Advocate Summer 2014
Government Affairs Update By Barbara L’Italien, Director of Government Affairs The Arc has been busy this spring FY 2015 Budget Update, term residential services through and early summer with both the now being negotiated in CH257 – the first such rate increase Fiscal Year 2015 budget and a Conference Committee: in close to thirty years. Transporta- number of pieces of The Arc’s prior- tion also received an increase over The recently completed House and ity legislation still being considered. last year. The DESE/DDS program Senate budgets made significant Since this is an election year, both and Turning 22 were level funded investments in services for people the state budget and all legislation from last year and there was a with intellectual and developmen- that requires a roll-call vote (which slight increase in the Autism tal disabilities who receive services is all policy) needs to be finished by Services line item. from the Department of Devel- July 31st to proceed forward this opmental Services (DDS). Most The House budget included a year. As we go to print for this sum- notable was the investment to fund $2.5M increase over last year for mer issue, this is where we stand: increases in the rate paid for long continued on page 9
All Aboard The Arc! sails into Boston bers, staff, friends, Inside this issue... and corporate and Article Page agency represen- Statewide Transition Conference...3 tatives together HealthMeet...... 8 for a rally and Government Affairs...... 9 celebration of the abilities of people Operation House Call...... 15 with disabilities. The Friendship Corner...... 16 News from the Chapters...... 18 The primary goal of the event is to increase public Part of the large crowd that gathered on Boston Common awareness for More than 400 people from across people with I/DD and the work Massachusetts gathered in bright of The Arc in Massachusetts. As sunshine on Boston Common in past years, many of the partici- on May 7 for the 4th annual All pants raised pledges to support Aboard The Arc! This festive event the work of The Arc. brings self-advocates, family mem- continued on page 4
Achieve with us. Published by In Memoriam: Maria McTernan
We celebrate the life and mourn the passing of Maria T. McTernan, longtime Director of Development at the Charles River Center, who passed away on May 3 217 South Street, Waltham, MA 02453 after a long illness. She is survived by her (781) 891-6270 • www.arcmass.org husband of 34 years, Gerald J. McTernan, Leo V. Sarkissian and three children, John, Julie and Lori. Editor John Grugan, President of The Charles Judy Zacek Associate Editor River Center, wrote that “From the day Maria began her work as Director of De- Beth Rutledge Production Coordinator velopment at The Charles River Center, Maria T. McTernan Carol Daly she brought a level of passion, commit- Layout and Design ment and determination that made Charles River a better place for both those we serve and the staff that work so tirelessly to brighten the lives of The Arc of Massachusetts people with developmental disabilities.” He attributed her enormous suc- Board of Directors cess in fundraising to the fact that “people saw her as someone who gave Officers back more than she took. They realized that their generosity was rewarded Daniel Sullivan President with sincere gratitude, genuine warmth and appreciation that their support Tracy Atkinson was important to the lives of the people we help.” Vice President In addition to her work at Charles River, Maria was deeply involved with Deborah Norton the Rett Syndrome Association of Massachusetts (RSAM), most recently Treasurer serving as co-president. Her close friend and RSAM officer, Irene Gladstone, Kathy Ricciardi Secretary recalled that Maria was responsible for the organization’s involvement in the Boston Marathon, which culminated in raising over $180,000 for Frank Sally Immediate Past President Rett research this year. “We benefitted from her qualities of being reliable, caring, personable, level-headed, efficient and so much more. Family and Directors Justin Bernard Susan Lodemore friends have suffered a great loss.” Martin Courage Seth P. Lopes In addition to her work at The Charles River Center and her volunteer activ- Jim Buss Geoffrey Misilo Katherine Craven Sean Morrissey ism with the Rett Syndrome Association of Massachusetts, Maria served Tim Evans Renald Raphael for several years on The Arc of Massachusetts Distinguished Citizen Awards Adam Hill Kathy Ricciardi Robert A. Hill Janet Rico Committee. In this Judi Kotanchik Peter Tallas role she reviewed Martha Ziegler nominations and Specialized Housing, Inc. Joe Andrade, Director Emeritus Florence Finkel, Director Emeritus helped in the Working with families to create innovative independent living opportunities since 1983 – The Arc of Massachusetts Staff selection of those home ownership and supported apartments. Leo V. Sarkissian being recognized Executive Director for their efforts Barbara L’Italien in enhancing the Director of Government Affairs lives of people
Brenda Asis with intellectual Specialized Housing, Inc. tel (617) 277-1805 Director of Development and developmen- 45 Bartlett Crescent fax (617) 277-0106 Brookline, MA 02446-2220 www.specializedhousing.org Christopher Jenkins tal disabilities. Financial Officer
2 The Arc of Massachusetts Statewide Transition Conference for Parents
The Arc of Massachusetts, with as- • Keynote presentation by JoAnn shop preference for each session sistance from The Arc of the US and Simons, President/CEO of the when you register. the Walmart Foundation, will host a Cardinal Cushing Centers of • A “Technology Playground” statewide conference on Transition Massachusetts. Ms. Simons is the will be available all day, staffed from School to Adult Life: Creat- author of “The Down Syndrome by experts who will share their ing a Vision for the Future on Transition Handbook” and the knowledge about IPAD’s, IPOD’s, Saturday, September 20, 2014 at chapter author in several books tablets and appropriate APP’s the Hogan Center at Holy Cross Col- regarding legal, planning and for preparation for adult life and lege (1 College Street, Worcester). transition issues. Ms. Simons has independence. an adult son with an intellectual Conference supporters include disability. Registration information: Advocates for Autism of Massachu- setts, the Federation for Children • Lunchtime presentation by Maria Register as soon as possible using with Special Needs, Massachusetts Paiewonsky, Ed. D., Transition this link: www.arcmass.org Developmental Disabilities Council, Specialist at the Institute for • Deadline is Friday, August 29, Massachusetts Down Syndrome Community Inclusion as well as 2014. Congress, Massachusetts Advocates Director of the Massachusetts • Make sure you select your work- for Children, Massachusetts Depart- Transition Leadership Initiative, a shop preferences. ment of Elementary and Secondary personnel preparation program Education, Department of Devel- that prepares Master’s Level Tran- • For special accommodations, opmental Services, Massachusetts sition Specialists at the University dietary needs, or registration Rehabilitation Commission, and of Massachusetts, Boston. inquiries, contact Pat Pakos Email: Horace Mann Educational [email protected] or Phone: • Four series of 24 workshop ses- Associates. 978 440-7609. sions; six offered in each series. It This full-day statewide Transition is important to select your work- • Limited scholarships available Conference has been specifically planned for parents of children with SAVE THE DATE! October 23, 2014 disabilities between the ages of 14 On Thursday, October 23, The Arc of Massachusetts will hold its fall gala and 22 who are transitioning from at The Westin Hotel/Waltham. The evening will include presentation of school into the adult world. awards for distinguished service to people with intellectual and devel- The registration fee of $75.00 per opmental disabilities, as well as a reception, dinner, entertainment and person includes continental break- an auction. The event – a benefit in support of the work of The Arc -- is fast and lunch. chaired by Tracy Atkinson, Vice President of The Arc of Massachusetts The Conference program Board of Directors. will include: Located just off Route 128, The Westin is a mirrored landmark in Me- • An opportunity to learn about trowest, high on a hill with sweeping views of the surrounding area. state-of-the-art, best practices This year’s auction will offer attendees the opportunity to bid on a wide around transition, covering topics range of items, including vacation homes, tickets to sports events, works such as education, employment, of art, jewelry, fine dining and more. If you’d like to become an event independent living skills, etc., sponsor or donate an auction item, contact Brenda Asis or Judy Zacek at focused upon creating seamless, 781-891-6270. successful transitions into the Detailed information will be available in a few weeks, but mark your adult world. calendars now for this important celebration.
