“Everyone
- Rachel Barcellona
Staff Updates Please Read:
IMPORTANT: All annual trainings on Relias eAcademy are due by October 25 . th Please clock in and out to complete these so you get paid. Let me know if you have any questions or need any assistance.
GPS Staff SharePoint: Please utilize the GPS SharePoint drive for program materials. We will continue to add relevant material here and updated forms.
Please visit the SharePoint Drive here: Share Point
Arc Email: Please be checking your ne-arc email regularly.
Zoom Phone: Please make sure you are utilizing your Zoom phone associated with your Northeast Arc account.
Progress Notes: All Progress Notes are due in Netsmart by Monday at 9:00 am.
First Aid/CPR Certification: If you have not already done so, please reach out to your supervisor to schedule your manditory First Aid/ CPR training. If you already have a current certification, please send a copy to your supervisor. Click Here to schedule a training.
Scan or click the QR code
Boston Lights: A Lantern Experience
Franklin Park Zoo
Through Nov. 2, 5:00 - 10:30 p.m.
Prepare to be dazzled as you wander through this immersive experience filled with lanterns, interactive displays and Instagrammable moments at every turn.
Boston Lights draws inspiration from natural habitats around the globe, including mountainous plateaus, rainforest canopies and undersea reefs. This year, walk through our shimmering mystical forest, which features floral-themed light tunnels, mythical animal designs, and a majestic glowing owl, measuring over 22 feet tall! Discover China’s rich heritage as you journey through a dazzling array of traditional lanterns, featuring pandas, pheasants, peacocks and dragons. For more information
Methuen Mobile Market Volunteer Opportunity
North Shore | Community Opportunities
HALLOWEEN ON THE HILL
LONG HILL
576 ESSEX STREET
BEVERLY
Every friday in October sensory friendly hours from 3:30 - 4:30pm (exlucdes 10/31)
Registration required
LEGO CLUB PEABODY INSTITUE LIBRARY, DANVERS
Tues, Nov 4 6PM- 8PM
JoinusfortheAdultLegoclub!Come hangoutoutwithfellowbrickenthusiasts. Legoofyourtroublesandgetcreative throughtheartofplay!Noexperience required,nopressureforskill,justbring yourcreativityandwillingnesstohave fun!
WHITE-ELLERY HOUSE TOUR 13 POPLAR ST, GLOUCESTER
Sun, Nov 2
2PM-3PM
The house exhibits a certain elegance and refinement while providing for basic needs of its early owners The tour will share who lived in the house over time, its exterior structure and interior features, and the adventure of being moved to make way for theRoute128rotary. Free
Merrimack Valley | Community Opportunities
BOWLING WEDNESDAYS (AGES 18+) - AMESBURY, MA
TheArcofGreaterHaverhill-Newburyport hostbowlingeventsatGametimeLanes& EntertainmentinAmesbury,MA.Visitthe linkandreviewtheavailableslots.
Most Wednesdays 4:30-6:00 PM Every weekend in Oct. Times vary
Get ready for a weekend full of farm fun with Halloween Spooktacular and Trunk or Treat events curtesy of Smolak Farms. Check line for more details!
Metro North | Community Opportunities
HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR VENDOR AND CRAFT FAIR
Sat, Oct 25 11 - 3pm
9th Annual Halloween Spooktacular Fair. Fall and Halloween products from over 30 local crafters and vendors. Get a jump on your holiday shopping. Free Trick or Treating for the kids.
WAKEFIELD LODGE OF ELKS MOON OVER
1 BOW MARKET WAY,
Thurs. Oct. 30th 4pm-9pm
�� Get ready for a night filled with music, food, and good vibes under the moonlight. Come see magical vendors, artists and artisans, tarot readers and so much more. Check out special menu items downstairs and fun workshops and sales upstairs.
TRIVIA BEEBE LIBRARY, WAKEFILD
Tues, Oct 28
7:00 8:30 PM
Yourlibrarianscreatethewholegame fromscratchusingourplentifullibrary resources,socomeoutandtestyour quizmasterIQ!Teamscanhaveupto6 players,andthereareprizesfromlocal eateriesforfirstandsecondplace.Ifyou don'thaveateam,youcanplaysolo,or findotherswhoarelookingforateam!
Central Middlesex | Community Opportunities
ISKWELAHANG FILIPINO DANCE TEAM PERFORMANCE WOBURN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Sat, Oct 25 3:30—4:30 PM
Joinusforaperformancefromthe IskwelahangPilipino(IP)DanceTeamto celebrateFilipinoAmericanHistoryMonth!
Registrationisrequested,butnotrequired.
