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Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Program Director Betsy Stockwell and Assistant Program Director Amanda Murray surprised staff during Direct Support Professional Week with little gifts to say thank you and raffles supported by local businesses. Staff was recognized every day of the week with little gestures – donuts, hand sanitizer, life savers, gum and the week ended with a staff lunch. Throughout the week, there...
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Tuesday, October 11, 2016
Northeast Regional Director of the Department of Developmental Services Mandy Chalmers will be retiring after a 44 year career with the Department of Developmental Services. Mandy started her career at the Fernald Developmental Center and then worked at the DDS Central Office as Chief of Staff to the Commissioner. Mandy was DDS’s go-to staff person for any difficult assignments. In...
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Tuesday, October 11, 2016
With more than 400 people in attendance, Bridgewell’s second Living Longer: Aging with Intellectual Disability Conference was a success. Dr. Julie Moran presented her keynote “Reflecting Back, Looking Ahead: What’s New in Aging and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.” During her introduction, Commissioner Elin Howe praised Bridgewell’s ongoing commitment to aging adults with disabilities. Commissioner Howe discussed what the state is doing...
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Wednesday, October 5, 2016
The Basics of Special Education Laws Learn how to be better advocates for your child’s educational needs. Learn more about special education advocacy and the laws that give you the right to request services for your child. Speaker: Vineesha Sow, Esq. Staff Attorney – Children’s Law Center of Massachusetts Location: Bridgewell, Family Support Resource Center, 162 Boston Street, Lynn, MA Date: Thursday,...
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Tuesday, October 4, 2016
Join Walpole Police Chief John Carmichael, Massachusetts State Senator Jason Lewis, Brian W. O’Connor, MD, Massachusetts Association of Health Boards, and the Greater Lowell Health Alliance Substance Use and Prevention—Marijuana Subcommittee as we present: THE IMPACTS OF MARIJUANA Strategies to Address Related Health, Social, and Legal Issues LOWELL GENERAL HOSPITAL 295 Varnum Avenue, Lowell (Valet or Parking in Garage) Wednesday,...
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Thursday, September 15, 2016
Last month, Bridgewell held its first Bridgewell Day at the Topsfield Fairgrounds. We had close to 1,000 members of the Bridgewell community attend, including staff, individuals in our services, board members, family and friends. NECN’s Joy Lim Nakrin welcomed the crowd and shared remarks with President & CEO Bob Stearns and Board Chair Jeff Roy. This event was a celebration...
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Tuesday, September 13, 2016
National Recovery Month (Recovery Month) is a national observance held every September to educate Americans that substance use treatment and mental health services can enable those with a mental and/or substance use disorder to live a healthy and rewarding life. Recovery Month celebrates the gains made by those in recovery, just as we celebrate health improvements made by those who...
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Thursday, September 1, 2016
This summer, Bridgewell had close to 30 interns from administration to programming. Of the 30 internships, 10 positions were funded through the Department of Developmental Services’ Urban Youth Collaborative Program, which provides opportunities for students and recent graduates to learn about the field of disabilities. Through internships in day programs, residences and related administrative functions at Bridgewell in facilities north of Boston,...
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Wednesday, August 24, 2016
September 14, 2016 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm 162 Boston Street, Lynn, MA Representatives from DDS Northeast Regional Office will be available to answer your questions about: DDS Eligibility Adult Autism Services Children’s Services Family Supports Self-Directed Services Transitioning to Adulthood RSVP: Tim Foley, Director of Family Support Center Claribel Blanco, Community Services Case Manager Call (339)883-1761 or (339) 883-1760 Email: tfoley@bridgewell.org or cblanco@bridgewell.org
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Thursday, August 11, 2016
Earlier this month, Tom Gould, owner of Treadwell’s Ice Cream and Peabody City Councilor, toured Bridgewell programs including a residence for young adults with autism in Peabody, Rosewood Drive Day Habilitation programs in Danvers and a women’s recovery program in Lynn. He saw many familiar faces from his work with the Challenger League as well as his community ties. Bridgewell is...
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Tuesday, August 2, 2016
Connie lives at a Bridgewell home and loved celebrating her birthday with staff, friends and housemates earlier this week. A few special guests participated in the celebration including her support team from Care Dimension: Mary, Ilene and volunteer Dianne. Her family moved to Virginia recently, so they Skyped on her phone. Guests enjoyed her favorite meal: butter garlic grilled shrimp, potato salad...
