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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 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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May 21 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, May 21, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Thursday, May 21. As of this morning, we have 8 staff and 18 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 initial information on our next steps in...

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May 18 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, May 18, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Monday, May 18. As of this morning, we have 8 staff and 23 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. At this point, most of our programs have been tested through mobile testing. As I have been saying, we’re not out of...

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May 14 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, May 14, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Thursday, May 14. As of this morning, we have 8 staff and 30 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. We also have several staff who have passed their quarantine period but have not yet returned to work. At this time, approximately...

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May 11 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, May 11, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Monday, May 11. As of this morning, we have 31 staff and 30 people in our services currently positive with COVID-19. I’m happy to report that a significant number of negative mobile testing results came in over the weekend. While we’re not out of the...

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May 7 – Phone Script from COO

Friday, May 8, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Elaine White, Chief Operating Officer and today is Thursday, May 7. As of this morning, we have 41 staff and 31 people in our services currently positive with COVID-19. These numbers continue to fluctuate daily as new test results come in and people finish their 14 day quarantine. I anticipate we will continue...

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May 4 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, May 4, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Monday, May 4. As of this morning, we currently have 22 staff and 21 people in our services positive with COVID-19. These numbers continue to fluctuate daily as new test results come in and people finish their 14 day quarantine. I anticipate we will continue...

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Friday, May 1, 2020: Day Programs Closed till further notice

Friday, May 1, 2020

Bridgewell’s Day Habilitation Programs, Employment Support Programs and Transportation Services will not be opening on Monday, May 4 due to Massachusetts extending the non-essential business closures and stay at home advisory until May 18. We have not yet been notified by the Commonwealth when these programs can reopen.  We will notify you as soon as we hear; it will not necessarily be...

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April 30 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, April 30, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Thursday, April 30. Over the last two weeks, the DDS Fallon mobile testing unit has been to about a third of our programs, testing both staff and individuals. While results have been coming in on an ongoing basis, we received large batches of test results...

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April 27 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, April 27, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Monday, April 27. Starting off this week, we have 39 staff and 11 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. Mobile testing continues to take place and we are working with DDS to make sure all Bridgewell residences are tested. We are...

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April 23 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, April 23, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Thursday, April 23. As of this week, we have 37 staff who are positive. We have 11 people in our services who are currently positive with three who have recovered. You likely heard that Governor Baker has closed Massachusetts schools for the remainder of the...

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Using Virtual Classes to Cope with Coronavirus Uncertainty

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, millions of people across the U.S. are under stay-at-home advisories. Self-isolation and social distancing have become the new norm, presenting an extraordinary challenge for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities such as autism, as well as their caretakers, who depend on us for a sense of structure and routine. The measures taken to reduce the...

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Human services CEO says workers deserve hazard pay

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Bridgewell CEO Chris Tuttle said his front-line workers have been demoralized after the state agreed last week to give hazard pay to human services workers that are employed by the state. Meanwhile, workers doing the same jobs for private agencies like Bridgewell during the coronavirus pandemic are not getting extra pay despite facing the same risks, he said.

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April 20 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, April 20, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Monday, April 20. As of this morning, we have eleven people in our services who are currently positive and one who has recovered. Everyone is doing well and recuperating. We currently have 39 staff who are positive and five people who have recovered and are...

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COVID-19: Take Advocacy One Step Further on Hazard Pay for DSPs!

Monday, April 20, 2020

Advocacy Bridgewell needs your help right now! This past week, all state employees who work in I/DD group homes received a $5 or $10 per hour “hazard pay” increase for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis, but there was no “hazard pay” allocated for the staff of community providers, like Bridgewell. Tell Governor Baker to rectify this disparity for essential...

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COVID-19 Donations – Thank you!

Friday, April 17, 2020

Bridgewell is quite grateful to have received in-kind donations ranging from face shields and masks to food.   Alene Candles in Milford, NH revamped their factory to make face shields instead of candles. Director of Residential Services Jess was able to secure a generous donation of 1,000 face shields which she picked up on Wednesday from their facility and delivered to various Bridgewell programs in need.  The Doug Flutie Foundation donated 50 face shields for our residential homes and Massachusetts Families Organizing for Change donated face shields for those medically fragile...