HOWL-O-WEEN PARTY! THE PARK AT BURLINGTON MAL
Sat. Oct 25th 1 - 3pm
Getinthehalloweenspiritandenjoyafunfilleddaywithyourpup!Activitiesinclude:pet costumecontestsat1:30pmand2:30pmwith prizes,dogtreatsamplesfromBostonBarkery andYappyHouratCommonCraftwithour friendsfromGreatDogRescueNewEngland.
CASTLEBERRY FALL CRAFT FESTIVAL SHRINERS
Oct, 25 & 26 10 - 4pm
With over 175 booths, this curated marketplace showcases a diverse selection of handcrafted treasures, including artisan pottery, cozy upcycled mittens, intricate decorative paintings, custom-built furniture, and so much more.
Lowell Area | Community Opportunities
Immerse yourself in the magic of our creative community during Open Studios. This is not just an event; it’s an experience you don’t want to miss. Five floors of art studios, two floors of artist lofts, a coffee shop, a co-op art gallery, and a food truck. FREE
We are a performing arts program that offers affordable adaptive singing, dancing, and acting classes for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We also have a 501c3 nonprofit organization that funds our efforts.
Students learn to express themselves through creative group music and movement activities while gaining confidence and appreciation for the arts. We offer personal attention to meet each person's specific needs. All classes culminate in a live performance for friends and family. Special Stars is dedicated to helping each individual discover their own personal strength, talent, and potential. Click here for more information:
Berklee Music Lessons Program for Adults with Autism
Accessible Chef is a collection of free visual recipes and other resources to help teach cooking skills to individuals with disabilities at home or in a special education.
Check out our website for visual recipes, resources, and our recipe creator!
What kind of resources are available to teach cooking skills?
Visual Recipes
Visual recipes make use of task analysis, which is an evidence-based approach for breaking down a complex task into manageable steps. Each task is separated into discrete skills, and individuals can learn to complete skills in a specific order to learn new tasks. Students may require visual, physical, or verbal prompts to complete each skill, and prompts may be gradually removed as the individual becomes more independent. Visual recipes share similarities with PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) and curricula created with Boardmaker.
Assistive Technologies
Assistive technologies are available in a variety of low and high tech options. Cooking apps can be found in the Apple app store, and include images of cooking supplies, actions, and appliances that can be combined into recipes and viewed on a phone or tablet. Parents and teachers can also produce video or audio-based prompts, which can be played on phones, tablets, computers, or portable DVD players.
Kitchen Equipment
Kitchen equipment can be adapted to make cooking easier and safer for individuals with physical disabilities. Ideas for adapting kitchen equipment can be found in the resources section. Many challenges in the kitchen can be solved with a combination of creativity, adaptation, and practice.
Check out these recipes by clicking the images below.
Curried Sausages
MORE RECIPES RECIPE CREATOR RESOURCES
Pumpkin Crunch Cake
Shepherd’s Pie
Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
Webinars & Events
Understanding Depression & Suicide in Young People
Date & Time
Description
Oct 20, 2025 01:00 PM
Depression in children and teenagers is often undiagnosed and untreated because symptoms are mistaken for normal emotional changes. Learn what factors contribute to youth depression and suicide, the signs and symptoms, and what we can do to prevent it with a licensed therapist.
Understanding Loneliness and Building Social Connections
Date & Time
Description
Oct 21, 2025 01:00 PM
People can be alone and not feel lonely, or be surrounded by others and still experience feelings of isolation. Explore the causes of loneliness, how it spreads through social networks, and the impact of loneliness on our physical and mental health in this one-hour seminar. Learn practical tips to strengthen current relationships and make new connections in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa.
The Science Behind Confidence & Self-Esteem
Date & Time
Description
Oct 28, 2025 01:00 PM
People with low self-esteem and self-confidence often see themselves in a distorted way that can negatively impact their personal relationships, work, and education. Explore protective & vulnerability factors in self-esteem and learn practical tips to overcome self-limiting beliefs and strengthen self-confidence in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa.
Webinars & Events
Understanding Social Anxiety
Date & Time
Description
Oct 30, 2025 11:00 AM
It's normal to feel nervous in some social situations, but for people with social anxiety disorder everyday interactions cause intense feelings of anxiety and fear that disrupt relationships, daily routines, and performance at work and school. Explore the symptoms of social anxiety disorder, learn what the causes are, how it is treated, and strategies to manage symptoms in this one-hour seminar sponsored by United Way of Central Iowa.
Understanding Workplace Anxiety
Date & Time
Description
Nov 4, 2025 01:00 PM
While stress at work is common, constant and overwhelming anxiety can negatively impact productivity, confidence, and overall health Discuss common anxiety triggers and learn practical strategies for managing stress, setting boundaries, and building resilience in this onehour seminar.
