Ghosts, Pumpkins at Programs!

Tuesday, October 29, 2024

Roseway Day Program Pumpkins                                       Bridgewell Johnson Street, Women’s Program                                         Pumpkins with the Beast at Rosewood            ...

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Bridgewell hosts first formal – Salem News

Thursday, October 24, 2024

PEABODY — Bridgewell hosted its first formal for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities on Friday, Oct. 18. The prom-like event was held at the North Shore Community Baptist Church in Beverly and was a night of dinner and dancing for more than 130 guests.

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Numbers Game at Rosewood

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Rosewood Day Program Service Manager Willie Barnes set up the “Numbers Game” recently for a classroom activity in the Onyx Room! David, Michael, Zachary and Kyle had so much fun playing. Thanks for sharing, Willie!

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Brent Brown Elected Chair of Bridgewell DEIB Committee

Monday, October 7, 2024

Bridgewell’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) Committee members recently elected Brent Brown as the group’s chairperson. Brent has worked as Transportation Manager at Bridgewell for over 10 years. In addition to previous nonprofit and government roles, he has served as an educator for the Healing and Transcending Racial Trauma series, presented at national conferences, and served as a group...

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Bridgewell and Kinship Farm Partnership

Friday, October 4, 2024

Kinship Farm held its Harvest Banquet at Essex Technical High School earlier this fall. Bridgewell has been working with Kinship Farm to help our residents start home gardens, care for them and harvest the produce. Bridgewell residents Eric, Bill, Rob and Chad enjoyed a student-led tour of the greenhouses and horticulture program, the equine barn, and the sheep and goat...

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Bridgewell volunteer day is growing

Wednesday, October 2, 2024

PEABODY — Bridgewell, a Peabody-based social and human services agency, launched its month-long series of activities with a Celebration of Community Service Project at Newhall Fields Community Farm on Tuesday.

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2024 Special Olympics Banquet!

Thursday, September 19, 2024

Bridgewell’s Special Olympics Team celebrated a successful season recently at Prince Pizza! What a fun evening celebrating Bridgewell’s amazing athletes and coaches!

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Urban Youth Collaborative at the State House

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Last month, Bridgewell intern Naguy Priscille Nseka Nsingi attended an Urban Youth Collaborative event at the Massachusetts State House with Bridgewell’s Retention and Recruitment Manager Brad Bitler. The Urban Youth Collaborative Program (UYCP) places high school and college interns in provider agencies, such as Bridgewell, as well as state-operated programs, and developmental centers across the Commonwealth in jobs providing support...

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Garden Update!

Monday, September 9, 2024

There’s been a lot of growth this summer! These green thumb gardeners have been busy all summer tending to their gardens at several Bridgewell residences. Later in August, Eric, Bill and Chad went to Baltimore Street and showed Jaime, Jessica, Arianna and Lisa how to harvest the potatoes that they grew. They also picked tomatoes and peppers, and planted spinach...

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A VISIT TO BRIDGEWELL

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

A group of Danvers-based Abiomed employees recently visited two-day habilitation programs operated by Peabody-based human services provider Bridgewell. The programs provide adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities with compassionate social-interaction and life-skills education.

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2024 ADDP Calendar Artist: Chad Mitchell

Thursday, August 22, 2024

August 2024’s Featured Artist Artist: Chad Mitchell Piece: “Peter the Parrot” Agency: Bridgewell Chad Mitchell loves to color with markers and paint in his free time. He got into artwork more during the beginning of the pandemic and he has a large bulletin board in his apartment to display some of it! Chad also enjoys cooking and baking, and has...

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Peabody woman defies the odds with kidney transplant

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

PEABODY — There was a time when 58-year-old Ruth Fabello might not have been given the life-saving care she recently received. Fabello has an intellectual and developmental disability and has received support services since birth. Since 2002, she’s lived in group homes run by Peabody-based social and human services agency Bridgewell, and in 2013, was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney disease.

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Fund a Need, Fund Joy

Monday, August 5, 2024

Earlier this year at our Imagine the Possibilities Gala, members of the Bridgewell community raised their paddles in support of the Fund a Need auction. The auction was split into a several categories of need, from basic necessities for our affordable housing programs, to technology for our day and residential program participants, to enriching experiences to make dreams come true for people...