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WBUR, Boston’s NPR News Station

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Being holed up at home with kids, partner, or other family members can be tough. But some people now have the added challenge of staying home with children who have intense developmental disabilities — children who are
normally in day programs or live in group homes.

Kara normally lives at a residence operated by Bridgewell, which runs programs for people with disabilities in the Merrimack Valley-North Shore area.

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April 16 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Thursday, April 16. As of this morning, we have eight people in our services who have tested positive and one who has recovered. They continue to do well and are recuperating. We currently have 30 staff who are actively positive for COVID-19 and thankfully four...

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Easter Bunny Visits Bridgewell Homes

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

What started out as a whim from a few Bridgewell staff last week turned into a wonderful Easter weekend for our residents. Barbara and Erica had an idea to deliver cookies to our residential programs for the Easter holiday. When they put out the word that they needed cookies, within just three hours they had received monetary donations and hundreds...

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April 13 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, April 13, 2020

In an effort to keep families and guardians informed, President & CEO Chris Tuttle has implemented a twice-weekly phone message. Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Monday, April 13. As of this morning, we have five people in our services who have tested positive. All of them are doing well and...

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April 9 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, April 9, 2020

In an effort to keep families and guardians informed, President & CEO Chris Tuttle has implemented a twice-weekly phone message. To hear today’s message, please call 339-883-2201. Thank you.

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April 6 – Phone Script from CEO

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Monday, April 6. As of this morning, we’ve had our first person in our services test positive for COVID-19. This person is doing well, is stable and recuperating in quarantine in their room. We have implemented our contingency plans for this expected situation and are...

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April 2 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Thursday, April 2. I am happy to share that we continue to not have anyone in our services test positive for COVID-19. However, we do have a few people who are currently being tested. I will continue to keep you informed as we learn more....

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March 31 – Phone Script from CEO

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Chris Tuttle President & CEO and today is Tuesday, March 31.  Bridgewell’s Day Habilitation and Employment Support Programs are closed until May 4. The no visitation policy at our programs is in place until May 4. These measures follow Governor Baker’s orders and are to keep everyone safe.  The people in Bridgewell’s residential programs have settled into a nice routine over the last two weeks. The staff...

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Window Into Bridgewell

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Window into Bridgewell 👀💜💛 A story series to keep members of our community updated on our programs and the people in our care. We’ll share these stories, videos and pictures through Bridgewell’s social media channels and the Bridgewell website. Follow us @bridgewellorg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates and search #windowintobridgewell to find all related stories. Window into Bridgewell...

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Virtual Music Therapy

Monday, March 30, 2020

In practicing social distancing and keeping those in our programs safe, programs have transitioned traditional therapies to virtual therapies including music services provided through Roman Music Therapy! Music therapists have been setting up group sessions at Bridgewell residences – and our residents are loving it. “Roman Music Therapy Services supports the efforts of physical distancing during this time, and we continue to...

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Emergency relief needed immediately to protect thousands of vulnerable individuals

Friday, March 27, 2020

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the leaders of four human services trade associations today called on the Administration and the Legislature to provide “immediate emergency relief” to the community-based human services sector that cares for one-in-ten state residents.  Click here for advocacy talking points. The sector, which contains nearly 180,000 jobs across the Commonwealth, is “on the precipice of collapse without aggressive action from state government,” noted the leaders...

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Update on COVID-19

Friday, March 27, 2020

April 27, 2020 April 27, 2020 Phone Script from CEO April 23, 2020 April 23, 2020 Phone Script from CEO April 20, 2020 April 20, 2020 Phone Script from CEO April 16, 2020 April 16, 2020 Phone Script from CEO April 13, 2020 April 13, 2020 Phone Script from CEO April 9, 2020 April 9, 2020 Phone Script from CEO...

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Bridgewell & My Brother’s Table

Monday, March 23, 2020

In the past week, Bridgewell has worked with My Brother’s Table to secure warm meals for Bridgewell residents to help them save their own pantry of groceries and food. My Brother’s Table prepared so many meals and sandwiches to people in our community housing and individual support programs. Not only does this insure proper nutrition, but prevents them from having...

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A Message from Bridgewell’s President & CEO

Friday, March 20, 2020

From Bridgewell’s President & CEO You hear everyone saying these are unprecedented times, and they are. It’s very unsettling for us all. But at Bridgewell, we continue to support the people we have the privilege of serving just as we did last month and last year. We have made adjustments, accommodations and taken extra precautions to follow the CDC’s and the Governor’s...

