1, 2026 with this year's "Old-School Halloween" theme! Enjoy costumes, music, community groups, and spooky fun as the parade travels from Shetland Park to Salem Common.
Enjoy a Hocus Pocus double feature, live music, a cash bar, 30+ craft vendors, and raffle prizes. Shop handmade gifts, décor, jewelry, candles, artwork, and more while celebrating spooky season in Salem!
THURSDAY , 1 OCT 2026 - 6:30 PM SALEM ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL, 45 CONGRESS ST, SALEM, MA click here to learn more!
SAT, SEPTEMBER 26 T H
12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
231 ESSEX ST, SALEM, MA click here to learn more!
MERRIMACK VALLEY COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
HALLOWEEN PAINT PARTY
Get in the spooky spirit with Paint and Party with Bridget for a Halloween Ceramics Party at Wicked Axe on Thursday, September 24th at 7 PM! THURSDAY, SEP 24 T H
7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
WICKED AXE 721 SOUTH MAIN ST, HAVERHILL, MASSACHUSETTS,
CIDER HILL FARM COUNTRY FAIR
Come grab food from guest food trucks, glass of hard cider, pumpkins and apples from the farm store or just enjoy fall on the farm with free live music SEPTEMBER 18, 2026 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM 45 FERN AVE, AMESBURY
click here to learn more!
click here to learn more!
MERRIMACK VALLEY HALLOWEEN BOOK FESTIVAL
VINTAGE BAZAAR - FALL FESTIVAL
This year is the 10th year of this annual FREE festival where book lovers of all ages can come together to celebrate all things books! SAT, 17 OCT 2026 10:00 AM TO 4:30 PM 51 LAWRENCE ST, LAWRENCE, MA click here to learn more!
Join us at CRESCENT FARM in Haverhill, MA (just minutes 30 minutes north of Boston) for a two-day vintage SAT, OCTOBER 3 & 4 TIME VARIES BY DAY CRESCENT FARM, 234 WILLOW AVE, HAVERHILL, MA click here to learn more!
METRO NORTH COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
YARD SALE + CRAFT FAIR ($15)
APPLE FESTIVAL
Browse handmade crafts, local vendors, and unique treasures at this community yard sale and craft fair!
Discover local vendors, live entertainment, apple pie contests, food, and family-friendly fall activities.
SAT, SEPTEMBER 19
SAT, SEPTEMBER 26
9:30 AM - 11:30 PM
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
55 JACOB WAY, READING
27 BOW STREET, NORTH READING
click here to learn more!
click here to learn more!
TRAFTON PARK CRAFT FAIR
FALL FAMILY FESTIVAL
See historic sailing ships, waterfront activities, and maritime traditions in Gloucester Harbor all weekend long.
Celebrate Saugus history and community with vendors, entertainment, and family-friendly activities!
SAT, SEPTEMBER 19 T H
SAT, 26 SEPEMBER 2026
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
10:00 AM TO 2:00 PM
TRAFTON PARK
SAUGUS TOWN HALL AREA
click here to learn more!
click here to learn more!
CENTRAL MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
JAMES GANG 5K RUN + WALK ($35)
2026 BOSTON LOCAL FOOD FESTIVAL
Participate in a community fundraiser promoting inclusion for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities!
Shop with nearly 100 local food vendors, participate in our events, and enjoy a spectacular day celebrating local food in downtown Boston.
SUN, SEPTEMBER 27
SUN, SEPTEMBER 20
9:30 AM
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
BURLINGTON HIGH SCHOOL
ROSE KENNEDY GREENWAY BOSTON, MA
click here to learn more!
click here to learn more!
FALL FALLADAYS FESTIVAL
DAN AND SHAY
Kick off the season with family photos, live music, carnival games, fall treats, and more at Arsenal Yards.
Celebrate Brazilian culture with traditional food, music, entertainment, and community activities!
WED, SEPTEMBER 23 R D
SAT, SEPTEMBER 19
4:30 PM - 7:00 PM
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
130 ARSENAL YARDS BLVD, WATERTOWN, MA
885 SOUTH MAIN ST, MANSFIELD, UNITED STATES click here to learn more!
click here to learn more!
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Michael’s hair hasn’t seen a comb in 15 years. Don’t be like MIchael.
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You can’t kill the Boogeyman. And you can’t forget to take your meds!
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Death breath has come to your little town, Sheriff. You can either ignore it, or you can brush and floss.
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Two roadblocks and an all-points bulletin wouldn't stop a fiveyear-old... but this body odor might. Time to shower.
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LOWELL AREA COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
FALL FESTIVAL
DOWNTOWN LOWELL FARMER’S MARKET
Experience hayrides, food trucks, a petting zoo, pumpkin painting, and plenty of family-friendly fall fun!
Come shop our year-round market featuring genuine farmers, growers, makers, food & events.
SAT, SEPTEMBER 26
SUN, SEPTEMBER 20 T H
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
CHELMSFORD TOWN COMMON
THE HIVE PUBLIC MARKET 45 MERRIMACK STREET LOWELL, MA UNITED STATES
click here to learn more!
MOVIES AND MUNCHIES
MAINE LOBSTER AT FALL FESTIVAL
Stop by after school to unwind and watch a movie! Snacks will be provided. For teens and tweens in grades 5-12
Cousins Maine Lobster is rolling into the Fall Festival at Chelmsford on 9/26! Join us for your favorite treats
MON, SEPTEMBER 28 T H
SAT, SEPTEMBER 26
3:15 PM - 4:45 PM
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
POLLARD MEMORIAL LIBRARY MEETING ROOM 401 MERRIMACK ST, LOWELL, MA 01852, USA LOWELL, MASSACHUSETTS UNITED STATES
NORTH RD & WESTFORD ST, CHELMSFORD, MA click here to learn more!
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 KathyCallahan&MaryEllenD’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.
Check out these recipes by clicking the images below.
Mini Pizza Cubes
Chicken Burgers
Bacon Quiche
Nutella Mug Cake
MORE RECIPES
RECIPE CREATOR
RESOURCES
Webinars & Events Discrimination, Fear, and Mental Health in LGBTQIA+ Communities Date & Time Description
Sep 22, 2026 01:00 PM LGBTQIA+ adults are three times more likely to experience a mental health disorder than people who identify as straight. Discuss what factors impact this statistic, how to find supportive professionals, ways of coping, and how to be a true ally in this one-hour seminar with a licensed therapist.
The Psychology of People-Pleasing Date & Time Description
Sep 23, 2026 01:00 PM People pleasing is a tendency to prioritize others' needs over your own, even at the expense of your own health, safety, and well-being. It can be a response to trauma or life experiences, or to manage anxiety about other people’s approval & reactions. Explore the roots of people-pleasing behavior and its impact on mental health, and learn how to set healthy boundaries, build self-confidence, and communicate more assertively.
Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Date & Time Description
Sep 30, 2026 01:00 PM OCD manifests differently in different people – and involves much more than anxiety about germs or compulsions to clean. This one-hour webinar provides an accessible guide to understanding this often-misunderstood diagnosis, including symptoms of OCD, co-occurring disorders, and treatment options. Learn practical tips for managing symptoms and helping others with a licensed therapist.
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