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Employment Program BBQ

Friday, July 26, 2024

Earlier this summer, Bridgewell Employment Program at Dearborn celebrated their hard work with an afternoon BBQ! Delicious burgers and hot dogs with all the fixings were served and grilled by Darren Goad, Director of Employment and CBDS. Program participants planned and prepared throughout the week by prepping sides and purchasing groceries and supplies. Throughout the year, program participants work various...

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Disability Pride Flag

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

Flags symbolize solidarity, pride, and acceptance. In 2019, writer Ann Magill, who has cerebral palsy, created the original Disability Pride flag. Magill was motivated to create the flag after a less than pride-filled experience at an ADA anniversary event. The original flag featured brightly colored zigzagging stripes over a black background. The zigzag symbolized the barriers people with disabilities face....

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Bridgewell Employee Red Sox Giveaway!

Monday, July 15, 2024

Congratulations to Geoffrey Aronian and Monique Gonyea for winning last month’s Red Sox Raffle! Lucky for us, Bridgewell received MORE Red Sox tickets to raffle off to staff! Thank you to Dave McGeney and UBEO for donating more tickets: Red Sox vs. White Sox Sunday, September 8, 2024 at 1:35 PM Fenway Park,  Boston Each winner gets two tickets. Two...

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Connor Celebrates 10 Years at TJ Maxx!

Friday, July 12, 2024

  Why do you like working at TJ Maxx? “Working at TJ Maxx is amazing. I like stacking boxes.” How is it working with your co-workers at TJ Maxx?” “They are amazing.” Do you have a favorite memory at TJ Maxx? “All ten years- 2014-2024” Will you continue in 2025 for 11 years?” “Yes! – 11 years!”   Connor processes...

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Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year

Friday, June 14, 2024

Bridgewell was selected as the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce’s INCredible Awards “Nonprofit of the Year,” sponsored by North Shore Bank. Congratulations to the team at Lifebridge for also being nominated – we are proud to be in such great company. Bridgewell’s Chief Development & Marketing Officer Erik Langhoff, Chief Operating Office Elaine White and Institutional Giving Manager Brad Gosselin...

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Opioid deaths drop 10%, but remain high

Thursday, June 13, 2024

“While the number of opioid-related overdose deaths in the commonwealth remains unacceptably high, it is encouraging to see what we hope is a reversal of a long and painful trend,” Bridgewell President and CEO Chris Tuttle said in a statement. “The time is now to boost public investments and once and for all overcome the scourge of the opioid epidemic.”

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2024 Employee Appreciation Day

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Last month, Bridgewell held an Employee Appreciation Day to celebrate our employees and their families! Bridgewell’s Employee Appreciation Day celebration was held outside our Rosewood Day program in Danvers. Despite being a rainy day, everyone enjoyed food from Code 1 BBQ, Kowloon’s and Vibe Food Truck, plus an ice cream truck. “We are so proud of the difference our employees...

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Bridgewell’s Special Olympics Team – Spring Season 2024

Monday, June 10, 2024

At both the regional meet in May and the state meet in June, the Bridgewell athletes did very well – their hard work, dedication, and perseverance have clearly paid off. Thank you to all the coaches who volunteer their time to work with our athletes. Congrats to all the athletes!

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Growing Gardens with Kinship Farm

Monday, June 10, 2024

Bridgewell is going green!  Wooden garden beds were built at three of our residential programs in Danvers, Lynn, and Beverly in partnership with Kinship Farm. Big thank you to Coast of Maine Organic Products, Inc. for donating soil as part of their Growing Good and Growing Goodwill programs and thank you to Mass Hydroponics and Essex County Co-Op for delivering...

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Gemstones and More!

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Busy weekends! Bridgewell residents are always finding fun things to do on the weekends out and about in our community. Bill, Chad, Eric and Julie explored the New England Gem & Mineral Show at the Topsfield Fairgrounds earlier this month. They enjoyed seeing the exhibits, visiting a number of vendors, watching how geodes are cut, and spinning the wheel to...