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Bridgewell hoopsters win big at Special Olympics Winter Games

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

PEABODY — A North Shore nonprofit took home the gold last Sunday with its first basketball team in nearly 10 years at the Special Olympics Massachusetts Winter Games.

“It was amazing,” said Nicole Doucette-Page, a Special Olympics basketball coach at Bridgewell, a Peabody-based nonprofit that provides social and human services to people with disabilities. “We went undefeated. They did really well.”

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Connecting Families with Resources and a Sense of Community

Thursday, March 5, 2020

Navigating services in the world of developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders can be a formidable challenge for any family. Bridgewell’s Family Support Center (FSC) helps families work through these challenges and obtain social services and programs. “We are here to support persons served and families when and where they need it most,” says Judith Doherty, Bridgewell’s Family Support Center...

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Bridgewell Bulldogs Take the Gold!

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

On Sunday March 1, the Bridgewell Bulldogs, Bridgewell’s Unified Player Development Basketball Team participated in the Special Olympics Massachusetts Winter Games State Tournament at the Fay School in Southborough. The Bulldogs competed in the 22 year old + division playing against the Belmont SPORT Braves and the Hopkinton Pride.  Each team played two games and the Bulldogs came out on...

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Save the Date: Polar Plunge!

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Don’t miss out on your chance to support Bridgewell’s Special Olympics Teams! Take the plunge! Join Team Bridgewell on Saturday, March 28th 2020 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 available on Ocean Avenue. There is a super fun...

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Happy 90th Birthday, Francis!

Thursday, February 20, 2020

Francis, who attends Bridgewell’s Maple Street Day Program, recently celebrated his 90th birthday. For his special day, his program surprised him with a birthday party. Upon returning from an outing, Francis was surprised in the Great Room by all his friends and Bridgewell staff, who began singing to him, and then presented him with his very own cake. Everyone had...

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Valentine’s Day Celebration

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

On Valentine’s Day, three of Bridgewell’s Day Programs from Lynn, Danvers and Stoneham celebrated together at the Kelly J. Martin Center. In recent meetings, Day Program participants expressed the desire to socialize more with other programs. With that feedback in mind, Day Program Directors Amy Hallinan, Molli Marshall and Amanda Murray (pictured right) planned an enormous Valentine’s Day celebration. With...

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2020 Night to Shine Prom

Tuesday, February 18, 2020

On February 7, Bridgewell attended the 2020 Night to Shine prom, the sixth anniversary of this special event sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. This year’s theme was You Are Beautiful, which is the belief of the foundation, is truly reflected in photos and video from the evening. This year, seventy-five members of the Bridgewell community, including residents and staff,...

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Support Bridgewell this Valentine’s Day with AmazonSmile

Monday, February 3, 2020

Will you be our Valentine? Shop at smile.amazon.com and AmazonSmile donates to Bridgewell, Inc. at no cost to you! Please consider using AmazonSmile to support Bridgewell. For eligible purchases through AmazonSmile, the AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the purchase price to Bridgewell when using the link below. Click here for Bridgewell’s AmazonSmile page.

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Bruins Recognition

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Earlier this month, Connor, who lives at a Bridgewell residence and attends one of Bridgewell’s Rosewood Day Programs, was recognized by the Special Olympics and Bruins Foundations at the Boston Bruins game. The night had a fantastic turnout with a fun experience and a victory for the Bruins. Connor also received a custom Bruins jersey and was introduced to the...

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Bridgewell Basketball

Wednesday, January 22, 2020

The Bridgewell Special Olympics team has added a basketball team this winter. The team started in December 2019 and will continue on until March 2020, consisting of persons served and staff volunteers known as partners. A Bridgewell Special Olympics basketball team hasn’t been available for over ten years but we added one this year in response to our growing community....

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New Year, New Job: The Faces of Human Services

Thursday, January 9, 2020

Working in human services is challenging yet rewarding work. “Every day a client tells you good job and how much they appreciate you. It’s amazing to watch people grow, and know you’re a part of that growth,” says Molli Marshall, program director of Bridgewell’s Kelly J. Martin day program. Molli Marshall’s career at Bridgewell began three and a half years...

