Staff Newsletter June 26th, 2026

Staff Newsletter

July 4th Edition

Dear GPS Staff

Wishing everyone a wonderful Independence Day! We hope you enjoy the holiday weekend with family and friends Thank you for your continued dedication and hard work We're proud of everything our team has accomplished this year and look forward to a fantastic second half ahead

Team Updates

Office Closure

The office will be closed on Friday, July 3rd in observance of Independence Day Normal operations resume Monday, July 6 , 2026 th

Payroll

Due to the holiday, payroll processing will be moved up one day Please be sure to have progress notes in and timesheets submitted as soon as possible The earlier the better, to optimize payroll processing Reminders will be sent via UKG when you punch in for sessions

Client Sessions

Please Continue to meet with clients regularly. Supervisors will be reaching out in the coming weeks for check-ins and updates

Upcoming Events

Free Mental Health First Aid Training

North Shore Pride Parade and Festival

NortheastArc Family Fun Fest

United in Ability Celebration

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Day

Yes We Can! Disability Pride Fair

Peer Support Network’s Empowerfest

Reminders

CPR & First Aid Training

CPR and First Aid trainings are currently available

If you have not yet signed up, please do so Progress Notes

Please remember to complete your progress notes in a timely manner.

These are required for payroll processing, so staying current is essential.

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.

We want to give a shoutout to Katie P for stepping in to facilitate our social group. Her time, effort, and dedication to coordinating meaningful and engaging activities truly made an impact. She went above and beyond to support FS26, and even now, as we begin the new fiscal year and Recreation takes over, Katie continues to coach and give her all to her clients.

Thank you as well to Andrea C and Alex B for the consistent time and dedication they brought to the social group week after week. Your commitment did not go unnoticed.

And a special thank you to Sarah R for always being willing to step in and support whenever needed we appreciate your flexibility and teamwork.

We truly have an amazing team. Because of all of you, the group was able to enjoy enriching activities while continuing to learn, connect, and grow th

Eachofyoubringssomethingessentialtotheworkwedo,andit showseverysingleday.Yourdedicationgoesfarbeyondkeeping thingsrunning itcreatesmeaningful,lastingimpact. Thegenuinecareandcompassionyoushowineveryinteraction speakvolumesandareattheheartofwhatmakesourteamso special.

Thankyouforthecommitment,empathy,andpassionyouput intoyourroles.Thedifferenceyoumakeisreal,anditisdeeply appreciated

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

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 Playground 200 Trapelo Road

Westford

Ronan Mcelligott Par Williams Road

Woburn Ferrullo Park Main Street

West Newbury Action Cove 15 Bachelor Street

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

*Registration required https://tinyurl com/mvawhmam

Thursday, July 16 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm th

Turning Points: The Disability Rights Movement Virtual on Zoom ��

https://tinyurl com/ybtuj575

Tuesday, July 21 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm

ADA Day Celebration st Lynn City Hall ♿ https://tinyurl com/ym5tnuxd

Saturday, July 25 10:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Disability Pride Celebration th Boston Museum of Science ♿

Cost = museum admission https://tinyurl com/4nsz6rrk

Yes We Can! Disability Pride Fair Methuen YMCA ♿ https://tinyurl com/pxf4kc28 th

Saturday, July 25 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Monday, July 27 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Disability Pride Month: Sensory Friendly Day

Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, Lincoln♿

https://tinyurl com/3xvtbmzu th

ADA Day Celebration st

Friday, July 31 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

Dunn State Park, Gardner ♿

*Registration required https://tinyurl com/4nxekmbc

Disability Pride Flag: Did you know?

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 High as they navigate friendship and first love while juggling academics and extra curricular activities After meeting Gabriella on a ski-trip karaoke night, basketball captain Troy is stunned to find she has transferred to his school

MARBLEHEAD FESTIVAL OF ARTS

July 1 - July 5 2026 st th

The July Festival hosts a wide range of art exhibits, outdoor music concerts overlooking Marblehead Harbor, Film Festival, Street Festival, Children’s Festival, Artisans Marketplace, and many other cultural activities designed to provide a fun and enriching experience for the entire family.

1 ANNUAL CHERRY FESTIVAL

Cider Hill Farm

Jul 03, 2026, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Cider Hill Farm, 45 Fern Ave Amesbury, MA 01913

Mark your calendar for all things Cherry! The event features free live music, outdoor hard cider bar, family-friendly activities, hayrides, food trucks, treats and PYO Cherry’s. Take farm photos and just relax with family and friends

Merrimack Valley | Community Opportunities

SUNDAY SUPPER CLUB: MARKET FRESH WITH LAURA IMHOFF OF ROOTS & SPOON

Sunday, July 19

5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

It'stimetogatherwithfriendsnewandoldfora nightofgoodfood,greatconversationand cheesygoodness.Weatherpermitting,wewill gatheronthepatio.

FLOW & GLOW MORNING: A WELLNESS RESET FOR MOMS

Saturday July 11 , 2026 th 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

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

FIREWORKS & BBQ AT BOSTON MARRIOTT LONG WHARF ON JULY 2ND

Thursday, July 2nd 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Get ready for a night of sizzling BBQ and dazzling fireworks to kick off your July celebrations!

Join Boston Marriott Long Wharf on July 2 for BBQ, drinks, and unbeatable Harborfest fireworks views on the Boston Harbor.