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Tuesday, July 12, 2016
A Note from Program Director Jamie Hersey: When 89 year-old Rita, who lives at Bridgewell residence in Amesbury, requested to go on a vacation this summer, she was asked to come up with her ultimate wish list of all of the things that she has always wanted to do but has not yet had the opportunity. Rita’s first response is...
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Wednesday, June 29, 2016
Team Bridgewell participated in the 2016 Summer Games held at Boston University and Harvard University from June 3-5. It was a great weekend with 11 staff members, 1 peer coach, 32 athletes who competed in 73 events! Team Bridgewell Brought Home: Gold Medals -28 Silver Medals – 16 Bronze Medals – 12 4th place ribbons – 7 5th place ribbons –...
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Thursday, June 23, 2016
What a great show! Bridgewell resident Florence went to the Dolly Parton concert earlier this week in Boston. She’s a long time fan of Dolly and has all of her CD’s, her book and watches the movie of her life incessantly. Pictured with staff member Renee Brown at the show.
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Thursday, June 2, 2016
Join us to learn more about our services and meet our staff! Se Habla Espanol – Vea Abajo! Tuesday, June 14, 2016 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm or Wednesday, June 22, 2016 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm 162 Boston Street, Lynn, MA Opened in 2016, the Family Support Center provides a variety of services to north shore families from diverse...
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Wednesday, May 25, 2016
A few pictures from Bridgewell’s Adult Recreation and Education Cinco de Mayo party earlier this month!
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Wednesday, May 25, 2016
The residents at Bridgewell’s Merrill Street home now have a fun new way to enjoy their backyard. The donation was made by Bill Murphy through Cummings Properties’ Employee Directed Giving program. With the generous donation, the residents were able to pick out a beautiful outdoor glider swing, which they have been using to relax on and enjoy the sunshine after day program and...
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Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Bridgewell’s Employment Supports team has been volunteering at The Open Door food pantry in Gloucester. The team sorts food donations into categories and box them up for storage. The pantry recently collected 30,000 pounds of food, so the Bridgewell group helped sort, organize and check expiration dates. Pictured: The team poses with Gloucester Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken. It’s a new volunteer...
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Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Tuesday, June 28, 2016 – Thursday, June 30, 2016 University of MA Medical School – Shrewsbury Amphitheatre 333 South St. Shrewsbury, Massachusetts 01545 NTG’s National Model Workshop: Dementia Capable Care of Adults with Intellectual Disabilities & Dementia REGISTRATION FOR THIS WORKSHOP IS BEING OFFERED AT A GREATLY REDUCED PRICE DUE TO THE GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM THE MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL...
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Thursday, May 19, 2016
Career Open House! Lowell/Merrimack Valley Area Wednesday, May 25th, 2016 2pm-5pm Radisson Hotel and Suites 10 Independence Drive Chelmsford, MA 01824 Interview with a manager & learn more about our current human services opportunities. Walk-in candidates with resumes are welcome but appointments are strongly encouraged! RSVP Today! cbaker@bridgewell.org 339-883-2138 Click here to check out open career opportunities.
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Tuesday, May 10, 2016
Program Director Lori-ann Giamanco put together an amazing 70th Birthday Party for Charlene, who lives in a Bridgewell residence and attends our Boston Street Day Hab program. No detail was overlooked – from invitations, to centerpieces to picture boards and of course a beautiful cake – it was a great celebration! Held at Prince Pizzeria, there were over 60 people...
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Tuesday, May 10, 2016
The All-Stars program, funded by the DA’s office through the Lynn Police Department, is a research-based curriculum geared towards middle school students. Project COPE, an affiliate of Bridgewell, is providing a clinician, focusing on substance use prevention. The program is focused on helping participating students develop leadership skills and avoid self-destructive behaviors. In April, the All Stars program held a family...
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Tuesday, April 26, 2016
Thank you, thank you, thank you! More than 355 people attended this year’s gala, helping to raise just under $400,000 for Bridgewell and its mission, a $59,000 increase over last’s year effort. Click here to view Gala pictures! “We are so excited to have honored Pat and Julie at this year’s gala,” said Bob Stearns, Bridgewell President & CEO. “We...
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Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Date: Thursday 4/7/16 Time: 11am – 2pm Location: 471 Broadway, Lynnfield, MA 01940 Do you like to help people? Have you had a US Driver’s license for 1 year? Do you have a High School diploma or GED? If the answer is YES to all three questions, we would love to talk to you. We have a variety of part...
