Author Archives for Nikki Kachinski

Family Support Center Updates

January 12, 2026 1:18 pm Published by Comments Off on Family Support Center Updates

The Family Support Center provides services to people and their families from diverse cultural, ethnic and linguistic backgrounds including those who are supporting an individual with autism. The Family Support Center’s purpose is to support families when they need it most, to provide resources for people with autism and developmental disabilities and for their families to attain the highest level...


Natasha David-Hays Named Clinic Director at Bridgewell Counseling Services in Amesbury

January 7, 2026 11:36 am Published by Comments Off on Natasha David-Hays Named Clinic Director at Bridgewell Counseling Services in Amesbury

We’re pleased to announced the appointment of Natasha David-Hays to Clinic Director at Bridgewell Counseling Services in Amesbury. “With over a decade of clinical practice in the North Shore, Natasha has a deep grasp of the behavioral health needs of children and adults in our community,” said Christopher Tuttle, Bridgewell President and CEO.  “Her passion and broad experience serving nonprofit...


Individual Support Holiday Party

December 23, 2025 10:51 am Published by Comments Off on Individual Support Holiday Party

The Individual Supports team had a fun holiday party bringing in over 50 individuals across our programs to celebrate! We held it at Bridgewell’s Silsbee Street location, enjoyed lots of food and desserts and a few appearances from ELF, Santa, and the Grinch.


2025 Santa Breakfast for Bridgewell Employees and Families

December 16, 2025 1:44 pm Published by Comments Off on 2025 Santa Breakfast for Bridgewell Employees and Families

For the past few years, Bridgewell has hosted a Breakfast with Santa for employees and their families! This year’s was the largest event to date with over 240 people and over 120 children of Bridgewell employees! Santa had gifts for every child, took pictures and also gave them kudos on how nice they have been all year long. The celebration...


Holiday Parties at Bridgewell

December 16, 2025 12:32 pm Published by Comments Off on Holiday Parties at Bridgewell

Seven residential programs, thirty individuals and their staff hosted an annual holiday party at the Bridgewell headquarters recently. The party has grown so much, it became too big for a residence! Spending time with friends and staff is always a favorite activity for residents, but even more so this year for a few of our residents receiving hospice services. They...


2025 Holiday Singalongs with Roman Music Therapy

December 12, 2025 12:01 pm Published by Comments Off on 2025 Holiday Singalongs with Roman Music Therapy

Thank you to Roman Music Therapy Services for kicking off their 2025 Holiday Caroling Tour at Bridgewell. The musicians put on holiday-themed singalongs at Bridgewell’s KJM Center in Lynn, Roseway and Rosewood Day Programs in Danvers and one planned for Bridgewell’s Employment Program at the Headquarters.  


Happy Birthday to Judy & Jane!

November 25, 2025 2:22 pm Published by Comments Off on Happy Birthday to Judy & Jane!

Judy and Jane hosted a joint birthday party (their birthdays are just a few days apart in November) at Spinelli’s. Jane celebrated her 77th birthday and Judy celebrated her 89th! They were joined by roommates and friends from five other residential programs as well as Jane’s cousin and Judy’s family. Judy has been in our services for over 40 years,...


Congratulations to Tasheaka!

November 7, 2025 11:21 am Published by Comments Off on Congratulations to Tasheaka!

From July 2023 through April 2024, Tasheaka resided at the Johnson Street Women’s Program and then moved into one of Bridgewell’s Affordable Housing units in Lynn after leaving Bridgewell’s Johnson Street, Women’s Program. She graduated from the Supporting Transitions & Reentry (STAR) Program in Lynn earlier this month, a community-based initiative operated by the Essex County Sheriff’s Department which provides...


Arc of Massachusetts: Critical State Budget Advocacy – Contact Governor Healey in Support of Disability Funding

November 4, 2025 11:19 am Published by Comments Off on Arc of Massachusetts: Critical State Budget Advocacy – Contact Governor Healey in Support of Disability Funding

From the Arc of Massachusetts: Your Advocacy Is Needed Now: Critical State Budget Advocacy Please contact Governor Maura Healey today to share our community’s priorities for the Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) state budget: Click here to take ACTION! Each year, the Governor proposes a state budget in January. That proposal, which is being shaped and drafted now, serves as the...


