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2012 Fund a Need Update!

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Starting at the 2012 Imagine the Possibilities Gala and through an end of the year online appeal, donors raised more than $18,000 in Fund a Need dollars! With these donations, we have been able to purchase:  A New SMART Board and AV Equipment for our new day habilitation center at Rosewood Drive! 6 iPads! 6 YMCA Group Memberships! 12 Need to Feed...

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Senator Clark Received ADDP&#39s Legislator of the Year Award

Monday, January 28, 2013

On January 22, Bridgewell President & CEO Bob Stearns presented Senator Katherine Clark with ADDP's 2013 Legislator of the Year award at the ADDP Legislative Luncheon. Senator Clark was honored in recognition of her consistent support for community services enabling people with disabilities to be able to live in their home communities. Left to Right: ADDP’s President & CEO Gary...

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It is that time of year again&#58 Take the Plunge!

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Supporters of Bridgewell's Special Olympic Athletes are heading to the beach a little early this year! The water will probably be below 40 degrees on February 23rd, but let's be honest, it won't be much warmer come August 26th – we are in New England after all!  Why would we do something so wacky you ask? The monies raised by...

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BCS Distinguished Speaker Series Presents

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

 Rory Bloom, RN, BSN Transition of Care from the Inpatient to the Community Setting  Tuesday, February 12, 2013 12:00pm – 1:00pm (lunch provided during presentation) 35 Market Street, 3rd Floor,Lowell Rory Bloom is a clinical nurse educator who holds a BA in psychology from UMASS, Amherst and a BSN from Curry College.  Rory has a dynamic professional background that includes...

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Volunteering with Bridgewell Human Rights

Thursday, January 3, 2013

Interested in volunteering? You can make a difference today! Bridgewell’s three Human Rights Committees are looking for dedicated volunteers. The committees were established to promote, safeguard and protect the human dignity and legal rights of persons served by reviewing, monitoring and investigating the activities of Bridgewell programs. Human Rights Committee Membership consists of persons served, family members and advocates for...

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Boston Street Center&#39s Holiday Show

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Early this December, more than 15 singers put on a Holiday Show at the Boston Street Center. Friends, employees, family and guardians attended and cheered on the singers. The group has been practicing since August and the show included singing several holiday and winter themed songs. By working with Bridgewell’s deaf interpreter Virginia Vaught, the group signed several songs while...

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Fitness Friendzy Stars and Gordon College

Monday, December 17, 2012

At the end of November, members of the Lynnway Day Habilitation program went to Gordon College for the “Fitness Friendzy” video debut! Students from Dr. Val Gin’s class, Recreation and Leisure for Individuals with Special Needs, met with the Lynnway individuals over the past semester to create a dance and exercise video that will assist with making exercise fun! Over...

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Boston Street Goes to WCVB-TV

Friday, December 7, 2012

A big thank you to WCVB-TV's Susan Wornick, David Brown and Nancy O’Neil! Last month, individuals from Bridgewell’s Boston Street Day Habilitation Center visited the WCVB-TV Channel 5 studio and toured the station to learn more about journalism. Earlier this year, Susan Wornick, toured the Boston Street Center and learned all about the services provided. Click here to learn more...

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2012 Safe Living Expo

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Earlier this month, more than 100 Bridgewell employees and families attended the Safe Living Expo held at the Holiday Inn in Peabody. Each year, Bridgewell’s clinical team organizes a Safe Eating Expo, which focuses on adaptive technology for people with dysphasia, difficulty swallowing or increased risk for choking and aspiration. Attendees learn about how food is swallowed, which foods are safe or...

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Thank you, Reverend William Simpson!

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

More than 25 years ago, Reverend Simpson started chairing the Mental Health Human Rights Committee and gradually became involved in several of our Developmental Disabilities Committees, chairing the North Shore Human Rights Committee for a number of years. Bridgewell’s three Human Rights Committees were established to promote, safeguard and protect the human dignity and legal rights of persons served by...

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Mayor Kennedy Visits Boston Street Center’s Women’s Group

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Last month, Mayor Judith Flanagan Kennedy of Lynn and her Chief of Staff Jamie Cerulli came to visit the Women's Group at Bridgewell’s Boston Street Center. Earlier this year, the Women’s Group wrote a letter to Michelle Obama and received a letter back from the First Lady, which inspired them to reach out to other influential woman in politics. The...