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National Nurses Week 2024: Celebrating the Excellence and Importance of Nurses

Thursday, May 9, 2024

Nurses at Bridgewell are dedicated to providing high-quality care to people in our services, focused on seamless coordination between multidisciplinary teams, including primary care providers and state agencies. With it being National Nurses Week, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our nursing team, for the excellent care they provide to the entire Bridgewell community! “Our goal at...

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Northeast Arc Welcomes Bridgewell Artists at Spring Vendor Market at Liberty Tree Mall

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

On Saturday, April 27, the Northeast Arc hosted a Spring Vendor Market at Liberty Tree Mall with many local artists including two of Bridgewell’s own artists, Jaime and Tom! The market featured artists and entrepreneurs with disabilities or autism selling their products and unique handcrafted items. When speaking about his art, Tom told us how he uses his passion for...

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Earth Day Celebrations at Bridgewell’s Family Support Center!

Friday, April 26, 2024

Earlier this month, Bridgewell’s Family Support Center hosted a Family Earth Day Event! Projects included painting pottery and planting a seed to take home! Plus planting flowers for a new flower bed at the Family Support Center. Click here to learn more about Bridgewell’s Family Support Center!

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Bridgewell Rosewood Cooks Some Cheesy Treats for a Good Cause

Thursday, April 25, 2024

Volunteering is a wonderful way for our program participants to engage with our communities while also building important life skills. Over the past 3 months, participants from the Rosewood day programs in Danvers have been averaging over 80 volunteer hours each month. Recently, Rosewood recruited day program volunteers to cook lasagnas for Lasagna Love, a global non-profit that delivers home-cooked...

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Community Engagement: Bridgewell Recreation Program

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Bridgewell values the safety and wellness of people in our care. Thanks to Bridgewell’s Recreation Program, our staff have been able to incorporate those values into our community through fun and engaging events. Bridgewell’s recreation team plans and scheduled outings and fun events at a Bridgewell day program or out in the community on a weekly basis. Whether it’s a...

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2024 Caring Force Rally

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Our very first regional #CaringForceRally was a huge success! Over 200 people rallied to speak about the workforce crisis and low wages in the sector. Bridgewell, worked with other partners Centerboard, Incompass Human Services, Justice Resource Institute, The Key Program Inc., NFI Massachusetts, Inc., Northeast Arc, Plummer Youth Promise, Vinfen, and Wayside Youth & Family Support Network hosted the event!...

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Bridgewell’s Family Support Center Welcomes New Director

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

LYNN — Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization, recently announced that Kirsten O’Keefe is the new director of the organization’s Family Support Center (FSC).

The FSC’s purpose is to provide resources for people with autism and developmental disabilities, and support their families. The center provides its services to people from diverse cultural, ethnic, and linguistic backgrounds.

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Bridgewell’s Imagine the Possibilities Gala raises $320K

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization serving northeastern Massachusetts, announced that more than $320,000 was raised for programs and services during its annual Imagine the Possibilities Gala held on April 5. The theme for the gala was “Building Bridges,” highlighting the numerous ways Bridgewell’s team builds bridges for, and with, the people they serve; bridges to the community, opportunities, and support as they strive to reach their fullest potential.

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Bridgewell to honor Beverly man for 43 years of service

Friday, March 29, 2024

PEABODY — A Beverly man who worked for Bridgewell for 43 years will be honored by the nonprofit social and human services organization next week. Gary LaPierre will receive the Visionary Leadership Award at Bridgewell’s Imagine the Possibilities Gala and fundraiser on April 5 at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel. The event will also honor the Rubin family of Bernie & Phyl’s Furniture with the Excellence in Service award.

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Human services workers from across the region advocate for a livable wage

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

PEABODY – Human services providers from across the region recently attended the Northeast Regional Caring Force Rally, advocating for a livable wage and a loan repayment program.
The Caring Force, a grassroots advocacy initiative of the Provider’s Council that promotes better pay and recognition for human services workers, along with leaders from nonprofits Bridgewell, Centerboard, Incompass Human Services, JRI, Key Program, NFI Massachusetts, Northeast Arc, Plummer Youth Promise, Vinfen, and Wayside Youth & Family Support Network hosted the event late last week at the Peabody Holiday Inn. The TriTown Rock Band, a music ensemble composed of local students with and without disabilities, also performed to kick off the event.