2025 Spookyway Haunted House!

October 30, 2025 1:56 pm Published by Comments Off on 2025 Spookyway Haunted House!

Each year, Bridgewell’s Roseway Day Program transforms itself into….Spookyway! 👻🎃💀🧟‍♀️🦇🕸️🪓🏚️🪦 This year was no different – filled with ghouls and zombies! The program offers haunted tours for all of  Bridgewell’s Day Programs and residential programs. This year, the residents from Bridgewell’s Johnson Street Women’s Recovery program helped set up all the chilling decor!


Bridgewell’s Family Support Center Food Drive

October 30, 2025 10:56 am Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell’s Family Support Center Food Drive

With SNAP benefits potentially ending at the close of this month, many families who receive services through Bridgewell’s Family Support Center will need extra support. In times like these, when we come together, we can ensure our neighbors don’t go without. Please consider donating to Bridgewell’s Food Drive — or to any community resource helping those affected. Thank you for...


Rosewood Drive Day Program Updating Sensory Rooms!

October 23, 2025 12:20 pm Published by Comments Off on Rosewood Drive Day Program Updating Sensory Rooms!

Rosewood Drive is in the process of converting break rooms into new, updated sensory rooms and calm spaces! There’s a total of six spaces, and three have been updated: plant themed, space/galaxy themed and reading and hangout area. Bridgewell Speech Therapist Kim Lepke and Occupational Therapist Kathryn Redfearn have been the masterminds behind the project with the assistance of many...


Bridgewell’s Family Support & Residential Services Trunk or Treat

October 8, 2025 12:48 pm Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell’s Family Support & Residential Services Trunk or Treat

Over 130 people kicked off the Halloween season with a Trunk or Treat planned in partnership with Bridgewell’s Family Support Center and Residential Services. Guests were able to trick-or-treat from trunk to trunk, enjoy music, arts and crafts and snacks! A special shoutout to Jennifer Ray from Roman Music Therapy Services for attending and joining in the fun by decorating her trunk...


2025 Bridgewell Formal

October 6, 2025 9:38 am Published by Comments Off on 2025 Bridgewell Formal

Over 225 guests from a variety of Bridgewell’s programs and services attended the second annual Bridgewell Formal in Lynnfield.  What a royal evening! A special shoutout to Representative Tom Walsh for swinging by and saying hello, too! Thank you to the following businesses, vendors and people who helped make this event truly a night to remember: DJ Bethany Spinelli’s Function...


September 23, 2025: Update to the Bridgewell Community

September 23, 2025 11:15 am Published by Comments Off on September 23, 2025: Update to the Bridgewell Community

At Bridgewell, we remain steadfast in our commitment to following proven scientific data and evidence-based practices as we provide care and support to the people we have the privilege of serving. The recent suggestion that common medications such as acetaminophen cause autism is not supported by credible scientific evidence and it risks spreading fear rather than fostering understanding. Bridgewell will...


Fund a Need: Recovery Services Goes Cruising

September 5, 2025 10:48 am Published by Comments Off on Fund a Need: Recovery Services Goes Cruising

With funding from the generosity of donors who contributed to Bridgewell’s Fund a Need appeal at the 2025 Imagine the Possibilities Gala, 36 people in Bridgewell’s recovery programs went on a lunch cruise around Boston Harbor. Women (and children) from Lotus Street Family Supportive Housing, Women’s Program, Johnson Street as well as affordable housing went on a lunch cruise around Boston...


Lemonade Stand at Bridgewell’s Residence in Chelmsford

August 29, 2025 12:34 pm Published by Comments Off on Lemonade Stand at Bridgewell’s Residence in Chelmsford

By Jennifer Streck, Residential Manager At Sonora Drive, the ladies had a big idea, what better way to enjoy a summer day than by hosting their very own lemonade stand? Excited to bring it to life, they each picked the role that fit them best. Tarina, with her natural confidence and outgoing personality, became the official spokesperson. She proudly greeted customers,...


Happy 70th Birthday, Todd!

August 27, 2025 12:50 pm Published by Comments Off on Happy 70th Birthday, Todd!

