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GUIDED PERSONAL SUPPORTS SHAREPOINT

STAFF LINKS

NE-ARC 5K REGISTRATION

Staff Newsletter As we continue through August, we want to thank each of you for your hard work, dedication, and positive impact. Your commitment and teamwork help drive our success every day. Let’s keep the momentum going, embrace new opportunities, and continue achieving great things together. "Great achievements are the result of consistent effort, collaboration, and a shared commitment to success."

Team Updates

Tymra will be checking in on clients and families and Greg will be following up with staff in the next coming weeks If you haven’t yet, please review Vikki’s email for the staff survey

SURVEY HERE

Trainings CPR & First Aid Training

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CPR and First Aid trainings are currently available. If you have not yet signed up, please do so through the GPS Portal in SharePoint.

Gregory Balan Staffing Coordinator 978-924-5872 GBalan@NE-Arc.org

IMPORTANT STAFF INFORMATION AND REMINDERS IMPORTANT: To access your tax documents, go to: Click page Choose UltiPro Choose Pay U.S. Wage and Tax Documents 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. Please reach out to us to schedule your training.

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O T U U O T ! H S

We would like to recognize Jenney for her continued dedication and support of her client. During a recent client check-in, we received positive feedback about the meaningful impact she continues to make. Jenney consistently encourages her client to engage in community activities, explore new acitiving and experiences to build confidence while promoting independence, decisionmaking, and reasoning skills.

In addition, Jenney has been working diligently with her client on money management skills. Through consistent training, patience, and persistence, she has helped the client make measurable progress in this important area of independent living.

Thank you, Jenney, for your commitment, creativity, and unwavering support. Your personcentered approach empowers your client to grow, learn, and achieve greater independence every

Keep shining! Your hard work, encouragement, and commitment empower those around you and make a real difference every day.

day!

AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! Our Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (familyfriendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month.

BOX WITH RECREATION BOXING AT TITLE BOXING

The Northeast Arc Recreation Department runs on a fiscal year calendar starting July 1 and ending June 30. We run our programs in 6 different sessions throughout the fiscal year; all are open enrollment and offer new and exciting programs! Each session runs for 8 weeks at a time. Our schedule is below (approximate dates): Summer Session: July - August Session 1: August - October Session 2: October - December Session 3: January - February Session 4: February - April Session 5: April - June

Recreation Department Hours Monday - Thursday: 10am-6pm Friday: 12pm-8pm Saturday: 10am-2pm

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Program Type: Health and Wellness Occurrence: Weekly When: Tuesdays from 4:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Instructor(s): Dan Bernhardt Gender: Any Age Minimum: 16 years Age Maximum: Fees: $175

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NEW TITLE BOXING MEMBERS Boxing gloves and wraps must be purchased before attending class and are not included in the 8 week series cost. One can purchase this equipment at Title Boxing on the first day of class.

UNIVERSAL ACCESS PLAYGROUNDS IN NORTHEASTERN MASSACHUSETTS Inclusive,barrier-freespacesdesignedforallabilities,includingthosewithphysical,sensory, or developmental disabilities. NOTE: Playgrounds at schools are not available to the public during school hours.

Arlington Robbins Farm Park 61 Eastern Ave

Malden Beebe School 401 Pleasant Street

Beverly Pete’s Park 55 Middlebury Lane

Medford McGlynn Elementary 3002 Mystic Valley Pkwy

Touch the Sky Playground Children's Center for Communication/ Beverly School for the Deaf 6 Echo Ave

Peabody Ross Memorial Park 38 Johnson Street

Burlington Francis Wyman 41 Terrace Hall Avenue Cambridge Louis A. DePasquale Playground 99 Sherman Street Chelmsford Friendship Park Playground 270 Old Westford Road Concord Guild School 521 Virginia Road Lowell Hovey Park 266 Aiken Ave Durkin Park 294 Chelmsford Street

