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July 1, 2022 – Update to Family Members, Guardians and Staff

Wednesday, June 29, 2022

June 28, 2022 Dear Family Members, Guardians and Staff, On July 1, 2022, the requirements for masking and testing for COVID-19 will be changing at Bridgewell. These changes are based on the guidance issued by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), and Bridgewell has updated its COVID-19 plan to reflect these changes. A summary of the changes...

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January 11, 2022 – Letter to Family and Guardians

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

January 11, 2022 Dear Family Members and Guardians, I hope you enjoyed the holiday season. I am sure you are aware that the nation is in the middle of a COVID-19 surge which is expected to last until February. This is not how any of us wanted to start 2022, but we are hopeful that this surge will pass quickly...

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Bridgewell Public Alerts

Wednesday, October 27, 2021

Bridgewell now provides public alerts related to weather delays and closings through our emergency notification system, Regroup.  Please use the form below if you would like to become a subscriber.  You can always reply STOP to a text message alert if you wish to remove yourself from the alerts.

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Turning 22 Intensive Individual Supports Program

Thursday, August 5, 2021

At Bridgewell, our team delivers on our mission to inspire hope and empower people experiencing life challenges to achieve their fullest potential. One critical area of need for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is building independent living skills as they graduate, upon turning 22 years old, from residential educational environments. Bridgewell recently launched a pilot program in partnership with...

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Project-Based Voucher Program (PBV)

Thursday, July 29, 2021

BRIDGEWELL SECTION 8 Mainstream PROJECT-BASED VOUCHER PROGRAM (PBV) August 1, 2021 Bridgewell is soliciting proposals from local property owners with existing multifamily projects to participate in the Section 8 Mainstream Project Based Voucher program.   The project must be designed to assist non-elderly persons with disabilities and their families who were previously homeless and who are currently in permanent supportive housing...

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May 26, 2021 – Letter to Parents & Guardians about Bridgewell Residential & Day Programs

Thursday, May 27, 2021

May 26, 2021 Dear Families and Guardians, The State of Massachusetts is reopening and lifting more and more of its COVID restrictions as people continue to become vaccinated. With the reopening, many of you have been questioning what this means for people who live in our residential programs and attend our day programs. Bridgewell-operated day programs continue to follow the...

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Strengthening Connections During Mental Health Awareness Month

Monday, May 3, 2021

When coping with behavioral health challenges, individuals in our programs and their families must remain connected to support services. Whether through community housing, day programs, or employment services, Bridgewell is that connection—a connection that empowers individuals to live safe, self-directed, and productive lives.  A year ago, that connectivity was under threat of being disconnected. The pandemic forced Bridgewell to close day programs and employment support programs....

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Staying Connected through the Pandemic: Michelle’s Testimonial

Thursday, April 22, 2021

Over the last year, the world has changed dramatically and has impacted so many aspects of our lives. For those with disabilities and their families, the disruption has hit them hard. Access to services is so critical to the health and wellness of these individuals that there was no option to shut down. As a result, many of our Bridgewell...

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Staying Connected to our Services & Community

Friday, April 16, 2021

More than a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, our community, like many others, is feeling a lack of social connection. Despite the challenges we’ve faced, Bridgewell has continued to deliver on its mission by forging connections with those in our programs and their families, the community, and our staff. Early in the pandemic, Bridgewell was forced to close day programs...

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March 2, 2021 – Letter to Family Members & Guardians Visitation Update

Tuesday, March 2, 2021

March 2, 2021 Dear Bridgewell family members and guardians, As the positivity rate and the number of COVID-19 cases continues to decline in the state of Massachusetts, Bridgewell has decided to update its residential visitation guidelines to include indoor on-site, off-site and overnight visits. In addition, there will no longer be any restrictions regarding cities or towns being in a...