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Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Bridgewell had several volunteers from St. John’s Prep at a few residential programs as part of the Prep’s Service with a Smile volunteer program on Holy Thursday. With their parents, students Dave and Connor provided a much needed spring cleaning and organization at a home in Tewksbury. They organized and emptied the basement of one program, organized all the cleaning...
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Thursday, March 10, 2016
The Lynnway Day Habilitation Program’s Safety Committee, which consists of individuals served at the program and staff, advocated for a First Aid and CPR training at one of the monthly meetings. Earlier this month, Staff Developer Sarah Myers provided the training and certified 16 individuals – nearly everyone on the committee and several other interested people. The Lynnway Safety Committee,...
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Wednesday, February 24, 2016
The Tim Tebow Foundation sponsored a worldwide prom, “Night to Shine” for people with special needs over Valentine’s Day weekend. The local Night to Shine was hosted by the North Shore Community Baptist Church in Beverly. Click here to see professional photos and a video from the night! Bridgewell had more than 40 individuals in attendance with over 30...
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Tuesday, February 9, 2016
Bridgewell’s new community based family support program is looking for a director and case manager! We are looking for candidates with experience in autism related support, bilingual (Spanish or Khmer) as well as experience providing family support services. Open Opportunities: Program Director, Community Support Family Services Case Manager, Community Support Family Services About the Program: Bridgewell will be opening a Family...
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Thursday, January 28, 2016
Bridgewell follows the Fish! Philosophy to recognize staff for going above and beyond in their roles. The FISH! Philosophy is a set of simple, practical tools to help you create the work culture you’ve been looking for. The FISH! Philosophy fulfills the most basic needs of human beings who, in turn, fulfill the needs of the organization—more connected teams, better communication,...
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Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Are you interested in a rewarding career? Do you have experience in the field of autism or behavioral supports? Bridgewell has a new residential program in Dracut that is specifically designed for young adults with autism. We have part-time opportunities for Direct Support Professionals who would support the individuals in their home. Click here to learn more about Bridgewell’s Autism...
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Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Earlier this month, Dr. Julie Moran toured Bridgewell’s Boston Street Day Habilitation Center and Wedgemere Road, Bridgewell’s residential program for individuals with developmental disability experiencing signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Moran is receiving the Excellence in Service award at the 2015 Imagine the Possibilities Gala. She is a geriatrician specializing in older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). She...
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Thursday, January 14, 2016
Earlier this month, Pathfinder staff worked in collaboration with Bridgewell nursing staff to host a “Cold Weather” event for all Pathfinder Outreach clients. The team served over four gallons of hot chocolate while the nurses presented on staying safe in cold weather. At the event, staff gave away over 30 thermal shirts and 60 pairs on warm socks. Pathfinder is...
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Wednesday, December 23, 2015
Earlier this month, Bridgewell’s Boston Street Center held its fifth annual holiday concert. A wonderful way to kick off the holiday season! Over 60 families, guardians, friends and staff members attended and even joined in the singing. The crowd declared this was the best concert yet! Directed by Debbie Eldred pictured above with Mrs. Claus, also known as Amanda Murray....
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Thursday, December 17, 2015
Bridgewell awarded John Lewis of Greater Lynn Senior Services the second annual Champion Award on December 15. The award recognizes outstanding business partners of Bridgewell who help individuals with disabilities feel valued and appreciated as members of the work force. Pictured above: Brian, Celestine, award recipient John Lewis, Peter and Ariana. Bridgewell’s Employment Supports team has been working with GLSS for over...
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Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Early this fall, Bridgewell Employment Supports Team visited our employment partners to thank them for creating an inclusive environment to help those with disabilities work in the community. Bridgewell has been working with GLSS for over a year. Celestine and Brian are employed directly by GLSS 20 hours a week. The employment program also supports 2 individuals 5 days a...
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Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Early this fall, Bridgewell Employment Supports Team visited our employment partners to thank them for creating an inclusive environment to help those with disabilities work in the community. Bobby’s Burger Palace employs two Bridgewell Employment Program participants at its Burlington location. Both Joseph and Steven work as dishwashers in the busy kitchen. They also like to help out with other tasks...