Happy 70th Birthday, Todd! Bridgewell resident Todd celebrated his 70th birthday on Saturday at his home in Lynn with a baseball-themed birthday party and plenty of friends, as well as his older brother, Scott, pictured above! Todd has lived at his current Bridgewell residence since 2016, but he and his brother Scott have been with Bridgewell since 1978!


DDS Commisioner Sarah Peterson Tours Bridgewell

August 25, 2025 11:28 am Published by Comments Off on DDS Commisioner Sarah Peterson Tours Bridgewell

Thank you to Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Commissioner Sarah Peterson, members of her Central Office leadership team, and Kelly Lawless and Jennifer Killeen from the Northeast Region, for visiting our Rosewood and Roseway Day Programs in Danvers in August! Our team enjoyed highlighting the programs and the progress being made by the individuals and staff at these programs each...


Bridgewell’s UYC Interns Visit State House

August 18, 2025 1:27 pm Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell’s UYC Interns Visit State House

Bridgewell has 16 Urban Youth Collaborative Program interns working in a variety of programs from day programs to residences. Through the Department of Developmental Services, UYC places young people from diverse backgrounds in residential, vocational and administrative settings to gain experience in human services. Earlier this month, a group of Bridgewell interns and employees attended the annual celebration for UYC...


Slow River Studio

August 18, 2025 9:34 am Published by Comments Off on Slow River Studio

Bridgewell residents Chad and Jaime enjoyed their sketch class at Slow River Studio in Topsfield! This class was funded through the Imagine the Possibilities Fund a Need Auction! Special thanks to our Fund a Need Auction donors for making this all possible! 🧑‍🎨👩‍🎨🎨🖼️🖌️


Annual Granite State Scenic Railway Trip!

August 12, 2025 10:45 am Published by Comments Off on Annual Granite State Scenic Railway Trip!

Earlier this month, Robbie, Eric, Bill, Chad and Rob enjoyed their annual trip to Lincoln, NH for a ride on the Granite State Scenic Railway. They enjoyed a packed lunch during the sixty-minute train ride, as well as a little shopping on their way home, and stopped for a treat at Meletharb Ice Cream in Wakefield.


Employee Spotlight: Kate Buchanan, Program Manager at Lotus House Family Supportive Housing

August 6, 2025 1:58 pm Published by Comments Off on Employee Spotlight: Kate Buchanan, Program Manager at Lotus House Family Supportive Housing

Kate’s unconditional support has a ripple effect. The relationships she builds foster a sense of community and belonging among the women and children she helps. They find encouragement not just from her, but also from each other as they share their journeys. This camaraderie creates a safe space where women can empower one another, share resources, and influence extends beyond...


Bridgewell’s Recreation Visits the Boston Swan Boats

August 4, 2025 2:07 pm Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell’s Recreation Visits the Boston Swan Boats

Checking off a summer bucket list! How fun to explore Boston with Bridgewell’s Recreation Department? Swan Boats and Public Gardens for this crew! 🦢🌆📷☀️🌾


Bridgewell Counseling Services, Lowell

July 31, 2025 2:43 pm Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell Counseling Services, Lowell

Bridgewell Counseling Services is a comprehensive behavioral health clinic located at 35 Market Street in Lowell, providing compassionate and evidence-based care to individuals and families in Lowell and surrounding communities. The clinic strives to create a supportive and accessible environment for all clients, understanding the difficulties that patients often face when navigating the mental health system. Our Services: A broad...


Fly High Brian!

July 30, 2025 3:22 pm Published by Comments Off on Fly High Brian!

Brian lives independently in his own apartment and receives weekly from the Bridgewell Individualized Home Supports program. Brian was living with vision issues for several years and with support from Bridgewell to overcome his hesitation and fear of eye surgery, he was able to have cataract eye surgery on both eyes in 2024. Recently, Brian expressed to staff that he...


Individual Supports Visits Boston

July 25, 2025 12:55 pm Published by Comments Off on Individual Supports Visits Boston

People from Bridgewell’s Individual Support program ventured into Boston via ferry to play tourist and have some fun! Special thanks to Imagine the Possibilities Fund a Need Auction donors for making this all possible! 


