Bridgewell in the News

DDS Statewide Family Support Conference

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

Bridgewell’s Director of Professional Development Kristen Janjar presented with her husband Rachid Janjar, at the annual DDS Statewide Family Support conference entitled “Making a Cultural Commitment: Bridging the Cultural and Linguistic Gaps” in September. The workshop was called the “Fostering a Cross-Cultural Understanding: Family Experiences,” which included a panel of six families talking about their experiences with the US system,...

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Topsfield Fair 2022

Wednesday, October 5, 2022

It’s Topsfield Fair time! A few residents joined in on the fun exploring the Topsfield Fair this October. This year’s fair theme is “memories in the making” – looks like memories were definitely made!

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Walsh receives Bridgewell’s Champion Award

Thursday, September 29, 2022

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Bridgewell Presents Beth Walsh of Beverly Meals on Wheels/SeniorCare with the 2022 Champion Award

Monday, September 26, 2022

Check out the coverage in The Salem News. Bridgewell surprised Beth Walsh, site manager of Beverly Meals on Wheels (MOW) and SeniorCare Inc., at the Beverly Senior Center with its annual Champion Award for her outstanding work and remarkable support for the program and community. The Champion Award recognizes one of Bridgewell’s outstanding business partners or community employers for their...

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Family Support Center: Piers Park Sailing

Wednesday, September 21, 2022

Earlier this month, Bridgewell’s Family Support Center organized a weekend sailing event! Piers Park Sailing Center is a place for individuals of all abilities to access, enjoy, and learn how to sail on Boston Harbor. Sixteen sailors and their families arrived and enjoyed a beautiful day of sailing! This event was designed to test the level of interest our individuals...

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New Employment Partner: Captain Pizza in Middleton

Wednesday, September 21, 2022

Bridgewell’s Employment Program started a new group-supported jobsite today – Captain Pizza Middleton. So far the individuals are LOVING it! The owner, Matthew Rosa, is really getting them involved in so many different parts of meal prep. Thank you to Matthew and Captain Pizza! Interested in learning more about becoming an Employment Partner? Contact Career Specialist Darren Goad at dgoad@bridgewell.org or...

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Letter: Direct Support Professionals put heart and soul into the job

Monday, September 12, 2022

In honor of Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week, I would like to thank all those who put their hearts and souls into supporting people in our community. Our nearly 1,000 DSPs at Bridgewell inspire, encourage, and empower people with life challenges to be integrated into their communities and achieve their fullest potential.

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Bridgewell Explores Lake Winnipesaukee

Wednesday, September 7, 2022

Bridgewell housemates Robbie and Lynne, were joined by Bill and Eric from another Bridgewell residence, for a trip on the Hobo Railroad earlier this September. They brought a picnic lunch and enjoyed a two-hour ride around Lake Winnipesaukee. What a great way to end the summer!

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Camping Day with Bridgewell Residents

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

Several of residential programs from Lynn and Saugus enjoyed a day of camping last month. The campers had to improvise a bit because campfires were not allowed due to the brush fire risk, but as you can see from the photos below, everyone enjoyed themselves! Director of Behavioral Support Laurel Ciavarri set up a tent for them and brought games...

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Bridgewell Visits Canobie Lake Park

Wednesday, August 31, 2022

Bridgewell’s Independent Living programs took on Canobie Lake and it was a blast. For some thrill-seekers it was their first time at an amusement park and going on rides. The group conquered a-lot today! Seventy-three year old George, who lives in Lynn, has always wanted to go on the pirate ship and today he did! Check out this video of...

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Bridgewell does the Duck Boats – Quack!

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

Three of Bridgewell’s Independent Living programs went to the Duck Boats in Boston for a fun outing. Everyone was full of smiles and it was a first for most. A few of our residents became the captain and drove the boat! They couldn’t stop talking about how fun it was even in the heat. Independent Living, formerly Individual Supports, provide...

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Bridgewell Honors the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

Bridgewell is celebrating the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, or ADA, a guiding force behind its services in offering equal opportunities for people with disabilities. Signed July 26, 1990, by President George H.W. Bush, the ADA is a civil rights law prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in different areas of public life, including employment. This...

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July 1, 2022 – Update to Family Members, Guardians and Staff

Wednesday, June 29, 2022

June 28, 2022 Dear Family Members, Guardians and Staff, On July 1, 2022, the requirements for masking and testing for COVID-19 will be changing at Bridgewell. These changes are based on the guidance issued by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), and Bridgewell has updated its COVID-19 plan to reflect these changes. A summary of the changes...