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Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Early this fall, Bridgewell Employment Supports Team visited our employment partners to thank them for creating an inclusive environment to help those with disabilities work in the community. Bridgewell has been working with Meineke in Salem for many years. Program participants clean the lobby and bathrooms twice monthly. The owner Paul is a great advocate and truly believes that everyone...
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Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Early this fall, Bridgewell Employment Supports Team visited our employment partners to thank them for creating an inclusive environment to help those with disabilities work in the community. North Shore Community College has been a long time partner of Bridgewell’s Employment Program. Bridgewell program participants from the Boston Street Center in Lynn and from Rosewood Drive Day Hab Center in...
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Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Early this fall, Bridgewell Employment Supports Team visited our employment partners to thank them for creating an inclusive environment to help those with disabilities work in the community. At Meals on Wheels our individuals deliver meals to Salem residents who are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals for various reasons. They deliver meals Monday-Friday. Their favorite part of...
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Thursday, October 8, 2015
For many of us, the approach of October means several things; foliage, warmer clothes, football, and pumpkin spice…EVERYTHING! But once upon a time it meant one thing above all others-HALLOWEEN CANDY! Whether you have kids of your own to escort from door to door, costume parties to attend with friends, or simply have to navigate the massive candy section that...
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Thursday, October 8, 2015
A reminder to everyone that the changing of the seasons means it is once again time for the Semi-Annual Safety Audit. Every Bridgewell program must complete a Safety Audit every March and October. The Audit form can be found on the Employee Intranet. Audits must be completed by a designated employee, with another employee present. In order to ensure an...
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Thursday, October 8, 2015
This past September was National Emergency Preparedness Month. Across the nation, local and state emergency management and preparedness agencies, as well as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), drew attention to valuable hints, tips and best practices to keep people safe in the event of an emergency. On the heels of this nation-wide campaign, Bridgewell enters its own Emergency Preparedness...
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Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Late last month, two of Bridgewell’s Employment Supports Individuals Lois and Jacob participated in an art show as part of the Edinburg Center’s 6th Annual Rock into Recovery 5K run/walk and Festival. The event took place at the Waltham Common and featured artists from various backgrounds and with developmental, physical and psychiatric disabilities. With more than 200 runners, the common was...
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Thursday, October 1, 2015
Bridgewell’s Pathfinder Drop-In Center staff attended the 2015 Greater Lowell Health Alliance Annual Breakfast on September 25 at the Westford Regency. We proudly displayed a poster to highlight the Pathfinder Outreach Project, funded by Greater Lowell Health Alliance. The Pathfinder Outreach Project connects very difficult-to-reach, homeless adults in Lowell with health care, housing and other essential community services. Pictured: Pathfinder Assistant...
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Thursday, September 17, 2015
In celebration of 50 years of service, Solimine Funeral Homes hosted ice cream socials throughout the community. The Solimine Family has been long-time supporters of Bridgewell through donations to our Imagine the Possibilities Gala as well as assisting with funeral arrangements for individuals in our program. We appreciate all you do for Bridgewell and the community! Thank you for hosting an ice...
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Thursday, September 17, 2015
Held in conjunction with National Recovery Month, Project COPE, an affiliate of Bridgewell, held an open house on September 14 at our new clinic on 66 Silsbee Street in Lynn. Since 1970, Project COPE has been a leading provider of community-based prevention, education and treatment for individuals and their families struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Project COPE merged with...
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Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Boston Street’s Community-Based Day Supports program reached their summer garden goals – they were able to harvest enough produce to make a sizeable donation to the Haven from Hunger’s Food Pantry. The group donated carrots, tomatoes, onions, Swiss chard and herbs. They spent all summer planting, wedding and watering their garden with the hope of making this donation to help the...
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Thursday, August 27, 2015
A big thank you to the Institution for Savings Charitable Foundation! The Institution for Savings Charitable Foundation provided a grant to purchase two beach wheelchairs for residents at our Mudnock Road home. Each year, residents at this home save their money and together rent a house on Plum Island for one week during the summer. Four of the five residents...
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Tuesday, August 25, 2015
Each year, Bridgewell holds recreational events at Camp Naumkeag in Salem. In appreciation of using the beautiful space, Bridgewell has made it a tradition to maintain and landscape the Vietnam Memorial each year. Pictured: Earlier this summer, Bridgewell individuals Carlos and Nick salute by the flag pole at Camp Naumkeag after cleaning and planting.