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Feb. 19, 2021 – Letter to Parents & Guardians Visitation Update

Monday, February 22, 2021

February 19, 2021 Dear Bridgewell family members and guardians, I am pleased to let you know that as of today, 97% of the individuals residing in our residential programs and 45% of our residential staff have received the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, we have seen a drop in the “red zone” cities across the state of Massachusetts....

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Feb. 3, 2021 – Letter to Parents & Guardians of Bridgewell Day Programs

Monday, February 8, 2021

February 3, 2021 Dear Bridgewell Family Members and Guardians, We are so glad that people who attend and staff who work in our day programs will soon have the opportunity to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in this first phase of the MA vaccine rollout plan. COVID-19 infection rates and hospitalizations seem to be on a gradual decline – a trend...

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Feb. 3, 2021 – Letter to Parents and Guardians of Bridgewell Residential Programs

Monday, February 8, 2021

February 3, 2021 Dear Bridgewell Family Members and Guardians, We are so glad that 576 people living in and staff working in our residential homes have received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to date, and clinics to administer the second dose are starting to be held this week. While COVID-19 infection rates and hospitalizations seem to be on...

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December 17, 2020 – DDS Commissioner Message to Families

Friday, December 18, 2020

Message from Commissioner Jane F. Ryder. Dear DDS Community: As always, let me start by saying thank you. You have shown commitment, creativity, and patience since last March. We are in the midst of a second surge and you are again demonstrating your resilience during these difficult winter months. At long last, the COVID-19 vaccination is on the horizon. With...

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Giving Back Isn’t Canceled: Join us in Empowering Hope this GivingTuesday

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

In this time of uncertainty, there is a fundamental truth that gives us hope – that together we can do extraordinary things. Over the past few weeks and months, the entire world has come together to stand up, to help out, to give back, and to heal. Whether that is through donating to community organizations like Bridgewell, celebrating doctors and...

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Empower Hope this Holiday Season

Monday, November 23, 2020

We all know how difficult this year has been due to the pandemic – from losing loved ones to economic hardships, we each have faced challenges that have forced us to take a step back and consider what we are grateful for. Bridgewell has also endured challenges – we have closed programs, revamped our clinics, invested in safety and cleaning...

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November 9, 2020 – Updated Visitation Guidelines

Monday, November 9, 2020

November 9, 2020 Dear Bridgewell Family Member and Guardians, Since the beginning of the pandemic, Bridgewell has been extremely vigilant with its health and safety practices as we continue to navigate COVID-19. We realize that this has been challenging for all and it has been our goal to keep you informed and to share our practices. Massachusetts is currently experiencing...

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National Prevention Month 2020: Addressing Addiction During a Pandemic

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Kipu Health reported that the number of opioid overdoses in large cities has risen by 54% in 16 states since the start of the pandemic. With October being National Prevention Month, it is more important than ever to bring awareness to substance use disorders. Bridgewell’s prevention programs focus on getting in front of substance use disorders and intervening before recovery...

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National Recovery Month 2020: Celebrating the Small Victories

Thursday, September 17, 2020

This has been a momentous but rewarding year for Bridgewell and our clients. Despite the challenges the pandemic has presented, Bridgewell’s Recovery Services staff has worked tirelessly to continue serving people with substance use disorders through treatment, housing and job placements. This National Recovery Month, Bridgewell is focusing on the small successes and ways our recovery programs have adapted during...

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July 16, 2020 – Email to Parents & Guardians

Thursday, July 16, 2020

Email from Bridgewell's Vice President, Day Habilitation & Community Engagement Stacey Leibowitz to Parents and Guardians updating on the opening of our Day Habilitation Program later this month.

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July 7, 2020 – A Message from Bridgewell’s President & CEO

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

Dear Family, Guardians and Bridgewell community, On July 2, 2020, EOHHS released guidelines and protocols regarding the reopening of day programs. This coincides with Massachusetts entering Phase 3 of its reopening plan on July 6th. In preparation for Phase 3, Bridgewell has been working to develop safety protocols and standards so that we are ready to re-open in a fashion...