Self-Care and Wellbeing: A Hands-On Approach for Better Health
Date & Time
Description
Nov 5, 2025 11:00 AM
It’s normal to experience anxiety, fear, anger, and grief during times of uncertainty. Now, more than ever, it’s important to recognize these feelings and allow time to recharge – but too often we feel guilty for taking time to meet our basic needs. Explore what self-care is, why it’s so important, and practical tips for incorporating self-care into your daily life with a licensed therapist.
If you are having a mental health crisis or need emergency assistance, dial 911 or contact local emergency services
7 Cups https://www7cupscom/ This free online text counseling service connects customers to volunteer listeners who offer non-therapeutic advice Anyone can sign up, including teenagers who are looking for other (trained) teenagers Access to licensed therapists is available for $150 per month. 7 Cups does not accept insurance.
Blah Therapy https://blahtherapy.com/ Free 24/7 anonymous peer chat. Subscriptions for unlimited professional therapy cost $60-$90/week. Blah Therapy does not accept insurance.
Bliss by the Centre of Interactive Mental Health Solutions https://cimhs.com/ Free selfguided online cognitive behavior therapy program for depression Bliss does not offer therapy appointments
Doctor on Demand https://doctorondemandcom/ 24/7 access to doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and other medical experts anytime, including weekends, holidays, and late at night. You can also talk to professionals not related to mental health, including urgent care doctors. Doctors on Demand accepts insurance. If you don’t have insurance, a 25-minute session is $129 and a 50-minute session is $179. Initial psychiatrist appointments cost $299, and 15-minute follow-up appointments are $129.
eTherapyPro https://etherapyprocom/ Access therapy services via video call, phone call, or text chat Free 3-day trial session, though a credit card is required After the trial period, the cost is $40/week ($16000/month) eTherapyPro does not accept insurance
Important Considerations for Online Therapy
Confidentiality, Privacy, and Unreliable Technology Confidentiality is just as important for online therapy as it is for in-person therapy Because information is relayed online, privacy leaks & hacking are a concern Technology problems can also make it difficult to access treatment when you need it
Not Appropriate for Severe & Persistent Mental Illness The scope of online therapy can be limited and may not be effective for more complex situations. For people with an addiction or complex symptoms of a mental health condition, online therapy is not to be recommended unless other in-person therapy is also involved in the treatment plan.
Lack of Response to Crisis Situations If a person is experiencing suicidal thoughts it can be difficult or impossible for the therapist to provide direct assistance. If you are having suicidal thoughts, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8 (US & Canada) or 1-800-273- 8255 for support and help from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
Ethical and Legal Concerns Online therapy eliminates geographic restraints, making the enforcement of legal and ethical codes difficult. Therapists can treat clients from anywhere in the world, and many states have different licensing requirements and treatment guidelines It is important to confirm your therapist's qualifications and experience before starting the treatment process
Greenbelt trails: Gentle Trails in Essex County Massachusetts Rail-Trails: Search your area for rail-trails.
Trustees Trails: Search your area for places to explore within the trustees reservations
TIPS:
Download the free app: ALL TRAILS to keep track of where you are and how far you walk Bring Water
Remember to use bug spray, cover your legs, and use tick precautions
Have fun!
Rhymes to mind!
As the weather cools down, hiking is a great activity. Please remember to be wary of ticks and poison ivy!
I suggest downloading this free app:
Unpaid version offers offline maps that you can follow and track your route, replays your hike when you are done, and shows miles walked and elevation.
A great way to practice letter writing and social skills!
About Us
Our mission is to alleviate social isolation among older adults through handwritten letters and intergenerational connections.
800,000+ handwritten letters to older adults experiencing isolation 75 campus volunteer chapters
10,000 annual Letter to an Elder Day (Feb 26) participants 27 countries we’ve sent letters
Our Story
We started because of a loving grandpa
“After my grandpa died, I started volunteering with older adults to find a special connection like the one we shared, but I was upset by the chronic loneliness I saw. Some residents would tell me they hadn’t heard from family or friends in months. They didn’t even get something as simple as a letter in the mail. So, in 2013, I wrote a letter. Then another. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to fight a growing loneliness epidemic.”
- JACOB CRAMER
Connect with Jacob →
Would you like to send a letter?
Read this month’s bios and choose which of our elder(s) you’d like to write. New elders are shared on the 1st of every month!
