Fall/Winter 2014 - The Arc of Greater Plymouth

FALL/WINTER 2014
Visit The Arc’s New Website For
The Latest News And Events
www.thearcofgp.org
The New Face of
On Friday, October 17th , The Arc of Greater
Plymouth welcomed the community to their
beautiful new office and Family Support Center.
Nearly 100 guests were given tours, offered an
opportunity to create “community art” with Abbi
Hatton from Paint Box Studio and shared delicious
snacks and beverages . A dedication of our Family
Support Center reception area in memory of Julie
Hyland was attended by her family and members of
The Arc staff.
Developing Partnerships, Enriching Communities
In This Edition
 Message Exec. Director
 Family Support Center News
 Social Rec/Lifeskills News
 Employment News
 Self Advocacy News
 AFC Update
 Agency News
 Happenings
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Name
Baldwin, Kathy
Beauregard, Elaine
Collins, Kelly
Cashman, Joan
Coughlin, Jim
De Cristoforo, Alicia
Draper, Jackie
Duggan, Amy
Finnegan, Peter
Freeman, Linda
Goulding, Patti
Happnie, Ann Marie
Kenney, Malissa
Killian, Julie
Lynch, Caitlin
MacVicar, Jude
Mallozzi, Dianna
Mallozzi, Jean
Marquis, Kristine
McCarthy, Mimi
Martino, Bobbi
McNamara, Maryanne
Mellen, Karen
Monty, Roger
Norman, Natalia
O’Neal, Susan
O’Reilly, Jill
Owen, Donna
Pattinson, Tori
Puliafico, Dena
Robbins, Cari
Swanson, Michael
Thorne, John
STAFF - 52 Armstrong Road
Ext
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Title
LCSW, Adult Family Care
Case Manager/Rep. Payee
Family Support Coordinator
Adult Family Care R.N. B.A.
Business Manager
Receptionist
Receptionist
Director of Shared Living
Community Connector
R.N. Director of Adult Family Care
Case Manager
Executive Secretary
“Developing Partnerships, Enriching Communities”
Assoc. Exec. Director & Director of Family Support
Admin/Asst. to Director AFC
Adult Family Care, Case Manager
Adult Family Care, R.N.
Assistant Bookkeeper
Controller
Family Support Coordinator
R.N. Adult Family Care
Projects Coordinator
Case Manager
Adult Family Care R.N. BSN
Executive Director
Community Support Assistant
Public Relations
Community Support Coordinator
Adult Family Care R.N. BSN
Self Advocacy Facilitator
Adult Family Care, RN
Community Support Coordinator
Family Support DESE Coordinator
Family Support Clerical
STAFF ARC EMPLOYMENT DIVISION - Main Office - 774-773-9190
Bishoff, Kasey
Berminghouse, Doug
Carberry, Susan
Caswell,Mark
Colitti, Michael
Downs, Bonnie
Gilmore, Lynne
Hazel, Christopher
Irvine, Robin
Monopoli, Deborah
Moore, Ann
Olson, Garrett
Pineo, Mark
Roach, Ruth
Simpkins, lll. Robert
Walking. Kayla
Classroom
Conference Room
Kitchen
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Job Developer
Job coach
Job Coach
Vocational Specialist
Employment Specialist
Job Coach
Job Coach
Job Coach
Job Coach
Director Employment Services
Employment Specialist
Asst. Vocational Specialist
ISP Coodinator/Asst Director Employment Services
Job Coach
Job Coach
Job Coach
General Correspondence,
Membership Family Support Center,
Shared Living and Adult Family Care:
The Arc of Greater PLymouth
52 Armstrong Road, Plymouth MA 02360
Phone: (508) 732-9292
Fax: (508) 732-9229
Employment Services Division:
10 Cordage Park Circle, Suite 108
Plymouth , MA 02360
Phone: (774) 773- 9190
FAX: (508) 742-7342
www.thearcofgp.org
Hours of Operation:
Monday through Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Arc Board of Directors
Officers:
Steve Costello –President
Mary Beth Vargus – Vice President
Donna Rodriguez- Secretary
Christopher Garcia – Treasurer
Board Members:
Patricia Cosgrove
Jim Wallace
Adam Hill
Wayne Owen
Arthur Murphy
Gaetano J. DeLuca, P.C.