Achieve with us. 3 All Aboard The Arc! sails into Boston
contd from p. 1
Clients and staff from Beaverbrook STEP were successful fundraisers for All Aboard The Arc!
The program was kicked off by role as Emcee. Catie Copley, the Leo Sarkissian, Executive Director black lab mascot of the venerable of The Arc of Massachusetts, who Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel, who State Senator Karen Spilka invited everyone in the audience was such a popular participant last to join in an exuberant parade year, paid a return visit with her of self-advocates waving bright two uniformed concierges to lend orange pennants. As participants her support, and enjoyed pats and basked in the warm spring weath- pictures with the crowd. er, they heard an array of speak- “All Aboard! is not only a day of ers: State Senator Karen Spilka; celebration, but also a very im- Erin Power, a self-advocate from portant day for The Arc and the the Center of Hope Foundation; disability community,” said Leo Peter Berns, CEO of The Arc of Sarkissian. “This is an important the United States; and Bruce Bird, opportunity for all of us to come Justin Hines performs President of Vinfen, Inc. Entertain- together to make our case for ment was provided by singer Justin the value and talents that people Hines, who also spoke about his with I/DD bring to this state. own experiences as a person with And the thousands of dollars that disabilities; his back-up group Ash participants raised and businesses & Bloom; and an energetic group donated go toward supporting the of cheerleaders and dancers from services and advocacy of The Arc the Center of Hope. Al Gertler in Massachusetts.” kept the program moving in his Bruce Bird, Vinfen continued on page 5
4 The Arc of Massachusetts All Aboard The Arc! sails into Boston
contd from p. 4
Peter Berns, The Arc of the United States The Arc’s Executive Director, Leo Sarkissian, greets Pamela Karalis and Seth Lopes, Belmont Savings Bank
Self-advocate Erin Power
We are grateful to our partners for their generous support of All Aboard The Arc! Corporate Partners Comcast Business Class, statewide partner Staples Advantage, statewide partner Charm is dedicated to improving the independence and well-being of the Local Partners for The Arc of Massachusetts Massachusetts special needs community. Belmont Savings Bank Charm Medical Supply Healthcare Products Delivered to Your Home: Fletcher Tilton Incontinence Care, Bath Safety, Daily Living Aids, Personal Care, Mobility Products Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare HMEA Shepherd Financial Partners 877-94-CHARM www.charmmedical.com
Achieve with us. 5 Spotlight on Bridgewell: Living Longer with Disabilities By Marjorie Arons-Barron and Susan Craven, Clinical Director for Day Services Juliette is a 55-year-old woman a ramped home with one-level 41-year-old man diagnosed with with Down Syndrome. In 1982, living, an open floor plan, special- cerebral palsy, mild intellectual dis- Juliette moved from Dever State ized wall and flooring treatments ability, and esophageal reflux. For School to a Bridgewell home, and increased staffing to provide several years, he lived on his own where she did well for several more individualized attention. in an apartment. Support services years. In her mid forties, however, Juliette also transferred to the came into his home to help with she was diagnosed with prob- Bridgewell memory-impaired day meal prep and activities of daily able Alzheimer’s Disease. There hab classroom. This structured living. When he was younger, John were signs of confusion and a loss environment resulted in Juliette’s could walk with a three-prong of skills related to visual percep- increased participation and calmer cane, but as he aged his cerebral tion, hygiene and eating. As behavior. palsy became more progressive. her symptoms increased, it was For safety and mobility, he needed After being diagnosed with Ce- recommended that Julie move to a a wheelchair and eventually a liac Disease, not uncommon for residence where staff were specifi- power wheelchair. But then, when people with Down Syndrome, cally trained in caring for those John was alone in his apartment, Juliette was put on a gluten free with Alzheimer’s Disease. This was he sustained several falls and had diet. Following consultation with incidents of choking. the speech pathologist, Recognizing his increasing vulner- Juliette’s diet ability, John subsequently agreed texture was to move into a 24-hour Bridgewell changed to supervised community residence. accommodate To reduce his risk factor when her increased eating, a diet texture change was swallowing recommended to decrease the risk difficulty. The of aspira- quality of tion Juliette’s life pneumo- has improved nia. This because she is was very in a home and difficult day program for John setting where because people un- eating derstand her was his disease and greatest are sensitive to John Crowley is now happy, pleasure. her changing healthy and safe! Staff needs in posi- worked with him in making safe tive environ- choices while respecting his desire ments. for tasty food. Within the super- vised community residence, John John is a continued on page 7
6 The Arc of Massachusetts Spotlight on Bridgewell contd from p. 6 has increased his opportunities to full-day gathering is expected to attend social events and to access draw many from health care man- community resources. agement, clinicians, direct care professionals, families and guard- It’s commonly known that the ians. It is open to the public. graying of the general population brings a host of medical problems Whether individuals are com- and CEO of Bridgewell. “The need that threaten to weigh down the promised by Alzheimer’s, other is pressing; the time couldn’t be health care system. The aging of dementias, Down Syndrome, more ripe for this kind of informa- the intellectually disabled person or other intellectual disabilities, tion sharing,” he continued. presents an even more daunting families, staff and other care givers Bridgewell is a private, non-profit set of challenges. Juliette and John are looking for answers to better human services organization that are just two examples of many serve them as they age. What skills started half a century ago as a intellectually disabled adults who these individuals have must be small child guidance center in must cope with the added chal- maintained for as long as possible. Lynn, MA. With an ever-expanding lenges of early onset Alzheimer’s Front and center will be issues mission, Bridgewell is dedicated to Disease and other complications raised recently by the National supporting and helping individuals of the aging process. Within Task Force on Aging, including with developmental and psychiat- Bridgewell and other human ser- cognitive and physical changes ric disabilities to direct their own vice agencies, participants are liv- related to safety, family issues, lives, achieve personal and profes- ing longer and developing sooner environmental challenges and safe sional success, and remain active a host of physical and cognitive eating techniques. participants in society. Bridgewell changes related to aging. The Keynote speakers are Matthew serves nearly 5,500 individuals and challenges they face are multiplied Janicki, PhD, Institute of Disability their families annually through by their already compromised and Human Development, Uni- more than 95 programs, includ- health and cognitive statuses. versity of Illinois – Chicago; and ing 73 residential programs in 23 Improving their lives is the focus of Julie Moran, DO, Intellectual and communities in eastern Massachu- a Living Longer: Aging with Intel- Developmental Disabilities Consul- setts. It provides residential and lectual Disability Conference orga- tant, Tewksbury Hospital and Clini- day services, affordable housing nized by Bridgewell on September cal Instructor of Medicine, Harvard and homeless services, clinical ser- 18 at the Sheraton Framingham Medical School. vices, recreational services, addic- Hotel and Conference Center. This tive and substance abuse supports, “We are excit- as well as employment training ed to address and educational services. Lexington, MA this emerg- otting Chool www.cotting.org C S ing need “...special education, done right.” 781-862-7323 Other conference partners include: ~ Cotting Parent by bringing Alzheimer’s Association of MA/NH, together Center for Professional Innovation, School Year Program experts and September to June Charles River Center, MA Depart- Ages 3-22 innovators in ment of Developmental Services, the field to National Down Syndrome Society, Extended Year HOPEhouse share their National Task Force on Disabilities Summer Program Residential/Transitional Ages 3-22 Ages 17-22 knowledge,” and Dementia Practices, Road to said Bob Stea- Responsibility, and UMass Boston. Elizabeth Russell ~ Director of Admissions ~ [email protected] rns, President