Derek: 10 Years at Dave & Buster’s!

July 22, 2025 12:20 pm Published by Comments Off on Derek: 10 Years at Dave & Buster’s!

Derek has worked at Dave & Busters for over 10 years with support through Bridgewell’s Employment Supports program. He has had wonderful memories working with his supportive managers Aubrey and Anthony. He loves the games and arcades at Dave & Busters, especially the new Human Claw Machine, Top Gun, Hot Wheels, and NASCAR Games. His main responsibilities are refilling the...


Ammaya Dance & Drum Visits Bridgewell

July 16, 2025 8:58 am Published by Comments Off on Ammaya Dance & Drum Visits Bridgewell

Two of Bridgewell’s Day Programs had an interactive musical performance with Tara Murphy of Ammaya Dance & Drum. The two groups enjoyed traditional West African stretching, dancing and drumming. Thank you, Tara for a unique, lively experience! According to Ammaya Dance & Drum, “music and movement is the medicine to inspire positive energy and health.” These sessions of African-inspired dance...


IS Visits Canobie Lake Park!

July 14, 2025 11:28 am Published by Comments Off on IS Visits Canobie Lake Park!

Because of contributions to our Fund a Need “Dreams Come True – Enriching Life Experiences” donation category, Bridgewell residents in our individual supports program spent a great day at Canobie Lake Park! Over 50 people attended this year – a new record, including many first timers! 🎢 Special thanks to Imagine the Possibilities Fund a Need Auction donors for making...


Employment Supports Spotlight: Paula Tartarini

July 8, 2025 9:00 am Published by Comments Off on Employment Supports Spotlight: Paula Tartarini

Paula Tartarini has been involved with Bridgewell’s Employment Support Program since 2014, first providing administrative support at Bridgewell programs for several years before that experience led her to an administrative role at the Department of Developmental Services’ (DDS) Hogan Regional Office in Danvers, where she’s worked for the past seven years. Paula’s role at the DDS office involves balancing both...


Create & Escape into Summer at KJM Day Program

June 27, 2025 11:07 am Published by Comments Off on Create & Escape into Summer at KJM Day Program

Create & Escape held a sign-making workshop at Bridgewell’s Kelly J. Martin Day Habilitation Center!  Everyone made Hello Summer signs to bring home. It was a wonderful time – everyone had huge smiles and a great time getting ready for warmer weather!


Op-ed: The US is on fire and Congress cut funding for a fire extinguisher 

June 20, 2025 10:23 am Published by Comments Off on Op-ed: The US is on fire and Congress cut funding for a fire extinguisher 

The United States is burning. Not with literal flames, but with a deep and growing fear of the future. As the fire spreads, fueled by economic strain, aging infrastructure, and worsening inequality, the U.S. House — in passing a budget designed to fund tax cuts for the wealthiest – has turned off the hose, cut off the water supply, and...


2025 Summer Games at Harvard University

June 11, 2025 9:31 am Published by Comments Off on 2025 Summer Games at Harvard University

Athletes: Nick M Lyhn M Eric N Eric C Tara S Linda F Carlos Frank B Patty B Pattie C Billy D Chad M Zachary J Elaine B Rachel D Richard H Michael H Jennifer D Diana D Aaron Greg M Davis R Medal Count: 13 Golds 14 Silvers 5 Bronze and a few ribbons! Thank you to everyone who...


Essex County Sheriff’s Department visits KJM in Lynn!

June 10, 2025 1:37 pm Published by Comments Off on Essex County Sheriff’s Department visits KJM in Lynn!

Earlier this month at Bridgewell’s Kelly J. Martin Day Habilitation Center, the Essex County Sheriff’s Department did a presentation for participants. They brought a cruiser, a transport van and their comfort support dog, K-9 Pasky.


Congratulations to Bridgewell Staff on DDS Provider Award Nominations!

June 9, 2025 10:18 am Published by Comments Off on Congratulations to Bridgewell Staff on DDS Provider Award Nominations!

Congratulations to Bridgewell’s Family Support Center’s Kirsten O’Keefe and Program Manager Joyce Taylor for their nominations from the Department of Developmental Services for provider recognition! Pictured with (left to Right) Jennifer Killeen, North Shore Area Department of Developmental Services Director, Bridgewell Family Support Center Kirsten O’Keefe, President & CEO Chris Tuttle, Program Manager Joyce Taylor, CEO Elaine White and Vice...


