As the days get a little brighter, we’re celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month by lifting up the strengths, voices, and choices of adults with disabilities and the families and supporters who stand alongside them. In this issue, you’ll find easy-to-join programs and social events, practical skillbuilding opportunities (from cooking and wellness), and resources that support independence, belonging, and self-advocacy. Accessibility is at the heart of everything we do—tell us what you need and we’ll do our best to provide it. Thank you for being part of a welcoming community where everyone is seen, heard, and included.
Sincerely,
Andrew Hartigan
Safety During Snow, Ice, and Severe Weather for
older people and people with disabilities
During the winter, extreme weather can roll in at any time and it’s especially dangerous for older people or people with disabilities. Older or disabled people may have a harder time getting around in the snow, sleet, and ice. That means we might not have the food, medicine, or basics we need to be safe. But we can all take action by remembering: prepare, be aware, take care.
Prepare
The most important thing to remember is to have a three-day supply of:
Other items to prepare are:
• • • Rock salt or sand Snow shovels Dry, seasoned wood for a fireplace or stove
Be Aware
• • • Adequate clothing and blankets A communications plan with family or a caregiver NOAA Weather Radio
Be aware of the signs that a neighbor or family member might need assistance.
• • Pets left out all night to bark No lights on at night, which could mean a loss of power
Take care
• • Mail overflowing out of the mailbox Not picking up the phone
Safety means we all need to take care of one another and do our best to take care of ourselves.
Your own safety: Others’ safety
Minimize travel
Replace cane
tip
Wear shoes with good traction and take shoes off as soon as you get inside.
Offer to get someone’s groceries Shovel someone’s walk way
In a non-emergency, situation call the Aging, Disability Resource Connection at 503.988.3646 or email adrc@multco.us. We’re available 24/7 and can provide connections to transportation, case management, and other necessary services.
Offer to walk a pet
We recognize that some of you may be facing the loss of Snap benefits, or may know someone who is.
Please click HERE to find a food pantry in your area.
You can also reach out to your local Community Resource Specialist for more information, assistance in your area, and ways to help. Their contact information is provided on the next page.
Home Energy Assistance for the Northeast Region
The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps with heating costs from November 1st through April 30th each year. Applications are reviewed on a first come first serve basis. Assistance is based on income, limits by family size are listed below. Complete information about the application process, how to schedule an appointment, and required documents are listed on each agency’s website below.
Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD)
https://bostonabcd.org/service/fuel-assistance/ Towns covered: Everett, Malden, Medford, Melrose, and Stoneham.
*Other local resources might be available to help with utilities Look up resources by town here: https://mass211.org/utility-assistance
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
Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services
Supporting Autistic Individuals with Complex Mental Health Needs
with guest presenter Dr. Sara Rodrigues of the Balanced Learning Center
Enhance your team’s capacity todeliver compassionate, person-centered carethrough thisfour-part virtual training series Each interactive, two-hour session combines practical education, reflection, and real-world strategies to support autistic individuals and others with complex mental health needs
Participants will learn to distinguish crisis presentations, apply neurodiversity-affirming interventions, strengthen cross-system collaboration, and ground their work in strengths-based, trauma-informed frameworks.
Led by Dr Sara Rodrigues, DSW, LICSW, Founder and Executive Director of the Balanced Learning Center, this series equips professionals to build knowledge, deepen partnerships, and transform care
Differentiate between sensory overload, autistic shutdowns, and psychiatric crises while applying neuro-affirming de-escalation and regulation strategies
Reinforce recovery-oriented, person-centered care that highlights resilience, peer support, and lived experience
Dr. Sara Rodrigues, LICSW
Sara (she, her,hers) istheExecutive Director of Balanced Learning Center. She earned her DSW from Simmons University She has 20 years of experience working with children and families in outpatient clinics,private schools, community mental health, home-based treatment programs and residential facilities The principles of wraparound are a major component of her work asshebelieves that families are the experts on their own experiences, strengths andneeds
North Shore | Community Opportunities
HOW TO VOLUNTEER WITH BACKYARD GROWERS IN YOUR COMMUNITY SAWYER FREE LIBRARY, GLOUCESTER
Spring shopping from over 30 local vendors and crafters. Annual Spring Craft Fair featuring amazing local crafters and artists Spring decorations, jewelry, candles, and more
Metro North | Community Opportunities
OPEN HOUSE: CHINESE LION DANCE | TRADITIONAL MARTIAL ARTS
Sun, Mar 8th 3:30PM - 4:30PM
Experience the energy, rhythm, and tradition of Chinese Lion Dance, rooted in traditional martial arts! This fun, interactive class introduces participants to basic lion dance movements, coordination, and martial-arts-inspired techniques perfect for beginners and curious learners of all ages
There are acoustic components for those who prefer music.