Achieve with us. 7 HealthMeet
The Arc of Massachusetts expands HealthMeet® activities
June 14-15. Participants also Services, Berkshire County Arc, received help to find health Bridgewell, Charles River Center, care services and learn about Community Connections, Nono- making healthy choices. tuck Resource Associates, and Road to Responsibility. According to Brenda Asis, project director, The Arc is HealthMeet® is a project of The partnering with a number of Arc, funded by the Centers for human service agencies to Disease Control and Prevention. As part of the HealthMeet® project, bring health assessments to local HealthMeet® brings together chap- The Arc of Massachusetts hosted communities. ters of The Arc, health profession- free Health Assessments for people als such as doctors and nurses, and with intellectual and developmen- We appreciate the participation others who study health to help tal disabilities (I/DD) during the and commitment of the following people with I/DD live healthier and 2014 Health & Fitness Expo held at agencies: Association for Com- longer lives. the Hynes Convention Center on munity Living, Bay Cove Human
MAKE Look for our Special Needs YOUR PLAN Trust Seminar coming in BECOME November! A REALITY
The mission of the SUPPORTbrokers program is to assist individuals with We Can Help disabilities and the elderly to • Special Needs • Guardianship achieve community Planning & Considering membership based upon • Transition Planning Alternatives their personal vision & Adult Services • Advocacy For more information call our Special Needs Practice Group leader, Frederick M. Misilo, Jr., at 508.459.8059 or email him at [email protected].
217 South Street Waltham, MA 02453 Phone: 781.891.6270 EXT109 E-mail: [email protected] WORCESTER | FRAMINGHAM | CAPE COD www.supportbrokers.org 508.459.8000 | www.fletchertilton.com
8 Advocate Ad-Summer '14.indd 1 The Arc of Massachusetts 6/2/14 10:40 AM Government Affairs
Government Affairs Update contd from p. 1 the Family Supports program. State turns. It was filed by Representative their fingerprints to be checked Operated homes, Service Coordi- Tom Sannicandro as H 151; then against a national criminal data- nation, and MassHealth were also substantially rewritten by Sena- base. This would extend to DDS higher in the House. The House tor Mike Barrett (H4063) when and its vendor agencies. also included the original language reported out of the Committee on Currently, DDS and vendor agen- of the Real Lives bill as an outside Children and Families; and then cies are required to conduct section of their budget. returned to the original version statewide CORI checks, but no (now H4151) when reported out of The Senate budget included $5M national check, which means that the Health Care Finance Commit- in funding for the employment an applicant’s criminal record out- tee to House Ways and Means. The initiative to place more individuals side of Massachusetts may not be original language also was included into integrated, community-based identified. in the House version of the budget employment. Community Residen- and, if adopted into the final bud- The bill was re-written to comport tial and MRC employment were get, would then be added into the with federal regulations and is pat- also higher in the Senate. DDS statute. The Arc and MA21 terned after a similar law passed to As we go to print, the House and continue to advocate on behalf of protect students up to age 22. The Senate are negotiating the differ- the passage of continued on page 10 ences between their two budget this important versions into one final document legislation. to send to the Governor. The Arc’s Government Affairs committee National members, ADDP and many others Criminal are advocating for the higher fund- Background ing amounts for Family Supports Check and Employment and the inclusion (H4125): of the Real Lives language into the The National final budget. Criminal Back- ground bill was Real Lives Bill (H4151): originally filed The Real Lives bill expands the abil- by former Rep- ity of people to decide where and resentative and with whom they want to live and current Boston work by self-directing their DDS Mayor Martin service dollars. The bill requires Walsh. Pas- that the administration implement sage of the bill certain new policies and proce- would require dures to allow public funds to be that anyone used as flexibly as possible by the who has poten- individual or family and provides tial for unsuper- for the utilization of fiscal interme- vised contact diaries to assist if desired. with a client This bill has had many twists and of DDS submit
Achieve with us. 9 Government Affairs
Government Affairs Update contd from p. 9 authors of the re-write included clude in its eligibility guidelines the Office of Administration and Geoff Misilo of The Arc’s Govern- federal definition of developmental Finance (A&F) to develop stan- ment Affairs Committee and Tara disability for people on the autism dards to identify and recruit quali- Hopper-Zeltner of ADDP among spectrum and those with Prader fied applicants with disabilities for others. The Massachusetts Down Willi. This change will assist many employment and would require Syndrome Congress has led coor- whose functional needs are not re- agencies or businesses which dination of the bill and Paul Willen- flected by their IQ score and who contract with the state to comply brock and Barbara L’Italien of The are now denied access to DDS. with those benchmarks. Results Arc have been part of the advoca- of those hiring efforts would be Public school teachers will have cy effort. The bill is in House Ways required to be reported annually the option to attain an “Autism and Means and we are hopeful for to the legislature. The bill was filed Endorsement” certification – a con- its passage this year. by Representative Jim O’Day and centration in autism coursework is currently in House Ways and House passes Omnibus and training to be leaders within Means. The Arc has been working Autism Bill (H4047), awaiting their school communities. on this as part of an Easter Seals- action in the Senate: A tax-free savings account will be led group of cross-disability advo- On April 17, the House of Repre- established -- patterned after the cacy groups to create a pipeline of sentatives unanimously passed a federal ABLE ACT legislation -- to new job opportunities for people comprehensive Autism bill, House allow all disabled families to save with disabilities. 