Brown Elementary School 150 Lynn Street Sudbury SMILE Playground 40 Fairbank Rd Waltham Universal Access Playground 200 Trapelo Road Westford Ronan Mcelligott Park Williams Road Woburn Ferrullo Park Main Street West Newbury Action Cove 15 Bachelor Street

Last Reviewed: 4/17/2026

https://tinyurl.com/NEUniversalPlaygrounds

July is National Ice Cream Month

August:

North Shore | Community Opportunities SALEM JAZZ AND SOUL FESTIVAL 2026 Saturday, August 15, 2026 10:45 AM 6:30 PM Enjoy a full day of free live music at the Salem Jazz & Soul Festival on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at historic Salem Willows Park. Featuring jazz, soul, funk, and blues artists, plus artisan vendors, family activities, and music education programs, this beloved waterfront festival celebrates community while supporting North Shore music education. Admission is free and open to all.

Cinderella Experience Cinderella on stage, performed by NSMT’s Summer Education Program students. This youth edition reimagines a classic with charm and humor!

Friday, August 21 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM 2:00 PM - 3:25 PM

North Shore Music Theatre 54 Dunham Road Beverly, MA

Lynch Park Carnival Date: Friday, August 7, 2026 Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Lynch Park 55 Ober Street, Beverly, MA, Classic family carnival with games, cotton candy, treats, face painting, dunk tank, and more. Open to the public; game tickets available on-site ($2 or $5 options).

Merrimack Valley | Community Opportunities SALISBURY BEACH FIREWORKS SHOW Saturday, August 8th & 22th 10:15 PM - 10:35 PM

It's time to gather with friends new and old for a night of good food, great conversation and cheesy goodness. Weather permitting, we will gather on the patio.

LAWRENCE FARMERS MARKET Saturdays Until October 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM

The Lawrence Farmers Market truly has something for everyone to get your Saturday morning snack fix. Fresh produce and baked goods were some of the first snacks sold at the Market. Here are just some of the snacks available now:

ASIAN MARKET AT ANDOVER MA Saturday August 8th, 2026 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Asian Market | Andover, MA Join at Central Park in Downtown Andover. Enjoy FREE admission, authentic Asian street food, handmade crafts, cultural performances, familyfriendly activities, and unique fashion and home décor vendors.

Salisbury Beach Fireworks Show

Metro North | Community Opportunities BOSTON FANEXPO AUGUST 7TH- 9TH, 2026 Friday 4 PM – 9 PM Saturday 10 AM – 7 PM Sunday 10 AM – 5 PM

FAN EXPO Boston brings together fans of comics, movies, gaming, and pop culture for an action-packed weekend. A major highlight this year is the appearance of Boston native Chris Evans, giving fans the chance to meet the Captain America star through autographs and photo ops WAKEFIELD FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays in August 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Wakefield Farmers Market celebrates its 18th season in 2026! We anticipate hosting 40 to 45 vendors each week including 4 local farmers, mushrooms, seafood, meat/poultry, dairy/cheese and a wide selection of other specialty foods, including locally produced baked goods, preserves, hot sauces, ice cream, beer & mead, spices, coffee, teas, global cuisine, vegan specialties, local artisans. music and so much more.

SENSORY-FRIENDLY OPEN BARNYARD AT WEIR RIVER FARM Sunday, August 16, 2026 11AM-12PM Families are invited to enjoy a quieter, sensory-friendly visit to the barnyard at Weir River Farm in Hingham. This special program offers reduced attendance, a calmer environment, and access to sheep, goats, rabbits, and other farm animals, along with sensory supports to help create a welcoming experience for all visitors. Pre-registration is required. 140 Turkey Hill Lane Hingham, MA 02043

Central Middlesex | Community Opportunities Perseid Meteor Shower Enjoy a night hike, campfire with s’mores, and stargazing away from city lights. An optional overnight tent stay is available, and conditions may allow for meteor shower viewing before 11:00 PM. Evening Admission (until 11:00 PM): $20 Overnight Stay (checkout by 10:00 AM): $40 Tent Rental (limited availability): $5

Saturday, August 15 6:15 PM Registration required

Farrington Nature Line 295 Cambridge Turnpike Lincoln, MA

ARLINGTON TINY SHED ARTS & DISCOVERY SERIES Every Sunday in August 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Come out and enjoy live music and family fun by the Bikeway in Arlington Center! Every weekend from May to October, you can discover music, art exhibits, pop-up arts and crafts workshops, lawn games, self-guided tour information, and more at the Visitor Center by Uncle Sam Plaza in Arlington Center. Every Sunday afternoon, we’ll feature a different local band.