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New guidelines for on-site and off-site residential visitations, effective July 3

Thursday, July 2, 2020

July 2, 2020 Dear Parents and Guardians, I am pleased to share with you that the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has announced guidelines for expanded on-site visitations and the commencement of off-site visitations, effective July 3, 2020.  I also want to share the attestation form that DDS requires parents/guardians to submit when the person served returns to their...

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June 11 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, June 11, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Thursday, June 11. As of this morning, we have 3 staff members and 5 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. I am very happy to share that on Saturday DDS announced that residential program visitations can now resume. On Monday we...

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Update on Visitations at Bridgewell’s Residential Programs

Monday, June 8, 2020

June 8, 2020 Dear Parents and Guardians, I am pleased to share with you that the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has announced that visitations can resume beginning Wednesday, June 10. Please find below the guidelines under which visits will be conducted. These guidelines insure visitations adhere to recommended DDS, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Massachusetts...

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An Open Letter to the Bridgewell Staff

Friday, June 5, 2020

June 5, 2020 Dear Colleagues, As the leader of an organization that is built upon a foundation of inclusivity, diversity, equality and respect, I want to acknowledge the pain and suffering that is being felt by many of our staff members and the people in our care. The events of the last two weeks have, once again, exposed the deep...

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June 4 – Phone Script from CEO

Friday, June 5, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Thursday, June 4th. As of this morning, we have 3 staff members and 10 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. In the next few days, we expect to hear from DDS when on site residential program visitations can begin and the...

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May 28 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, May 28, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Thursday, May 28. As of this morning, we have 1 staff member and 11 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. In the next couple of weeks, I hope to be able to share with you information on when visitations can happen...

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START Crisis Clinical Support Services Program addresses mental health needs year-round

Thursday, May 28, 2020

The month of May is dedicated to raising mental health awareness, but more work needs to be done to ensure that people who are struggling get the help they need year-round. This year, the coronavirus pandemic has taken an increased toll on mental health. Necessary confinement protocols have led to increased stress levels and anxiety, triggering deeper mental health issues...

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DDS Commissioner Message to Families – 5/22/2020

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

Official Message from DDS Commissioner Ryder to Families To: DDS Individuals and Families From: Commissioner Jane F. Ryder Date: 5/22/2020 Subject: Coronavirus Update for Individuals and Families Dear DDS Community: Much has happened in the weeks since my last message. I’d like to provide an update on the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) response to COVID-19 as of Friday, May...

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May 21 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, May 21, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Thursday, May 21. As of this morning, we have 8 staff and 18 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. In the next couple of weeks, I hope to be able to share with you initial information on our next steps in...

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May 18 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, May 18, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Monday, May 18. As of this morning, we have 8 staff and 23 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. At this point, most of our programs have been tested through mobile testing. As I have been saying, we’re not out of...

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May 14 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, May 14, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Thursday, May 14. As of this morning, we have 8 staff and 30 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. We also have several staff who have passed their quarantine period but have not yet returned to work. At this time, approximately...

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May 11 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, May 11, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle, President & CEO, and today is Monday, May 11. As of this morning, we have 31 staff and 30 people in our services currently positive with COVID-19. I’m happy to report that a significant number of negative mobile testing results came in over the weekend. While we’re not out of the...

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May 7 – Phone Script from COO

Friday, May 8, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Elaine White, Chief Operating Officer and today is Thursday, May 7. As of this morning, we have 41 staff and 31 people in our services currently positive with COVID-19. These numbers continue to fluctuate daily as new test results come in and people finish their 14 day quarantine. I anticipate we will continue...

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May 4 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, May 4, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Monday, May 4. As of this morning, we currently have 22 staff and 21 people in our services positive with COVID-19. These numbers continue to fluctuate daily as new test results come in and people finish their 14 day quarantine. I anticipate we will continue...