4047, filed by House Ways and in a 529-style plan for expenses Means. The bill was a combination including education, housing, and Additional Priorities of The Arc of many of the pieces of legisla- any other needed supports and in House Ways and Means: tion filed by Representative Garrett services. H4067- An Act for Passage to Bradley in January of 2013 as a re- Independence sult of the work by the Governor’s After passage in the House, the bill H87/S24 – An Act to Support the Autism Commission. The legisla- was sent to the Senate Ways and Transition to Adult Services for tion would reestablish the Autism Means Committee where histori- Persons with Disabilities Commission as a permanent and cally there has been support for autonomous entity, necessary since the development of autism sup- H4068 – An Act facilitating the the previous commission sun-set- ports. Members of The Arc, AFAM, development of underutilized ted upon release of the report. It and AANE have been meeting with facilities and state-owned property key Senate decision makers on the provides for an executive director H3997 – An Act for Healthy Families to support autism advocacy, train- bill during April and May (and are ing and reporting. trying to add MassHealth cover- H149 – An Act creating a means age of autism treatments) and are for tracking the unmet need of There are two specific areas direct- working toward its passage. individuals with developmental ed to study -- the long-term needs disabilities for housing and employment -- in An Act to increase the addition to the areas of study and Commonwealth’s compliance S601 – Resolve providing for recommendations previously cov- with federal law meeting investigation and study by a ered by the commission. requirements of the special commission relative to ADA (H136): the need for accessible homes DDS will now be directed to in- This bill directs the Executive continued on page 15
10 The Arc of Massachusetts Commonwealth Care Alliance’s One Care: A coordinated, customized approach to I/DD health care Living independently. needed services. Mary’s Nurse several people she can turn to for Staying healthy. Taking part Practitioner, part of her team, support. If Mary is sick, she can get in all the opportunities our communicated with all of Mary’s help by just making a phone call. communities have to offer. specialists to ensure that each of In addition, Mary is going through These are goals we all share, but her providers were appropriately a change in guardianship, and they can be hard to achieve – informed about Mary’s health and Mary’s mother can work directly particularly for individuals with other care needs. In addition, a with members of the care team an intellectual or developmental Behavioral Health Specialist was to complete the needed disability. added to Mary’s team to ad- documentation. dress issues at Mary’s work. The “Mary,” a 25-year-old with devel- In partnership with MassHealth specialist attended an Individual opmental disabilities, shares these and Medicare, Commonwealth Service Plan meeting and met with goals. So does her mother, guard- Care Alliance began its One Care representatives from DDS and her ian and caregiver, who knows she program last fall, and its unique day program in order to ensure needs help coordinating and man- care model is already bringing pos- that her services were in place and aging Mary’s complex care needs. itive results to many members like would remain stable for Mary. Mary. The program has been effec- In November 2013, Mary’s mother With the help of her care team, tive in reducing emergency room enrolled Mary in the Common- Mary has been enjoying an in- visits, improving people’s quality wealth Care Alliance One Care creased sense of security and of life and health, and addressing program. Soon afterwards, Mary support. At the same time, Mary’s unmet needs for long term services and her mother began working mother has experienced truly and supports (LTSS). with a team of care givers focused dramatic changes. With Mary on coordinating Mary’s care and One Care is part of a national enrolled in One Care, she now has demonstration created under the Affordable Care Act. A collabo- ration between the Centers for P LAN of Massachusetts and Rhode Island Medicare and Medicaid Services and the Massachusetts Medicaid office, One Care serves individuals under the age of 65 who qualify For over thirty years, providing peace of mind to individuals with disabilities and their for both Medicare and Medicaid families, through individual trust management and are not currently served under and social services. a Medicaid waiver program. With One Care, I/DD individuals con- PLAN administers a self-settled and a third-party tinue to receive all the benefits of Special Needs Pooled Trust for the benefit of MassHealth and Medicare, as well people with disabilities. as any other services under State DDS programs and have access Offices 1340 Centre St., Suite 102 28 Spring St. to increased care coordination Newton Centre, MA 02459 Pawtucket, RI 02860 and expanded services to meet (617) 244-5552 (401) 330-7456 the unique needs of each www.planofma-ri.org enrolled person. continued on page 13
Achieve with us. 11 Officers, Board Members elected at The Arc’s Annual Meeting
members, staff and others to hear a report of The Arc’s activities for the past year, approve the budget for the next fiscal year, elect of- ficers and members of The Arc of Mas- sachusetts Board of Directors and hear heartfelt comments
Executive Director Leo Sarkissian and Board Member, Adam Hill from two speakers. Daniel Sullivan was The 2014 Annual Meeting of The elected President of the organiza- Arc of Massachusetts was held at tion, Tracy Atkinson was elected the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Natick Vice President and Deborah Norton on May 22. Executives from was re-elected to another term as chapters of The Arc from across Treasurer. The post of Secretary will the Commonwealth joined board be filled by Kathy Ricciardi. Former board president Frank Sally will Tailored Financial Services for now serve as Barbara L’Italian, Director of Government Immediate Past Affairs Families with Special Needs President. who previously served on the If you are responsible for a family member with a disability or other loved one, you face unique challenges involving complex Three new Board from 2004 to 2010. Re-elect- financial situations. We understand. members were ed to serve an additional three-year For the last 15 years we have provided caring, experienced elected to the term were Board members Justin financial guidance to special needs families, helping them pursue long-term financial security for their loved ones through Board: Martin Bernard, Adam Hill and Kathy informed estate and tax planning, investment and insurance Courage, Man- Ricciardi. planning and special needs trust management strategies. aging Direc- Please contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. It would Retiring Board members Elizabeth tor – Wealth be our privilege to serve you and your family and help you Bostic and Chris Andry were recog- pursue the long-term financial independence you deserve. & Investment nized for their service. Management, special needs Barclays; Geof- A highlight of the evening was a financial planning A Division of Shepherd Financial Partners frey Misilo, preview showing of a new video attorney with about The Arc of Massachusetts. Cynthia R. Haddad, CFP® & John W. Nadworny, CFP® FletcherTilton; The featured speakers were Bar- 1004 Main Street and Nurse bara L’Italien, The Arc’s Director Winchester, Massachusetts 01890 (781) 756-1804 Practitioner of Government Affairs, and Board [email protected] www.specialneedsplanning.com Janet Sweeney member Adam Hill. Barbara spoke Rico, Ph.D., continued on page 13 Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC
12 The Arc of Massachusetts Officers, Board Members elected at The Arc’s Annual Meeting contd from p. 12 about her son Rudy, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, and movingly described the challenges he has faced as well as her vision for his future. Adam, a self-advocate, elo- quently responded to questions from Executive Director Leo Sarkissian about his life and hopes. We are grateful to Greg Blume, Frye Insurance, greets Daryl-Ann Cook, Executive Director of The Arc of the South Shore the following for Incoming President of The Arc’s Board of Directors, Dan Sullivan their generous sponsorship of this year’s annual meeting: Charm Medical Supply, Frye Agency – Insurance and Real Estate, Kevin P. Martin & Associ- ates PC and Justice Resource Institute.
