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 receptionist responsibilities at the front desk, where she greets visitors and ensures they get to the right place, and important behind-the-scenes responsibilities that keep the office running smoothly.

Paula’s role involves much more than answering phones and greeting visitors. Working from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday-Friday each week, she supports key office functions like mail delivery, visitor sign-ins, and supply orders. Paula also helps coordinate logistics for staff trainings held at the office, such as CPR, MAP, and PABC sessions, supporting her supervisor, Michelle. Paula juggles these diverse responsibilities with a smile. “I like the variety of my work,” Paula says. “No two days are exactly the same – and that’s what keeps it interesting.”

Prior to her role at Bridgewell and DDS, Paula’s career journey included roles at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston for nearly 10 years, and Hale and Dorr Law Firm, as a switchboard operator. Paula has demonstrated commitment and reliability in each of her roles.

In her role at DDS, Paula has found a meaningful fit that gives her a sense of independence and ownership over many tasks, and she enjoys knowing her work makes a positive impact. Her position allows her to contribute to the work of an important public service agency that is aligned with Bridgewell’s focus of fostering inclusive employment and empowering individuals to thrive in their communities.

“Paula has been doing this kind of work for years,” says Terri Moody, Bridgewell Employment Specialist. “Paula’s role at DDS is a perfect example of how someone in our Employment Supports Program can be a central part of a workplace – helping to manage operations and support staff in a meaningful way.”

In addition to her involvement with our Employment Supports Program, Paula lives in a Bridgewell apartment in Lynn and receives some in-home supports from Bridgewell’s Individual Support Services team. Outside of work, Paula stays active in her community, and she loves going to the beach. She has also enjoyed several memorable trips with Bridgewell, including visits to Prince Edward Island, Provincetown, and the casinos in Connecticut! “Hershey Park may be next on my list,” says Paula.

Looking ahead professionally, Paula is excited to continue contributing in her role at DDS and is hoping to have the opportunity to assist with training a new member of the office support team in the coming months. Paula’s story is a reminder that purpose and pride can come from the work we do – and it is important for everyone to have opportunities and support in pursuing meaningful work that suits their skills and interests.