As we welcome the spring- we also want to welcome our newest addition to the GPS team, Staffing Coordinator, Gregory Balan! We are excited to have Gregory joining us in our mission to help our clients achieve whatever it is they can dream of! Gregory will also be there to help provide wonderful support to you, our amazing staff!
Happy Spring!!
"Spring: a lovely reminder of how beautiful change can truly be." – Unknown.
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.
We would like to give a shout out to Community Support Coach, Patsy M, for the wonderful way she supports her client. Patsy and her client have stopped into our offices to say hello and I could see how much her client truly enjoys working with her. Patsy always puts her client first and treats her with the utmost respect while trying to facilitate a variety of activities for her client to engage in. She is a wonderful advocate and continues to help her client pursue whatever interests they have. Thank you, Patsy, for always trying to make your clients life the best it can be!
We recognize that you are all doing amazing work that is so meaningful to the clients you serve. Thank you, everyone, for all you do!
SUNDAY, MARCH 15 | 8:00–10:00 A.M.
Join us for special sensory-friendly hours at the Aquarium!
Spend a morning at the Aquarium in a welcoming environment for those with sensory needs. During the event, guests will enjoy reduced noise levels, additional quiet spaces, sensory bags from KultureCity available for checkout, and more. Plus, take in a quieter and brighter movie screening at the Simons Theatre at 10:00 a.m.
Scan or click here for more information and tickets.
$20 for adults
$15 for children
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!
Spring is here and the perfect time to encourage our clients to enjoy the outdoors. Please remember to take precautions to keep yourselves and clients safe and healthy.
Wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts.
Tuck your pants into your socks.
Use EPA-approved insect repellents *CLIENTS SHOULD USE THEIR OWN AND BE AWARE OF ALLERGIES AND/OR SKIN SENSITIVITIES.
Avoid heavily wooded areas, tall grass, and leaf litter.
Check yourself and encourage clients to check themselves after spending time outdoors.
Click the Tick to see a video on how to use duct tape to further aid in tick bite prevention!
There are many mental and physical health benefits to enjoying the great outdoors.
Fresh air and natural surroundings provide:
Mental refreshment and reduce stress
increased physical activity
Opportunities for social interactions in new settings
Sensory experiences that can be both calming and stimulating
Even short outdoor activities can be great motivators, creating positive momentum that extends to other areas of their lives.
Free Sat, Mar 7 14 , 21 , 28 th, th st th 2:45 - 3:30pm
MarchisWomen’sHistoryMonth,andtocelebrate, weareofferingourWomen’sHistoryTour!Fromthe Indigenouswomenwhoworkedthelandtoour organization’sfounder,womenhavealwaysbeena partoftheTurner-IngersollMansion’shistory,butnot alwaysgiventhespotlighttheydeserve TheHouseof theSevenGableshascreatedaWomen’sHistoryTour tofocus,in-depth,onthemanywomenwhohavelived andlaboredintheMansion.Thiseventisfree,but registrationisrequired.
WOMEN’S HISTORY TOUR HOUSE OF SEVEN GABLES, SALEM HOME & LIFESTYLE EXPO 2026
GROW SPRING EXPO TOPSFIELD FAIRGROUNDS
Sat, Apr 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM
Acelebrationofagriculture,horticulture, conservationandpreservation.Vendors andExhibitors-Livestock-FoodTrucks -Funforallages!
Sat Mar 28th 10am - 3pm
Extensive home show exhibitors, health screenings, and local business, and community, and business networking
BOWLING WEDNESDAYS (AGES 18+)
AMESBURY, MA
REGISTRATIONREQUIRED
TheArcofGreaterHaverhill-Newburyport hostbowlingeventsatGametimeLanes& EntertainmentinAmesbury,MA.Visitthelink andreviewtheavailableslots.
Price:$15.00each
Most Wednesdays 4:30-6:00 PM Wednesday, March 25th 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
GAME NIGHT
HAVERHILL PUBLIC LIBRARY
Every Thursday in March 5:30 - 8:30 PM
JoinusThursdaysforanightofboardgamesat HaverhillPublicLibrary!Strategygames,abstractgames, fillergames,complexandnoncomplexalike,comeand tryoutwhateveryoulike.Feelfreetobringyourown games!Allexperiencelevelsarewelcome
Celebrate the season with a touch of creativity! Join us for a charming paint event where you can relax, enjoy snacks, and let your artistic spirit soar Let’s paint and cherish the moments!