Commonwealth Care Alliance’s
One Care contd from p. 11 The Arc of South Norfolk’s Family Autism Center was created in 1996 by a dedicated group of parents Central to the One Care model is care integration relating to meet the needs of people diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families. to medical, behavioral, social, and community integration Today, Family Autism Center serves over 600 families needs. Commonwealth Care Alliance One Care members throughout Norfolk County by offering the following programs: have an integrated team of health and social services profes- • Outreach Services/Information & Referrals sionals and others, including family members or guardians. • Advocacy & Assistance • Family Support Care is delivered in the home, the community, or in a tra- • Resource Library • Education and Training For Families and Educators ditional health care setting—whatever works best. Working • The ALEC Program (Autism & Law Enforcement together, this team delivers on a personal care plan crafted to Education Coalition)- Specialized training for First Responders meet the unique needs and objectives of each member – not just Mary, but the 7,500 other people with intellectual, physi- cal, and behavioral disabilities that have joined CCA’s One Care Plan since October 2013. To learn more about Commonwealth Care Alliance’s One Care plan, and our personalized, coordinated care model, call
866-610-2273 (TTY 711) seven days a week, 8 am to 8 pm, For more information and to become involved with Family Autism Center, please contact The Arc of South Norfolk at or visit www.commonwealthonecare.org. You can also call 781-762-4001 www.arcsouthnorfolk.org MassHealth’s Customer Service Center at 800-842-2900 (TTY Family Autism Center is one of the 7 DDS-funded autism support centers in Massachusetts 800-49-4648), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm.
Achieve with us. 13
14 The Arc of Massachusetts Operation House Call
Another member of the OHC Team: Jennifer Williams, Family Coordinator allied health sciences, Jenn notes that the program goes beyond a strictly academic approach by introducing the student to the per- spective of families. “We subscribe to the concept of ‘Nothing about us without us’,” she says. That approach is reflected in OHC’s six learning objectives: • Building rapport with families • Understanding sibling issues Co-teacher Tiny addresses Tufts medical students • Using people-first language way: she is the Family Coordinator Three years ago, when Jennifer • Understanding community for the BUSM program. In this role Williams was asked by Maura resources Buckley to consider participating she is the interface between the in Operation House Call as a Host OHC team and the volunteer fami- • Delivering difficult news Family, she happily agreed. She was lies, recruiting families and match- • Monitoring their own motivated by her awareness that ing them with students. (i. e., the student’s) biases every time she took her daughter, Profiles are developed both for Operation House Call depends Sierra, to a medical appointment, students and for host families. on the families who volunteer to she felt that she had to do a lot of Students, for example, are queried serve as hosts. If you are interested teaching because so many doctors about their past experience with in learning more about this op- and other health professionals had people with disabilities – which may portunity, contact Jennifer Williams not had any training about dis- range from none at all to having at 978-496-7511 or at Williams@ abilities. “Having an opportunity a family member with a disability. arcmass.org through OHC to reach medical Families are asked to provide infor- students is really important,” she mation about the family structure says. “The program not only gives and dynamics – whether or not Government Affairs Update them valuable information but also there are two parents, siblings, or contd from p. 10 direct experience.” That experience grandparents living in the home, Priority of The Arc in Senate includes both the child with a dis- whether the child also has medical Ways and Means: ability and the entire family. complications, and what sort of ac- H1366 – An Act relative to uni- tivities the child enjoys. Students al- Jenn’s commitment to the pro- form guardianship and protective most always visit the family in pairs gram led her and her daughter to proceedings jurisdiction become co-teachers at both Boston and often the pair is composed of a University School of Medicine male and female student. The Arc of Massachusetts’ advo- cacy efforts are year-round. We (BUSM) and Tufts Medical School, Although Operation House Call is a will give an update in the fall issue and now she has become a mem- component of a student’s academic of Advocate. ber of the OHC team in another training for a career in medicine or
Achieve with us. 15 Friendship Corner GWArc participants bring personal experience to Brandeis event
Three GWArc participants were work to eliminate dehumanizing Brandeis Buddies and SPECTRUM. powerful guest speakers at an attitudes. Brandeis Buddies works to build event at Brandeis University in friendships between Brandeis GWArc’s short film “Our Question,” March entitled “Spread the Word students and adults with devel- which asks over 30 GWArc partici- to End the Word.” The event’s opmental disabilities who work pants what they like about them- purpose was to raise awareness at Brandeis, while SPECTRUM is selves or what they like, was also and sensitivity about casual use of a disability awareness group that shown at the event. The movie, the words “retard” or “retarded,” aims to develop bonds between filmed in 2013 with assistance also referred to as the R word, Brandeis students and families of from WCAC-TV, The Waltham among students. children with developmental dis- Channel, can be viewed by visiting abilities. “We wanted to make sure Kristina Smith, a participant in www.gwarc.org. our campus and community is GWArc’s GSE Program, and Joe Leah Igdalsky, Brandeis ’14, and aware that language matters and O’Connell and Marci Simons, par- GWArc Development Associate, the way you talk affects people,” ticipants in GWArc’s Plus Program, helped coordinate the event, Igdalsky said. represented GWArc’s Watch City which was jointly presented by Self Advocates at the event. Each spoke about what the R word means to them. Kristina’s speech is printed in full below. Joe said “No Remarks by Kristina Smith one should use the R word. It’s Hello my name is Kristina Smith. not nice.” Marci, following up on Today I have been asked to talk about the R word and what it means Kristina’s remarks, added “People to me. The R word means slow or limited in intellectual understand- with developmental disabilities ing. The slang meaning is dumb or stupid. This word was used to de- can do anything,” and said that scribe people with developmental disabilities in the past but it is no she has plans to go back to school longer used today. Because nothing about the R word has anything for medical technology.. to do with people who have developmental disabilities. Massachusetts State Representa- People with developmental disabilities are so much more than that tive Tom Sannicandro (D-Ash- word. We are athletes, artists, dancers, workers, singers, teachers, land), a developmental disabilities sisters, brothers, mothers, fathers and friends. We are just as smart advocate, was a featured speaker and capable as anyone else! at the event, and spoke about discrimination he has experienced I am an advocate and I stand up for myself and other people. If with his son, who has Down Syn- someone used the R word to hurt someone else’s feelings, I would drome. Although discrimination stand up for them. It is wrong to use this word to hurt people. If you toward those with developmen- still choose to use this word, know that it has nothing to do with me tal disabilities has not ended, he or anyone else with developmental disabilities! We are so much more thinks society is progressing in the than a word!! Thank you! right direction as state legislatures