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Sons’ autism diagnoses changed father’s life

Friday, June 24, 2022

Check out this great article in the Lowell Sun about Darren Goad, Bridgewell Career Specialist, and how his sons inspired his career in human services. Thank you again for sharing your story, Darren!

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Sons’ Inspire Father’s Work at Bridgewell Peabody

Tuesday, June 21, 2022

PEABODY — Darren Goad, a career specialist at the nonprofit Bridgewell and the father of two autistic sons, might just be the definition of a super dad. Goad, who joined Bridgewell two years ago, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, said he wouldn’t be working as a career specialist if not for his two sons, Josh and Jake. When his sons were young, Goad worked as an area manager for an art retail company, working long hours and missing out on countless therapies for his two sons, who are nonverbal. It was that drive to support his children that led him to quit his job and get a job at the school his children attended.

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Bridgewell Fathers’ Day Super Dad: Darren Goad

Wednesday, June 15, 2022

As a result of his sons’ participation in a community program that provides quality housing, day programs, and other services to people with intellectual, developmental, psychiatric, and physical disabilities, Darren Goad was inspired to find a career in human services. With his wife’s encouragement, Goad uses his experience as a father to navigate the human service field. “Family is...

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2022 Spring Appeal

Thursday, June 2, 2022

June 6, 2022 Dear Friend, Each day, our team at Bridgewell works to strengthen communities by providing an unmatched range of social and human services that empower people with life challenges to live safe, self-directed and productive lives. With the support of partners like you, Bridgewell provides community housing, day programs, outpatient behavioral health treatment, recovery services, educational opportunities, and...

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June 16 – Hiring Event

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

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More Bundles of Hope

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

As part of an ongoing partnership since August 2021, a small group of women from Bridgewell’s Women’s Program, Johnson Street, work with local artist Mary Flannery at her studio, Great Art Studio in Lynn, engaging in art therapy sessions. After completing the six-week program and expressing themselves through their art, the women host a small private art show to share...

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Bridgewell’s Family Support Center Bridgewell Family Fun Event

Thursday, May 19, 2022

With more than 125 people in attendance, Bridgewell’s Family Support Center had an amazing turnout at the Bridgewell Family Fun Event in Danvers earlier this month. It was a busy, fun day of lots of activities including the Red Sox Experience Truck, which had a mock Green Monster, jerseys, pitching track and batting cages. All Out Adventures brought adaptive bikes...

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Bridgewell Gala Goes Above and Beyond To Support Individuals in Need

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Monday, May 9th (Peabody, MA) – Bridgewell is pleased to announce that over $326,000 was raised at the Imagine the Possibilities Gala on April 29th at the Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston, surpassing its $300,000 goal. Funds raised strengthen the Bridgewell’s mission of empowering people with life challenges achieve their fullest potential. “What a spectacular event,” said Chris Tuttle, Bridgewell’s...

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‘This is tragic’: Mass exodus of human services workers leaves industry in shambles

Monday, May 16, 2022

Chris Tuttle, CEO and president of health provider Bridgewell, said the severe lack of funding has threatened to shut down some of its services. Bridgewell has more than 100 programs across eastern Massachusetts, serving 6,500 people each year in group homes, habilitation programs and mental health clinics in Lowell, Danvers and Lynn.

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The Power of Connection

Thursday, May 5, 2022

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Bridgewell Honors George Sonia With Its Visionary Leadership Award

Thursday, May 5, 2022

As part of its Imagine the Possibilities Gala held on Friday, April 29 at the Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston, Bridgewell honored Lancelot Janitorial & Paper Products owner George Sonia with the 2022 Visionary Leadership Award. Bridgewell’s Visionary Leadership Award is presented to an individual who has provided leadership, dedication, and tireless efforts in support of the Bridgewell community.

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Human Service Workers Deserve a Fair Wage – Advocacy Letter

Tuesday, May 3, 2022

URGENT ADVOCACY ALERT It is state budget season and Bridgewell needs your help. We are actively advocating for the state of Massachusetts to increase our funding so we can increase wages for our direct care staff. Governor Baker has allocated $230 million to Chapter 257, the budget line item that funds our services. Along with other community-based human services...

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2022 Imagine the Possibilities Recap!