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Wornick Tours Bridgewell

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Last week, WCVB TV’s News Anchor Susan Wornick toured Bridgewell’s Boston Street Center in Lynn. Wornick met several individuals in the employment supports program and day habilitation. Everyone she met had questions for her such as how long it takes her to get ready? What sports she likes? Does she go to crime scenes? President & CEO Bob Stearns, Chief...

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Monday, November 12 – Safe Living Expo

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Bridgewell is committed to providing the people we serve with opportunities to achieve and enjoy their highest quality of life and personal growth. Our commitment extends to their families and guardians by offering programs to best support them in their role. Join us at our next Family Engagement event! What: Bridgewell’s Safe Living Expo When: Monday, November 12, 2012, 3:00 to 7:00 PM...

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Register to Vote!

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

A Message from Bob Stearns: We are only three weeks away from November 6 and a historic election that will decide the next President of the United States, as well as one of our U.S. Senators and all nine U.S. Congressional seats from Massachusetts. Residents will also cast votes for 200 State Legislature seats, three important ballot questions and a...

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BCS Distinguished Speaker Series presents Dean Najarian, PharmD, BCPP

Friday, September 21, 2012

As part of the Bridgewell Counseling Services Distinguished Speaker Series, Dr. Dean Najarian, PharmD, BCPP presented in September to an audience of close to 40 Bridgewell Counseling Services, Lowell Adult Day Treatment and greater Lowell mental health providers. Pictured: Dr. Dean Najarian, PharmD, BCPP with Bridgewell’s Director of Clinical Services Mara Kirby. Dr. Nagarian’s presentation, entitled, “A Needle in a...

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Former Senator Richard Tisei Visits Bridgewell

Friday, August 17, 2012

Earlier this year, Former Senator Richard Tisei toured Bridgewell’s Boston Street Day Habilitation Center. Clinical Director of Day Services Sue Craven led the tour with COO Kelly Johnson and President and CEO Bob Stearns. He met several individuals throughout his tour, including Rachel (pictured right), who showed off an article featuring her in The Connector. Click here to read The Connector...

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Marathon Update: Thank you Michael Cioffi for running the Vermont Marathon on behalf of Bridgewell!

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

At the end of May, Michael ran and completed the 2012 Keybank Vermont Marathon with the time of 4:09:10! In his division, he came in 75th place – an amazing accomplishment! In addition to his marathon training, Michael decided to run his first marathon on behalf of Bridgewell by spreading awareness of our mission and collecting donations. His brother Sabino – a resident of the...

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Bridgewell’s Pathfinder Drop-In Center and CSA/New Entry Farmers

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Through funds donated at the 2011 Imagine the Possibilities‘ Fund-A-Need Auction, Bridgewell has been able to purchase 14 seasonal shares of locally grown fresh vegetables from a group of local farmers who belong to the Greater Lowell branch of the World PEAS (People Supporting Agricultural Sustainability) cooperative. One share of fresh vegetables supplied by CSA/New Entry farmers can feed two people for...

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Senator Eileen Donoghue Visits Bridgewell&#39s Pathfinder Drop-In Center and Apartments

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Last month, Senator Donoghue visited Pathfinder Drop-In Center and Apartments to learn more about Bridgewell’s homeless and housing services. Program Director David Robinson and Director of Residential Services Shirley Gosnear along with President & CEO Bob Stearns and Director of Development Cari Palmer led the tour through both buildings explaining the various services provided. The Pathfinder Drop-In Center serves close to...

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Boston Street Employment Supports

Friday, July 20, 2012

It was a fun afternoon for the Boston Street Employment Supports team! Rachel Deveau, who was featured in the latest issue of the Connector, took a break from work and had a signing party to celebrate her new fame! Click here to read the article! Since 2009, Rachel has worked at Petco, where she stocks shelves and cleans. She is...

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Bridgewell and The Giving Common

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Bridgewell is excited to share its new Giving Common profile, an initiative through The Boston Foundation! The Giving Common is a free, but detailed, online resource that connects donors to in-depth information about nonprofit organizations working to enhance communities across Massachusetts. The Boston Foundation believes that data is a critical part of driving social change and has created this resource...