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Human services workers, clients call for living wage at legislative event

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

PEABODY — A Lawrence woman carried a clear message from the workers who care for the state’s most vulnerable at the Northeast Regional Caring Force Rally on Friday. “One of the saddest, most common situations I’ve seen was when someone had built a strong connection with clients and would leave their work for better pay,” said Rosalee Sanchez, a direct care assistant supervisor at NFI Massachusetts. Sanchez spoke before a crowd of lawmakers, caregivers, clients and human service advocates at a legislative breakfast hosted at the Holiday Inn & Suites in Peabody ahead of a rally at the State House later Friday afternoon.

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Shine On!

Thursday, March 21, 2024

Off the heels of the Night to Shine Dance, North Shore Community Baptist Church hosted “Shine On” with Curious Creatures earlier this month. Shine On, a ministry of the Tim Tebow Foundation, equips the global Church and families living with disabilities with innovative resources, training, and program to eliminate barriers and cultivate life-giving community.  

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2024 Polar Plunge for Bridgewell’s Special Olympics Team!

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Bridgewell’s Polar Plunge Team is  plunging and fundraising for the Special Olympics! The plunge takes place in March and it will be a fun way to make a difference for our Team Bridgewell athletes. Below is the link to register, or if you’re not into jumping into the cold ocean, please donate! THIS, Saturday, March 23rd Click here for more...

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Bridgewell Hires O’Keefe to Direct Family Support Center

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

PEABODY, Mass. (March 11, 2024) – Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization serving northeastern Massachusetts, today announced that Kirsten O’Keefe of Lynn has been promoted to director of the Bridgewell Family Support Center in Lynn. “Kirsten brings valuable experience and enthusiasm to our strong team of Family Support Community Case Managers,” said Jessica Almeida, Vice President of Day...

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2024 Visionary Leadership Award

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Bridgewell will present Assistant Training Director Gary LaPierre with the Visionary Leadership Award for his contributions to the organization and its employees during his tenure.  LaPierre has worked at Bridgewell, which recently celebrated its 65th anniversary, for 43 years and is retiring this spring. “The impact that Gary LaPierre has made on our employees and our organization is truly exceptional,”...

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2024 Excellence in Service Award

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

The Rubin family of Bernie & Phyl’s Furniture will be the Excellence in Service honoree at the 2024 Imagine the Possibilities Gala, for their commitment to nonprofit organizations that support positive outcomes for children and families. The Excellence in Service Award recognizes an individual or organization for their outstanding support of Bridgewell, a community or a social cause. It is...

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Bridgewell to Honor Difference Makers  at Imagine the Possibilities Gala

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Bridgewell to Honor Difference Makers  at Imagine the Possibilities Gala The Rubin family of Bernie & Phyl’s and long-time employee Gary LaPierre have made a lasting impact on the organization  PEABODY, Mass. (February 21, 2024) – Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization serving northeastern Massachusetts, today announced that the Rubin family of Bernie & Phyl’s Furniture will be...

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2024 Night to Shine

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

Bridgewell residents, day program participants and staff attended this year’s Night to Shine at North Shore Community Baptist Church in Beverly earlier this month. Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs, ages 14 and older. Sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. “It was a Night to Shine in Beverly,”...

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Mental Health Advocacy Alert: We Need Your Help

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Action Alert: We Need Your Help Through the support of the Association for Behavioral Healthcare, Bridgewell needs your help! Advocates have been working hard to pass legislation in Massachusetts (S. 760/ H. 2006) to increase reimbursement rates to mental health clinics. These bills are before the legislature’s Health Care Finance Committee and its Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery Committee....

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Bridgewell elects John Drake to its Board

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization serving northeastern Massachusetts, has announced that John Drake has been elected to a three-year term on its Board of Directors.