Sunday, May 1, 2022

Imagine the Possibilities Gala 2022 What an evening! With close to 300 people in the ballroom, we’re happy to announce we’ve raised over $327,000 to support our vital mission. Check back soon for more information and the photo gallery. Congratulations to our Visionary Award Recipient: George Sonia, Lancelot Janitorial & Paper Products Over the years, George Sonia and his team...

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2022 Leadership Training Program

Thursday, April 21, 2022

For 25 years, Bridgewell’s Training Department has been offering a Leadership Training program to Managers, Supervisors and Directors. Known as “Sups Skills,” this course has been organized and facilitated by our Assistant Director of Training Gary LaPierre, our Staff Developer Michael Cotter and a panel of Senior Leaders. For over two decades, it has been modified to meet the needs...

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Autism Awareness Month at Rosewood I and II

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

For Autism Awareness Month, Rosewood I and II have been doing weekly themed activities. Last week, participants and staff had a tie-dye t-shirt decorating event and everyone wore their shirts together. There is an emphasis on Acceptance over Awareness this year where the goal is to teach and encourage others to accept everyone no matter their differences or abilities. Click...

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America’s Crumbling Human Service Sector Will Cost Lives

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

As president and CEO of Bridgewell, a large human-services organization that supports more than 6,000 residents of the
commonwealth each year, I have witnessed the adverse effects of inadequate funding for human services, resulting in staffing
shortages and cuts to critically important programs that provide a safety net for thousands in need.

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Team Bridgewell Special Olympics Polar Plunge 2022

Tuesday, March 22, 2022

Don’t miss out on your chance to support Bridgewell’s Special Olympic Teams! Take the plunge on March 26th! *********************************************************************************************************** Join Team Bridgewell on Saturday, March 26, 2022 for an icy cold swim in the Atlantic Ocean! Special Olympics Polar Plunge Registration begins at 10:00 AM | Plunge at 12:00 PM Revere Beach – 300 Ocean Avenue, Revere, MA 02151 Parking is...

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Employment Program at Dearborn

Tuesday, March 22, 2022

Employment Program at Dearborn is moved in! We are thrilled to have this program at our main headquarters – so many great things to come!

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Hiring Event – March 30!

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

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2-23-2022 – Bridgewell Expands Behavioral Health Services in the Merrimack Valley

Tuesday, February 22, 2022

Bridgewell Expands Behavioral Health Services in the Merrimack Valley New Clinic to be Called Bridgewell Counseling Services (BCS), Amesbury Amesbury – The Merrimack Valley will gain a new behavioral health clinic as of March 1, 2022 according to Bridgewell, a nonprofit organization that provides human services across eastern Massachusetts. Located at 24 Morrill Place, Amesbury, Massachusetts the clinic will be...

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Valentine’s Day Artwork

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

This Valentine’s Day season, Bridgewell’s Roseway Day Program dedicated their art time to creating lovely artwork!

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Employment in Moving to Peabody!

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

In a few weeks, Bridgewell’s Kelly J. Martin Employment Support program will be moving to our headquarters at 10 Dearborn Road in Peabody. Bridgewell’s Employment program operates out of three different location sites, and serves close to 100 people. Approximately 50 participants will be working out of the new site in Peabody. The Bridgewell headquarters will be a truly inclusive...

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Become part of a team with a great mission!

Thursday, February 10, 2022

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Workshop Opportunity: Understanding IDD and Dementia and Adapting to Behavior Changes

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

Through a grant from The Administration for Community Living, Bridgewell is working with local aging agency (AGESPAN) and educational organization (Shriver Center at UMASS) and fellow service provider (Fidelity House) to develop trainings for Caregivers of People Aging with IDD. Families and guardians can receive a $25 gift card when you complete these informative new trainings! A similar training is...

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January 11, 2022 – Letter to Family and Guardians

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

January 11, 2022 Dear Family Members and Guardians, I hope you enjoyed the holiday season. I am sure you are aware that the nation is in the middle of a COVID-19 surge which is expected to last until February. This is not how any of us wanted to start 2022, but we are hopeful that this surge will pass quickly...

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2021 Day Program Holiday Door Decorating Contest

Wednesday, December 22, 2021

Earlier this month, Bridgewell’s five day programs held a Door Decorating Contest. Each of the five day habilitation programs had their own door contest and the winning door made its entry into a larger contest, which was highlighted and shared on Bridgewell’s social media channels. Congrats to the winning room from Rosewood Drive on their “Take an sELFie Door!” Winning...

