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.
Shout out to Ada S., one of our Autism Coaches!
Ada has stepped into her coaching role with professionalism, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for helping her clients achieve their goals. She approaches each new client with warmth, patience, and an open mind, creating a supportive environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and understood. Ada's experience and dedication shine through in every interaction, helping clients build trust and confidence in her guidance. Her ability to foster meaningful connections, while encouraging growth and independence, has made a positive impact on the people she supports. We are grateful for the compassion, commitment, and energy she brings to her role every 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 IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Gender: Any
Age Minimum: 16 years
Age Maximum: -
Fees: $175
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
Beverly Pete’s Park
55 Middlebury Lane
Touch the Sky Playground
Children's Center for Communication/
Beverly School for the Deaf
6 Echo Ave
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
Last Reviewed: 4/17/2026
Malden
Beebe School
401 Pleasant Street
Medford
McGlynn Elementary
3002 Mystic Valley Pkwy
Peabody
Ross Memorial Park
38 Johnson Street
Brown Elementary School
150 Lynn Street
Sudbury
SMILE Playground
40 Fairbank Rd
Waltham
Universal Access Pla d 200 Trapelo Road
Westford
Ronan Mcelligott Pa Williams Road
Woburn Ferrullo Park Main Street
West Newbury Action Cove 15 Bachelor Street
July is National Ice Cream Month
July is National Ice Cream Month
July is National Ice Cream Month
DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH
JULY 2026 EVENTS
This list, compiled by theNortheastArcCommunityResource Center, includes events open to the public All events are free unless otherwise noted It is recommended you check listed websites for weather-related updates and other event details
Saturday, July 11 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
United in Ability Celebration th Chelsea Square ♿ (Rain: 180 Walnut St, Chelsea) https://tinyurl com/48vt4k9d
Tuesday, July 14 11:30am-5:30pm th
Plaza Open Market: Disability Pride Celebration 1 Oxford Street, Cambridge♿ https://tinyurl com/HUDisabilityPride26
Wednesday, July 15 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Day Copley Square Park ♿ th 560 Boylston St , Boston
Thediagonalcolorson the Disability PrideFlagsymbolize disabled people’s need to navigate society’s barriers
Each color represents the following:
Green - Sensory disabilities (blindness, dea
Blue - Psychiatric and mental health disabi
White - Nonapparent and undiagnosed dis
Yellow - Intellectual disabilities and neurod
Red - Physical disabilities
Black - Mourning and rage for victims of ab
Why & How Do We Celebrate Disability Pride Month?
https://tinyurl.com/4mk4bvwk
North Shore | Community Opportunities
Meadowbrook Restaurant
Hanson, MA
54 Dunham Road, Beverly, MA 01915
Thursday, July 23, 2026 • 6pm Friday, July 24, 2026 • 10am & 3pm
All Seats: $20
Disney Channel original movie to life on stage. Follow Troy, Gabriella, and the students of East Hi h th navigate friendship and first love whi academics and extra curricular activities Aft Gabriella on a ski-trip karaoke night, basket Troy is stunned to find she has transferred to
SALEM SUMMER JAM
July 26
12:00 pm - 9:00 p.m.
The event features live music and cultural performances, interactive youth activities, family-friendly games, local food vendors, and community resource tables. At its core, Salem Summer Jam is more than entertainment it is a platform for connection and opportunity. The festival intentionally uplifts underserved communities by centering programming around autism-inclusive family spaces, youth development and workforce readiness, and veteran support and recognition.
BLUEBERRY & FLOWER FESTIVAL
Cider Hill Farm
Jul 25, 2026
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Cider Hill Farm, 45 Fern Ave Amesbury, MA 01913
Mark your calendars for Cider Hill's celebration of all things berries and blooms! The multi-weekend event will feature free live music, hard cider bars, familyfriendly activities, hayrides, food truck, blueberry treats, pop-ups & cut-your-own flowers!
Merrimack Valley | Community Opportunities
SUNDAY SUPPER CLUB: MARKET FRESH WITH LAURA IMHOFF OF ROOTS & SPOON
StartyourdayfreshwithFlow&GlowMorning – yoga, good vibes, and radiant energy in person!
Flow & Glow Morning is created for moms who are constantly giving to everyone else anddeserveafewhoursthatarefullytheirs.
Saturday July 25th, 2026
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM YANKEE HOMECOMING
The Yankee Homecoming Kick-Off Party is a waterfront fundraiser held along the Merrimack River to celebrate the start of the festivities, with all proceeds supporting the Yankee Homecoming fireworks.
Metro North | Community Opportunities
VIRTUAL YOGA
LYNNFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Every Thursday 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Zoom
This is a 60 minute yoga class with our instructor Michelle Powers Register with a valid email at least an hour prior to class start time to receive the link to join the class. You will receive an email with login information a half hour before the class begins
WAKEFIELD FARMERS MARKET
Saturdays in July 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.
Free Friday Movies
Every Friday in July 3:00 PM—4:45 PM
Central Middlesex | Community Opportunities
CONCERTS ON THE COMMON
LOCATION: TOWN COMMON NEAR THE INTERSECTION OF MIDDLESEX AVENUE AND CHURCH
Every Sunday in July July 7 2026 th July 14 2026 th July 21 2026 st July 28 2026 th
TRIVIA NIGHT & MUSICAL BINGO
Every Wednesday
Warp and Weft
197 Market St, Lowell, MA 01852, USA
Join for a fun and exciting multi-media
Trivia Night! Games start at 7! followed by musical Bingo!
The Pottery Mill 47 Lee St, Lowell, MA 01852, USA Lowell, Massachusetts United States
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.
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
Lowell Area Contact Us: AdultAutism@ne-arc.org or (978) 624 - 2603
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.
MORE RECIPES RECIPE CREATOR RESOURCES
Chocolate dipped Marshmallows
Fried Rice
Vegetable Soup
Five-Spice Chicken
Webinars & Events
Aging & Mental Health: Understanding Emotional Well-Being, Connection, and Support in Later Life
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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
Your Human Rights include:
Dignity: To be treated with respect, including respect for ethnic and cultural diversity.
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.