Donald Guilfoyle BOD Emeritus
John Griffin
Arc Human Rights Committee
Michael Azzara, Esq.- Chairman
Deborah Monopoli-Coordinator
Kasey Bishoff – Human Rights Officer
Cari Robbins - Human Rights Officer
Committee Members:
Jacqui Draper | Susan Draper
Samantha Draper | Kate Brewer
Michelle Brait | Jennifer Frederico-Pinto LMHC
Jill Grady, RN. | Heidi Peddell Hall, Ed.M, PH.D.
Important Notice: All Arc Emails are changed from
.com to .org i.e. Info@thearcofgp.org.
If you would like to receive our newsletter - please
send email to Susano@thearcofgp.org
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Message from the Executive Director
Fall has arrived and we are preparing to head into our very busy holiday season.
However, we will be doing our work this year from our brand new building at 52
Armstrong Road in the Plymouth Industrial Park. We moved in late June and have
been working over the summer to decorate and make it look comfortable and professional. I would like to invite all of you to come and visit our new location. Located at
our new building are the staff of our Family Support Division, including our Family
Support Center, our Shared Living/Individual Support Division, our Adult Foster Care
Division and our Administrative Offices. Our Employment Division has its own new
location at Cordage Park.
The Arc of Greater Plymouth continues to expand and grow. We are exploring an opportunity to purchase a
bakery and hopefully we will be able to add the bakery as a new employment opportunity for the people we support. In addition, we are exploring the possibility of financing our first newly constructed home for two people
we currently support.
As you can see, good things are happening at The Arc and with the holidays coming, we anticipate lots of action
with our families and the people we support.
Wishing you all the best for the upcoming Holiday Season!
P.S. If you go to the Kingston Cinema between November 15th and January 15th, be on the lookout for our video
prior to your movie.
Roger Monty, Executive Director
Have you seen this guy?
Have you wondered why the new building’s grounds still look new?
Well wonder no more!
Every Monday through Friday Mr. Eric Aldersley has been
cutting grass, blowing off the parking lots and tackling all the
landscaping needed at 52 Armstrong. He has been working up
a sweat and getting a slight tan working outside every day.
With a little help from his job coach, Eric has been working
hard and taking on all kinds of projects, including digging
out the mud and leaves that were blocking up the drainage
ditch out in front of the building. Eric is settling in to his new “office” and
keeping all of his tools cleaned up, organized and ready to take on whatever comes his
way.
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Family Support Center News
New Family Support Center The Arc Family Support Center is thrilled to unveil our new expanded space.
Located on the first floor of the Arc of Greater Plymouth’s new building at 52 Armstrong Road, the center provides a separate
private case management area, a conference room with a parent resource space with desk, library and laptop, a formal food
pantry and an upstairs full kitchen and life skills room for classes, activities and presentations.
A large curved wall is a focal point for the beautiful framed photography of our photography club students and will be
changed regularly to highlight their talent.
The Family Support Center serves as the main entrance and reception area for the agency and has a designated handicap accessible driveway and door navigated by entering the upper staff parking lot.
We are so excited about all the opportunities this space will offer to the individuals and families we serve.
Food Pantry Expansion
With our new Family Support Center, The Arc has been able to create a formal Food
Pantry space for our families who need assistance, complete with gluten free offerings and a stand up freezer. We will be seeking donations through local businesses, supporters, grocery stores and restaurants for proteins and entrees to fill the freezer .
With these additions, we can offer goods to make complete and nutritious meals. Many thanks to George Washington Toma
Appliance and our private donors for helping to make this dream become a reality.