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Friday, May 1, 2020: Day Programs Closed till further notice

Friday, May 1, 2020

Bridgewell’s Day Habilitation Programs, Employment Support Programs and Transportation Services will not be opening on Monday, May 4 due to Massachusetts extending the non-essential business closures and stay at home advisory until May 18. We have not yet been notified by the Commonwealth when these programs can reopen.  We will notify you as soon as we hear; it will not necessarily be...

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April 30 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, April 30, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Thursday, April 30. Over the last two weeks, the DDS Fallon mobile testing unit has been to about a third of our programs, testing both staff and individuals. While results have been coming in on an ongoing basis, we received large batches of test results...

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April 27 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, April 27, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Monday, April 27. Starting off this week, we have 39 staff and 11 people in our services who are currently positive with COVID-19. Mobile testing continues to take place and we are working with DDS to make sure all Bridgewell residences are tested. We are...

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April 23 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, April 23, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Thursday, April 23. As of this week, we have 37 staff who are positive. We have 11 people in our services who are currently positive with three who have recovered. You likely heard that Governor Baker has closed Massachusetts schools for the remainder of the...

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Using Virtual Classes to Cope with Coronavirus Uncertainty

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, millions of people across the U.S. are under stay-at-home advisories. Self-isolation and social distancing have become the new norm, presenting an extraordinary challenge for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities such as autism, as well as their caretakers, who depend on us for a sense of structure and routine. The measures taken to reduce the...

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April 20 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, April 20, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Monday, April 20. As of this morning, we have eleven people in our services who are currently positive and one who has recovered. Everyone is doing well and recuperating. We currently have 39 staff who are positive and five people who have recovered and are...

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COVID-19: Take Advocacy One Step Further on Hazard Pay for DSPs!

Monday, April 20, 2020

Advocacy Bridgewell needs your help right now! This past week, all state employees who work in I/DD group homes received a $5 or $10 per hour “hazard pay” increase for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis, but there was no “hazard pay” allocated for the staff of community providers, like Bridgewell. Tell Governor Baker to rectify this disparity for essential...

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WBUR, Boston’s NPR News Station

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Being holed up at home with kids, partner, or other family members can be tough. But some people now have the added challenge of staying home with children who have intense developmental disabilities — children who are
normally in day programs or live in group homes.

Kara normally lives at a residence operated by Bridgewell, which runs programs for people with disabilities in the Merrimack Valley-North Shore area.

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April 16 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Thursday, April 16. As of this morning, we have eight people in our services who have tested positive and one who has recovered. They continue to do well and are recuperating. We currently have 30 staff who are actively positive for COVID-19 and thankfully four...

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April 13 – Phone Script from CEO

Monday, April 13, 2020

In an effort to keep families and guardians informed, President & CEO Chris Tuttle has implemented a twice-weekly phone message. Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Monday, April 13. As of this morning, we have five people in our services who have tested positive. All of them are doing well and...

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April 9 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, April 9, 2020

In an effort to keep families and guardians informed, President & CEO Chris Tuttle has implemented a twice-weekly phone message. To hear today’s message, please call 339-883-2201. Thank you.

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April 6 – Phone Script from CEO

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Monday, April 6. As of this morning, we’ve had our first person in our services test positive for COVID-19. This person is doing well, is stable and recuperating in quarantine in their room. We have implemented our contingency plans for this expected situation and are...

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April 2 – Phone Script from CEO

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Christopher Tuttle President & CEO and today is Thursday, April 2. I am happy to share that we continue to not have anyone in our services test positive for COVID-19. However, we do have a few people who are currently being tested. I will continue to keep you informed as we learn more....

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March 31 – Phone Script from CEO

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Hello Bridgewell Parents & Guardians. I am Chris Tuttle President & CEO and today is Tuesday, March 31.  Bridgewell’s Day Habilitation and Employment Support Programs are closed until May 4. The no visitation policy at our programs is in place until May 4. These measures follow Governor Baker’s orders and are to keep everyone safe.  The people in Bridgewell’s residential programs have settled into a nice routine over the last two weeks. The staff...