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Spreading Kindness This Holiday Season

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

As a result of a generous luncheon donation to the Bridgewell Roseway Day program, program participants passed forward the holiday spirit by donating toys for children connected to Bridgewell’s services. After running out of options for affordably catering the program’s annual Thanksgiving luncheon, Program Director Amanda Murray called George at Brother’s Deli in Lynn, who donated the entire meal. Due...

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Inge Peters, Chief Human Resources Officer, is retiring from Bridgewell

Wednesday, December 15, 2021

Inge Peters, our Chief Human Resources Officer, is retiring from Bridgewell this week! Inge has worked in human resources for more than 38 years, including work with both for-profit and non-profit organizations. She has led our human resources function, including recruitment, compensation and benefits, payroll, employee and union relations, safety, employee training, and Bridgewell’s Center for Professional Development for more...

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Booster Clinics at Bridgewell

Sunday, December 5, 2021

Over the past few weeks Bridgewell held three immunization clinics and provided over 500 Covid-19 boosters and seasonal flu shots to staff and people in Bridgewell’s services. On the way to the clinic, Orlando, who attends Roseway Day Program, found out that Amy Saunders, who works at Roseway, is not a fan of needles so he offered to help her...

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Brothers’ Deli Kicks Off Thanksgiving Meal Donations in Lynn

Tuesday, November 30, 2021

LYNN — George Markos, owner of Brothers Deli on Market Street, catered and donated Thanksgiving meals for more than 25 people at Bridgewell’s Roseway Day Services in Danvers on Wednesday...

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Thanksgiving at Roseway

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

When Roseway Day Center’s Program Director Amanda Murray started making calls to see who would be able to cater the annual Thanksgiving luncheon, she was running out of luck based on timing and budget – until she called George at Brother’s Deli in Lynn. Not only did he accommodate the request, but he said, “I’ll take care of it!” and...

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2021 Beacon of Hope: Beverly Clarke

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

Congratulations to Beverly Clarke, who recently retired from Bridgewell as our VP of Housing and Recovery Services, for being awarded the 2021 Lynn Continuum of Care Beacon of Hope Award. This award recognizes those who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of others, demonstrate dignity and respect, and represent a true sense of community. Thank...

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Secretary Marylou Sudders Holiday Letter to Long-Term Care and Congregate Living Families

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

As we enter into this holiday season during this phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Massachusetts and across the country, we are providing this guidance to families on celebrating Thanksgiving and winter holidays with your loved ones who reside in a congregate setting including a nursing home, rest home, assisted living residence or group home. The best way to minimize COVID-19 risk and keep your family and friends safe this holiday season is to get vaccinated and to avoid holiday gatherings if you are not well. The safest way to celebrate is at home, with the people you live with.

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Fall 2021 Bridgewell Newsletter

Friday, November 12, 2021

Bridgewell's 2021 Fall Newsletter includes Day of Giving Recap, Flutie 5K Foundation Update and Turning 22 information.

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Family Support Center Contact List

Friday, November 12, 2021

Yes! Please send emails about Family Support Center events, workshops and more.

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Q & A with Director of Family and Community Services Shannon Kaiser

Friday, November 5, 2021

Shannon Kaiser has joined the Bridgewell team as Director of Family and Community Services! Shannon is a passionate advocate for all families and brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Tell us about your past experience and what brought you to Bridgewell? My proudest position to date is being a mother and wife. My husband Bryan and I...

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Working Together in Peabody

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

PEABODY — Organizations like Bridgewell, that support and empower people with disabilities, help secure employment in different ways: through volunteer situations, direct employment, or a group-supported model.

Group-supported employment means that, depending on their skills and personal situations, individuals come to work as a group with a job coach who can help them with any issues at the job site. There is usually a ratio in the group of the maximum number of clients per job coach.

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Roseway is now Spookyway

Wednesday, October 27, 2021

Bridgewell’s Roseway Day Habilitation 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. Thank you to everyone at Spookyway for putting together such entertainment! Adding more...

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Bridgewell Public Alerts

Wednesday, October 27, 2021

Bridgewell now provides public alerts related to weather delays and closings through our emergency notification system, Regroup. Please use the form below if you would like to become a subscriber. You can always reply STOP to a text message alert if you wish to remove yourself from the alerts.