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Music Therapy

Thursday, December 26, 2019

On November 15th, Maple Street Day Habilitation program hosted a Universal Music Therapy Experience in collaboration with Roman Music Therapy. This event is the final performance of the eight week therapy session and includes singing solos, song writing, open mic/karaoke, a drum circle and a community sing. Everyone enjoyed the weekly music therapy sessions which help develop self expression and...

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Passing of Ann Cohen

Friday, December 20, 2019

It deeply saddens us to share that former Bridgewell Board member Ann Cohen passed away this past Tuesday, December 17th. Ann was an extraordinary person. She was a volunteer at Bridgewell’s Friendship Club for many years before joining the Bridgewell Board of Directors. She was also a member of the Program Committee, a subcommittee of the Board of Directors, and...

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Edible Arrangements Tour

Friday, December 13, 2019

Nick D’Alleva, owner of the Edible Arrangements in Peabody, Beverly and Lynn, recently toured Bridgewell’s Rosewood II Day program. He was able to see our work first hand and, as a thank you, sent some fruit and treats for the people in the programs to enjoy. We are excited to have Nick on board again this year as a partner...

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2019: A Year of Advocacy and Growth

Monday, December 9, 2019

By Chris Tuttle, President & Chief Executive Officer 2019 was a year of introspection, advocacy and growth for Bridgewell, both internally and within the community. As the new year approaches, I’d like to reflect upon the programs, services and new initiatives of 2019 that have shaped us as a non-profit and share thoughts on where we’re headed in 2020. Over...

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Celebrating the spirit of Christmas

Thursday, December 5, 2019

BEVERLY — Roughly 24 times a year, they come together on Sunday to talk, share a meal, sing, listen to a short message and enjoy an activity — this past Sunday night it was a brief re-enactment of the Christmas story.

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Special Olympics Jolly Jaunt

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Join Team Bridgewell on Saturday, December 7th for the best holiday themed 5k of the season! This is a professionally timed 5k on a certified 5k course in Boston. The course starts and finishes at the Boston Commons. Boston Common – Boylston St, Boston MA Registration: 8:00 am Walk/Run Start: 9:00 am Awards: 9:45 am- 11:00 am Registration – $35,...

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ADDP and DDP Present: 2019 Talking Tech Conference

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Bridgewell’s Elaine White (Chief Operations Officer), Chris Tuttle (President & Chief Executive Officer), John Hyland (Director of Information Technology) and Bonnie Hungler (Director of Program and Support Services), attended the Talking Tech 2019 conference this past Thursday at the Newton Marriott. The conference was presented by the ADDP (The Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers) and the DDS (The Department of...

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Bridgewell’s Recuperative Care Center helps the homeless in Lynn

Friday, November 8, 2019

LYNN — Kim M., 44, is beside herself with happiness.

After suffering through eight years of an abusive relationship, and then escaping her ex-boyfriend only to endure long stints of homelessness and health problems, Kim, will finally move into her new home on Nov. 18.

“I feel like it’s unbelievable,” Kim said. “I can’t believe it’s actually going to happen until I walk through that door and (lie) on the bed. I’m so incredibly grateful to Beverly. I’m glad I can call her my friend.”

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Halloween Surprise

Thursday, October 31, 2019

A Bridgewell community home in Danvers received a beautiful Halloween themed gift from their neighbors in appreciation of the staff’s work. They came to the door with a box of cookies, cupcakes and a card that read: “God Bless You All. Happy Halloween. I watch the wonderful work you all do every day. You all are truly exceptional. You give...

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Celebration of Success

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Yesterday, President & CEO Chris Tuttle was at the State House to cheer on Pride’s Deli, a partner in Bridgewell’s Employment Support program. The Massachusetts Regional Employment Collaboratives hosted the inaugural Celebration of Success, to recognize partners, sponsors and employees who have demonstrated commitment to supporting people with disabilities through employment and training efforts. Pride’s Deli of Beverly was one...

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Topsfield Fair 2019

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

An annual tradition, many people in Bridgewell services enjoyed a trip to the Topsfield Fair. The Fair invited area day programs and facilities during day hours free of charge; 377 people and staff attended – a record number! In addition, Bridgewell’s Kelly J. Martin Employment Program participants worked at the Fair as greeters and volunteers at various exhibits. Over the...