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Pizza Shop Owner Awarded Peabody Nonprofit’s 2023 Champion Award

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

PEABODY, MA — A Middleton pizza shop owner was honored with the 2023 Champion Award from Peabody nonprofit Bridgewell for providing jobs and training for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Bridgewell said that Matthew Rosa was chosen as this year's recipient for supporting the its employment program and paying a fair wage to employees with intellectual and developmental disabilities to help them become valued and appreciated members of the workforce.

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2023 Champion Award

Monday, December 11, 2023

Bridgewell is pleased to present the 2023 Champion Award to Matthew Rosa owner of Captain Pizza in Middleton. “People like Rosa and places like Captain Pizza are champions because they recognize the potential in individuals with disabilities and give them the chance to work,” said Bridgewell President and CEO Christopher Tuttle. “What they quickly find out is that they have...

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Fall 2023 Leadership Training

Monday, December 4, 2023

Bridgewell’s Training Department has been offering a Leadership Skills Training to managers, supervisors, and directors for over 25 years. This fall, another group of managers completed the course. Known as “Sups Skills,” this course has been organized and facilitated by our Assistant Director of Training Gary LaPierre, Staff Developers and a panel of Senior Leaders. The participants attended informative, interactive,...

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Celebrating with Housemates

Monday, December 4, 2023

When you live in a Bridgewell residence, your housemates and the people who work in your home, become extended family. Chelmsford residents Casey, Melissa and Tarina worked on Thanksgiving crafts, decorated for Christmas and celebrated Melissa’s birthday in the past few weeks.

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Holiday Happenings at Brooksby Farm

Monday, December 4, 2023

Bridgewell residents Bill, Chad, Eric, Ted and Todd went to Brooksby Farms in Peabody on Saturday and enjoyed feeding the farm animals, meeting Mrs. Claus, and shopping in the farm’s store before heading out for lunch at Friendly’s.

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Bridgewell’s Family Engagement Group for a Meet and Greet

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Join Bridgewell’s Family Engagement Group for a Meet and Greet! This evening is an opportunity to mingle with other families and Bridgewell staff from day and residential programs and members of Bridgewell’s administration. We will have several programs highlighting their outstanding work. Thursday, December 7, 2023 Bridgewell’s Rosewood Day Program 199 Rosewood Dr., Suite 110, Danvers MA 5:30 pm to...

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Bridgewell elects Puffer, Francois to its board

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization serving northeastern Massachusetts, today announced that Jane Puffer and Karl-Henry Francois have been elected to its Board of Directors.

It marks the fifth three-year term on Bridgewell’s board for Puffer and third for Francois. The board follows a three-years-on, one-year-off policy, and both are returning from a one-year hiatus.

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Building on 65 years of community and inclusion at Bridgewell

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

In 1958, when parents and community members formed an organization called the Child Guidance Center to support youth in the Lynn Public Schools, their goal was to establish a new and different program that would allow people with disabilities to achieve their fullest potential.

At the time, it was common practice to place someone with a disability in an institution that would meet only their basic needs – away from society – for their natural lifetime. These Lynn parents and advocates wanted more for people with disabilities, knowing that if provided with opportunities and support, they could live fulfilling lives in the community.

Sixty-five years and several name changes later, that group of advocates has grown into an organization with 1,600 employees and more than 100 programs serving 25 communities in northeastern Massachusetts. The mission for Bridgewell, however, essentially remains the same: to inspire hope and empower people experiencing life challenges to achieve their fullest potential.

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Halloween at Bridgewell Day Programs!

Thursday, November 2, 2023

Halloween is always a favorite at Bridgewell’s Day Programs. Each program had its own spin on celebrating: games, karaoke, dance parties and of course, special treats and cookies!

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3rd Annual Spookyway

Monday, October 30, 2023

Watch out for zombies and ghouls at Bridgewell’s Roseway Day Habilitation Program! Once again, the day program has turned into the Spooky Way! Program participants and staff have transformed our peaceful day program into a spooky, haunted spot! Many members of the Bridgewell community have gone through, including Bridgewell’s leadership team – and they will never be the same. This...