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Breast Cancer Awareness at Bridgewell

Friday, October 22, 2021

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Residents and staff in Dracut commemorated the occasion with a pink ribbon cake and by wearing pink and decorating the home with pink balloons and streamers. Betty, who lives in a Bridgewell residence, is a 16-year survivor of breast cancer. Breast Cancer Awareness is very close to her heart, and she was excited to...

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Art Therapy at Great Art Studio in Lynn

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

For the past few months, a small group of women from Bridgewell’s Women’s Program, Johnson Street, have been working with local artist Mary Flannery at her art studio, Great Art Studio for art therapy sessions. Through expressing themselves with art, the women hosted a small private art show on September 29 and plan to develop this into a larger recovery...

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Advocacy Alert: American Rescue Plan Act Funds

Thursday, September 30, 2021

We need your help – strength in numbers. Last week, Collaborative members presented testimony to the committee on our three-pronged funding proposal for American Rescue Plan Act funds, which includes: $174 million per year over five years for funding to support recruitment/retention initiatives in the human services workforce $27 million over five years for a student loan repayment program; and...

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Recovery is an Art in Lynn

Thursday, September 30, 2021

LYNN — The Great Art Studio (GAS) in Central Square has been working with five women from Bridgewell’s Johnson Street residential treatment program to incorporate art into their recovery from substance use disorders.

GAS has been working with the women since August to create a body of work called the “Bundle of Hope,” which includes written and painted reminders of why they are working to overcome addiction.

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Day of Giving Grows at Peabody Farm

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

PEABODY ― Bridgewell and Newhall Fields Community Farms are partnering together for a “Day of Giving” on Tuesday, Oct. 5.
The theme of the event is “Give back. Give time. Give a gift.” A team of approximately 40 Bridgewell staff members, volunteers, and clients, along with about a dozen farm volunteers, will be on hand to help to not only spread their organizations’ missions, but to dig and get their hands dirty, helping to harvest some of the many varieties of organic produce grown on the farm.

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Recap: Flutie Foundation’s 5K for Autism: Dougie’s Epic Adventure

Thursday, September 23, 2021

In September, over 40 people ran or walked for Bridgewell’s team at the Flutie Foundation’s 5K for Autism: Dougie’s Epic Adventure at Belkin Family Lookout Farm in Natick. Ten members of the team participated virtually with the Flutie 5K Your Way option. Over $4,200 was raised by the team and directly goes to Bridgewell’s autism programs. The Flutie Foundation has...

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Bridgewell Welcomes Jennifer Burzyk as Nurse Practitioner

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Bridgewell Welcomes Jennifer Burzyk as Nurse Practitioner PEABODY, Mass, September 22 – Bridgewell, a local nonprofit providing social and human services empowering people with disabilities and other life challenges to live safe, self-directed and productive lives, today announced the appointment of Jennifer Burzyk, APRN as Nurse Practitioner for Bridgewell Counseling Services in Lowell, MA. As a family nurse practitioner and a...

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2021 Day of Giving Recap

Sunday, August 15, 2021

Community Movement of Generosity Give Back, Give Time, Give a Gift In October, Bridgewell held its annual Day of Giving, a community movement of generosity and a time to spread awareness of what we do, how we serve the community, and an opportunity for the community to support Bridgewell. Through an American Red Cross Blood Drive at our headquarters...

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Turning 22 Intensive Individual Supports Program

Thursday, August 5, 2021

At Bridgewell, our team delivers on our mission to inspire hope and empower people experiencing life challenges to achieve their fullest potential. One critical area of need for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is building independent living skills as they graduate, upon turning 22 years old, from residential educational environments. Bridgewell recently launched a pilot program in partnership with...

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Flutie Foundation’s 5K for Autism: Dougie’s Epic Adventure!

Thursday, July 29, 2021

Bridgewell is excited to be a charity partner of the Flutie Foundation’s 5K for Autism: Dougie’s Epic Adventure! We invite you to join Bridgewell’s Team to walk or run and help raise funds for our autism programs. You can sign up to join us and attend the event on September 12th at Lookout Farm in Natick, or you can sign...

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Project-Based Voucher Program (PBV)

Thursday, July 29, 2021

BRIDGEWELL SECTION 8 Mainstream PROJECT-BASED VOUCHER PROGRAM (PBV) August 1, 2021 Bridgewell is soliciting proposals from local property owners with existing multifamily projects to participate in the Section 8 Mainstream Project Based Voucher program. The project must be designed to assist non-elderly persons with disabilities and their families who were previously homeless and who are currently in permanent supportive housing...