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Wednesday, August 19, 2015
Individuals from Bridgewell’s Lewis Street and Columbia Road residences, volunteered to help make re-useable bags to be donated to a local food pantry. These bags will be distributed at the pantry to help people carry their groceries home. Being re-useable, and will help the pantry save money. Zoe, who has been very involved in Bridgewell’s Adult Recreation and Education program,...
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Thursday, July 23, 2015
Earlier this week, a group of Team Bridgewell athletes, friends and staff participated in writing letters and drawing pictures to support the Special Olympic World Games athletes in Los Angeles. Good luck to all the athletes competing this weekend! Click here to learn more about the World Games.
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Tuesday, July 21, 2015
Last week, Rachelle celebrated her 6 year anniversary at PETCO! Rachelle works through Bridgewell’s Boston Street Employment Supports program. Click here to learn more about Bridgewell’s Employment Supports program. Pictured Above: Employment Supports Staff Ashley Smallwood, Milena Sarrette, Marc Jamieson pose with Rachelle to celebrated her work anniversary. She was presented a certificate in front of everyone and then a quick...
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Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Residential Supervisor Nicole Doucette-Page, Program Director Raquel Rodriguez and Program Director Nastasia Shah graduated from the Nonprofit Human Service Management Certificate Program through The Providers’ Council & Suffolk University. The 2015 Commencement Exercise was held on July 9 at Suffolk University. The Certificate in Nonprofit Human Service Management is a year-long, graduate-level certificate program designed for mid-career professionals in nonprofit organizations....
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Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Psychology Major Concentration in Developmental Psychology Curry College “The variety of experience I receive from this internship is very valuable, since I’m not sure of what field of psychology I want to go into yet. I am a very quick learner, but it helped that my supervisors were amazing teachers and guides. My supervisors in the Quality Assurance Department challenged me...
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Wednesday, June 17, 2015
By Michael Corey, Residential Supervisor Cooking is, and has long been, the leading cause of home structure fires and home fire injuries. This is true for both fires reported to fire departments and those handled without fire department assistance.During the five-year period of 2007-2011, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 156,600 home structure fires in which cooking...
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Thursday, June 4, 2015
Bridgewell’s annual tradition continued this year with our Employee Recognition Night in May. This year, 170 employees reached milestones ranging from 3 to 35 employment anniversaries, adding up to a 1,115 years of service. More than 400 people attended including employees, Board of Directors and families and friends. Highest Service Award Recipients: Mark Kennard of Beverly, 35 years (pictured, left) Gary...
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Thursday, June 4, 2015
By Barbara Geary R.N. & Bridgewell Day Habilitation Nurses As the weather gets warmer, many of us will be spending more and more time outside, enjoying the sun that we missed so much through this harsh winter. But too much time in the sun can be a problem. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin in as little as...
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Thursday, June 4, 2015
Meet Simon Kvilhaug, Health & Safety Specialist Last November, Simon has joined the Human Resources Department as Health & Safety Specialist. In this newly created position, Simon is responsible for ensuring compliance with all safety related state and federal regulations, management of the Bridgewell safety program, and coordination of the Workplace Violence Prevention Program. Since he started he has visited...
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Tuesday, June 2, 2015
President & CEO Bob Stearns stopped by to say thank you to all our nurses for their service! From residential to day habilitation programs, our growing nursing staff supports all the individuals we serve to keep everyone safe, healthy and happy. Thank you for all you do at Bridgewell!
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Thursday, May 7, 2015
On April 22, twenty-one residents and staff from five different homes attended the Shriner’s Circus in Wilmington. To organize such an outing is quite the endeavor! But, staff worked together – the programs shared program 5 vans to accommodate wheelchair bound residents and all staff worked together to make sure everyone was safe and happy. A big thank you to...
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Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Bridgewell Counseling Services has appointed Margery Walentuk, FMHPC, to a key position at our outpatient psychiatric and mental health clinic in Chelmsford. Walentuk will provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management to children, adolescents and adults. “The addition of Margery Walentuk to our professional staff ensures our capacity to provide the highest quality of care to each and every patient we...
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Thursday, April 16, 2015
Hosted by the Citizen’s Advisory Board of the Metro North Area office of the Department of Developmental Services and Bridgewell Last week, in timing with Autism Awareness month, Citizen’s Advisory Board (CAB) of the Metro North Area office of the Department of Developmental Services hosted a Legislative Breakfast at Bridgewell’s Rosewood Drive Day Habilitation Center. Pictured: Matthew, who shared his experience...