Congratulations, Kyriah! Best of luck in the future!

May 29, 2025 8:32 am Published by Comments Off on Congratulations, Kyriah! Best of luck in the future!

Kyriah served as Bridgewell’s Operations Intern this past semester. She assisted with various administrative tasks such as data entry and uploading documents into Bridgewell’s electronic health record system, updating food stamp letters, as well as other administrative responsibilities such as shredding, copying and filling.  During her internship, she experienced working at an organization like Bridgewell and the intricate operations, policies...


Fund a Need Fun: Bridgewell Cheers on the New England Revolution

May 27, 2025 11:00 am Published by Comments Off on Fund a Need Fun: Bridgewell Cheers on the New England Revolution

Earlier this year at our Imagine the Possibilities Gala, members of the Bridgewell community raised their paddles in support of the Fund a Need auction. Thank you to these generous donors! With these donations, Bridgewell is able to provide our programs with fun activities like going to cheer on the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium! A few of Bridgewell’s...


Bridgewell Bulldogs: New Season, New Events!

May 23, 2025 2:10 pm Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell Bulldogs: New Season, New Events!

Bridgewell’s Special Olympics Team, the Bridgewell Bulldogs!, bolted around the track and field at Essex North Shore Agricultural & Technical School in Danvers earlier this month!


Beverly Residents Attend Warrior Weekend

May 20, 2025 9:33 am Published by Comments Off on Beverly Residents Attend Warrior Weekend

A few of Bridgewell’s Beverly residents attended the annual Warrior Weekend May 17-18. This fun event included historical reenactments, military vehicle and apparatus tours, speakers and activities to support and pay tribute to veterans.


Congratulations to Director of Housing and Respite Services Zoe Larsen!

May 16, 2025 12:09 pm Published by Comments Off on Congratulations to Director of Housing and Respite Services Zoe Larsen!

Bridgewell’s Director of Housing and Respite Services Zoe Larsen was honored at YWCA Northeastern Massachusetts’ Tribute to Women awards luncheon for making a difference in our community. From her nomination: Zoe is passionately dedicated to supporting individuals with mental illness, addiction, and developmental challenges in the Merrimack Valley. Her personal experiences and career journey have uniquely equipped her to offer...


Congratulations, Hamuza!

May 13, 2025 11:17 am Published by Comments Off on Congratulations, Hamuza!

The Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers (ADDP) awards Continuing Education Scholarships of $1,000 at its annual LEAD! Conference, recognizing entry-level human service workers or self-advocates demonstrating a commitment to advancing their education. Congratulations to Bridgewell Direct Support Professional Hamuza Sebunya for receiving one of four scholarships awarded at the conference this year! He will be using this scholarship to continue his education...


State Representative Tom Walsh Stops by with a Check for Bridgewell!

May 8, 2025 9:23 am Published by Comments Off on State Representative Tom Walsh Stops by with a Check for Bridgewell!

Representative Thomas Walsh worked with Massachusetts Treasurer and Receiver General Deborah B. Goldberg to claim close to $8,000 for Bridgewell through the Unclaimed Property Division.  He stopped by the Headquarters earlier this week to present the check to Bridgewell President & CEO Chris Tuttle. “I was pleased to work together with Chris and Treasurer Goldberg identifying the accounts belonging to...


Spring Time at Bridgewell!

April 28, 2025 1:36 pm Published by Comments Off on Spring Time at Bridgewell!

Bridgewell residents recently took advantage of rainy weather by doing some indoor gardening prep! Last month, Eric, Bill and Chad joined Judy and Ida to start some of the seeds that were donated for their gardens. Judy said that it was “good teamwork!”


Sensory Bottles at Rosewood Day Program

April 24, 2025 10:17 am Published by Comments Off on Sensory Bottles at Rosewood Day Program

What a fun way to celebrate Autism Awareness Month! Participants in Bridgewell’s Rosewood Drive Day program spend the afternoon making sensory bottles with water, oil, glitter and other fun elements! Sensory bottles offer numerous benefits for people with autism, including emotional regulation, focus, sensory integration, fine motor skills, and creativity. They provide a calming and engaging experience, promoting relaxation, concentration, and...