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May 26, 2021 – Letter to Parents & Guardians about Bridgewell Residential & Day Programs

Thursday, May 27, 2021

May 26, 2021 Dear Families and Guardians, The State of Massachusetts is reopening and lifting more and more of its COVID restrictions as people continue to become vaccinated. With the reopening, many of you have been questioning what this means for people who live in our residential programs and attend our day programs. Bridgewell-operated day programs continue to follow the...

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Thriving Through Connection: Bridgewell’s Homeless & Housing Services

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

As the saying goes, most are happy to have a roof over their head and food on the table. Unfortunately, many in our community aren’t connected to those simple luxuries; from housing shortages, increased cost of living, and unemployment issues that are ever-present in our communities, which are deeply rooted causes of homelessness (among others). Of course, the pandemic made these complex issues even more difficult to contend with. Rewind...

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Strengthening Connections During Mental Health Awareness Month

Monday, May 3, 2021

When coping with behavioral health challenges, individuals in our programs and their families must remain connected to support services. Whether through community housing, day programs, or employment services, Bridgewell is that connection—a connection that empowers individuals to live safe, self-directed, and productive lives. A year ago, that connectivity was under threat of being disconnected. The pandemic forced Bridgewell to close day programs and employment support programs....

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Staying Connected through the Pandemic: Michelle’s Testimonial

Thursday, April 22, 2021

Over the last year, the world has changed dramatically and has impacted so many aspects of our lives. For those with disabilities and their families, the disruption has hit them hard. Access to services is so critical to the health and wellness of these individuals that there was no option to shut down. As a result, many of our Bridgewell...

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Staying Connected to our Services & Community

Friday, April 16, 2021

More than a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, our community, like many others, is feeling a lack of social connection. Despite the challenges we’ve faced, Bridgewell has continued to deliver on its mission by forging connections with those in our programs and their families, the community, and our staff. Early in the pandemic, Bridgewell was forced to close day programs...

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March 10, 2021 – An Open Letter to Staff from Bridgewell’s President & CEO Chris Tuttle

Wednesday, March 10, 2021

March 10, 2021 Dear Colleagues, On March 10, 2020 Governor Baker declared a state of emergency for Massachusetts due to growing concerns over the spread of coronavirus infections. On March 13, the Executive Office of Health and Human Services for Massachusetts closed all day programs and put restrictions in place for all congregate care programs. That was one year...

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March 2, 2021 – Letter to Family Members & Guardians Visitation Update

Tuesday, March 2, 2021

March 2, 2021 Dear Bridgewell family members and guardians, As the positivity rate and the number of COVID-19 cases continues to decline in the state of Massachusetts, Bridgewell has decided to update its residential visitation guidelines to include indoor on-site, off-site and overnight visits. In addition, there will no longer be any restrictions regarding cities or towns being in a...

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Feb. 19, 2021 – Letter to Parents & Guardians Visitation Update

Monday, February 22, 2021

February 19, 2021 Dear Bridgewell family members and guardians, I am pleased to let you know that as of today, 97% of the individuals residing in our residential programs and 45% of our residential staff have received the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, we have seen a drop in the “red zone” cities across the state of Massachusetts....

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Feb. 3, 2021 – Letter to Parents & Guardians of Bridgewell Day Programs

Monday, February 8, 2021

February 3, 2021 Dear Bridgewell Family Members and Guardians, We are so glad that people who attend and staff who work in our day programs will soon have the opportunity to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in this first phase of the MA vaccine rollout plan. COVID-19 infection rates and hospitalizations seem to be on a gradual decline – a trend...

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Feb. 3, 2021 – Letter to Parents and Guardians of Bridgewell Residential Programs

Monday, February 8, 2021

February 3, 2021 Dear Bridgewell Family Members and Guardians, We are so glad that 576 people living in and staff working in our residential homes have received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to date, and clinics to administer the second dose are starting to be held this week. While COVID-19 infection rates and hospitalizations seem to be on...

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A Message from Bridgewell’s President & CEO to Staff About the COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout

Monday, January 11, 2021

Dear Bridgewell staff team: Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed the holiday season and 2021 is off to a good start for you. I know 2020 was a very challenging year, but I am optimistic about our path ahead in 2021, particularly as the COVID-19 vaccines are now being rolled out. Today is an exciting day; individuals and staff...

