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2023 Imagine the Possibilities Gala Honoree: Former Essex County District Attorney Jonathan W. Blodgett.

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Bridgewell is pleased to announce this year’s Imagine the Possibilities Gala Honoree: Former Essex County District Attorney Jonathan W. Blodgett. Mr. Blodgett will be presented Bridgewell’s 2023 Visionary Leadership Award at our annual Imagine the Possibilities Gala on Friday, April 28 at the Renaissance Boston Waterfront in Boston. Bridgewell’s Visionary Leadership Award recognizes an outstanding individual for excellence to a...

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Valentine’s Day 2023

Thursday, February 16, 2023

Valentine’s from our friends at the New England Academy in Beverly were distributed to Bridgewell’s Employment Program! Homemade cupcakes by Nurse Courtney for the Roseway Day Program in honor of Valentine’s Day! Valentine’s Day Paper Chain made (with love) by people at our Day Program is now on display at the Bridgewell Headquarters! Just a few fun projects shared with...

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Bridgewell Announces Addition of Jessica Almeida to Key Leadership Role

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Bridgewell Announces Addition of Jessica Almeida to Key Leadership Role As VP of Day Habilitation and Community Engagement, Jessica Almeida Will Help Further Services Offered at Bridgewell Programs PEABODY, Mass., February 2023 – Bridgewell, a local nonprofit social and human services organization, announced today that Jessica Almeida has joined the organization as Vice President of Day Habilitation and Community Engagement....

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Leadership Skills Class – February 2023

Wednesday, February 8, 2023

For 25 years, Bridgewell’s Training Department has been offering a Leadership Skills Training to managers, supervisors and directors. 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. Congrats to this session’s class: Lina Abdalla, Clinical Director Duane Carbone, Residential Manager Courtney Freeman,...

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Letter to the Editor: Bridgewell CEO responds to staffing constraints

Monday, February 6, 2023

The Lowell Sun recently published an article about the ongoing workforce struggles in the healthcare industry and reported that Bridgewell, a Peabody-based social and human services organization, had more than 300 job openings – a figure taken from another Lowell Sun article written by the same reporter eight months ago.

Currently, the staffing situation at Bridgewell, as with many other human services organizations, is about the same as it was last year – with nearly 300 open positions in cities and towns across the Merrimack Valley and North Shore. Over the past three months, we have started to see a glimmer of hope, with a slight increase in applicants, and new hires finally starting to outpace departures. Unlike many other organizations in the healthcare industry, which has recently seen employee layoffs in the hundreds, Bridgewell is actively hiring in communities across northeastern Massachusetts to meet the needs of those we serve, from people with autism to those battling substance use disorder.

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Congratulations, Rob!

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

During the past two years, Bridgewell resident Rob has been working at Brightview Assisted Living. In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Rob was working and making sure he was helping in anyway he could. On January 25, Rob received an Star of the Year award from his employer, Brightview Assisted Living in Danvers. Rob is supported at his job...

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2023 Lotus House Family Supportive Housing Program Open House

Tuesday, January 31, 2023

Last week, Bridgewell held a small open house at our new program in Lynn. Thank you to Rep. Dan Cahill and Lynn Mayor Jared Nicholson for joining us at our open house for Bridgewell’s new Lotus House Family Supportive Housing Program! Thank you to Luis from Senator Brendan Crighton‘s office and Caroline from Senator Elizabeth Warren‘s office for attending, and...

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Bridgewell’s Lotus House in Lynn To Fill Critical Gap in Supportive Family Housing

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

This month, Bridgewell opened its Lotus House Family Supportive Housing Program in Lynn expanding on its recovery and housing services in the area. Bridgewell’s Lotus House will support women and their children who are transitioning out of substance use disorder treatment programs. The program will support them in building independent living skills, healthy relationships, and connections in the community, to...

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Alzheimer’s and Down Syndrome

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Did you know that people with Down Syndrome are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s or dementia than those without it? Approximately 50% of people with Down Syndrome aged 60+ have Alzheimer’s or dementia, compared to 10% of people without Down Syndrome aged 60+.  However, it is more difficult to recognize Alzheimer’s or dementia in people with Down Syndrome, and as...

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Mikey and Momo Volunteering at StrongWater Farm

Monday, January 2, 2023

Mikey C and Momo M from Rosewood III Community Based Day Supports Program have been volunteering at StrongWater Farm in Tewksbury. Both love working there and are extremely hard workers. It’s a beautiful farm with horses and has plenty of jobs to do! Community Based Day Supports (CBDS) provides a variety of community and center-based experiences to develop and improve...

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2022 Satisfaction Survey

Wednesday, December 14, 2022

Bridgewell’s satisfaction survey for families and guardians of people in our services, as well as for people we do business with, such as our funding and referral sources, is now live. We value your feedback and want your perspective. Please note: Printed surveys will not be mailed this year, so please submit your feedback electronically. Survey Link.