16 The Arc of Massachusetts Friendship Corner People with friends are healthier! By Jim Ross and Mary Ann Brennen Coordinators, The Real Friends Project (With contribution from Elizabeth Pell, Human Services Research Institute)
Over the last 2 years The Real emotional health has received Mayo Clinic Staff, emphasizes Friends Project has provided dozens some study. To name just a few that “Good friends are good of trainings and presentations to resources: for your health” (http://www. over 2,000 individuals. The “In- mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/ • The World Health Organization troduction to Friends” workshop adult-health/in-depth/friend- credits “our relationships with includes a segment where par- ships/art-20044860). friends and family” as one of ticipants brainstorm and explore the determinants of health Too often we hear human services various benefits that “friendships” (http://www.who.int/hia/ staff say that they do not have bestow upon people with and evidence/doh/en/). the time to spend helping people without disabilities. Very quickly with disabilities they support to • “The Health Benefits of Strong people will list the obvious (but connect with other individuals in Relationships” (December 2010 important) benefits of companion- ways that might lead to friend- Harvard Medical School-Health ship, reduced isolation, increased ships. They say they need to con- Publication) touts that “Good opportunities for activities, sense centrate on “mandates” related to connections can improve health of self-worth, etc. But it usually health and safety. The sooner that and increase longevity” (http:// takes a while -- and often requires everyone realizes that friendships www.health.harvard.edu/ prompting from the facilitator contribute to good health, the newsletters/Harvard_Womens_ -- for participants to list “better sooner they can begin doing the Health_Watch/2010/December/ health” as a proven and crucial challenging but rewarding work of the-health-benefits-of-strong- benefit of friendship. bringing people together to ben- relationships). The link between having friends efit everyone in many ways. and an individual’s physical and • “Friendships: Enrich your life and improve your health”, by the
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For more Information: Please make checks payable to The Arc of Massachusetts and mail to: www.arcmass.org The Arc of Massachusetts, 217 South Street, Waltham, MA 02453 781-891-6270 To donate by credit card, go to: www.arcmass.org and click on Donate Now [email protected]
Achieve with us. 17 News from the chapters of The Arc Zip ‘N Sort Mail Services provides meaningful employment experiences By Paul Gavrity, Associate Executive Director, Berkshire County Arc
Gene has achieved a sense According to the U.S. Department of balance and meaning of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statis- in his personal and work tics, individuals with disabilities life, feels challenged by often experience barriers to gainful his job and is happy to employment, including lack of come to work each day. education and/or training and the This was not always the need for accommodations, and case; after high school, factors relating to their disabilities Gene had numerous jobs, that impede their ability to per- lacked discipline and a form certain job functions. Fortu- solid work ethic. When nately, due to legislation — such he was hired at Zip ‘N as the Americans with Disabilities Sort Mail Services, Gene Act in 1990 — and increased sup- quickly became an integral ported employment opportunities, part of the team and was individuals with disabilities in the given increased responsi- United States who are working in bilities due to his achieved full- and part-time positions cur- competencies. rently represent 17 percent of the Gene Pelkey at work at Zip ‘N Sort Mail Services In his position at Zip ‘N nation’s workforce. Gene’s success Sort Mail Services, Gene is a great example of the positive outcomes that can be achieved Gene Pelkey has worked as a moves large quantities of materials when job matching is successful. production worker in the Ship- from trucks to work areas for mail ping and Receiving Department processing and shipping prepa- of Zip ‘N Sort Mail Services for the ration. Gene’s experience and past five years. Zip ‘N Sort Mail efficiency has helped Zip ‘N Sort Services, a large mail business in greatly improve its productivity. In Pittsfield, Massachusetts operated addition, Gene’s position provides by Berkshire County Arc, employs him with the opportunity to work 18 individuals with disabilities and independently, as well as part of a 16 additional production and cus- team. “I like working here, espe- tomer service employees. Zip ‘N cially in Shipping and Receiving. I Sort employees use state-of-the art like being busy and independent Target equipment to satisfy its customer at work,” Gene commented. base of nearly 400 local, national When he’s not at work, Gene and Your and international entities, includ- his wife are active participants in ing schools, colleges and univer- their church, and Gene is the lead Advertising sities, insurance companies and drummer in the church band. non-profit organizations.
18 The Arc of Massachusetts
News from the chapters of The Arc Minute Man Arc is moving to a bigger and better site! the first to move to this larger, tial Services and Day Habilitation. more modern facility that is abun- With a larger facility at hand, Min- dant with natural light and high ute Man Arc will soon have room ceilings. Programs will spread out to improve and expand participant over two levels and 14,000 square services, and offer new experiences feet of space. Individuals will be like outdoor gardening, picnicking, able to enjoy five acres of outdoor walking to the grocery store and recreational space in a beautiful hiking on forest trails. wooded area with walking access Minute Man Arc’s new home Minute Man Arc is very excited to into the community. begin the next chapter in its 56- After more than three years of Currently, the agency is utilizing year history with a new facility that searching for a new home that will two sites while it continues to grow will support the people it serves for accommodate Minute Man Arc, and attract more people to its years to come. Stay tuned for more the agency is moving to a new programs in Early Intervention, Em- information and photos as we ap- location at 35 Forest Ridge Road ployment, Family Services, Residen- proach move-in day! in Concord beginning in the fall. MMA’s adult participants will be We’re looking for Living Longer: a few exceptional Aging with Intellectual Disability women! Thursday, Sept. 18, 2014 Riverbrook women are exceptional… Sheraton Framingham Conference Center not because of their developmental A full-day conference disabilities, but because of their will to for health care succeed. At Riverbrook, we nurture that management, spirit with a whirlwind of quality activities, clinicians, direct care professionals, families personalized care, jobs in the community, and guardians. cultural excursions and fun. The result— women who are more accomplished and confident with each passing day.