The food pantry is available Monday- Friday, 9:30 to 4:30 or by appointment. For more information call us at 508-732-9292.
Family Support Center Giving Programs
The Family Support Center kicked off the giving season in August with the annual Back to School Backpack
Program. Nearly 40 children and teens received backpacks filled to the brim with school and art supplies, thanks
to our United Way grant, private donations and supporters from the West Wood Village over 55 Community. Our
program saw a 35% increase in participants over August 2013.
We are currently organizing our 2014 Thanksgiving Dinner programs for both our Arc families who need assistance and the food pantry we manage as part of our community outreach efforts at Algonquin Heights Housing
Complex in Plymouth. Last year 50 households at Algonquin Heights received a frozen turkey and all the fixings
for a delicious dinner , including gourmet coffee, made possible by funding through United Way, Macy’s Hanover
and Algonquin Management Company, and donations from Shaw’s Plymouth.
30 Arc families received either a frozen turkey or a precooked Shaw’s turkey with fresh produce from Sauchuk Farm,
thanksgiving fixings, gourmet coffee from Starbucks and Speedwell Coffee Roasters and fresh bread. Families were
able to shop from our shelves of grocery staples to fill a bag or two with items to help during the holiday weekend.
We are grateful to United Way, Macy’s, Shaw’s, Sacred Heart High School, Sauchuk Farm, and our private supporters
for their funding and donations to make this program possible.
Soon our Annual Arc Family Holiday Giving Tree program will be underway. Individuals and families in need may
fill out a “wish list” for those special items they would like to receive this season. Those lists are recorded on ornaments that are hung from Christmas Trees located at Cordage Park (outside the Arc Archway’s office, near the
Roo Café and in building 36 by Quincy College), and the Family Support Center at 52
Armstrong Road, which supporters may take to make purchases. Last year over 155
children, teens and adults received multiple gifts from their wish lists thanks to our
generous supporters, Toys for Tots, United Way, Colony Place, West Woods Village,
Salon Serode, Plymouth Area DDS and Macy’s Hanover.
If you would like to donate food for the Thanksgiving Program or our in house food pantry please contact Malissa Kenney or Kristine Marquis at 508-732-9292
If you would like to support our Holiday Giving Tree Program, wish list ornaments will be on the trees as of
December 1st or to make monetary donations please contact Malissa Kenney at 508-732-9292 x129.
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Social Recreation News
A look Inside Life Skills and Social Recreation
Since our last newsletter, we have had a fabulous few months. Our Buddy Ball and softball
teams had a great season which ended with an award ceremony on the field with the Fenway Sausage Truck serving food and DJ Patrick McLeod playing all our favorite baseball tunes
in between innings. It was a great season and a day enjoyed by all.
Our Photography class displayed all their wonderful
photos at the opening of their art show, Moments to Focus on August 28, 2014. The show was on display at The
Plymouth Art Guild and was open to the public for two
weeks. It was a beautiful and successful show. Congratulations to all the artists.
Health and Beauty ended in June with our 1st Annual Fashion Show which was held
at Fashion Focus Studio in Pembroke, MA. Our class put on a beautiful fashion show
modeling outfits from Macy’s that their own personal fashion stylist chose for them.
The models were all beautiful and confident and put on a memorable show for their
family and friends.
We partnered again with Spaulding Adaptive Sports for another wonderful session of
back in the swing golf at Waverly Oaks golf course. Our players ended this session playing a 4 hole game and really working on their swings.
An introduction to Improv was a great success as participants worked with members
of our local Plymouth Community Theatre for a 5 week course into improv acting. At
the end of the 5 weeks our improv actors performed a showcase to family and friends
based on the comedy improve show “Whose line is it anyways!” Everyone had a blast.