OurCoreBelief: All people
About having different conversations
A different way of thinking
Encouraging high expectations
Having life experiences to move the trajectory in the desired direction
Integrating multiple types of support
Only for professionals to use
Just about the “tools”
A “program”
Designed for just one specific age group
Solely for people with disabilities and their families
Watch Dr Sheli Reynolds share how her experience growing up with a brother with a disability impacted and informed the development of the LifeCourse framework and tools In this 18-minute video you will also learn about each of the principles and why they are important to supporting your “good life ”
978-741-0077 |
Disability Resource Center (DRC) is a cross-disability organization providing service to any person, regardless of age, who identifies as living with a disability.
Serving Communities Across the North Shore & Beyond Including Beverly, Danvers, Lynn, Peabody, Salem, Wakefield, and more.
Free Services Offered
Information & Referral: Housing, transportation, benefits, legal rights, veterans services, and more.
Independent Living Support: Peer mentoring, assistive technology, selfadvocacy, financial management.
Transition Services: Options Counseling: Support for staying or returning to community living
Transition to Adulthood Program (TAP): For youth (14?21) with IEP/504 plans.
Affordable Housing Workshops
Accessible Business Surveys
Peer Support Groups
Community Access Advocacy Team
LGBTQ+ Community Gatherings
A space to build a support system, and a sense of chosen family, with your community.
Our community gatherings are peer-led support groups that are non-clinical and led by a collective of individuals with lived experience in the group's topic or community. Each community gathering is unique to the population it serves and is created in a peer-led collaborative group process There is no pressure to share to attend We welcome anyone, anywhere that is 18+.
Community Gatherings
Thefollowingarefree,non-clinical,peer-ledsupportgroupshostedbyPeerSupport SpacetakingplaceinEasternTime(EST).Newfriendsarealwayswelcome.
Registrationisrequiredforin-personeventssothatwecankeepourgatheringsunder 10peopleasaCOVIDprecaution. Forourvirtualgroups,pleaseusethezoomlinksonthewebsite(oncomputerorzoom phoneapp)toenter
12PMand6PMEachDay,Monday-Saturday **YoumustemailMary@peersupportspace.orgto receivethepasscodesforthedailycommunal gatherings-thisisasecurityprecautiontoensure thatwearekeepingthespaceassafeaspossible.**
For more information, visit https://peersupportspace. org/communitygatherings-1 Daily Communal Gatherings
Our Vision
To provide a barrier free pathway for individuals of all abilities to discover and achieve their most meaningful purpose in life.
Our Mission
To blend cutting-edge technology with personalized mentorship to empower people of all abilities to discover and achieve their most fulfilling path in life.
TheMostComprehensiveCareer ExplorationProgramAvailableFor StudentswithDisabilities
Mission1:Self-Exploration
L I V E M E N T O R S H I P
Mission2:CareerExploration
Ourvideo-basedassessments guidestudentsincreating theirownCareerDNA™,a unique25-point"Career NeedsFingerprint" highlightingtheresultsof7 intuitiveexercises Studentsnowexploreand evaluatealignedcareersto identifywhichonesexcitethem most Withsupportfromtheir mentor,theythencompare thesecareerspoint-bypoint totheirCareerDNA.
Mission3:SoftSkills, Outreach,&CareerPath
Usingourcomprehensive toolkitandsoftskillstraining fromtheirMentor,they connectwithprofessionalsand conductinformational interviewstolearnwhatit's reallyliketoworkinthefield.
Peer support
You are not alone!
Come join us for a peer led support group.
Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 2 pm to 3 pm
Scan the QR code or Click here to join
GRATEFUL ASPECTS
young adults peer support group
Mondays 3pm-4pm on Zoom
Scan the QR code Meet
ASD Adaptive Training Program
Our fitness professionals follow a comprehensive gym program designed to create a safe and beneficial training environment for individuals with ASD.
Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the Gym Setting
Understanding the challenges ad considerations specific to individuals with ASD in a gym environment
Adaptive Exercise Techniques
Learning how to modify exercises and workouts to accommodate the sensory and motor needs of individuals with ASD
Visual Supports and Communication Strategies
Implementing visual schedules, social stories, and other communication tools to enhance understanding and participation
Sensory-Friendly Environment
Creating a sensory-friendly gym space by managing noise levels, lighting, and providing sensory tools
Behavior Management in the Gym
Utilizing positive reinforcement strategies and behavior management techniques to promote positive behaviors
Individualized Fitness Plans
Developing personalized fitness plans based on the individual’s strengths, interests, and goals.
Supportive Coaching and Inclusive Practices
Training coaches and staff on inclusive practices and effective communication to provide a supportive and welcoming environment
Collaboration with Families and Caregivers
Engaging families and caregivers in the gym program to ensure continuity of support and progress monitoring.