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Update on COVID-19

Friday, March 27, 2020

April 27, 2020 April 27, 2020 Phone Script from CEO April 23, 2020 April 23, 2020 Phone Script from CEO April 20, 2020 April 20, 2020 Phone Script from CEO April 16, 2020 April 16, 2020 Phone Script from CEO April 13, 2020 April 13, 2020 Phone Script from CEO April 9, 2020 April 9, 2020 Phone Script from CEO...

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A Message from Bridgewell’s President & CEO

Friday, March 20, 2020

From Bridgewell’s President & CEO You hear everyone saying these are unprecedented times, and they are. It’s very unsettling for us all. But at Bridgewell, we continue to support the people we have the privilege of serving just as we did last month and last year. We have made adjustments, accommodations and taken extra precautions to follow the CDC’s and the Governor’s...

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Bruins Recognition

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Earlier this month, Connor, who lives at a Bridgewell residence and attends one of Bridgewell’s Rosewood Day Programs, was recognized by the Special Olympics and Bruins Foundations at the Boston Bruins game. The night had a fantastic turnout with a fun experience and a victory for the Bruins. Connor also received a custom Bruins jersey and was introduced to the...

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Bridgewell Basketball

Wednesday, January 22, 2020

The Bridgewell Special Olympics team has added a basketball team this winter. The team started in December 2019 and will continue on until March 2020, consisting of persons served and staff volunteers known as partners. A Bridgewell Special Olympics basketball team hasn’t been available for over ten years but we added one this year in response to our growing community....

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New Year, New Job: The Faces of Human Services

Thursday, January 9, 2020

Working in human services is challenging yet rewarding work. “Every day a client tells you good job and how much they appreciate you. It’s amazing to watch people grow, and know you’re a part of that growth,” says Molli Marshall, program director of Bridgewell’s Kelly J. Martin day program. Molli Marshall’s career at Bridgewell began three and a half years...

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Music Therapy

Thursday, December 26, 2019

On November 15th, Maple Street Day Habilitation program hosted a Universal Music Therapy Experience in collaboration with Roman Music Therapy. This event is the final performance of the eight week therapy session and includes singing solos, song writing, open mic/karaoke, a drum circle and a community sing. Everyone enjoyed the weekly music therapy sessions which help develop self expression and...

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Passing of Ann Cohen

Friday, December 20, 2019

It deeply saddens us to share that former Bridgewell Board member Ann Cohen passed away this past Tuesday, December 17th. Ann was an extraordinary person. She was a volunteer at Bridgewell’s Friendship Club for many years before joining the Bridgewell Board of Directors. She was also a member of the Program Committee, a subcommittee of the Board of Directors, and...

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Edible Arrangements Tour

Friday, December 13, 2019

Nick D’Alleva, owner of the Edible Arrangements in Peabody, Beverly and Lynn, recently toured Bridgewell’s Rosewood II Day program. He was able to see our work first hand and, as a thank you, sent some fruit and treats for the people in the programs to enjoy. We are excited to have Nick on board again this year as a partner...

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2019: A Year of Advocacy and Growth

Monday, December 9, 2019

By Chris Tuttle, President & Chief Executive Officer 2019 was a year of introspection, advocacy and growth for Bridgewell, both internally and within the community. As the new year approaches, I’d like to reflect upon the programs, services and new initiatives of 2019 that have shaped us as a non-profit and share thoughts on where we’re headed in 2020. Over...

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Special Olympics Jolly Jaunt

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Join Team Bridgewell on Saturday, December 7th for the best holiday themed 5k of the season! This is a professionally timed 5k on a certified 5k course in Boston. The course starts and finishes at the Boston Commons. Boston Common – Boylston St, Boston MA Registration: 8:00 am Walk/Run Start: 9:00 am Awards: 9:45 am- 11:00 am Registration – $35,...