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National Substance Use Prevention Month: A Q&A with Bridgewell Clinician and Prevention Coordinator Michelle Simons

Monday, October 21, 2019

October is National Substance Use Prevention Month. People struggling with substance use are supported in their recovery through Bridgewell’s Recovery and Prevention Services, which aims to improve quality of life through consultation, collaboration and coordination of care. In a Q&A, Bridgewell Clinician and Prevention Coordinator Michelle Simons shares why seeking help is so important. How can prevention programs help reduce...

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Preparing For Emergency

Thursday, October 17, 2019

The Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) brings together senior citizens and people with disabilities, local emergency planners, and first responders to prepare for an emergency. Members of the community learn about the personal steps they can take to prepare for different emergency situations. We provide “Emergency Go Packs” that may be needed in the result of an emergency. A federal...

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The Right Talent, Right Now: National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

The Right Talent, Right Now: Bridgewell is proud to support National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). Held each October, NDEAM aims to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. Bridgewell is proud to work with many local businesses to foster disability-friendly work culture. For over 25 years, Bridgewell has successfully...

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Legislative Breakfast – Caring for Those Who Care

Monday, September 30, 2019

On September 27, at Peabody City Hall, community members from Bridgewell, Centerboard, Key Program, LifeLinks, Class, NFI Massachusetts, Northeast Arc and Wayside hosted the Northeast Human Service Advocacy Legislative Breakfast: Caring for Those Who Care. The breakfast discussed the pay inequity in the community-based human services sector between state and private workers. An entry-level state social worker with a bachelor’s degree...

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Caring for People Who Care – Dan Nadeau’s Testimonal

Monday, September 30, 2019

Good morning.  Thank you for allowing me to speak today and share my experiences and views on the negative effect of the significant wage gap between public and private sector employees doing the same work. My name is Dan Nadeau, and I have been in the field for 21 years, exclusively in the private sector, working with developmentally and intellectually...

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Updated Mission and Vision

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Over the last few years, Bridgewell has grown and expanded. We’ve had changes to our service lines, staffing and more recently, we’ve updated our mission and vision to reflect who we are as an organization. Bridgewell’s updated mission demonstrates that we are not only an organization working with people with disabilities, but a full-service, human services organization that supports the...

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Back to School Shopping? Support Bridgewell

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Back to school shopping? When you use Amazon Smile, Bridgewell benefits! For eligible purchases through AmazonSmile, the AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the purchase price to Bridgewell when using the link below. Click here for Bridgewell’s AmazonSmile page.

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2019 Fund a Need Auction Update

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

Earlier this year, at the 2019 Imagine the Possibilities Gala, we raised over $338,000 through sponsorships, tickets, donations, the raffle and night-of auctions. In the evening’s Fund a Need Auction, gala guests bid on items needed by people in our care – from basic necessities to making dreams come true. Thanks to your generosity, we received over $40,000 to the...

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Safe Living Expo 2019

Monday, July 29, 2019

In June, over 100 employees and people in our care attended Bridgewell’s annual Safe Living Expo. Attendees were able to participate in hands on activities on a number of topics. At the skin safety table a representative of Cigna was present with a Dermascan machine where attendees where able to take a closer look at their skin.  Waltham Pest Control...

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2019 Urban Youth Collaborative Program

Tuesday, July 23, 2019

Bridgewell has 20 Urban Youth Collaborative Program interns this summer working in a variety of programs from day programs to residences. UYCP places young people from diverse backgrounds in residential, vocational and administrative settings to gain experience in human services. In addition to internship coordinators, peer leaders and DDS employees, DDS Commissioner Jane Ryder joined the group and encouraged the...

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Congrats to Residential Supervisor Stephanie Valente!

Tuesday, July 23, 2019

Bridgewell Residential Supervisor Stephanie Valente recently completed the Providers’ Council Nonprofit Human Services Management Certificate Program at Suffolk University. This yearlong, graduate-level certificate program has been specifically designed for mid-career professionals in nonprofit organizations. It focuses on building skills that are necessary to excel in human services management. To learn more, click here. Stephanie, who had a wonderful experience with...

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Passport Camp Volunteers

Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Bridgewell was thrilled to host a great group of student volunteers with through the PASSPORT Youth Camp program! Throughout their trip, they worked with maintenance to assemble trash bins, paint and clean up Bridgewell’s main storage space, held an ice cream party at Bridgewell’s Kelly J. Martin Center, and shined up Bridgewell’s fleets of vans with a car wash. Based...