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Harvest Festival at Bridgewell’s Lotus House

Monday, October 30, 2023

This October, the families at Bridgewell’s Lotus House celebrated the season and harvest time together! Bridgewell’s Lotus House Family Supportive Housing Program supports women and their children who are transitioning out of substance use disorder treatment programs. The program supports them in building independent living skills, healthy relationships, and connections in the community, to reduce substance use relapse. The goal...

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Cultural Day at Bridgewell’s KJM Center

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

Earlier this month, Bridgewell’s KJM Day Center hosted a Cultural Day, organized by Program Manager Nawfal Mabrouk. It was a great time celebrating diversity and culture while exploring food and music from around the world.

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Q&A with Peg Ricardo, Family Support Center Case Manager

Thursday, October 19, 2023

Peg Ricardo has been a case manager with Bridgewell’s Family Support Center in Lynn since 2021, after several years in a similar position with another provider.  She had also previously worked in financial services, and is a mother of a child with disabilities.  We asked Peg a few questions about her work. Who is served by Bridgewell’s Family Support Center?...

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Bridgewell Hosts Day of Service

Thursday, October 19, 2023

Bridgewell hosted its annual day of service last Tuesday, with dozens of volunteers, including staff and individuals from autism day programs, disability services, and housing and employment programs, heading to Newhall Fields Community Farm as part of the organization's Celebration of Community Service Project.

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Healing Addiction Through Art

Friday, October 13, 2023

A new exhibit at Great Art Studio, “Shame Fear Love,” is tackling women’s experiences battling addiction. The exhibit is the work of 12 women from Bridgewell’s Johnson Street residential treatment program. “This was a chance for us to get out of the house and be in an intimate setting with women,” Melissa Hinckley, of Gloucester, who is in the Johnson Street program, said. “It was nice to be in a small group and get to open up and share our thoughts and feelings.” The project has been in development since July, when the women started working with art therapist and GAS founder Mary Flannery.

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Recovery Community Events

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

The residents at Bridgewell’s Recovery Housing programs attended multiple fairs, celebrations, and events, from Boston to Stoneham, to celebrate Recovery Month. Why attend recovery-focused events? These events allow those in recovery to gather with a community of people who understand their personal experiences, they provide opportunities to build new friendships and help others, and they can also help to redefine...

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2023 “Kicking Addiction” Kickball Tournament Fundraiser

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

Bridgewell’s Johnson Street, Women’s Program attended the 8th Annual “Kicking Addiction” Kickball Tournament Fundraiser at Tufts Park in South Medford organized by Medford Overcoming Addiction in memory of Michael Phillips. All funds collected through this tournament go to a scholarship fund for men and women in early recovery to gain access to support services and healthy living arrangements, such as...

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2023 DSP Sensitivity Training

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

During the 2023 Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week, Bridgewell’s Training Department hosted its annual Direct Support Professional Sensitivity Training. The training covers the history of the direct support professional from the times of institutionalization to now. Staff take a deep look at the job and different aspects of the work and community they serve, with the whole training being an...

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Bridgewell Residents Take Scenic Railroad Trip

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Bridgewell residents Bill, Lynne, Eric and Rob enjoyed a 1.5 hour trip on the scenic Hobo Railroad earlier this month, departing from the Lincoln NH Depot. Conductor Mike was very welcoming and made the ride enjoyable for all onboard. Later in the month, a second group of residents boarded the Hobo Railroad. Arianna, Lisa, Robbie, Chad and Bill (again!) enjoyed the scenic...

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Letter: It’s Direct Support Professional Recognition Week

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

To the editor: Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, Sept. 10-16, is the perfect time to reflect on the dedication and commitment of our human services workers — and to thank them. This week of recognition was started more than a decade ago to draw attention to the dedicated, innovative Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) who help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other life challenges to live their best lives.

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Not Your Average Joe’s Charitable Dining – September 14!

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Bridgewell has been selected by the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce as Nonprofit of the Month in September! As part of the month-long activities, PACC will send out emails, press releases and sponsor a digital billboard promoting the Bridgewell mission. Not Your Average Joe’s in Peabody is hosting a Dining Night for Bridgewell on Thursday, September 14! Not Your Average Joe’s...