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Bridgewell Special Olympics Summer Games: Track & Field

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Congratulations to all of the Bridgewell athletes who competed in the Massachusetts Special Olympics Summer Games! It was a great weekend for Team Bridgewell at Harvard University’s Athletic Complex! Our team brought home: 28 – Gold Medals 26 – Silver Medals 12 – Bronze Medals 10 – 4th Place Ribbons 6 – 5th Place Ribbons 6 – 6th Place Ribbons...

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Bridgewell Giving Back

Monday, July 9, 2012

Individuals in our services as well as employees like to give back to local nonprofits and help support the areas of Massachusetts where Bridgewell serves – 20+ communities! In celebration of National Mental Health Month, The Renaissance Club of Lowell hosted its major annual fundraiser on May 17. Each year, teams of bowlers raise money to assist adults living in...

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Great Quality of Life for Life

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Bridgewell’s continuum of care adapts and meets the changing needs of each individual allowing the opportunity to stay in Bridgewell services for life. Harry, pictured with Bridgewell COO Kelly Johnson, is one example of someone who has aged well with Bridgewell. Harry has been in Bridgewell’s services since 1981 and now lives at Bridgewell’s Stocker Street home in Saugus. As...

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Congressman Tierney Visits Bridgewell

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Last month, Congressman John Tierney visited Bridgewell’s latest project in Lynn. He toured the construction zone with President of Bayview Realty of Lynn John Gilberg and Bridgewell’s Director of Housing Elaine White, President & CEO Bob Stearns and COO Kelly Johnson. Click here to learn more read a Lynn Daily Item article on the Lewis Street project. Bridgewell is working with JJ...

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Bridgewell Celebrate National Nurses Week

Monday, June 4, 2012

In May, the Bridgewell Nursing Team gathered at Gould Barn in Topsfield to celebrate National Nurses Week. Twenty of the 35 Bridgewell nurses were able to attend the celebration where they enjoyed good food, laughter and participated in a “Blessing of the Hands” for healthcare workers. Mary Jo Shea- McCormack RN, Chaplain and ordained minister for All Care VNA, facilitated this blessing....

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2012 Employee Recognition Night

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

  On May 17, friends, family and Bridgewell employees celebrated milestones at Danversport Yacht Club for Bridgewell’s Employee Recognition Night. It was a wonderful evening with lots of applause and celebration for employees celebrating anniversaries of working at Bridgewell for 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and even 45 years! [album id=5 template=extend] Employee Recognition Night 2012 Award Recipients 45...

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2011 Imagine the Possibilities Gala

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Bridgewell is pleased to announce we raised more than $285,000 at our recent Imagine the Possibilities Gala at the Seaport Hotel in Boston on November 4, 2011. Channel 5 Eyeopener’s Bianca de la Garza hosted this year’s gala, which featured a silent auction and a live and lively auction featuring exotic trips, sports events and more. The auction, ticket sales and sponsorships...

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34th Annual Special Olympics MA Sponsored Lou Marcel Canoe Race

Sunday, May 13, 2012

It’s that time of year again when Team Bridgewell Special Olympics coaches, chaperones, volunteers, family and friends load into their canoes and ‘race’ down the Merrimac River in an effort to raise funds for our Athletes! The 34th Annual Special Olympics MA Sponsored Lou Marcel Canoe Race will take place: Saturday, June 2nd, 2012 8:00AM Registration 9:00 AM Start 11:00-3:00PM...

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Mammoth Road Open House

Thursday, May 10, 2012

  Last month, Bridgewell celebrated the opening of another new home in Dracut on Mammoth Road. As all of Bridgewell’s recent new residence, the Mammoth Road house is a fully accessible single-family ranch with five bedrooms and an oversized garage to permit easy van access. This beautiful property abuts a baseball field, where the residents can watch games. More than...

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2011 Imagine the Possibilities Gala

Monday, May 7, 2012

Bridgewell is pleased to announce we raised more than $285,000 at our recent Imagine the Possibilities Gala at the Seaport Hotel in Boston on November 4, 2011. Channel 5 Eyeopener’s Bianca de la Garza hosted this year’s gala, which featured a silent auction and a live and lively auction featuring exotic trips, sports events and more. The auction, ticket sales and sponsorships...