Autism Awareness Month in Dracut

April 24, 2025 9:47 am Published by Comments Off on Autism Awareness Month in Dracut

Bridgewell residents Ana, Elizabeth, Haley and Olivia celebrated Autism Awareness month at their home in Dracut. Thank you to the residential staff who made this special occasion happen: Tianna DeRosa Gbalee Slopadoe Lydia Kanu Ainsley Flynn


Grow Spring! Expo at Topsfield Fair

April 21, 2025 10:43 am Published by Comments Off on Grow Spring! Expo at Topsfield Fair

Eric, Bill and Rob were invited to the Grow Spring! Expo at Topsfield Fairgrounds by Wendy Roberts from Kinship Farm. They hadn’t seen her since last fall and were really happy to reconnect. Wendy had a whole box of seeds donated by Mass Hydroponics that we will be starting for our existing gardens at a few of Bridgewell’s residences, as...


A Commitment to Caring – 2025 Bridgewell Video

April 15, 2025 2:25 pm Published by Comments Off on A Commitment to Caring – 2025 Bridgewell Video

Each year at our gala, we debut a video highlighting Bridgewell’s services. This year’s video highlights just a few of the many, many examples of our Bridgewell team’s commitment to caring for people in our services.  Thank you to our many team members in direct care roles who help the people we have the privilege of serving live happier, healthier,...


Congratulations to recent Johnson Street graduate, Heather!

April 1, 2025 10:01 am Published by Comments Off on Congratulations to recent Johnson Street graduate, Heather!

When a resident from Bridgewell’s Women’s Program, Johnson Street takes program recommendations and works very hard 3 months post treatment, it’s an opportunity to celebrate their achievements with a graduation from the program. Recently, Bridgewell celebrated Heather with a graduation at the program! “Graduating from Bridgewell was a huge milestone for me – it was the first goal I set...


Bridgewell to Honor Partners of 20 Years at Imagine the Possibilities Gala

March 11, 2025 11:19 am Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell to Honor Partners of 20 Years at Imagine the Possibilities Gala

Bridgewell to Honor Partners of 20 Years at Imagine the Possibilities Gala Bob MacDonald and Frank DiTucci of MacDonald & Vaccaro Insurance Agency to be Recognized for Unwavering Support of the Organization PEABODY, Mass. (March 11, 2025) – Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization serving northeastern Massachusetts, today announced that Bob MacDonald and Frank DiTucci of MacDonald & Vaccaro...


Bridgewell Bulldogs – 2025 Season

February 24, 2025 11:54 am Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell Bulldogs – 2025 Season

Massachusetts Special Olympics’ Bridgewell Bulldogs basketball team kicked off its 2025 season with a one-day tournament at Milton Academy on February 23, 2025. Go Bulldogs!


Bridgewell Appoints Bishop as Director of Behavioral Supports

January 22, 2025 8:41 am Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell Appoints Bishop as Director of Behavioral Supports

PEABODY, Mass. (Jan. 22, 2025) – Bridgewell, a nonprofit social and human services organization serving northeastern Massachusetts, today announced the appointment of Ginette Wilson Bishop as Director of Behavioral Supports. “Ginette is skilled at supporting individuals across the lifespan and has dedicated much of her career to helping people with life challenges achieve their highest quality of life and personal...


First Aid and CPR Certifications

January 6, 2025 12:26 pm Published by Comments Off on First Aid and CPR Certifications

Bridgewell is pleased to announce that our entire team is First Aid and CPR certified, thanks to Bridgewell’s Training Department! In the past, only staff in direct care roles were required to gain this certification. In 2024 and moving forward, Bridgewell has opted to make it mandatory for every employee who works for the organization.  Bridgewell’s Training Department held 78...


Roman Music Therapy Winter Caroling

December 27, 2024 12:37 pm Published by Comments Off on Roman Music Therapy Winter Caroling

A tremendous thank you to Roman Music Therapy for stopping by Bridgewell’s Employment Program and Bridgewell’s Roseway Day Program on their holiday caroling tour! ❄️⛄️ While Roman Music Therapy stopped by Bridgewell day programs on their holiday tour, throughout the year, they visit 16 residential programs offering music therapy twice a month for over 55 Bridgewell residents!