In partnership with Alzheimer’s Association of MA/NH, Center for Professional Innovation, MA Dept. of Developmental Services, National Down Syndrome Society, National Task Group on Intellectual Disabilities and Dementia Practices, Road to Responsibility and UMass Boston Lead Sponsors The Charles River Center Road to Responsibility www.bridgewell.org/livinglonger Stockbridge, Massachusetts • 413.298.4926 • www.riverbrook.org
Achieve with us. 19 News from the chapters of The Arc A healthy dose of learning for students…and CLASS By Robin Ellington, The Arc of Greater Lawrence/CLASS, Inc.
rewarding and enjoy- able. Stu- dents were transformed and genuine affection developed. They still inquire how our folks are Tina and Ben high five during their assessments conducted by Health Sciences students at Merrimack College. doing.” What For four months, students enjoyed started as an idea in the fall semes- beyond-the-textbook learning on ter of 2013 developed into a class the campus of Merrimack College, the following semester, with full more and more a common occur- support from the state Department rence. The college is laser focused of Developmental Services. Drs. Zi Jannelle concentrates on her balance while is timed by Merrimack College students time on providing real-world work Yan, Michael Corcoran and Kevin her endurance. experience for their students and Finn of Merrimack College devel- vidual, including weight, balance many are engaged in community oped the curriculum after being and strength testing, students projects. One class in particular awarded the 2014-2015 Paul E. met twice a week for six weeks to hooked together research and Murray Fellowship in Science and check in, calculate changes and physical activity promotion – Engineering for their proposal, exchange pep talks. Health Sciences students were “Promoting Physical Activity and matched up with individuals Fitness among Individuals with “This was the trial year, and all the attending CLASS programs to Intellectual Disabilities.” prep work has been done,” Beck develop physical fitness goals. said. “It’s typical for a professor to The collaboration was one of win one grant for one year, but And the results are in. several between the college and Dr. Yan has won yet another grant CLASS, but this is the first to take “The outcomes were predictable to continue the work in the fall, place in the gym, with a hop, skip in some respects but we had some which is remarkable. And this time and a jump. surprises, too,” said Lisa Beck, di- the length of classes will be a full rector of the Day Habilitation pro- About 30 students from the 10 weeks.” grams at CLASS. “For one, bonds Health Behavior and Promotion People with I/DD face unique developed between our folks and course were matched with 30 personal, social and environmental the students, which we expected, individuals with I/DD from the barriers that may reduce their ac- but some students are contemplat- Turning 22 program at CLASS, cess to physical activity opportuni- ing changing their concentration those who most recently have ties. Drs. Yan, Corcoran and Finn of studies because they found left high school. After the kickoff developed the model to promote working with our population so with assessments of each indi- continued on page 21
20 The Arc of Massachusetts News from the chapters of The Arc Success Story: Noel Levasseur By Jaelle Bopp, Director of Day Habilitation Services, The Arc of Bristol County
Each morning at the Middle- The Arc signs about the seasons.” boro Day Habilitation Services, Noel participates in volunteer Noel Levasseur stands in front of activities both at the program his peers and teaches American and outside. Noel volunteers his Sign Language. Noel takes great nights and weekends during the pride in sharing his knowledge of Halloween season each year at the American Sign Language with fel- Lakeville Haunted House, a non- low program attendees. Thanks to profit organization that donates grants from Staples and the Doug its proceeds to area non- profits. Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, For the past two years, after being Noel is able to use iPads that were nominated by Noel, The Arc of donated to record his peers sign- Bristol County has received chari- ing some of the words and phras- table donations from the Lakeville es that they have learned from Noel Levasseur signs for “heart.” Haunted House to support partici- him. These videos are accessible pant activities from The Arc of Bristol County’s website, www.arcnbc.org. Noel is the recipient of this year’s A healthy dose of Self-Determination Award from Noel has been a participant of The learning for students The Arc of Bristol County. Arc of Bristol County’s Day Ha- … and CLASS bilitation program since 2011. He About The Arc of Bristol Coun- contd from p. 20 exemplifies what it means to be a ty’s Day Habilitation Services physical activity as a cost-efficient in- peer leader. Besides his sign lan- in Middleborough, MA: While tervention program, and hope it will guage lessons, he creates project safety, health and well-being are further benefit 6.5 million people ideas within program groups and first in priority, so is the personal with I/DD in the United States. cultivates the creativity in others. growth and self-expression of On most days after lunch Noel those who attend. The Arc strives “With this project, we are promot- can often be found reading jokes to create a Day Habilitation ing physical activity in hopes par- to friends to put a smile on their program that is responsive to the ticipants will learn new and fun faces, or to keep the mood light. needs and creativity of our partici- ways to be active that can lead to Naturally kindhearted, genuine pants. The program fosters these a healthier lifestyle,” Yan said. “For and caring, Noel is always sure to ideals by incorporating groups like our students, this is a great experi- include others in projects, and is a drama, newsletter, sign language, ential learning opportunity for them willing participant in the activities videography and photography to apply the concepts that they are of others. Noel is able to shine in into the program schedule. It is learning in class and to interact with the spotlight, but more important- often observed that participants a population many of them have ly he encourages his peers to shine encourage each other to find new limited experience working with. as well, and happily sits back to and creative means of self-expres- Overall, I am excited for the oppor- cheer them on. When asked about sion to share with the program tunities that exist for both the CLASS teaching sign language Noel said and the community. participants and the Merrimack “I like to teach all the people at Health Sciences students.”