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Bridgewell&#39s 2nd Annual Meet and Greet

Friday, April 27, 2012

Bridgewell is committed to providing the people we serve with opportunities to achieve and enjoy their highest quality of life and personal growth.  Our commitment extends to their families and guardians by offering programs to best support them in their role. On Wednesday, April 11, Bridgewell held its 2nd Annual Meet & Greet at the Bridgewell Headquarters in Lynnfield. More than...

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Cioffi Runs VT Marathon to Honor His Brother!

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

We are pleased to announce Michael Cioffi is running the Vermont Marathon on behalf of Bridgewell! Read a message from Micheal below about his brother and connection to our organization. Sabino – a resident of the Bridgewell community – is 26 years of age and has Down Syndrome and Autism. To put it simply, Sabino is an amazing, energetic individual...

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National Healthcare Decisions Day

Monday, April 16, 2012

April 16 is National Healthcare Decisions Day – Bridgewell is encouraging everyone to complete an advance directive and name the person who will make health care decisions for you if you cannot make them yourself. Director of Health Care Jane Bell says: “As a nurse, I have seen far too many people get seriously ill and their family not know their...

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Fund a Need Update & Video!

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Last November at the Imagine the Possibilities Gala’s Fund a Need Auction, guests donated money to purchase specific items for individuals in Bridgewell’s programs and directly influenced the lives of the people who need help the most. Gala guests raised more than $30,000 in Fund a Need dollars – doubling the 2010 total! We exceeded our goals and were able...

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Bridgewell Sponsors 2012 ADDP Annual Conference

Friday, March 30, 2012

With more than 700 people in attendance, Bridgewell was a proud sponsor of the ADDP Annual Conference on March 23, 2012. Author Rachel Simon (pictured left with Bridgewell CEO & President Bob Stearns) gave an extraordinary presentation that touched the hearts and minds of all who heard her. Click here to view more photos of Bridgewell staff members at the ADDP...

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The Lynn Daily Item Visits Boston Street Center

Thursday, March 29, 2012

For the past few months, Bridgewell’s Boston Street Day Habilitation Center has been printing the Boston Street Herald. Each week, several individuals and staff review current events, write news articles and print the publication to be distributed around the Boston Street Center. In late March, The Lynn Daily Item’s General Manager Phil Oulette and Reporter Chris Stevens provided journalism advice...

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2010-2011 Annual Report

Monday, March 26, 2012

Early this spring, Bridgewell published its 2010-2011 Annual Report. This publication provides a year in review through photos, success stories and highlights Bridgewell’s services, innovative programs and future endeavors.  Click here to view the 2010-2011 Annual Report. If you would like to receive a hard copy of the publication, please contact Paula Vrattos at pvrattos@bridgewell.org and provide your mailing address. <...

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Take the PLUNGE NOW!

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

SUPPORT TEAM BRIDGEWELL’S SPECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETES and TAKE THE PLUNGE! SATURDAY MARCH 3rd 2012 at REVERE BEACH!! To Join Team Bridgewell and either register for the Plunge or make a secure on-line tax deductible donation:   Follow This Link to visit our team web page. Some email systems do not support the use of links and therefore this link may not...

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Capture the Moment Photography Group

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Starting in 2011, the Lowell Adult Day Treatment (LADT) program has created a photography group where members use photography as a modality to express thoughts and feelings related to recovery from mental illness. The group consists of not only taking photographs, but also learning about the photo editing process. The goal is to print pictures the clients can present to...

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Family Forum: Life Transitions

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Family Forum: Life Transitions Bridging Through Changing Needs In November 2011, Bridgewell held a panel discussion with members of the Bridgewell community to help families and guardians understand the different life transitions an individual can go through. The panel included Family Member Carol Drislane, Melrose Day Habilitation Program Director Lindsey Gant, MSW, Director of Residential Services Shirley Gosnear andBridgewell Resident Evelyn Mahoney. The panel...