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Bridgewell Residential Programs and Day Program Working Together

Tuesday, June 25, 2019

Two of Bridgewell’s residences and Bridgewell’s Rosewood III Day Program recently broke ground on their joint vegetable gardens. This summer, all three programs will work together to maintain the two gardens and share the vegetables they produce. This partnership will provide healthy, nutritious food for the residence and day program for cooking projects. Along with providing educational opportunities to learn...

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Workforce Shortage in Human Services Field

Thursday, June 20, 2019

The United States is in an economic expansion and what economists consider "full employment". That means many people have options and one industry facing workforce shortage is community-based human services agencies. President and CEO of Bridgewell, Chris Tuttle, joins Sue to talk about the issue and provide a prospective remedy for the issue.

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2019 Rodger Hebert Quality of Care Award

Thursday, June 20, 2019

Geoff Knowlton, Clinician at Bridgewell Counseling Services was the recipient of the Rodger Hebert Quality of Care Award. The award was named after a loyal and devoted Bridgewell employee who had spent his career supporting people with disabilities. The award is presented to an employee who demonstrates the qualities that most defined Rodger’s commitment to people with disabilities. In the...

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June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

Wednesday, June 19, 2019

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. There are more than 130,000 people living with Alzheimer’s in Massachusetts and it is the 6th leading cause of death in the US.  June 18th was Alzheimer’s Advocacy Day at the Massachusetts State House and there were multiple activities to raise awareness about brain health as part of the Alzheimer’s Association’s “June 21st...

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On Autism Pride Day, a way to change lives year-round

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

When Autism Awareness Month comes to an end, so too does much of the focus on autism from the general public. As a society, we’ve made positive strides, but it’s important to remember that the conversations about acceptance, inclusion and support for people with ASD need to happen year-round.

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Important Jobs with Little Pay

Tuesday, June 18, 2019

Bridgewell CEO Chris Tuttle says it's simple to see why there's a workforce shortage among direct support professionals in the human services field: low pay for a demanding job.

Then there's the potential to get paid more to do the same thing somewhere else, Tuttle said.

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A place to play and overcome challenges

Monday, June 17, 2019

Blue Wave will soon start a vocational training program with Melmark, and is working on creating a similar program with Bridgewell.

Bridgewell Career Specialist Marc Jamieson said they are discussing a vocational opportunity in which Rosewood III day program participants would maintain vending machines. Through that, they would be able to improve their skills for grocery shopping, learn about stocking the machine, and collecting, counting and depositing money in a bank, he said.

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Kayem Foundation Tours the Kelly J. Martin Center

Monday, June 17, 2019

Earlier this month, Tricia Williams and Patrick Monkiewicz from the Kayem Foundation toured Bridgewell’s Kelly J. Martin Center to see and experience the recently completed sensory room, which the foundation funded with a $25,000 grant. Day Services Supervisor Lizabeth Dollard, Program Director Betsy Stockwell and President & CEO Christopher Tuttle led the tour. Bridgewell’s sensory room serves as a therapeutic space that...

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2019 Massachusetts Special Olympics State Games

Monday, June 17, 2019

Team Bridgewell had 27 athletes competing in 53 events at the 2019 Massachusetts Special Olympics State Games. Track events included wheel chair walking, running and field events, as well as tennis and softball throws. Team Bridgewell came home with the following medals: Gold -19 Silver -9 Bronze – 6 Fourth – 9 Fifth – 5 Sixth – 1 Seventh –...

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Editorial: Pride and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Monday, June 17, 2019

Tuesday June 18 is Autistic Pride Day and every April, thanks to National Autism Awareness Month, there’s a renewed sense of support for people living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and those who’ve worked tirelessly to foster environments of inclusion and self-determination for all.

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2019 Gailanne Reeh Excellence in Care Award

Thursday, June 13, 2019

Cheryl Southern, case manager at Bridgewell’s Recuperative Care Center, was presented with the Gailanne Reeh Excellence in Care Award. The award recognizes the compassion and quality of care an employee provides to individuals supported through Bridgewell services. Working at Bridgewell since 2018, her work involves supporting people who are in recovery – working to make them feel respected, valued and...