CHESS CLUB DROP-IN. GLASS OFFICE, STONEHAM LIBRARY
Every Thursday in March 7PM-8PM
This drop-in program is for anyone looking to play chess with others. There will not be a staff member leading the meeting. Meetings will take place at 7pm on every Thursday of the month in the Marcy Room. While some chess boards will be provided, players are also encouraged to bring their own boards.
Wind Ensemble Concerto Competition Concert Moloney Performing Arts Center, Lowell
Thurs. March 5th 8PM-10pm
. The concert will feature the winning soloists of the Annual Wind Ensemble Concerto Competition Michael Hood-Dowd, performing Concerto for Trumpet by Alexander Arutiunian
Eleplan is an AI-powered care planning platform transforming the caregiver experience. Inspired by lived caregiving realities, Eleplan transforms care from fragmented and stressful to organized and peaceful, giving families time with their loved ones, not just coordinating their care.
CompetitiveAdvantage
Eleplanis themost secureAIcaregiving platform, exceeding HIPAA requirements with zero LLM data retention. Its user-led design, real-time collaboration, and tailored data extraction differentiate it from generic notes apps or rigid care platforms.
PROBLEM
Family caregivers are overwhelmed managing care with outdated tools and siloed information. Fragmented care leads to burnout, unmanaged burden, and dangerous gaps.
KnowledgeBase
SOLUTION
Eleplan’s AI creates personalized, shareable care plans from user documents and data, streamlining everything from medications to routines, enabling seamless collaboration and peace of mind.
MARKET SIZE
The U.S. caregiving market exceeds $648B annually. Eleplan targets the 53M U.S. family caregivers. B2B expansion includes health plans and community agencies that support families.
Meet Elllie: Your personal care search engine will generate the most relevant and trusted answers to help you navigate care with confidence.
Upload documents and let us do the rest. No more searching endlessly through piles of paper. Eleplan provides searchable data points for care.
Eleplan collects data at the most granular level to make inferences regarding next steps necessary in your planning journey.
Collaborate,CustomizeandShare
Add Members to collaborate, share on-demand data, customized for every situation and person involved in care.
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:
Check out these recipes by clicking the images below.
MORE RECIPES RECIPE CREATOR RESOURCES
Banana Bread in a Mug
Chili Cheese Dip Bacon and Egg Quiche
Tuna Melt
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.
Webinars & Events
Understanding Loneliness and Making Social Connections
Date & Time
Description
Feb3,202601:00PM
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 with a licensed therapist.
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.
Webinars & Events
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Date & Time
Description
Feb 17, 2026 01:00 PM
Everyone experiences ups and downs, but bipolar disorder is different. An accessible guide to understanding the types of bipolar disorder, their symptoms, common misconceptions, and how relationships are impacted. Discuss treatment options and learn practical tips for managing symptoms and helping others in this one-hour seminar with a licensed therapist.
Communicating Clearly Under Stress: Strategies for Tough Conversations
Date & Time
Description
Feb 18, 2026 11:00 AM
When stress rises, communication often becomes challenging people speak faster, listen less, and react more strongly than intended. In this course, you’ll discover how stress impacts communication and learn practical strategies to express yourself clearly, even when emotions are intense. This isn’t about avoiding difficult conversations; it’s about approaching them with confidence, making them safer and more productive for everyone involved.
Self-Care and Workplace Wellness
Date & Time
Description
Feb 26, 2026 11:00 AM
People who incorporate self-care throughout their day are more resilient and better equipped to manage stress, leading to happier and more productive teams. Learn ways to introduce self-care into your work life, communicate boundaries, and cope with demanding schedules in this one-hour seminar 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
Berklee Music Lessons Program for Adults with Autism
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.
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+.
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.
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.
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
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
YourPoint ofContact
Matthew Ataya is the Director of GPS & CRC. He oversees the general operations of the GPS program and the Community Resource Center (CRC). You can reach out to Matthew if you have any questions about filing a DPPC or Mandated Reporting.
Vikki Kusumoto is the Program Director for the GPS program. She manages day to day operations of all GPS programs and is the supervisor for our Autism Coaches and College Navigators.
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.
Sara Callahan is Staffing Coordinator for the GPS program 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.
Staffing Coordinator
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.