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Congressman Tierney Visit Boston Street Center

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

In mid-January, Congressman John Tierney toured Bridgewell’s Boston Street Day Habilitation Center with CEO Bob Stearns, COO Kelly Johnson and Director of Development and Advancement Cari Palmer. Congressman Tierney was instrumental in securing funding for several of Bridgewell’s housing programs including Coolidge Road, Church Street and Lewis Street projects. Click here to read a press release from Congressman Tierney’s office...

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Partnerships at Work

Monday, January 23, 2012

Through Bridgewell’s partnership with the UMASS Lowell Bridgewell has worked with interns to create adaptive technology, including exercise equipment designed specifically for those with developmental disabilities. Jackie, pictured, is working out with the help of a specially designed bubble bike. Click here to learn more about UMASS Lowell’s bubble bike project. Bridgewell works with faculty, staff and students in the...

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A Growing Population: Turning 22

Monday, January 23, 2012

Families of individuals with developmental disabilities are often confronted with so many challenges and roadblocks to connect their loved one with the services they need. Bridgewell provides support and guidance for those families and individuals through transition services to help individuals “Turning 22,” who are leaving educational services and moving toward adult services. Bridgewell feels that a continuum of care,...

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Bridgewell Education & Recreation Quarterly Recap

Friday, January 20, 2012

Bridgewell’s Educational and Recreational recent events and outings including: The Annual Pasta Luncheon was held at the Saugus Knights of Columbus and many new volunteers helped out to make the event a success! Pictured right: Charlotte, Jalen, Julie, Denise, Jahlil, Pedro and Eliud volunteered at the Annual Pasta Luncheon. Monthly Dances at Breed Junior High School. King and I  at the North Shore Music Theatre....

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The New England Council Visits Boston Street Day Hab

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

The New England Council President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Brett toured the Boston Street Day Habilitation Center with the Council’s Executive Vice President Larry Zabar. Pictured left to right: Bridgewell’s Director of Day Service Nancy Marticio, New England Council’s Jim Brett, Bridgewell’s Program Director Victoria Mucciarone, CEO and President Bob Stearns and COO Kelly Johnson. Jim and Larry met...

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Bridgewell Education & Recreation&#39s Catch of the Quarter: Jessica Crowley

Thursday, December 29, 2011

In addition to duties at her program, Assistant Program Director Jessica Crowley has been volunteering as an Assistant Track and Field Coach for Bridgewell’s Special Olympics program for the past two years. She is dedicated to ensuring that all athletes are well conditioned, but most importantly having fun. Jessica Crowley poses with Paula at a Bridgewell Recreation dance class at LeAnne...

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Seaport Hotel&#39s Craig Cunningham visits Bridgewell

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Earlier in December, Craig Cunningham, Vice President of Marketing at the Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center stopped by to visit Bridgewell’s Boston Street Center and Keeling Road Home. Craig poses with Karina and Belinda at Boston Street. The Seaport Hotel and World Trade Center was a Partnership sponsor of Bridgewell’s Imagine the Possibilities Gala, and the event has been...

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Bridgewell&#39s Annual Staff Holiday Party

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

More than 100 employees and their families joined Bridgewell for the annual staff Holiday Party at the Wakefield Elks last week. Staff from Bridgewell’s many different programs attended with their families. All enjoyed food, desserts, raffles and taking photos with Santa Claus. Bridgewell Employee Brian Corbett, pictured below, kept everyone in the holiday spirit by playing classic holiday tunes throughout...

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Bridgewell Represented at The Providers&#39 Council Annual Convention

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Bridgewell was represented at The Providers’ Council Annual Convention on Tuesday, November 29 at the Marriott Copley Place in Boston. The annual convention includes a full-day of workshops, networking opportunities and vendor exhibits for human service professionals in New England. The Providers’ Council honored Bridgewell Residential Supervisor Kelli Hyland with the Richard J. Bond Award for a supervisor with outstanding contributions...

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Stocker Street Open House

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Early this fall, Bridgewell held an open house at its new Saugus home on Stocker Street. Despite being a rainy day, there was a great crowd of neighbors, friends, family, Bridgewell and Department of Developmental Services (DDS) staff! Like most of Bridgewell’s recent new homes, the Stocker Street house is a fully accessible single-family ranch with five bedrooms and an...