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ADDP and DDP Present: 2019 Talking Tech Conference

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Bridgewell’s Elaine White (Chief Operations Officer), Chris Tuttle (President & Chief Executive Officer), John Hyland (Director of Information Technology) and Bonnie Hungler (Director of Program and Support Services), attended the Talking Tech 2019 conference this past Thursday at the Newton Marriott. The conference was presented by the ADDP (The Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers) and the DDS (The Department of...

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Halloween Surprise

Thursday, October 31, 2019

A Bridgewell community home in Danvers received a beautiful Halloween themed gift from their neighbors in appreciation of the staff’s work. They came to the door with a box of cookies, cupcakes and a card that read: “God Bless You All. Happy Halloween. I watch the wonderful work you all do every day. You all are truly exceptional. You give...

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Celebration of Success

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Yesterday, President & CEO Chris Tuttle was at the State House to cheer on Pride’s Deli, a partner in Bridgewell’s Employment Support program. The Massachusetts Regional Employment Collaboratives hosted the inaugural Celebration of Success, to recognize partners, sponsors and employees who have demonstrated commitment to supporting people with disabilities through employment and training efforts. Pride’s Deli of Beverly was one...

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Topsfield Fair 2019

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

An annual tradition, many people in Bridgewell services enjoyed a trip to the Topsfield Fair. The Fair invited area day programs and facilities during day hours free of charge; 377 people and staff attended – a record number! In addition, Bridgewell’s Kelly J. Martin Employment Program participants worked at the Fair as greeters and volunteers at various exhibits. Over the...

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National Substance Use Prevention Month: A Q&A with Bridgewell Clinician and Prevention Coordinator Michelle Simons

Monday, October 21, 2019

October is National Substance Use Prevention Month. People struggling with substance use are supported in their recovery through Bridgewell’s Recovery and Prevention Services, which aims to improve quality of life through consultation, collaboration and coordination of care. In a Q&A, Bridgewell Clinician and Prevention Coordinator Michelle Simons shares why seeking help is so important. How can prevention programs help reduce...

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Preparing For Emergency

Thursday, October 17, 2019

The Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) brings together senior citizens and people with disabilities, local emergency planners, and first responders to prepare for an emergency. Members of the community learn about the personal steps they can take to prepare for different emergency situations. We provide “Emergency Go Packs” that may be needed in the result of an emergency. A federal...

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The Right Talent, Right Now: National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

The Right Talent, Right Now: Bridgewell is proud to support National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). Held each October, NDEAM aims to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. Bridgewell is proud to work with many local businesses to foster disability-friendly work culture. For over 25 years, Bridgewell has successfully...

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Updated Mission and Vision

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Over the last few years, Bridgewell has grown and expanded. We’ve had changes to our service lines, staffing and more recently, we’ve updated our mission and vision to reflect who we are as an organization. Bridgewell’s updated mission demonstrates that we are not only an organization working with people with disabilities, but a full-service, human services organization that supports the...

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Dual Diagnosis: Mental Health and Developmental Disability Combination Often Overlooked

Thursday, May 9, 2019

By Kimberley Haley, LMHC Director of Clinical Services and Director of The Sovner Center for Bridgewell The month of May is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health, and although the conversation has been elevated in recent years, stigma and mental illness still go hand in hand and barriers to treatment remain. More than 50 million Americans have a mental...

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Thank you to Showcase Cinema in Revere!

Thursday, May 9, 2019

Feel Good Story: Bridgewell wants to take a moment to recognize the Showcase Cinema in Revere! ðŸ’œðŸ’› Bill, who lives in one of Bridgewell’s residences, struggles to go out in the community. He’s home for large chunks of time, and the other day, one of the staff convinced him to go see a movie. Mixing up the times and theater locations,...

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Elaine White: Chief Operating Officer

Thursday, April 18, 2019

It is my pleasure to announce that Elaine White is Bridgewell’s new Chief Operating Officer. Elaine has been serving in this role on an interim basis for the last few months and I am very pleased that she is now officially the COO. To many of you, Elaine needs no introduction. As an employee of Bridgewell for over 35 years,...