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Employment Support and ServSafe Certifications

Saturday, December 10, 2022

Two Bridgewell employees and 10 people from Bridgewell’s Employment Support program recently participated in a ServSafe certification course with ServSafe instructor Grace LePage. Having this certification opens up more employment opportunities for those in our services. “This is a great example of how Bridgewell’s Employment Support program opens up doors for people with disabilities in the workforce,” said Milena Sarrette,...

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Leadership Skills 2022 Fall Class

Thursday, December 8, 2022

For 25 years, Bridgewell’s Training Department has been offering a Leadership Skills Training to managers, supervisors and directors. 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. Congrats to this year’s class: Leticia Coronado, Residential Manager Tom Corser, Residential Manager Patrick Foley,...

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Thanksgiving Celebrations at Bridgewell!

Wednesday, December 7, 2022

While Christmas is around the corner, it’s nice to look back at our Thanksgiving celebrations! Some had traditional Thanksgiving menu with turkey, mashed potatoes and other season fixings while others voted on Chinese Food and Hoodsies ice cream cups! Pictured below are a few celebrations from Bridgewell’s Lowell Adult Day Treatment program, Roseway Day Program in Danvers and Employment Supports...

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Bridgewell Meets Bret Hart

Monday, November 7, 2022

The Best There Is, the Best There Was, the Best There Ever Will Be   Eric, Rob and Chad attended a meet and greet at Sportsworld in Saugus and were thrilled to get the opportunity to meet WWE wrestler Bret Hart. They were accompanied by Residential Manager Cesar Echeverria, and enjoyed brunch at Andy’s in Lynn after the event.  

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Rosewood III Visits Parlee!

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

Bridgewell’s Rosewood III visited Parlee Farms in Tyngsborough. They participated in so many fun activities including a hay ride, apple picking and a delicious lunch! Everyone was happy to be there enjoying beautiful fall weather.

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Family Engagement Group – Meeting Opportunity!

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

Join Human Rights Coordinator Mike Cotter and other members of the Bridgewell community to share your experience and thoughts to improve the experience of people in Bridgewell’s care and their families. 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. Family Engagement Group Wednesday, December...

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Connie Meets General Hospital Stars

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

Bridgewell resident Connie loves General Hospital. Finally after being postponed since 2020 due to the pandemic, she was able to attend the General Hospital Meet and Greet last month with staff Edna Charles. She asked the panel questions and thoroughly enjoyed the day. This is not her first time at a General Hospital Meet and Greet – she went back...

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Creative Minds Decorates Cookies!

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Bridgewell’s Rosewood III Creative Minds Art Group held its first session – decorating cookies for Halloween! Great job, everyone! Looks deliciously scary! Thank you to Program Director Cynthia Alicea for sharing these photos.

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Vans Store – North Shore Mall Donates to Bridgewell!

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

Thank you to Vans at the North Shore Mall for their generous donation of clothing and sneakers! Vans will be donating shoes and assorted clothing to Bridgewell each month. These items will be distributed through all our programs based on need. Thank you to Store Manager Igor Telles and Stock Supervisor Benjamin Hunter for coordinating the products and pick up.

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Virtual Workshop: Alternatives to Guardianship

Thursday, October 13, 2022

Please join Bridgewell’s Family Support Center on October 20th at 12 PM for a virtual workshop on alternatives to guardianship and health care proxy! WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?  BETSY JOHNSON WILL JOIN US FROM DDS TO ANSWER ALL OF YOUR QUESTIONS. Betsy has developed a working knowledge of the important differences between guardianship and a healthcare proxy. She wants...

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Bridgewell’s 2022 Celebration of Community Kick-off a Success

Monday, October 10, 2022

Over 50 members of Bridgewell volunteer at Newhall Fields Community Farm in Peabody for a day of service Bridgewell held the kick-off event for its “Celebration of Community” on October 4, 2022. The service project event, formerly known as the Bridgewell Day of Giving, was held at Newhall Fields Community Farm (NFCF) in Peabody and drew more than 50 volunteers...

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Bridgewell Residents Celebrating Fall!

Monday, October 10, 2022

A few of Bridgewell’s residences participated in fall activities this weekend at Russell Orchard in Ipswich. Everyone enjoyed their homemade ice cream and brought home apples, and the folks who went Sunday also got to take a hayride out to the apple orchards.

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Thank you, Winning Moves Games!

Monday, October 10, 2022

Winning Moves Games donated 30 cases of board games to Bridgewell! Over 500 games and activities like Rubix Cubes, Chess, Hi Ho! Cherry–O!, Frozen 2 Pop It and more! These games range from single player to small groups and will be distributed to day programs, residences, clinics and affordable housing programs. Thank you so much to Winning Moves Games! Check back...

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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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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’ 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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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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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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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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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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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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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 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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