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Center for Professional Innovation

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

After providing quality trainings and workshops for more than 27 years, we are pleased to announce Community Program Innovations is now the Center for Professional Innovation! A subsidiary of Bridgewell, the Center for Professional Innovation (CPI) offers continuing education for mental health and healthcare professionals and educators, holding day-long workshops throughout Massachusetts and Vermont on clinical and management topics. All...

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Horticulture Therapy to Help Clients Promote Optimism, Confidence and Self-Worth

Monday, November 21, 2011

Horticultural therapy utilizes plants and plant-related mediums to enhance or rehabilitate the physical, social and emotional well-being of people experiencing mental illness. Bridgewell Counseling Services is currently hosting a horticulture psychotherapy group facilitated by Bridgewell’s Bilingual and Bicultural Psychotherapist Noemi Breneman, LMHC. Right: Yogurt Cups Recycled as Cradles for a Nursery of Baby Cilantro Plants This Spanish-speaking therapy group explores...

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BCS Distinguished Speaker Series:
Nancy Kehoe, RSCJ, PhD

Monday, November 14, 2011

Bridgewell Counseling Services’ most recent guest for the Distinguished Speaker Series was Nancy Kehoe, RSCJ, PhD. The speaker series is designed to highlight important and relevant topics of interest in mental heath treatment for the providers of mental health services of the greater Lowell area. Left: Mara Kirby, Director of Clinical Services for Bridgewell and Clinic Director of Bridgewell Counseling...

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New Home on Coolidge Road in Danvers

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Even in a down economy, Bridgewell is still building affordable housing for specialized populations.  Bridgewell is a leading provider of services to adults with developmental disabilities in eastern Massachusetts. Right: Bridgewell Program Director Yelena Kharzis with Coolidge Road resident Michael, flipping through a Bridgewell Connections newsletter. Recently, Bridgewell celebrated the opening of a new home for five people with developmental disabilities and...

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Bridgewell and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

This past weekend, members of the Bridgewell community participated in the Alzheimer’s Association Northeastern MA Walk to End Alzheimer’s in North Andover. With walkers representing members of the developmentally disabled/Down Syndrome community, caregivers, family members and friends, the Bridgewell team raised over $2,000 for the cause. Special thanks to Justin & Suzanne Devoe, Beverly Elias-Stearns, Erica Forte, Ella Hunt, Liz Hunt, Lizabeth Kuhne, Laura McNamara, Virginia Vaught,...

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Channel 5 EyeOpener&#39s Bianca de la Garza Visits Boston Street Center

Friday, September 30, 2011

Channel 5 EyeOpener's Bianca de la Garza stopped by for a tour of Bridgewell’s Boston Street Center earlier this week and met many of Bridgewell’s individuals in our employment training and day habilitation program. Left: Bianca with Marjorie Arons-Barron talking with Bridgewell individual Lori as she finishes her lunch. Director of Day Services Nancy Marticio and Employment Support Program Director...

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Family Forum: Guardianship

Monday, September 26, 2011

On Wednesday, June 1, 2011, Bridgewell held a family engagement event to provide families and guardians an opportunity to learn more about guardianship. The event entitled Family Forum: Guardianship included a panel discussion led by Attorney Richard Garmil and Bridgewell staff: Director of Residential Services Bonnie Smarsh, Director of Health Care Jane Bell and Chief Operations Officer Kelly Johnson. The panel discussed: Types of guardianship including full and...

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Bridgewell Counseling Services Attends River Place Towers Resident Fair

Friday, September 23, 2011

As part of ongoing marketing efforts, Bridgewell Counseling Services staff participated in the third annual River Place Towers Resident Fair this past month. Left: Program Director Renee Heusser and Senior Administrative Assistant Iris Tricoche pose for a photo at Bridgewell’s booth. Other exhibitors included Greater Lowell Health Alliance, Lowell Senior Center, Visiting Nurse Association of Greater Lowell and Lowell General...

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Rep. Wong Visits Bridgewell

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

At the end of August, Representative Donald Wong toured Bridgewell’s Boston Street Center and Keeling Road residence. Earlier this summer, Rep. Wong attended the Open House at Bridgewell’s new START program in Saugus, too. During his tours, he greeted individuals, learned more about each program and watched a demonstration of the new SMARTBoard at the Boston Street Center, donated by...