Free Friday Movies

Every Friday in July 3:00 PM—4:45 PM

Central Middlesex | Community Opportunities

MOVIE MONDAYS AT THE Z

684 PURCHASE ST

NEW BEDFORD, MA 02740

Every Sunday/Monday in July

7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

JoinusinNewBedfordforMovie Sunday/MondayNight arelaxedandfun waytounwind,connect,andenjoyagreat filmtogether!Grabsomesnacks,bringa friend,andsettleinforanightof entertainment,laughs,andcommunity.We’d lovetoseeyouthere!

FIESTA SHOWS LEXINGTON CARNIVAL

July 1 - July 5 st th

Hastings Park Lexington, MA 02421

July 1 (Wednesday) : 6pm to close

July 2 (Thursday): 6pm to close

July 3 (Friday): 1pm to close

July 4 (Saturday): 1pm to close

July 5 (Sunday) : 1pm to 6pm

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

4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Saturday

July1st 6:00PM-9:15PM

JoinonJuly4,2026,foraneveningfilledwithfestiveactivities, entertainment,andaspectacularfireworksdisplay–with addedfunforLowell’sBicentennialcelebrations!

LiveMusic Activities -Mike&Mike -FacePainting -TeeandtheGents -CirqueDeLight -BubblesMcGee

DOWNTOWN LOWELL FARMER’S MARKET

TheHivePublicMarket 45MerrimackStreet Lowell,MAUnitedStates

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!

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

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

Laura Teckman lteckman@ne-arc org

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

Webinars & Events

Aging & Mental Health: Understanding Emotional Well-Being, Connection, and Support in Later Life

Date & Time Description

Jul 1, 2026 11:00 AM

Agingbringsmeaningfulstrengths—wisdom,perspective,andresilience—butitcanalsointroduce emotionalchallengesthatareoftenmisunderstoodoroverlooked.Explorehowmentalhealth changesacrossthelifespan,howaging-relatedtransitionscanaffectemotionalwell-being,andhow individuals,families,andcommunitiescanrespondwithawareness,compassion,andpractical support.Participantswilllearnhowmentalhealthconditionsmaylookdifferentinolderadults,why concernssuchasdepression,anxiety,loneliness,andgriefarefrequentlyunder-recognized,andhow physicalhealth,socialconnection,andgenerationalattitudesallinfluenceemotionalwell-being

Setting Healthy Boundaries in Relationships

Date & Time Description

Jul 15, 2026 01:00 PM

Maintainingabalancebetweencaringforlovedonesandsettinghealthyboundariesforyourselfcan bechallenging.Learnhowtoexpressyourownneedswithoutguilt,strikeahealthybalancebetween caregivingandself-care,andtipsfornegotiatingcompromiseswithalicensedtherapist.

Understanding Anxiety

Date & Time

Description

Jul 22, 2026 01:00 PM

Occasionalanxietyisanexpectedpartoflife,butanxietydisordersinvolvemorethantemporary worry.Learnwhatcausesanxietydisordersandthetypesofanxiety,theirsymptoms,common misconceptions,andhowrelationshipsareimpacted.Discussco-occurringdisorders,treatment options,andlearnpracticaltipsformanagingsymptomsandhelpingotherswithalicensedtherapist.

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.

TheMostComprehensiveCareer ExplorationProgramAvailableFor StudentswithDisabilities

Mission1:Self-Exploration

L I V E M E N T O R S H I P

Mission2:CareerExploration

Ourvideo-basedassessments guidestudentsincreating theirownCareerDNA™,a unique25-point"Career NeedsFingerprint" highlightingtheresultsof7 intuitiveexercises Studentsnowexploreand evaluatealignedcareersto identifywhichonesexcitethem most Withsupportfromtheir mentor,theythencompare thesecareerspoint-bypoint totheirCareerDNA.

Mission3:SoftSkills, Outreach,&CareerPath

Usingourcomprehensive toolkitandsoftskillstraining fromtheirMentor,they connectwithprofessionalsand conductinformational interviewstolearnwhatit's reallyliketoworkinthefield.

Peer support

You are not alone!

Come join us for a peer led support group.

Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 2 pm to 3 pm

Scan the QR code or Click here to join

GRATEFUL ASPECTS

young adults peer support group

Mondays 3pm-4pm on Zoom

Scan the QR code Meet

ASD Adaptive Training Program

Our fitness professionals follow a comprehensive gym program designed to create a safe and beneficial training environment for individuals with ASD.

Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the Gym Setting

Understanding the challenges ad considerations specific to individuals with ASD in a gym environment

Adaptive Exercise Techniques

Learning how to modify exercises and workouts to accommodate the sensory and motor needs of individuals with ASD

Visual Supports and Communication Strategies

Implementing visual schedules, social stories, and other communication tools to enhance understanding and participation

Sensory-Friendly Environment

Creating a sensory-friendly gym space by managing noise levels, lighting, and providing sensory tools

Behavior Management in the Gym

Utilizing positive reinforcement strategies and behavior management techniques to promote positive behaviors

Individualized Fitness Plans

Developing personalized fitness plans based on the individual’s strengths, interests, and goals.

Supportive Coaching and Inclusive Practices

Training coaches and staff on inclusive practices and effective communication to provide a supportive and welcoming environment

Collaboration with Families and Caregivers

Engaging families and caregivers in the gym program to ensure continuity of support and progress monitoring.

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.

Important Links

ne-arc.org