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December 17, 2020 – DDS Commissioner Message to Families

Friday, December 18, 2020

Message from Commissioner Jane F. Ryder. Dear DDS Community: As always, let me start by saying thank you. You have shown commitment, creativity, and patience since last March. We are in the midst of a second surge and you are again demonstrating your resilience during these difficult winter months. At long last, the COVID-19 vaccination is on the horizon. With...

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Dec. 14, 2020 – Updated Visitation Guidelines

Monday, December 14, 2020

Please click here for Bridgewell’s updated Visitation Guidelines letter from Chief Operating Officer, Elaine White, effective Monday, December 14, 2020

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Giving Back Isn’t Canceled: Join us in Empowering Hope this GivingTuesday

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

In this time of uncertainty, there is a fundamental truth that gives us hope – that together we can do extraordinary things. Over the past few weeks and months, the entire world has come together to stand up, to help out, to give back, and to heal. Whether that is through donating to community organizations like Bridgewell, celebrating doctors and...

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Empower Hope this Holiday Season

Monday, November 23, 2020

We all know how difficult this year has been due to the pandemic – from losing loved ones to economic hardships, we each have faced challenges that have forced us to take a step back and consider what we are grateful for. Bridgewell has also endured challenges – we have closed programs, revamped our clinics, invested in safety and cleaning...

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Lynn center serving homeless could close without more funding

Monday, November 16, 2020

BOSTON GLOBE - A downtown Lynn facility that provides short-term housing and medical care for homeless people with health needs is in danger of closing next summer because it is running out of funds.

Since opening in early 2018, the Recuperative Care Center, located on the second floor of 73 Buffum St., has served more than 150 homeless adults — 42 of whom were able to successfully transition to permanent housing.

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Medical facility for Lynn’s homeless could close due to lack of funding

Tuesday, November 10, 2020

LYNN - For the past three years, Bridgewell's Recuperative Care Center has provided temporary housing and medical care for the city's homeless after they are discharged from the hospital.

However, while city and state officials recognize the services provided by the recuperative care center, located downtown on Buffum Street, are much-needed in the community, "nobody at this point is willing to pay for it," said Bridgewell CEO Chris Tuttle.

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November 9, 2020 – Updated Visitation Guidelines

Monday, November 9, 2020

November 9, 2020 Dear Bridgewell Family Member and Guardians, Since the beginning of the pandemic, Bridgewell has been extremely vigilant with its health and safety practices as we continue to navigate COVID-19. We realize that this has been challenging for all and it has been our goal to keep you informed and to share our practices. Massachusetts is currently experiencing...

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National Prevention Month 2020: Addressing Addiction During a Pandemic

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Kipu Health reported that the number of opioid overdoses in large cities has risen by 54% in 16 states since the start of the pandemic. With October being National Prevention Month, it is more important than ever to bring awareness to substance use disorders. Bridgewell’s prevention programs focus on getting in front of substance use disorders and intervening before recovery...

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COVID-19’s hidden toll – For those in recovery, these are perilous times

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

COMMONWEALTH MAGAZINE - As of this writing, the death toll from COVID-19 is high and continuing to rise. Hundreds of thousands more have fallen ill before recovering. And curbing the spread of the disease has necessitated incalculable economic damage, shuttering main streets across the country and casting millions into unemployment. As catastrophic as the damage has been, those in the recovery community know that it has imposed a cost not reflected in the official statistics.

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Indoor visitation policy update for Residential and Recovery Programs, effective Oct. 1

Friday, September 25, 2020

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services (BSAS) have updated their visitation policies to include guidelines and requirements for indoor visitations, effective as of October 1, 2020. DDS Residential Programs Indoor Visitation Policy BSAS Indoor Visitation Policy

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National Recovery Month 2020: Celebrating the Small Victories

Thursday, September 17, 2020

This has been a momentous but rewarding year for Bridgewell and our clients. Despite the challenges the pandemic has presented, Bridgewell’s Recovery Services staff has worked tirelessly to continue serving people with substance use disorders through treatment, housing and job placements. This National Recovery Month, Bridgewell is focusing on the small successes and ways our recovery programs have adapted during...

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New Grant Award Expands Services for Massachusetts Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caretakers

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

MERRIMACK VALLEY - Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley and North Shore (ESMV-NS) was one of only a dozen organizations in the country and the only one in the Commonwealth to receive a new Alzheimer’s Disease Programs Initiative grant from the federal Administration for Community Living. The award is for a total of $854,147 over a three-year project period.