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Thursday, April 16, 2015
This was a record-breaking year for Bridgewell! We raised more than $339,000 with the support of our donors, attendees and sponsors. Thank you for your support! [album id=12 template=extend] Click here to watch the 2014 Imagine the Possibilities Gala video! Congratulations to our honorees! Excellence in Service Award Bill Fine, President & General Manager, WCVB-TV Channel 5 Visionary Leadership Award Helen...
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Monday, April 6, 2015
Bridgewell was proud to sponsor the 2015 ADDP Annual Conference & Expo, which was held on March 27. In addition to being an event sponsor, several members of the Bridgewell community attended the conference. Pictured Above: Keynote Speaker Tatyana McFadden, 2014 Sochi Paralympian Silver Ski Champion, poses with Bridgewell’s Kelly Pottie. Members of the Bridgewell community were recognized with 2015...
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Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Rosewood Parent: Cathy Johnson Below is a snippet from a 2013 video. Connor was one of the first individuals to attend our Rosewood Drive program. Update Since Filming: “Eighteen months after we recorded that video, Connor continues to make great progress at Rosewood. Bridgewell has expanded their autism program and recently opened Rosewood II, where Connor is now working at...
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Monday, March 16, 2015
On March 9, twenty-three Bridgewell Self-Advocates and staff members attended The Arc of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council’s 37th Annual Legislative Reception at the Massachusetts State House. Self-Advocates Patty and Aaron pose for a photo above. The Legislative Reception serves as an opportunity for individuals with disabilities, family members, advocates, public officials and legislative staff to meet and...
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Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Save the Date! February 28, 2015 12:00 Revere Beach The weather on February 28th could very well be exactly as it is today – perfect for a dip in the lovely Atlantic Ocean! What better time to try on your favorite swimsuit than in February? Pictured above: 2014 Bridgewell’s Polar Plunge team Team Bridgewell will once again be participating in...
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Thursday, February 5, 2015
Recently participants from Bridgewell’s Community Based Day Supports (CBDS) have been going to volunteer at Phillips Manor Nursing Home in Lynn. Some of the favorite activities of the volunteers and the residents include hand massages with aroma therapy lotions, seated exercises to music, reading and listening to stories and spending time together. CBDS participant Elaine says, “Greeting the ladies with...
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Monday, January 26, 2015
As part of the Fund a Need auction, Bridgewell is able to purchase group memberships for individuals in our services to attend local YMCAs/YWCAs. We distribute the memberships to programs and individuals that have interest in attending YMCAs/YWCAs to become active and healthy. Judith, who lives at our Merrill Street residence, is energetic and outgoing. She was very eager to...
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Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Pathfinder is always in need of toiletries – shampoos, soaps, disposable razors and sanitary products – to be distributed to people at the Pathfinder Drop-in Center – all very basic items that many of us take for granted. Pathfinder Needs: Shampoos Soaps Disposable Razors Sanitary Products Lotions Oral Health Products Trial Sizes are ideal! Donations and gift cards are welcomed....
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Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Bridgewell is pleased to announce Ann Couture as the first recipient of Bridgewell’s Employment Supports Champion Award. Olwyn, who works at Kmart through Bridgewell’s Employment Supports program, nominated Ann. Pictured above in the group photo, left to right: Bridgewell Career Specialist Judd Tomaselli, Day Services Supervisor Victoria Jasper, Career Specialist Ashley Smallwood, Kmart’s Ann Couture, Bridgewell President & CEO Bob Stearns,...
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Wednesday, December 10, 2014
Individuals from Bridgewell’s specialized autism residences visited the Boston Opera House for an autism friendly performance of The Lion King last month. This performance is a push to create more inclusive and inviting environment for individuals with autism to enjoy live theater. They all had a great time!
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Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Bridgewell is proud to announce we have been awarded a Three-Year CARF Accreditation. This accreditation decision represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization and shows the organization’s substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An organization receiving a Three-Year Accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process. It has demonstrated to a team...
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Thursday, October 30, 2014
In October 2014, Executive Office of Health and Human Services Secretary John Polanowicz toured Bridgewell’s Rosewood I and II Day Habilitation programs to learn more about the unique services offered to young adults with autism transitioning into adult services. Secretary Polanowicz oversees 15 state agencies in his role including Department of Developmental Services, which funds most of Bridgewell’s programs. Pictured...