Achieve with us. 21 News from the chapters of The Arc Northeast Arc College Partnerships Benefit Young Adults with Disabilities Applications now being accepted for the College and Career Access Project By Susan Ring Brown, Director of Development, Northeast Arc treadmills, bikes, mats and North Shore Community College windows. I do some office (NSCC) and Northeast Arc to devel- work. I’ve been shredding op a postsecondary, vocationally-fo- and sometimes I collect cused noncredit education program laundry (gym towels), for Essex County residents ages wash it and fold it,” said 18-26, with intellectual and develop- Kristen. What does she like mental disabilities, including autism. best about her internship? The College and Career Access “Helping out others. I like Program (CCAP), launching this fall, being here and learning will offer noncredit certificate train- new things.” Kristen is conducting a survey as part of her internship. ing for up to 10 participants in each Two new programs launched with Kristen’s mom, Eileen of three career areas: Horticulture, support from Northeast Arc’s com- Davarich, also raves about the Animal Care, and Arts/Entrepreneur- munity partners and donors are program. “It’s raised her self-confi- ship. Courses offered will be based putting young adults on the path to dence. She’s been presented with on NSCC credit courses with imbed- successful careers. some challenges in her internship ded accommodations to meet the that a few years ago she could not learning needs of young adults with Project Search, offered in partner- have handled, but the training she intellectual and developmental dis- ship with Salem State University received at Heritage reduced her abilities. The program will provide (SSU) and the Department of Devel- anxiety. She sees she can be success- work readiness seminars, coursework opmental Services, provides employ- ful. I just think it’s been fabulous. in specific career pathways as well ment training and internships on The people at SSU are very accept- as supported internships. Together campus for 10 young adults with ing of her. I couldn’t be prouder,” these elements will help the par- developmental or intellectual dis- said Eileen. ticipants find, and be successful in, abilities. Using a model developed meaningful employment. by Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Reviews from SSU have been equally Medical Center, Project Search pro- positive. The CCAP is a tuition- based pro- gram. Northeast Arc donors at our vides classroom instruction coupled “She’s doing an amazing job. She’s 60th Anniversary Gala gave addition- with three internships per partici- very excited to be here so it makes al gifts to raise scholarship funds for pant over the course of a year. Upon it that much better. She’s always participants in the Arts/Entrepreneur- completion of the program, partici- smiling,” said Brittani Field, Facility ship track which will be based at the pants are prepared for employment Supervisor for the Gassett Fitness ArcWorks Community Art Center and with the host organization or in local Center. businesses using the same skill sets. supported by Montserrat College of Meanwhile, an initiative for students Art, in addition to NSCC. Project Search participant Kristen who already know which field they For CCAP application information, Davarich is interning at the Gassett want to pursue is ramping up. A please visit http://ne-arc.org/servic- Fitness Center at SSU. grant from The Peter and Elizabeth es/transition-2/college-career-access- C. Tower Foundation is enabling “I’m conducting a survey. I clean project/.
22 The Arc of Massachusetts News from the chapters of The Arc The Arc of South Norfolk Celebrates 60 Years of Achievements! On September 23, 1954, Mrs. Ruth Holman of Walpole, Massachusetts placed a notice in the local papers: “Parents of Exceptional Children Are Asked to Share Problem Together” was the way the Norwood Tribune titled it. The notice was directed towards parents of children with developmental disabilities in Can- ton, Medfield, Sharon, Walpole and Westwood, in order to “help bring the children out of the shadows and into the light.” The posting drew a re- sponse from families that are credited with establishing The Arc of South Norfolk, and many are still affiliated with the organization today. Pictured are the celebrities and dancers who donated their time in helping The Arc of South Norfolk Since that ad in 1954, the programs celebrate their 60 Years of Achievements at the first ever “Dancing with The Arc” event. From left: and services offered by The Arc of Dan Burke, Lisa Borges, Jan Ondrias, Dana Pellitteri, Shane Fitzgerald, Karen Powell, Leo Sarkissian, Samantha Graham, Stephanie Montgomery, Representative Paul McMurtry South Norfolk have evolved and ex- panded to meet the changing needs Jr. Foundation for Autism; Dan Burke, at The Arc of South Norfolk website of the people and families served President and CEO of The Arc of www.arcsouthnorfolk.org. throughout Norfolk County. South Norfolk and Lifeworks, Inc.; The Arc of South Norfolk will con- Representative Paul McMurtry, State To kick off the year of celebrating 60 tinue the celebration of 60 Years of Representative from the 11th Norfolk Years of Achievements, The Arc of Achievements by hosting a 60th District in Massachusetts; and Karen South Norfolk hosted their first ever Anniversary Gala Event at The Four Powell, Self-Advocate at The Arc of “Dancing With The Arc!” at the Nor- Points Sheraton in Norwood, MA on South Norfolk. Lisa Borges and her wood Elks in Norwood, MA on April Thursday, November 13, 2014. Save dance partner, Jan Ondrias of Savaria 25th. The event was a huge success, the date, as it will be an event you Dance Studio, took home trophies raising close to $10,000 and promot- will not want to miss! Come be a part for best performance while Karen ing inclusion and awareness for peo- of the night as The Arc of South Nor- Powell and her dance partner, Shane ple diagnosed with intellectual and folk looks back on its achievements Fitzgerald, an internationally recog- developmental disabilities. Fun was and accomplishments, and outlines nized Irish Step Dancer, took home had by all, as guests came to watch its path for the future. our celebrities dance the night away the trophies as the crowd winning More details to follow- we look as they competed to be the winners performers. The Arc of South Norfolk forward to seeing you there! For of the event. Celebrities included: Leo would like to thank all of our partici- information, contact The Arc of Sarkissian, Executive Director of The pants and supporters who helped South Norfolk, 789 Clapboardtree St, Arc of Massachusetts; Lisa Borges, make the event such a success and Westwood, MA 02090 781-762-4001 Executive Director of The Doug Flutie, invite you to watch the performances www.arcsouthnorfolk.org
Achieve with us. 23 Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage P A I D Permit #121 Pittsfield, MA
217 South Street Waltham, MA 02453 (781) 891-6270 www.arcmass.org
Achieve with us. Berkshire County Arc launches Youth Mentoring Program
14 to 25. Examples of activities in which mentors participate include List of Advertisers recreational activities, such as go- The Arc of South Norfolk ing to the movies and out to eat, and social and creative activities, Berkshire County Arc including dances, arts-and-crafts Bridgewell and field trips to local places Charm Medical Supply of interest. Cotting School FletcherTilton PC “I love being involved with the The Guild for Human Services Youth Mentoring Program. It’s a truly rewarding experience,” Kevin P. Martin & Associates, P.C. commented Berkshire County PLAN of Massachusetts and Rhode Island Holly Vacchina and her mentor, Berkshire Arc Family Advocate Chris Ferrari. County Arc Family Advocate Chris Ferrari. Riverbrook For more information about Special Needs Financial Planning Berkshire County Arc has launched Berkshire County Arc’s Youth Specialized Housing Mentoring Program, contact a new Youth Mentoring Program. SUPPORTbrokers Through the program, volunteer Maryann at 413-499-4241, Our advertisers help mentors provide guidance and ext. 227 or [email protected], support the mission of support either one-on-one or or visit http://bcarc.org/program- The Arc of Massachusetts. in small groups to youth ages volunteer-programs.asp.
24 The Arc of Massachusetts