SENSORY FRIENDLY DAYS DAVE AND BUSTERS IN WOBURN Every first and third Tuesday Enjoy a welcoming environment with the music turned down and the lights turned up, making it a perfect evening for everyone. Private FUNction Room will be available for you to sit, relax, and order food during the event! You can choose to pre-order power cards $25 Power Card with 135 chips + Unlimited Play Walk-ins welcome if you would prefer to not order anything in advance!

Lowell Area | Community Opportunities PUERTO RICAN FESTIVAL Saturday, August 8th, 2026 Sunday, August 9th , 2026

Lowell... get ready! The biggest celebration of Puerto Rican culture is almost here! Join us on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the JFK Civic Center in Lowell, Massachusetts, for the Lowell Puerto Rican Festival!

50 Arcand Drive Lowell, Massachusetts United States

DOWNTOWN LOWELL FARMER’S MARKET The Hive Public Market 45 Merrimack Street Lowell, MA United States

Every Sunday in August August 9th

2026

August 16th 2026 August 30th 2026

TREE HOUSE: CARS AND COFFEE Tree House Brewing Company 129 Sturbridge Rd, Charlton, MA 01507

Join fellow car enthusiasts at Tree House Brewing Company's Cars & Coffee on August 9, 2026, from 8 AM to 12 PM. Enjoy a morning of classic, exotic, and custom vehicles, great coffee, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Free admission and family-friendly.

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 North Shore

Metro North

Kerry Neenan kneenan@ne-arc.org Merrie Rothstein mrothstein@ne-arc.org

Resources Community Events Recreational Activities Support Groups Educational

Central Middlesex

Merrimack Valley

Holly Keane hkeane@ne-arc.org Amie Richards arichards@ne-arc.org

Workshops Social Opportunities Special Olympic Events

Looking for Community Events? Visit ecommunityconnections.org

Matthew Ataya Director of Community Resource Center

mataya@ne-arc.org

Northeast Arc’s Adult Autism Support Center assists adults with Autism ages 18 and older within the Northeast region, enabling them to flourish in their everyday lives. Our Center creates an environment that encourages personal growth, social inclusion, and self-advocacy. Northeast Region Areas & their Adult Autism Specialists

North Shore

Lenore Goodwin

lgoodwin@ne-arc.org

Metro North

RebeccaOloughlin

roloughlin@ne-arc.org

Merrimack Valley KathyCallahan&MaryEllenD’Angelo

kcallahan@ne-arc.org&medangelo@ne-arc.org

Central Middlesex Deanna Mansfield

dmansfield@ne-arc.org

Lowell Area

Laura Teckman

lteckman@ne-arc.org

Welcome to The Arc of Massachusetts Action Center Take Action

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.

Shepherd's Pie

Apple-Chicken Sald

Nachos

Banana Bread

MORE RECIPES

RECIPE CREATOR

RESOURCES

Webinars & Events Supporting Emotional Regulation in Kids: Providing a Foundation to Manage Big Emotions Date & Time Aug 10, 2026 01:00 PM Description Children aren’t born knowing how to manage emotions or express feelings in appropriate ways. And

when children don’t understand their emotions, challenging behavior can arise. This webinar will help you find ways to create healthy connections with kids, understand how to calm the child’s nervous system, and teach you skills to practice. Part 1 in a 3-part series.

Communicating Clearly Under Stress: Strategies for Tough Conversations Date & Time August 12, 2026 11:00 AM Description 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.