Registration
COLORING CLUB
LYNNFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Every Wednesday 6PM - 8PM
Coloringhasproventohelpadultsandteensrelax andunwind!JoinusattheLibraryonWednesday eveningsanytimebetween6-8pmforcoloringclub
Coloringpages,coloringbookmarksandcolored pencilswillbeavailableatthemainCirculationDesk Can'tstay?Noproblem,grabyourbookmarkor coloringsheetandtakeithome.
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.
GAMING CLUB
PARLIN MEMORIAL LIBRARY, EVERETT
Every Thursday
3:00 - 4:00PM
BoardandvideogamegrouphostedatParlin MemorialLibraryforallages.Noregisration necessary.
SPRING FAIR BURLINGTON HIGH SCHOOL CAFETERIA
Sat, Apr18th 10:00AM-3:00PM
Theeventwilloffer60ofthemosttalented vendorsinthearea!
FreeAdmission
Shopourvendors
50+tablePrizes
50/50Raffle
ANNUAL SPRING FLING CRAFT FAIR KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS WILMINGTON
Sat, Mar 28th 11 - 3pm
8thAnnualSpringFlingFair.Over30local vendorsandcrafters.Eastertreatsforthekids whilesupplieslast.
Tuesdays 2pm-4pm
Find Joy in Self-Expression FREE Weekly art program designed specifically Free.
BREATHE TOGETHER. HEAL TOGETHER CHELMSFORD CENTER FOR THE ARTS
TheChelmsfordHealthDepartmentisproudto offerBreatheTogether.HealTogether,afree, inclusivemeditationseriescreatedtosupport healing,connection,andwell-beingwithinour community Sessionsareappropriateforall experiencelevels,includingthosewhoarenewto meditation Nopriorexperience,special equipment,orphysicalabilityisrequired.
Every Wednesday in Mar 4pPM - 5PM Sat, Mar 21st 11AM - 1PM
The Lowell Community Mosaic design was inspired by ideas submitted by residents who shared stories, memories, landmarks, and symbols that represent the city Now the community is invited to help bring that design to life During the event, participants can work alongside the mosaic artist and place tiles directly into the mosaic design. No experience is needed and all materials will be provided
BINGO CLUB
TEWKSBURY PUBLIC LIBRARY
Thur, Mar 26th 10:15 - 11:30 AM
Enjoyamorningofbingointhisfun,lowstakesatmosphere Winnerswillreceivesmall prizes AllBingosupplieswillbeprovided Lightrefreshmentswillbeserved
Freeevent-Uselinkbelowtoregister
RegistrationLink
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.
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.
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.
Family caregivers are overwhelmed managing care with outdated tools and siloed information. Fragmented care leads to burnout, unmanaged burden, and dangerous gaps.
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.
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.
DocumentParsingFuelsData DataCollectionandAnalytics
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.
Add Members to collaborate, share on-demand data, customized for every situation and person involved in care.
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 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 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 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.
Date & Time
Description
Mar 24, 2026 01:00 PM
LGBTQIA+ adults are three times more likely to experience a mental health disorder than people who identify as straight. Discuss what factors impact this statistic, how to find supportive professionals, ways of coping, and how to be a true ally in this one-hour seminar with a licensed therapist.
Date & Time
Description
Apr 2, 2026 11:00 AM
Hoarding disorder is a complex mental health condition rooted in anxiety, distorted thinking, and difficulty making decisions. Explore why letting go can feel overwhelming, how hoarding affects safety and relationships, and what effective treatment involves. We’ll also cover animal hoarding and its unique challenges Participants will learn the key signs of hoarding disorder in easy-to-understand terms & discuss ways for loved ones to support without making things worse. Gain a clearer, more compassionate understanding of hoarding disorder – and practical insights to help reduce frustration & promote safety.
Date & Time
Description
Apr 7, 2026 01:00 PM
Creating and maintaining healthy boundaries can be a challenging task. Some people grew up in environments where setting boundaries was not emphasized or valued, resulting in struggles to establish boundaries in adulthood. Fear of conflict, a tendency to prioritize others' approval, or past experiences of invalidation or disrespect can also contribute to difficulties in setting and maintaining boundaries. Discuss the role of boundaries in relationships and learn how to implement healthy boundaries 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
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
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 ”
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.
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
young adults peer support group
Mondays 3pm-4pm on Zoom
Scan the QR code Meet
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.
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.
Accessible Spaces
All Abilities Activities
Connecting individuals and families to their communities and creating a sense of belonging through events and resources.
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 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.