Bridgewell’s CBDS Out in the Community!

December 20, 2024 10:22 am Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell’s CBDS Out in the Community!

Bridgewell’s Community Based Day Supports program loves to venture out into the community and explore learning and volunteer opportunities! Recently, this lucky group went to Harbor Sweets in Salem to learn about how they make their delicious chocolates! Do you want to share your business with Bridgewell’s CBDS program? Contact Program Manager Eric Zagranis at (339) 883-1727 or ezagranis@bridgewell.org Learn...


Bridgewell Breakfast with Santa

December 17, 2024 9:53 am Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell Breakfast with Santa

For the past few years, Bridgewell has hosted a Breakfast with Santa for employees and their families! Do you recognize Santa? At this event, he’s the C-E-Ho, Ho, Ho! The celebration has grown so much since the first year and is definitely a family favorite! This year included face painting, balloon art, crafts and more! Over 130 people attended and...


Holiday Events at Bridgewell Headquarters

December 17, 2024 9:41 am Published by Comments Off on Holiday Events at Bridgewell Headquarters

Bridgewell’s Headquarters has been getting into the holiday spirit with celebrations throughout the month. From trimming the lobby Christmas tree, wearing “ugly” holiday sweaters to coffee and cookie decorating, Bridgewell employees are ready for the holiday season. These events are a nice way for all the departments at Bridgewell’s Headquarters to interact – from finance to marketing and development and...


Recreation Holiday Event

December 13, 2024 1:47 pm Published by Comments Off on Recreation Holiday Event

Bridgewell’s Recreation Program is always planning fun events and activities like paint parties, crafts and sports like bowling and basketball. This month, there was a surprise special guest! Santa stopped by to say hello during a recent arts and craft night at Bridgewell’s Roseway Day Program in Danvers.


Winning Moves Donates Again!

December 12, 2024 10:00 am Published by Comments Off on Winning Moves Donates Again!

A huge thank you to Winning Moves Games USA, based in Danvers, for donating over 400 games to Bridgewell! These games will bring so much fun to our day programs, residences, clinics, and affordable housing programs. Game on!


Bridgewell’s Family Support Center Holiday Party

December 11, 2024 9:10 am Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell’s Family Support Center Holiday Party

Bridgewell’s Family Support Center hosted a Holiday Karaoke Night with DJ Bethany! Nothing gets you more in the holiday spirit than singing Christmas carols and holiday songs.   From Celebration of Community events, Bridgewell’s first Formal and many other recreational events, DJ Bethany is a great source of fun and entertainment for the Bridgewell community! She knows how to get...


Ghosts, Pumpkins at Programs!

October 29, 2024 10:00 am Published by Comments Off on Ghosts, Pumpkins at Programs!

Roseway Day Program Pumpkins                                       Bridgewell Johnson Street, Women’s Program                                         Pumpkins with the Beast at Rosewood            ...


Numbers Game at Rosewood

October 17, 2024 11:32 am Published by Comments Off on Numbers Game at Rosewood

Rosewood Day Program Service Manager Willie Barnes set up the “Numbers Game” recently for a classroom activity in the Onyx Room! David, Michael, Zachary and Kyle had so much fun playing. Thanks for sharing, Willie!


Bridgewell and Kinship Farm Partnership

October 4, 2024 7:55 am Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell and Kinship Farm Partnership

Kinship Farm held its Harvest Banquet at Essex Technical High School earlier this fall. Bridgewell has been working with Kinship Farm to help our residents start home gardens, care for them and harvest the produce. Bridgewell residents Eric, Bill, Rob and Chad enjoyed a student-led tour of the greenhouses and horticulture program, the equine barn, and the sheep and goat...


2024 Special Olympics Banquet!

September 19, 2024 10:57 am Published by Comments Off on 2024 Special Olympics Banquet!

Bridgewell’s Special Olympics Team celebrated a successful season recently at Prince Pizza! What a fun evening celebrating Bridgewell’s amazing athletes and coaches!