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Important Message from Bridgewell Board Chair

Wednesday, February 27, 2019

I am pleased to inform you that the board of directors has unanimously voted to appoint Christopher Tuttle president and chief executive officer of Bridgewell. A leader in the field of social and human services, Chris has been effective and compassionate in his role as interim president and chief executive officer of Bridgewell over the last few months, demonstrating the...

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2018 – A Year of Evolution and Expansion

Monday, December 24, 2018

By Chris Tuttle, Interim Chief Executive Officer 2018 has been a year of change and growth for Bridgewell. As the new year approaches, I’d like to take a moment to reflect upon the formative events and moments that have shaped us all both personally and professionally, and share thoughts on where we’re headed in 2019. Over the last twelve months...

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Measuring Dementia in People with Intellectual Disabilities

Monday, December 10, 2018

There are an estimated 5.3 million people in the U.S. with Alzheimer’s disease and by the year 2030, that number is expected to increase to 7.7 million. This devastating disease is the most common form of dementia and according to the Alzheimer’s Association, someone is diagnosed every 65 seconds. Because people with Down Syndrome experience accelerated aging, they are at...

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Lynn CoC HUD Application

Thursday, July 26, 2018

Bridgewell is a partner in the Lynn Continuum of Care, a collaboration of agencies serving Lynn residents who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness. As part of our annual funding process, we will  be participating in a community review of questions HUD has included in the application. These questions address how we work together to identify and address the needs...

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Roseway First Aid/CPR Training

Thursday, March 22, 2018

Last month, Bridgewell Staff Developer Sarah Myers went to the Roseway Day Hab and certified 16 people in our services in First Aid/CPR.  The group included individuals from the Roseway Safety Committee looking to get re-certified from the 2016 training and several new additions.  This is the second time Bridgewell training has been able to offer this course to our...

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Greater Lowell Community Foundation Visits Bridgewell

Monday, November 13, 2017

On November 8 , Jay Linnehan, Executive Director of the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, visited Bridgewell’s Lowell Adult Day Treatment program and Bridgewell Counseling Services – Lowell.   Mr. Linnehan was joined by Andrew Stephens, Clinical Director and Renee Heusser, Assistant Clinical Director. Bridgewell provides behavioral health services to more than 2,100 people in this location The Greater Lowell Community Foundation...

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Now Open – Rosewood Day Services Program in Billerica!

Thursday, September 28, 2017

Responding to the demand for more Bridgewell specialized day programs for younger adults with autism, Bridgewell has opened Rosewood Day Services Program for people living in Central Middlesex, Merrimack Valley and Lowell regions. High-quality programming includes: Technology Physical fitness Community integration Functional academics Career exploration to employment through volunteerism And much more! To request a tour or more information, please...

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We’ve Moved!

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Please note: Bridgewell Administrative Offices, Training Department and Residential Supervisors new location as of April 10: 10 Dearborn Road Peabody, MA 01960 All fax and phone numbers will remain the same.

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Urban Youth Collaborative Program Interns 2016

Thursday, September 1, 2016

This summer, Bridgewell had close to 30 interns from administration to programming. Of the 30 internships, 10 positions were funded through the Department of Developmental Services’ Urban Youth Collaborative Program, which provides opportunities for students and recent graduates to learn about the field of disabilities. Through internships in day programs, residences and related administrative functions at Bridgewell in facilities north of Boston,...

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Career Opportunity in Autism Services!

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Are you interested in a rewarding career? Do you have experience in the field of autism or behavioral supports? Bridgewell has a new residential program in Dracut that is specifically designed for young adults with autism. We have part-time opportunities for Direct Support Professionals who would support the individuals in their home. Click here to learn more about Bridgewell’s Autism...