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Annual Camp Days

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Bridgewell residents participated in a Camp Day at Harold Parker State Forest in Andover organized by Bridgewell’s Supervisor of Clinical Support Services Laurel Ciavarri. This is an annual tradition since 2016 and keeps growing to more residential programs. This year, seven residential programs attended in the course of two days. Everyone enjoyed a picnic lunch and made s’mores over a...

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Celebrating Disability Pride Month and National Ice Cream Month with SharkNinja

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Bridgewell and SharkNinja celebrated Disability Pride Month and National Ice Cream Month with an ice cream social for 100 participants and staff at the Kelly J. Martin Day Center in Lynn. Volunteers from Needham-based SharkNinja’s diversity, equity and inclusion group made and served homemade ice cream during the event, using several of their Ninja CREAMi™ ice cream makers. The celebration...

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Summer 2023 Leadership Training

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Bridgewell’s Training Department has been offering a Leadership Skills Training to managers, supervisors and directors for over 25 years. This summer, another group of managers completed the course. Known as “Sups Skills,” this course has been organized and facilitated by our Assistant Director of Training Gary LaPierre, Staff Developers  and a panel of Senior Leaders. The participants attended six informative,...

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Whale Watching Trip

Wednesday, August 9, 2023

Whale, whale, whale, what have we got here? Another fun excursion for Bridgewell residents! This experience was made possible thanks to the generosity of donors who contributed to Bridgewell’s Fund a Need appeal.

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Cruising into Recovery

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

Earlier this month, participants from Bridgewell’s Johnson Street Women’s Program, including a recent graduate of the program, went on a lunch cruise around Boston Harbor aboard the Hornblower Sensation. This was made possible due to the generosity of those who contributed to Bridgewell’s Fund-a-Need appeal. Why a harbor cruise? Experiences like this lunch cruise give the women opportunities to learn...

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Legoland Visit

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Bridgewell residents took a trip to Legoland Discovery Center Boston earlier this summer and had a wonderful time. This trip was funded by the Fund a Need Auction Donations. It was everyone’s first time!

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Wheelchair Training 2023

Monday, July 10, 2023

Each year, Bridgewell’s Training Department undergoes an organization-wide wheelchair securement training! Over 875 people have been trained this year, with new employees completing the training during orientation. The safety of the people we serve is paramount in our work and Bridgewell formalized and standardized this training. The training includes a video and both online and in-person lessons to provide a...

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Rosewood Drive Day Program’s Independence Day BBQ!

Monday, July 10, 2023

Rosewood Drive held a cookout last Thursday to celebrate Independence Day.  Huge thank you to the Rosewood staff who made this an amazing turnout.  After the cookout, everyone ended the day with making ice-cream sundaes. What better way to kick off summer than BBQ and ice cream!

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Zach Cheers on the Boston Red Sox at Fenway!

Thursday, July 6, 2023

Bridgewell resident Zach Z attended his first Boston Red Sox game earlier this week at Fenway! Tickets were purchased through Bridgewell’s Fund a Need Appeal. Do you think he had fun? His smile says absolutely. Thank you to our generous donors for their support in making these dreams come true! ⚾❤️💙🤍

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Bridgewell Summer & Spring Special Olympics

Thursday, June 15, 2023

Team Bridgewell shined in the Track and Field events at the Special Olympics Massachusetts Summer Games earlier this month at Harvard University. Congrats, Team Bridgewell and thank you to all our coaches and athletes! Medal Count: 11 – Gold 8 – Silver 4 – Bronze 5 – 4th 2 – 5th 2 – 6th Enjoy these photos below from the...

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June 15 – Family Engagement Group Meeting!

Monday, May 22, 2023

Join us for our next Family Engagement Group Meeting on Thursday, June 15, 2023! Where: Bridgewell, 10 Dearborn Road, Peabody, MA 01960 When: 5:00 to 7:00 PM 5:00-5:30pm – Networking 5:30-7:00pm – Meeting Bridgewell’s Family Engagement Group provides an opportunity to collaborate and create a forum for communication to support people receiving services achieve their fullest potential. For more information and to...