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Thursday, October 30, 2014
This summer, WCVB-TV Channel Five’s President and General Manager Bill Fine, this year’s 2014 Excellence in Service Award recipient, toured Bridgewell’s Boston Street Day Habilitation Center. He met several individuals, learned about the programming and shook a lot of hands. Pictured: Bill poses with Michael for a photo during his tour. This award is presented each year at the Imagine...
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Thursday, October 30, 2014
This week, Bridgewell held an open house at our new day habilitation center in Stoneham! Bridgewell employees, board members, friends, families, neighbors and public figures toured the new facility and learned more about the program. The new Maple Street Day Habilitation Center replaced the Melrose and Medford day habilitation centers, and now serves more than 75 people with a support...
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Thursday, October 16, 2014
On Saturday, October 5, Bridgewell Self Advocates set up a table at Salem State University’s forum on bullying and abuse of power. The forum entitled Taking Action Against Intimidation was held at the university at Veterans Hall: Ellison Campus Center. The panel was moderated by R.D. Sahl and included the following organizations: Anti-Defamation League: Salem No Place for Hate Committee Boston...
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Tuesday, September 9, 2014
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. While shopping, be sure you see Supporting: Bridgewell, Inc. under the Amazon search bar like below. Please share with family and friends! The AmazonSmile Foundation...
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Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Residents of one of Bridgewell’s home in Salisbury enjoy a new swing in memory of their former housemate, Jeanine. When Jeanine passed away in April, her family and friends made several donations to purchase something meaningful to her housemates. Special thank you to: Judy and Tom Teehan The Welch Family Frank O’Beri
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Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Bridgewell is expanding its autism support services. We are opening new residences in July, August and September! Join our growing organization and become part of our new autism services as a Behavior Support Professional, Program Director or Assistant Program Director. Requirements: Minimum of a high school diploma or GED with A.A. or BA preferred in psychology, social work, criminal justice,...
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Thursday, July 24, 2014
Many Thanks for Making the 2013 Imagine the Possibilities Gala a HUGE Success! Dr. Timothy Johnson Medical Editor, WCVB-TV & ABC News Visionary Leadership Award Patricia Maguire Meservey President, Salem State University Excellence in Service Award Emceed by Past Honoree & Longtime Boston Sportscaster Bob Lobel More than 400 people joined together to raise over $294,000 to support individuals...
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Tuesday, July 1, 2014
2013 Rodger Hebert Quality of Care Recipient: Supervisor of Clinical Support Services Laurel Ciavarri received the inaugural Rodger Hebert Quality of Care Award. Pictured above: Laurel (center) with Rodger’s wife Justine and son Tyler Hebert. Click here to learn more about the award. According to several nomination forms, Laurel continuously Displays Dignity & Respect by serving on the Human Rights Committee, Peer Review committee and CRT committee….all of which promotes respect...
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Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Bridgewell is pleased to present the 2014 Rodger Hebert Quality of Care award to: Nancy Marticio, Director of Day & Residential Services This year, we received 13 essay nominations in support of 10 Bridgewell employees to be considered for the Rodger Hebert Quality of Care Award, also known as The Rodger Award. According to her nomination, Nancy sees everyone as...
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Tuesday, June 17, 2014
On May 14, 2014, Bridgewell held its annual Employee Recognition Night at Danversport Yacht Club in Danvers. Close to 400 Bridgewell staff members and their families attended to celebrate employee milestones from 3 years of service to 30 years! This year, Director of Day and Residential Services Nancy Marticio received the Rodger Hebert Quality of Care Award. Click the link...
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Wednesday, June 4, 2014
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Thursday, May 29, 2014
Pictured Above: Congratulations to Fredeline Pierre (left), Direct Support Professional at Vine Street and Damaris Gitahi (right), Direct Support Professional at Wardwell Ave, who were both awarded the scholarships to North Shore Community College. Fredeline is enrolled in the Developmental Disabilities program and received the Bridgewell Scholarship. Damaris is in the Health Sciences program, working toward her LPN. Inge Peters (left),...
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Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Earlier this month, more than 600 members of The Caring Force including many Bridgewell individuals and staff members flooded the State House with a sea of gold and showed just how important it is that legislators invest in human service programs and workers. To learn more about The Caring Force, click here!