ESMV-NS will start a training program at Bridgewell Inc. and Fidelity House Human Services & Career Resources Corp., for staff who work adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

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Unity Weekend at Bridgewell’s Women’s Program, Johnson Street

Tuesday, August 4, 2020

Once a month, Bridgewell’s Women’s Program, Johnson Street holds a weekend unity event of fun, self-care and team building activities to celebrate the women’s sobriety and to work on their relational skills with one another. Staff is actively involved in creating a theme, planning the events, facilitating the activities and actively participating throughout the weekend. With COVID-19 restrictions, they have...

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July 16, 2020 – Email to Parents & Guardians

Thursday, July 16, 2020

Email from Bridgewell's Vice President, Day Habilitation & Community Engagement Stacey Leibowitz to Parents and Guardians updating on the opening of our Day Habilitation Program later this month.

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For those with disabilities, a way to keep connected.

Friday, July 10, 2020

Bridgewell shifted to virtual programming amid COVID-19 to provide a resource for families who depend on structure and routine. Judith Doherty, program director of Bridgewell's Family Support Center talks about the impact of virtual programming and how we're providing a resource for families.

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July 7, 2020 – A Message from Bridgewell’s President & CEO

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

Dear Family, Guardians and Bridgewell community, On July 2, 2020, EOHHS released guidelines and protocols regarding the reopening of day programs. This coincides with Massachusetts entering Phase 3 of its reopening plan on July 6th. In preparation for Phase 3, Bridgewell has been working to develop safety protocols and standards so that we are ready to re-open in a fashion...

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New guidelines for on-site and off-site residential visitations, effective July 3

Thursday, July 2, 2020

July 2, 2020 Dear Parents and Guardians, I am pleased to share with you that the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has announced guidelines for expanded on-site visitations and the commencement of off-site visitations, effective July 3, 2020. I also want to share the attestation form that DDS requires parents/guardians to submit when the person served returns to their...

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A Window Into Bridgewell during COVID-19

Thursday, June 18, 2020

The annual Imagine the Possibilities Gala is our signature event to raise funds to support the individualized needs of people in our care. Unfortunately, adapting our Gala originally scheduled at the Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston is one of several unanticipated challenges Bridgewell has faced amid the COVID-19 pandemic. As a non-profit, we depend on the funds raised from this...

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June 11 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, June 11, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Thursday, June 11. As of this morning, we have 3 staff members and 5 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. I am very happy to share that on Saturday DDS announced that residential program visitations can now resume. On Monday we...

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Update on Visitations at Bridgewell’s Residential Programs

Monday, June 8, 2020

June 8, 2020 Dear Parents and Guardians, I am pleased to share with you that the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has announced that visitations can resume beginning Wednesday, June 10. Please find below the guidelines under which visits will be conducted. These guidelines insure visitations adhere to recommended DDS, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Massachusetts...

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June 5, 2020 – CEO Email to Parents & Guardians

Friday, June 5, 2020

Email from President & CEO Christopher Tuttle to Parents and Guardians updating on new protocols for our Day Habilitation Programs and residential program visitations for when they resume operations.

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June 4 – Phone Script from CEO

Friday, June 5, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Thursday, June 4th. As of this morning, we have 3 staff members and 10 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. In the next few days, we expect to hear from DDS when on site residential program visitations can begin and the...

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May 28 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, May 28, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Thursday, May 28. As of this morning, we have 1 staff member and 11 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. In the next couple of weeks, I hope to be able to share with you information on when visitations can happen...

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START Crisis Clinical Support Services Program addresses mental health needs year-round

Thursday, May 28, 2020

The month of May is dedicated to raising mental health awareness, but more work needs to be done to ensure that people who are struggling get the help they need year-round. This year, the coronavirus pandemic has taken an increased toll on mental health. Necessary confinement protocols have led to increased stress levels and anxiety, triggering deeper mental health issues...

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DDS Commissioner Message to Families – 5/22/2020

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

Official Message from DDS Commissioner Ryder to Families To: DDS Individuals and Families From: Commissioner Jane F. Ryder Date: 5/22/2020 Subject: Coronavirus Update for Individuals and Families Dear DDS Community: Much has happened in the weeks since my last message. I’d like to provide an update on the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) response to COVID-19 as of Friday, May...

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