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New START Program on Seagirt Avenue

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

In the past six years, Bridgewell has opened 15 new homes. Each home is fully accessible with oversize bedrooms, living space and some homes have oversized garages to permit easy van access. This specialized design allows people who would otherwise be confined to a nursing home to live in their own home in the community. This summer, Bridgewell opened its...

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Veggie Drive for the Pathfinder Drop-In Center

Friday, August 19, 2011

On August 18, Bridgewell employees held a “Veggie Drive” at the annual Management General Meeting and year-end BBQ. With more than 100 employees in attendance, a van full of vegetables and fruit was collected for Bridgewell’s Pathfinder Drop-In Center in Lowell. Pathfinder Drop-In Center Assistant Program Director Lynn Ducharme helped fill the van and transported all the fresh produce back...

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The Sovner Center is Moving

Monday, August 15, 2011

Summer 2011 The Sovner Center, a Bridgewell program, is an outpatient mental health clinic that specializes in the provision of counseling services, psychiatric assessment, medication management and psychotherapy services to adults with a dual diagnosis of developmental and psychiatric disability. The Sovner Center is moving to a larger location, which will better accommodate the increased number of individuals we serve. The...

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Salsa, Merengue and Bridgewell!

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Thank You to LeAnne Leslie’s School of Theatrical Dance! This past month, Bridgewell individuals in the Adult Education and Recreation program managed by Recreation Coordinator Charlotte Alimenti, participated in a Latin dance class at Ms. LeAnne’s studio. The group learned the Salsa and Merengue along with other Latin dances under the instruction of Ms. LeAnne and her assistant, Ms. Mary....

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Bonds that Serve: the Special Olympics

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Since 2001, Kelli Hyland has been a faithful employee of Bridgewell and is now working as a program supervisor, overseeing several different aspects of the organization’s community. A friend, counselor, and activities coordinator, Hyland holds many roles in her career. In 2003, she added one more to the list by revitalizing Bridgewell’s involvement with the Special Olympics. Hyland claims that...

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BCS Distinguished Speaker Series

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Bridgewell Counseling Services, with Janssen Pharmaceuticals, recently hosted an educational program entitled: “The Role of Atypical Antipsychotic Long-Acting Therapies in the Treatment of Schizophrenia and Maintenance Treatment of Bipolar I Disorder,” presented by Henry Nasrallah, MD. Dr. Nasrallah is an internationally recognized psychiatrist, educator and researcher, and the Associate Dean and Professor of Psychiatry and Neuroscience at the University of...

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Congratulations to Carl Baker!

Monday, July 18, 2011

Congratulations to Bridgewell Program Director Carl Baker for completing the Human Service Management certificate program through Suffolk University and the Providers’ Council! Carl was also one of the two class speakers and received perfect grades. In his inspiring speech, Carl thanked his Supervisor Jessica Primo for all of her support. Congratulations from everyone at Bridgewell! To learn more about this...

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Gordon College and Bridgewell

Friday, July 8, 2011

This past spring, Lindsay deVilliers interned at Bridgewell while completing her senior semester at Gordon College where she was studying Communications Arts. Lindsay posing with her parents at her graduation in May. At Bridgewell, she assisted the development and advancement department with numerous tasks including public and media relations. She found this opportunity through her public relations class, where students...

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Bridgewell Achieves Top Accreditation!

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) International has announced that Bridgewell has been accredited for a period of three years for its community housing, respite services, supported living, community employment services, including job development and job-site training programs. Bridgewell is one of the largest Massachusetts agencies that the international accrediting body has awarded in Massachusetts. “We are enormously proud...

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Bridgewell Thanks The Key Club at Lynn Classical High School for Their Volunteer Work

Thursday, June 9, 2011

For the past several years, Bridgewell has enjoyed a strong partnership with The Key Club at Lynn Classical High School. The club is comprised of students who make volunteerism and community service a priority in their lives.  This school year was no exception as members of the club committed themselves to a variety of events held through Bridgewell’s Adult Education...