BLUE ENVELOPE PROGRAM
THE BLUE ENVELOPE PROGRAM IS AN EFFORT TO EASE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM AND LAW ENFORCEMENT DURING MOTOR VEHICLE OPERATOR INTERACTIONS.
ThecoreideaoftheBlueEnvelopeisstraightforward yetimpactful Itinvolvesaspeciallydesignedenvelope thatholdsadriver'sessentialdocuments license, registration,andacontactcard However,its significancegoesbeyondjustastoragesolution The envelopefeaturescriticalcommunicationguidelineson itsexterior,specificallytailoredtoassistlawenforcement officersinrecognizingandadaptingtheirapproach wheninteractingwithadriverwhohasautism
THIS INITIATIVE ADDRESSES SEVERAL KEY OBJECTIVES:
Enhancing Understanding
Reducing Anxiety
Streamlining Communication
Encouraging Preparedness
The Blue Envelope is more than just an envelope; it's a symbol of our commitment to inclusivity and understanding. It represents a step forward in ensuring that every driver, regardless of their neurological differences, can experience a sense of safety and respect on the road.
Through this program, we aim to build bridges between law enforcement and the autism community, fostering a culture of awareness and compassion that benefits everyone involved.
For more information, visit: www.mass.gov/info-details/blue-envelope-program
ClinicalDrivingEvaluations,AdaptiveDrivingTraining, andReadinesstoDriveAssessments OwnedandoperatedbyOccupationalTherapists
Thegold-standard evaluationformedically complexand/orolder adultdrivers Evaluationsforthose lookingtodrivewith adaptiveequipmentsuch ashandcontrols,spinner knobs,andleftfoot accelerators.
forneurodiversenew drivers.
Fall Session Sept 1-Oct 25 Registration closed but contact them for future sessions
NortheastArc’sRecreationprogramgivesourclientstheopportunitytoengagewith peers and find events they will enjoy. Although you cannot attend recreation with your clients, this is a great resource to show them and to work on signing up for eventsduringyoursessions.
For more info and registration, visit https://tinyurl.com/nearc-rec
COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER
NortheastArc’s Community Resource Center connects individuals and familieswith valuable resourcesand events in theirlocal communities. By providing access to these resources, the Community Resource Center empowers families and individuals to actively participate in community life, creating a sense of belongingand inclusion.
DDS Northeast Region Community Resource Specialists
YourPoint ofContact
Kristy Aparo is the Director of GPS & CRC. She oversees the general operations of the GPS program and the Community Resource Center (CRC). You can reach out to Kristy if you have any questions about filing a DPPC or Mandated Reporting.
Matthew Ataya is the Program Director for the GPS program. He manages day to day operations of all GPS programs and is the supervisor for our Autism Coaches and College Navigators.
Vikki Kusumoto is the Staffing Coordinator for the GPS program. She assists with staffing our programs, onboarding new staff, and is the supervisor for our Community Support Coaches under In-home Supports, Agency with Choice, and MCB.
Andrew Hartigan is the Program Coordinator for the GPS program. He communicates with the clients and families that we support. If you are unable to reach Vikki or Matthew, Andrew will be your next point of contact.
Accessible Spaces
All Abilities Activities
Connecting individuals and families to their communities and creating a sense of belonging through events and resources.
The Importance of Knowing
Human Rights
Understanding your human rights is important. They ensure dignity, respect, and equal opportunities for all. By being aware of your rights can create an environment that encourages independence, personal growth, and full participation in community life. If you would like to learn more about your human rights, reach out to our Human Rights Officer, Andrew Hartigan.
Your Human Rights include:
Dignity: To be treated with respect, including respect for ethnic and cultural diversity.
Have Questions or Concerns?
Please contact our Human Rights Officer: Andrew Hartigan Program Coordinator
Guided Personal Supports (GPS) (978) 924 - 5872
ahartigan@ne-arc.org
Self-determination: To make meaningful choices and informed decisions about your life, including taking reasonable risks.
Communication: To communicate with others and fully express yourself, with access to necessary assistance and devices.
Relationships: To visit others, receive visitors, and have friendships and intimate relationships.
Privacy: In personal care, communication, visits, your home, and personal information.
Personal Safety: To feel safe and be free from harm or abuse.
Personal Property: To obtain, keep, use, and dispose of personal possessions.
Education, Employment, and Compensation: To have equal access to education and employment opportunities, and fair compensation for work.
Community Membership: To receive services that promote living in the least restrictive and most typical settings, encouraging meaningful community membership.
Important Links
ne-arc.org