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Everyday Hero: Lina’s Story

Thursday, May 18, 2023

 There was once a beautiful little girl, she had a smile that lit up the room, so genuine and so sweet. She had all the greatest hopes and dreams in life, she imagined that life was going to be good. She loved to make people laugh and she loved her parents so much. She would crawl into their bed...

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Go Team Bridgewell – Special Olympics Update

Tuesday, May 16, 2023

Team Bridgewell attended the Special Olympics Massachusetts Track and Field qualifying round this past weekend for the summer games at Essex Tech in Danvers. Our team had a great day and overall got 25 gold medals, 8 silver medals and 5 bronze medals!

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Mother’s Day at Lotus House

Tuesday, May 16, 2023

Residents at Bridgewell’s Lotus House celebrated the program’s first Mother’s Day with a brunch and tie-dye project. This program enables mothers to develop independent living skills and fosters bonding and attachment between mothers and children. Please join us in applauding these incredible women for their dedication to recovery and parenting. Thank you to all women who have been our teachers,...

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Bridgewell’s Family Support Center Latino Social Fiesta

Monday, May 8, 2023

Bridgewell’s Family Support Center hosted a Latino Social Fiesta at Centerboard in Lynn on May 4. The event included an evening of music, dancing, and food catered by Estefani’s Restaurant. A fun evening of connecting the Latino community and learning more about local resources. Learn more about Bridgewell’s Family Support Center.  

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Bridgewell’s Imagine the Possibilities Gala raises $320,000 to support critical community services

Tuesday, May 2, 2023

Annual Gala honored former Essex County DA Jonathan Blodgett and was hosted by WCVB’s Katie Thompson PEABODY, Mass., May 2, 2023 – Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization which provides social and human services to more than 6,300 people across Massachusetts hosted its 2023 Imagine the Possibilities Gala at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel on Friday, April 28....

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2023 Special Olympics Polar Plunge for Team Bridgewell

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Team Bridgewell will be taking the plunge on Saturday March 25th, 2023 at Revere Beach!! The forecast for Saturday is a high of 42 degrees! That’s a great plunge temperature! Don’t want to plunge but still want a cool t-shirt? Register as a member of Team Bridgewell as a Towel Holder and raise $100 in donations.  The shirt can be...

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Happy Saint Patrick’s Day! 

Thursday, March 16, 2023

 Bridgewell’s KJM Day Program in Lynn hosted all of Bridgewell’s Day Programs from Billerica to Danvers for a fun Saint Patrick’s Day celebration. Projects included sensory bins to find gold coins and shamrocks, art projects, green soda and Irish music! Bridgewell wishes you the best of luck and happiness this St. Patrick’s Day!

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Bridgewell Awarded CARF International Three-Year Accreditation

Tuesday, March 7, 2023

By Awarding this Accreditation, CARF Recognizes Bridgewell’s Commitment to Providing the Highest Levels of Care Through Programs and Services Offered PEABODY, Mass., March 6, 2023 – Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization serving more than 6,000 people across Massachusetts, announced today that it has been awarded a Three-Year Accreditation from CARF International. This recognition is CARF’s highest level...

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What happens at Bridgewell’s Employment Programs!?

Tuesday, March 7, 2023

When not working at employment partners like Beverly Meals on Wheels or Captain Pizza, participants review skills and trainings at Bridgewell’s Employment Support program. Last week, the group worked on expectations and skills of working in the fast food industry including, completing an application, dressing to impress and more!  

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2-28-23 Bridgewell to Honor Former Essex County District Attorney Jonathan W. Blodgett  at Imagine the Possibilities Gala

Tuesday, February 28, 2023

Bridgewell to Honor Former Essex County District Attorney Jonathan W. Blodgett at Imagine the Possibilities Gala By Presenting this Honor, Bridgewell Recognizes Jonathan Blodgett’s Long-Standing Drug Treatment and Recovery Efforts  PEABODY, Mass., February 28, 2023 – Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization serving more than 6,300 people across northeastern Massachusetts, announced today that former Essex County District Attorney Jonathan...

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