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Keeling Road Open House

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Bridgewell residents Augustina, Chester, Nancy and Terri opened up their home to family, friends, neighbors, Bridgewell staff and public officials on May 19, 2011. Guests met the residents and program staff, toured the home and even spent a little time on the porch when the sun peeked out. Bridgewell was able to complete this project by working collaboratively with both...

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Bridgewell Program Highlighted on Canadian Radio Station

Thursday, May 19, 2011

In April 2011, Bridgewell Residential Supervisor Justine Rudgis was interviewed by CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The broadcast discusses Bridgewell’s residential program for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease focusing on the unique home design and services. Listen to the interview: CBC’s Information Radio Interview with Bridgewell’s Justine Rudgis Read more about Bridgewell’s Wedgemere Road Residence: Innovative home in Beverly for...

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2011 Employee Recognition Night

Monday, May 16, 2011

Friends, family and Bridgewell employees celebrated milestones last week at Danversport Yacht Club for Bridgewell’s Employee Recognition Night. It was a wonderful evening with lots of applause and celebration for employees celebrating anniversaries of working at Bridgewell for 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years! Click here to view more photos on Bridgewell’s Facebook page. Employee Recognition Service...

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Bridgewell Gives Back

Monday, May 9, 2011

Bridgewell Residents Held a Bake Sale to Help Local Animal Shelter Bridgewell residents in Dracut volunteered at the Lowell Humane Society last month. Ron, Evelyn, Anna and Brenda along with Program Director Maria Vega, Assistant Program Director Samantha Tevepaugh and their families and friends set up a bake sale to raise money for the animal shelter. The residents and staff members...

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In the Official Spotlight

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Bridgewell is committed to building relationships with public officials throughout our service area. In February, State Representative Lori Ehrlich toured Bridgewell’s Boston Street Center and Lynn Friendship Club. Bridgewell Board Member Ann Cohen, CEO Bob Stearns and COO Kelly Johnson led the tour. In March, State Senator Katherine Clark visited the Medford Day Hab program and our Keeling Road residence...

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Bridgewell Community Honored by ADDP

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Three members of the Bridgewell community were honored by the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers (ADDP) at the 2011 Conference and Expo in March 2011. Serving 18 communities in eastern Massachusetts, Bridgewell is a private, non-profit comprehensive human service organization that has been providing support to individuals with developmental and psychiatric disabilities for more than 50 years. All three honorees...

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Safe Eating Expo

Friday, March 25, 2011

March 2011 The workshop focused on adaptive technology for people with dysphagia, difficulty swallowing or increased risk for choking and aspiration. Attendees first watched a short media clip of how food is pushed through the esophagus, and then moved from station to station learning more about diet textures, thickening liquids, adaptive technologies and tools as well as what foods are...

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Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT)

Monday, December 13, 2010

Every Wednesday morning a black Labrador Retriever named Tucker volunteers at Bridgewell’s Lowell Adult Day Treatment (LADT) program with his owner.  LADT is a psychiatric day treatment program serving individuals with persistent mental illness.  People who attend the program receive support in symptom management, skills training, socialization and help achieving their educational, occupational, and recovery goals. Tucker comes from the...

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2010 Bridgewell Imagine the Possibilities Gala

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Bridgewell Gala 2010 [album id=3 template=extend] Honorees: Steven Caruso and Gerard McGovern, Co-founders Caruso and McGovern Construction, Inc. Excellence in Service Awards Gary Blumenthal, President and CEO Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers Visionary Leadership Award A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors: Integrity Sponsor       Partners Supporters Charm Medical SupplyDAVCO SYSTEMS Eastern Bank Eisai Research Ferrari Landscaping Fisher...

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2010 Imagine the Possibilities Gala

Friday, September 24, 2010

SAVE THE DATE Friday, November 5, 2010 2010 “Imagine the Possibilities” Gala Seaport Hotel, Boston HONORING Steven Caruso and Gerard McGovern, Co-founders Caruso and MdGovern Construction Company, Inc. Excellence in Service Awards Gary Blumenthal, President and CEO Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers Visionary Leadership Award For ticket and spnsorship information, please contact Carol McKean, Carol McKean Events 781.925.3459 or carol@carolmckeanevents.com...

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