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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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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2020 Imagine the Possibilities Gala
Friday, November 22, 2019
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From Homeless to Housing: A Guest’s Recovery at Bridgewell’s Recuperative Care Center
Thursday, November 14, 2019
An estimated 20,000 people are homeless in Massachusetts, according to a federal report, creating a high demand for services to help people in need. The Recuperative Care Center (RCC) in Lynn is one of only two in the state to provide people who are homeless a safe place to recover from an acute illness or injury; when they no longer...
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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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‘Intelligent Lives’ film screening Thursday in Peabody
Tuesday, November 5, 2019
PEABODY — A documentary that sheds light on the continuing fight for inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities will be shown Thursday night at Northeast Arc's Peabody Black Box Theater.
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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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Mainstream Section 8 Housing Voucher Application Waiting List Order to be Established by Lottery
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Bridgewell & Middlesex North Resource Center Inc (MNRC) announce the limited opening of the Mainstream program waiting list. At the time of admission, the head, spouse or co-head of the household must be a non-elderly (at least 18 years of age and less than 62 years of age) person with disabilities. Preference will be given to those applicants who live...
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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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North Shore Community College Receives $640K Grant to Combat Opioid Epidemic
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
North Shore Community College has received a $640,000 federal grant to combat the opioid crisis. NSCC was the only recipient of funding from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) in the New England region, which awarded $12 million to 16 institutions nationwide.
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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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Prides Deli and Pizzeria hires clients participating in Bridgewell’s employment support program
Wednesday, July 31, 2019
Prides Deli and Pizzeria hires clients participating in Bridgewell's employment support program
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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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Viewpoint: The hidden truth behind the Mass. human services industry
Thursday, July 18, 2019
The single biggest factor contributing to the loss of qualified workers from the community-based human services sector is the pay inequity between private workers and their state counterparts.
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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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