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Thursday, April 24, 2014
Bridgewell has been awarded $2,000 by Staples Foundation, the private charitable arm of Staples, Inc., under a program that lets Staples associates direct donations in support of Boston Street’s Employment Supports program. Click here to learn more about Bridgewell’s Employment Supports program. The grants are part of a philanthropic initiative created by Staples Foundation, which allows Staples associates around the...
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Tuesday, April 22, 2014
By July 2015, Department of Developmental Services plans to phase out all center-based (sheltered) workshops. This is to encourage individuals with disabilities to work in the community. Last month, Bridgewell staff and the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services held a discussion to learn more about community employment opportunities. Day Services Supervisor Victoria Jasper discussed Bridgewell’s plan to adopt the...
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Friday, April 18, 2014
Thank you to all who donated to the Pathfinder Toiletries Drive! Parishioners of Saint Dorothy’s Parish of Wilmington and Saint Thomas of Villanova Parish of Tewksbury donated more than a thousand dollars worth of toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, razors and other personal hygiene products. Additionally, we would like to thank Align Credit Union, Costco Wholesale, Geriatric Medical & Surgical Supplies and...
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Wednesday, April 9, 2014
After years of thoughtful planning, Bridgewell and Project COPE completed a merger this past January. The two greatly respected organizations, representing close to a combined century of service and expertise, have had a management agreement since May, 2013. For 40 years, Project COPE has provided community-based prevention, education and treatment services for individuals and their families struggling with addiction. Bridgewell...
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Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Last year, Program Director Shannon Winn ran the Boston Marathon for Team Special Olympics MA. Unfortunately, due to the tragic Marathon Bombings, Shannon was unable to complete the race but luckily was unharmed during the brutal attack. This year, Team SOMA awarded all of last year’s runners with complementary bibs, so they could again run the Marathon! On Monday April 21, Shannon...
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Thursday, March 27, 2014
Congratulations to Bridgewell’s Mark Murphy! Mark was awarded the ADDP 2014 Human Services Professional Award at ADDP’s Annual Conference. Mark is pictured above with Bridgewell individual Eric, Residential Supervisor Melissa Bridges-Pata and Program Director Kristin Neidig, who nominated him for the award. Since 1991, Mark has demonstrated his dedication to Bridgewell and its mission as an overnight and weekend staff member. His ability...
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Thursday, March 20, 2014
Earlier this month, Bridgewell individual Anthony (pictured above) participated in the FY15 budget hearing organized by the Massachusetts Joint Committee on Ways & Means. He attended with The Caring Force, who filled about 30 percent of the room. Anthony listened very attentively and he later asked, “Are they going to provide more money?” Great work, Anthony! In total over the last...
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Thursday, March 6, 2014
A big thank you to everyone who supported Team Bridgewell at the Polar Plunge this year. Together, we raised $1525 for Team Bridgewell. We had a huge crowd this year representing Bridgewell including individuals in our care, staff members, family members and guardians! The weather was beautiful! The air and water temperature were about even making the plunge less frigid!...
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Tuesday, February 18, 2014
In January, Congresswoman Niki Tsongas toured Bridgewell’s Pathfinder Drop-in Center and Pathfinder Apartments in Lowell. Pathfinder Program Director Jessica Perreault and Director of Housing Elaine White led the tour and introduced the Congresswoman to several clients. Pathfinder serves more than 48,000 meals annually and has 300 active individuals using the center. She met Tommy and Dominic, both young adults who...
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Tuesday, February 4, 2014
We are taking the Plunge! Are you going to join us? If you don’t think that jumping into the icy Atlantic Ocean in February is fun and invigorating…… Do something rewarding and make a donation to Team Bridgewell! Bridgewell’s Team Page for 2014 Polar Plunge Click the link above to learn more! On February 22, Team Bridgewell will be participating...
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Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Last month, Bridgewell’s Imagine the Possibilities Gala honorees ABC News’ Dr. Timothy Johnson and Salem State University President Patricia Maguire Meservey toured the Boston Street Center and our newest residence on Colonial Ave in Lynn. Dr. Timothy Johnson will be receiving the Visionary Leadership Award and Salem State University President Patricia Maguire Meservey will be receiving Excellence in Service Award....
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Friday, October 18, 2013
September 17th was Special Olympics Night at Fenway Park. The Red Sox provided Special Olympics MA with 300 discounted tickets to the Red Sox vs. Orioles game and Bridgewell athletes and staff purchased 50 seats. Various Special Olympics athletes from all over MA took part in various game ceremonies such as the throwing out the first pitch, serving as honorary...
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