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Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Through Bridgewell's Employment Supports program, individuals with developmental disabilities work at businesses throughout the North Shore community. Rachelle has been employed at Petco in Peabody since 2009, where she cleans and stocks shelves. Rachelle is very proud of her job. Her positive attitude and willingness to help out with whatever needs to be done is very much appreciated by the store...
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Wednesday, May 1, 2013
When Bernadette started attending the day program for individuals with developmental disabilities at Bridgewell's Boston Street Center in Lynn, she was primarily wheelchair-bound due to her weight. With the help of Bridgewell staff, Bernadette made a commitment to get active, get healthy, and in doing so, transform her life. Through her incredible strength and determination, she has since lost over...
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Tuesday, April 23, 2013
April 2013 Earlier this month, more than 40 Bridgewell staff and individuals attended The Caring Force’s State House Rally in Boston! Pictured above, left to right: Sporting their Caring Force t-shirts. < Back to Blog landing page.
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Monday, April 15, 2013
CALLING ALL CANOEISTS AND KAYAKERS! Can you paddle a canoe or kayak? If not, it doesn’t matter! Join TEAM Bridgewell for the Lou Marcel Canoe Race! Saturday June 1, 2013 8:00 am Registration Canoe Race Start from the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Department in Lawrence! Come float down the Merrimack River for an 8 mile paddling adventure. You can even come...
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Thursday, April 11, 2013
Congrats to Jan, who lives at one of Bridgewell’s Chelmsford residences! Earlier this month, she volunteered with the local Chelmsford elections and was featured in the Chelmsford Patch. Click here to see the article. Jan is very interested in news and politics. She voted for the first time ever, at 60 years old, in this last presidential election. Great job, Jan! Hope...
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Thursday, March 28, 2013
Join members of the Bridgewell community at the Annual Spaghetti Dinner sponsored by the Lowell Hunger/Homeless Commission. Bridgewell’s Pathfinder Program Director David Robinson is a member of the Lowell Hunger/Homeless Commission. We are doing a spring dinner this year to raise money for our various food security and homeless organizations operating within the City. Wednesday, April 10, 2013 Polish American Veteran’s...
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Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Linda Conley: Direct Support Professional Award Nominated by: Jessica Primo, Residential Supervisor, Julie Goodwin, Program Director and Jena, a resident of Linda’s program. Linda Conely has been working as a Direct Support Professional at one of Bridgewell’s residential programs for almost 13 years. Her program has four women, one who has lived in the home since 2001. As the needs...
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Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Bridgewell is pleased to announce two members of our community were honored at last week’s 2013 ADDP Conference! Skip Marshall: ADDP Self Determination Award Recipient Elmer ‘Skip’ Marshall is a sincere, intelligent, independent and dedicated man. His enthusiasm, kind nature and sense of humor make Skip a joy to be around thus working with him is always a pleasure. He...
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Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Angelika, who has served on Bridgewell’s board since November 2007, was recently named one of Mass High Tech's 2013 Women to Watch. From the Boston Business Journal: Angelika Fretzen was hired as the first chemist at Ironwood Pharmaceuticals. Now, 12 years later, she is vice president of pharmaceutical chemistry and development of the company and built a chemistry team that...
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Tuesday, March 12, 2013
We are pleased to announce that Bridgewell’s Assistant Program Director Shannon Winn will be running the Boston Marathon on behalf of Special Olympics Massachusetts! Bridgewell is proud of our relationship with Special Olympics Massachusetts. With more than 85 individuals in participation, Team Bridgewell practices throughout the year in preparation for sectional and statewide competitions. Bridgewell athletes exemplify the true spirit...
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Wednesday, March 6, 2013
With more than 340 people in attendance, this year’s Gala was the largest to date! This year, Bridgewell proudly celebrated 55 years of caring for many of the most vulnerable people in our communities. Together, we raised more than $270,000. Past honoree and legendary Boston sportscaster Bob Lobel emceed the evening. The New England Council’s James T. Brett received the Visionary Leadership Award and WCVB-TV’s Susan Wornick received...
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Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Earlier this month, Harry, who lives in one of Bridgewell’s residential programs in Saugus, celebrated his 90th birthday! Harry has been in Bridgewell’s services since 1981. Click here learn more about Harry! Several of Harry’s friends from other Bridgewell homes attended his 90th birthday party as well as Bridgewell staff members who have cared for him throughout the years. Guests...
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Thursday, February 21, 2013
Throughout a blizzard, Bridgewell – with more than 90 programs in 19 communities – has to keep up with a lot of snow removal and secure the safety of individuals we serve. In weather-emergencies such as Blizzard Nemo, we rely on the dedication of our staff and kindness of neighbors and friends to protect the individuals in our care. Here...
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Thursday, November 17, 2011
Legendary sportscaster Bob Lobel visited Bridgewell Boston Street Day Hab. He toured the program and met many Bridgewell individuals and sports fans.
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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Friday, September 24, 2010
Governor Deval Patrick visited Bridgewell’s Boston Street Center, which provides day services to individuals with developmental disabilities. Read more about the Governor’s visit.
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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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