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2015 Greater Lowell Health Alliance Annual Breakfast

Thursday, October 1, 2015

Bridgewell’s Pathfinder Drop-In Center staff attended the 2015 Greater Lowell Health Alliance Annual Breakfast on September 25 at the Westford Regency. We proudly displayed a poster to highlight the Pathfinder Outreach Project, funded by Greater Lowell Health Alliance. The Pathfinder Outreach Project connects very difficult-to-reach, homeless adults in Lowell with health care, housing and other essential community services. Pictured: Pathfinder Assistant...

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Cleaning Up at Camp Naumkeag

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Each year, Bridgewell holds recreational events at Camp Naumkeag in Salem. In appreciation of using the beautiful space, Bridgewell has made it a tradition to maintain and landscape the Vietnam Memorial each year. Pictured: Earlier this summer, Bridgewell individuals Carlos and Nick salute by the flag pole at Camp Naumkeag after cleaning and planting.

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Intern Spotlight: Taylor Faieta

Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Psychology Major Concentration in Developmental Psychology Curry College “The variety of experience I receive from this internship is very valuable, since I’m not sure of what field of psychology I want to go into yet. I am a very quick learner, but it helped that my supervisors were amazing teachers and guides. My supervisors in the Quality Assurance Department challenged me...

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Applying Safety to Appliances

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

By Michael Corey, Residential Supervisor Cooking is, and has long been, the leading cause of home structure fires and home fire injuries. This is true for both fires reported to fire departments and those handled without fire department assistance.During the five-year period of 2007-2011, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 156,600 home structure fires in which cooking...

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National Safety Month: Fun in the Sun

Thursday, June 4, 2015

By Barbara Geary R.N. & Bridgewell Day Habilitation Nurses As the weather gets warmer, many of us will be spending more and more time outside, enjoying the sun that we missed so much through this harsh winter.  But too much time in the sun can be a problem.  The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin in as little as...

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New Mental Health Nurse Practitioner: Margery Walentuk, FMHPC

Tuesday, April 21, 2015

Bridgewell Counseling Services has appointed Margery Walentuk, FMHPC, to a key position at our outpatient psychiatric and mental health clinic in Chelmsford. Walentuk will provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management to children, adolescents and adults. “The addition of Margery Walentuk to our professional staff ensures our capacity to provide the highest quality of care to each and every patient we...

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Bridgewell honors Ann Couture from Saugus Kmart with inaugural Champion Award

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Bridgewell is pleased to announce Ann Couture as the first recipient of Bridgewell’s Employment Supports Champion Award. Olwyn, who works at Kmart through Bridgewell’s Employment Supports program, nominated Ann. Pictured above in the group photo, left to right: Bridgewell Career Specialist Judd Tomaselli, Day Services Supervisor Victoria Jasper, Career Specialist Ashley Smallwood, Kmart’s Ann Couture, Bridgewell President & CEO Bob Stearns,...

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CARF and DDS Licensing Success

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Bridgewell is proud to announce we have been awarded a Three-Year CARF Accreditation. This accreditation decision represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization and shows the organization’s substantial conformance to the CARF standards. An organization receiving a Three-Year Accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process. It has demonstrated to a team...

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North Shore Community College Scholarships Presented at May 15th Scholarship Awards Breakfast

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Pictured Above: Congratulations to Fredeline Pierre (left), Direct Support Professional at Vine Street and Damaris Gitahi (right), Direct Support Professional at Wardwell Ave, who were both awarded the scholarships to North Shore Community College.  Fredeline is enrolled in the Developmental Disabilities program and received the Bridgewell Scholarship. Damaris is in the Health Sciences program, working toward her LPN. Inge Peters (left),...

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Gala Honorees Tour Bridgewell Programs

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Last month, Bridgewell’s Imagine the Possibilities Gala honorees ABC News’ Dr. Timothy Johnson and Salem State University President Patricia Maguire Meservey toured the Boston Street Center and our newest residence on Colonial Ave in Lynn. Dr. Timothy Johnson will be receiving the Visionary Leadership Award and Salem State University President Patricia Maguire Meservey will be receiving Excellence in Service Award....

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