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Bridgewell and the Big Apple Circus

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

The circus was in town! The Big Apple Circus came to Peabody’s North Shore Mall last month and many people in Bridgewell services enjoyed the shows. Over 160 people from the Kelly J. Martin Center, Rosewood I and II and the Recreation Department attended performances over the course of six days. Many people with autism particularly enjoyed a special sensory...

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Job Developers Collaborate to Develop a Unique and Thriving Partnership with a Local Restaurant

Thursday, May 30, 2019

“It’s been great working with Noah from American Training, Inc. during this transition phase. He’s been extremely responsive and instrumental towards the successful hand off of this opportunity. We appreciate Prides Deli owner Mike Magner for welcoming this change and giving other individuals with disabilities the chance to work as well!” stated Marc Jamieson from Bridgewell.

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2019 Employee Recognition Night

Tuesday, May 28, 2019

This past month at Bridgewell’s annual Employee Recognition Night we celebrated employees reaching milestones ranging from 3 to 35 employment anniversaries, adding up to over 1,000 years of service. More than 250 people attended the dinner at Teresa’s at Thomson Country Club including employees, Board of Directors and families and friends. Highest Service Award Recipients: 35 Years of Service Judith...

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Walter with Liz & Molli

Northeast Region DDS Evening of Recognition

Thursday, May 23, 2019

Walter, who attends Bridgewell’s Roseway Day Program, recently received a Northeast Region Department of Developmental Services Award for exemplifying contributions to community and others. Molli Marshall, Roseway Program Director, submitted the below nomination on his behalf: Walter is a gentleman who I have had the privilege to work with over the last 3 years. Walter has shown over these years...

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Thank You from Bridgewell

Wednesday, May 15, 2019

Bridgewell celebrated its first Day of Giving this week, and I wanted to take this moment to thank and recognize the community and businesses in the greater North Shore-area for their more than 60 years of continued support. With that support, Bridgewell have been able to give back to the community by providing an unmatched range of social and human services that empower people with disabilities and other life challenges to live safe, self-directed and productive lives.

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Dual Diagnosis: Mental Health and Developmental Disability Combination Often Overlooked

Thursday, May 9, 2019

By Kimberley Haley, LMHC Director of Clinical Services and Director of The Sovner Center for Bridgewell The month of May is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health, and although the conversation has been elevated in recent years, stigma and mental illness still go hand in hand and barriers to treatment remain. More than 50 million Americans have a mental...

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Thank you to Showcase Cinema in Revere!

Thursday, May 9, 2019

Feel Good Story: Bridgewell wants to take a moment to recognize the Showcase Cinema in Revere! ðŸ’œðŸ’› Bill, who lives in one of Bridgewell’s residences, struggles to go out in the community. He’s home for large chunks of time, and the other day, one of the staff convinced him to go see a movie. Mixing up the times and theater locations,...

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Elaine White: Chief Operating Officer

Thursday, April 18, 2019

It is my pleasure to announce that Elaine White is Bridgewell’s new Chief Operating Officer. Elaine has been serving in this role on an interim basis for the last few months and I am very pleased that she is now officially the COO. To many of you, Elaine needs no introduction. As an employee of Bridgewell for over 35 years,...

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Imagine the Possibilities Gala

Thursday, April 18, 2019

WCVB’s Katie Thompson, Rose Watson (Kelly J. Martin’s mother) and Chris Tuttle, president and CEO of Bridgewell, at Bridgewell’s 11th Annual Imagine the Possibilities Gala on March 15. Thanks to generous donors, Bridgewell raised more than $336,500 in funding for programming
and necessities for people in the agency’s care.

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Lynn Tech Students Team Up with Bridgewell’s Employment Support

Wednesday, April 3, 2019

For the past few weeks, Bridgewell’s Employment Support team has been working with students at Lynn Vocational Technical Institute to create an instructional video on how to ace an interview. The partnership was a win-win for both Bridgewell’s team and students. After filming, editing and pulling together all the pieces of the video, everyone celebrated with a debut party. The...

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2019 Imagine the Possibilities Recap

Monday, April 1, 2019

2019 Imagine the Possibilities Gala What a night! We are pleased to announce we raised more than $338,000! Without generous people like you, those we serve would not be able to accomplish all they do. You affirm what can happen when all of us work together. The evening began with a cocktail reception where guests were able to purchase raffle...

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