Attachment Styles: Tools for Emotional Safety, Communication, and Healthy Boundaries Date & Time Description

August 26, 2026 11:00 AM Learn practical skills to build safer, stronger connections in everyday life. Whether you are navigating relationships at home, in a caregiving role or in your personal life, this session teaches tools that help you reduce reactivity, set clear limits, repair misunderstandings, and communicate needs in ways that build trust. Discuss grounding strategies, self-awareness, and step-by-step communication practices that support healthier and more stable relationship patterns. Part 2 in a 3-part series.

Low Cost / No Cost Psychotherapy Resources If you are having a mental health crisis or need emergency assistance, dial 911 or contact local emergency services 7 Cups https://www.7cups.com/ 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://doctorondemand.com/ 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://etherapypro.com/ 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 ($160.00/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.

National Crisis Resources If you have a mental health crisis and need emergency assistance – call 911 Calling a mental health helpline can serve a variety of purposes, including: Support: Mental health crisis hotlines are set up to provide support during any crisis, guiding callers through suicidal thoughts, psychotic breaks, or manic episodes. If you are concerned about a family member or friend, calling a hotline can help you learn how to best help a loved one. Education: Helplines provide information about mental health and the effects that mental illness can have on people and their loved ones. Referrals: Hotlines can connect callers to treatment centers that are tailored to their individual needs. Treatment: Helplines can provide information about what to expect from mental health treatment providers and how treatment can help

Mental Health Helplines SAMHSA National Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) Disaster Distress 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 Or Text: “TalkWithUs” to 66746 Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) Veteran’s Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 YouthLine (Teen Crisis Line): 1-877-968-8491 Or Text: TEEN2TEEN to 839863 Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 ANAD Helpline (Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders): 1-888-375-7767

Additional Helplines

The Trevor Project (for LGBTQ+ Youth): 1-866-488-7386 Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender National Hotline 1-888-843-4564 National Institute on Drug Abuse Hotline: 1-800-662-4357 The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

LifeCourse Library

LifeCourse Framework Our Core Belief: All people have the right to live, love, work, play, and pursue their own life aspirations.

What is Charting the LifeCourse? Charting the LifeCourse IS: 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

Charting the LifeCourse IS NOT: 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

Introduction to the LifeCourse Framework 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.”

Quick Reference Tools for the Framework Download the LifeCourse Infographic

Download the Principles Overview

Download the LifeCourse Taxonomy

1st & 3rd Tuesdays of Every Month 6:30PM - 7:30PM

Join us on the last Tuesday of each month from 5:30pm-7:00pm for our Rainbow Group Meeting! P

CLICK HERE TO JOIN

The Most Comprehensive Career Exploration Program Available For Students with Disabilities

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.

LIVE MENTORSHIP

Mission 1: Self-Exploration Our video-based assessments guide students in creating their own Career DNA™, a unique 25-point "Career Needs Fingerprint" highlighting the results of 7 intuitive exercises

Mission 2: Career Exploration Students now explore and evaluate aligned careers to identify which ones excite them most. With support from their mentor, they then compare these careers point-by point to their Career DNA.

Mission 3: Soft Skills, Outreach, & Career Path Using our comprehensive toolkit and soft skills training from their Mentor, they connect with professionals and conduct informational interviews to learn what it's really like to work in the field.

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 Scan the QR code on Zoom

Meet new people Build community Social connection Promote health Well-being

Mondays 10am-12pm 1 Market St, Ste 203 Lynn, MA 01901

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.

Call today to learn more about about our training program! (978) 362-3891

WWW.ECOMMUNITYCONNECTIONS.ORG

Find: Free Events 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.

Your Human Rights include: Dignity: To be treated with respect, including respect for ethnic and cultural diversity.

Have Questions or Concerns? Please contact one of our Human Rights Officers: Jeffrey Boucher Assistive Technology Coordinator Family Supports (978) 924 - 5624 jboucher@ne-arc.org Amanda Spartichino ASC Coordinator Family Support ASC (978) 924- 5830 aspartichino@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