Urban Youth Collaborative at the State House

September 11, 2024 1:13 pm Published by Comments Off on Urban Youth Collaborative at the State House

Last month, Bridgewell intern Naguy Priscille Nseka Nsingi attended an Urban Youth Collaborative event at the Massachusetts State House with Bridgewell’s Retention and Recruitment Manager Brad Bitler. The Urban Youth Collaborative Program (UYCP) places high school and college interns in provider agencies, such as Bridgewell, as well as state-operated programs, and developmental centers across the Commonwealth in jobs providing support...


Garden Update!

September 9, 2024 8:49 am Published by Comments Off on Garden Update!

There’s been a lot of growth this summer! These green thumb gardeners have been busy all summer tending to their gardens at several Bridgewell residences. Later in August, Eric, Bill and Chad went to Baltimore Street and showed Jaime, Jessica, Arianna and Lisa how to harvest the potatoes that they grew. They also picked tomatoes and peppers, and planted spinach...


Bridgewell’s Family Support Center Backpack Event

September 3, 2024 11:44 am Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell’s Family Support Center Backpack Event

Bridgewell Family Support Center worked with the Lynn Family Forward Resource Center and Centerboard to give away over 500 free backpacks with school supplies.  


2024 ADDP Calendar Artist: Chad Mitchell

August 22, 2024 9:42 am Published by Comments Off on 2024 ADDP Calendar Artist: Chad Mitchell

August 2024’s Featured Artist Artist: Chad Mitchell Piece: “Peter the Parrot” Agency: Bridgewell Chad Mitchell loves to color with markers and paint in his free time. He got into artwork more during the beginning of the pandemic and he has a large bulletin board in his apartment to display some of it! Chad also enjoys cooking and baking, and has...


Fund a Need, Fund Joy

August 5, 2024 2:29 pm Published by Comments Off on Fund a Need, Fund Joy

Earlier this year at our Imagine the Possibilities Gala, members of the Bridgewell community raised their paddles in support of the Fund a Need auction. The auction was split into a several categories of need, from basic necessities for our affordable housing programs, to technology for our day and residential program participants, to enriching experiences to make dreams come true for people...


Employment Program BBQ

July 26, 2024 11:12 am Published by Comments Off on Employment Program BBQ

Earlier this summer, Bridgewell Employment Program at Dearborn celebrated their hard work with an afternoon BBQ! Delicious burgers and hot dogs with all the fixings were served and grilled by Darren Goad, Director of Employment and CBDS. Program participants planned and prepared throughout the week by prepping sides and purchasing groceries and supplies. Throughout the year, program participants work various...


Bridgewell Employee Red Sox Giveaway!

July 15, 2024 2:20 pm Published by Comments Off on Bridgewell Employee Red Sox Giveaway!

Congratulations to Geoffrey Aronian and Monique Gonyea for winning last month’s Red Sox Raffle! Lucky for us, Bridgewell received MORE Red Sox tickets to raffle off to staff! Thank you to Dave McGeney and UBEO for donating more tickets: Red Sox vs. White Sox Sunday, September 8, 2024 at 1:35 PM Fenway Park,  Boston Each winner gets two tickets. Two...


Connor Celebrates 10 Years at TJ Maxx!

July 12, 2024 9:34 am Published by Comments Off on Connor Celebrates 10 Years at TJ Maxx!

  Why do you like working at TJ Maxx? “Working at TJ Maxx is amazing. I like stacking boxes.” How is it working with your co-workers at TJ Maxx?” “They are amazing.” Do you have a favorite memory at TJ Maxx? “All ten years- 2014-2024” Will you continue in 2025 for 11 years?” “Yes! – 11 years!”   Connor processes...


Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year

June 14, 2024 10:56 am Published by Comments Off on Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year

Bridgewell was selected as the Peabody Area Chamber of Commerce’s INCredible Awards “Nonprofit of the Year,” sponsored by North Shore Bank. Congratulations to the team at Lifebridge for also being nominated – we are proud to be in such great company. Bridgewell’s Chief Development & Marketing Officer Erik Langhoff, Chief Operating Office Elaine White and Institutional Giving Manager Brad Gosselin...