We kicked off our Arts and Culture Club on September 16th at The Boston Opera
House. We enjoyed the amazing Broadway production of The Lion King after we
had a great dinner in Boston. There will be more Arts and Culture trips coming up
as well as our adult dances at The Moose Lodge, Trips and Tips, Cooking classes,
Men’s Health and much much more.
If you have any questions about any of our social recreational activities or any
upcoming events please contact the Arc office. 508-732-9292 Jill O’Reilly ext 133
or Cari Robins ext 134
You can download this newsletter on our Arc website www.thearcofgp.org. Send current email address to
susano@thearcofgp.org if you would like to receive your newsletter electronically.
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“The Buzz” EVERYTHING IS GREAT AT SUITE 108!
Employment Employment
Services & Community Based Day Supports
News The New Face of Arc Employment Services and Community Based Day Supports: Very soon when you arrive at Suite 108 at Cordage Park
there will be a new name on the door! We are pleased to unveil our new logo! This name was chosen by the program participants and
they have had critical input throughout the process and decision making. When asked, Why Archway’s Enterprises? These were some of the
responses: Tina said, “Archways sounds more like a business and we want to be a business so we can get people out finding jobs and getting more people to work”, Amanda simply stated, “It’s a good name”, and when Jill was asked why Archways Enterprises was chosen for a
name she mentioned the Arches that are around our main entrance and all around Cordage, and she said “walking thru an Archway makes everyone feel good”.
All you have to do is spend some time with the individuals at Archway’s and you will feel the vibe: This is their space, their program, their careers, and their lives!
Smart Board: Vocational Specialist Mark Caswell states “Technology is a language that everyone speaks, It doesn’t matter the age, ability, or experience. It brings lessons
alive; it empowers us to dream a little more, connect to the rest of the world, and make the connections from ideas to reality.” It’s with these thoughts in mind that the Arc of
Greater Plymouth is pleased to announce the addition of a SMART Board to the classroom.
For those who may ask, “what is a SMART Board ?”, please read on: Gone are the days of the chalkboard and the standard white board, both have been replaced in most classrooms by the SMART Board. The SMART Board is a digital whiteboard that is touch sensitive and runs off of local computer system resources. It is an interactive whiteboard
that can save and store any information that is written on it, as well as enable the user to refer to notes downloaded from the Internet or other sources.
When asked about the addition of the SMART Board some at Archways had this to say: Allison, “It is easy for me to see and it is easy for me to do”. Bethany, “Fantasy Football
and checking the scores, and it is perfect and lovely.”
New Business Ventures: New Business Means More JOBS! Archway’s Positive Footprints Recycling has another new community partner; welcome aboard Performance
Pediatrics.
Also the Agency continues to work on a new sweet business venture; we are trying to cook up something really special that will create quite a stir; we will let you know more
if it pans out!
We Continue to Grow: There are more than a few new faces in our department these days. We have welcomed Marc McDonnell, Athena Perry, Ashley Ward and Caitlin McCafferty as the newest members of the Employment/CBDS program at Archway’s. Along with these new additions to the program we welcome Chris, Kayla and Doug; three
new Job Coaches.
Big Employment Announcements: Guess who was hired as a paid employee in September? Jill Federico, that’s who, Jill put her best foot forward, worked diligently and the
Big Boss noticed, and when that happens, a job offer usually follows. Congratulations Jill! This marks the fourth United Way Internship to roll into a competitive job opportunity at Chartwells at MMA.
More exciting news; Athena Perry, Allison Stott, Jackie Best and Phillip Clark will be starting a 12 week paid training at TJ Max! This lively crew will be part of the hustle
bustle of the holiday season and hopefully there will be more than a few job offers to report in the spring! I asked Athena how she felt about this new opportunity and she
said “I am excited to work, I can’t wait”!
As we develop our new Archway’s Community Based Day Supports Program we are committed to the goals, passions and choices of those in the program: Here are just a
few examples of Community Based Activities that our clients have taken part in: The United Way Day of Caring, a trip to The Museum of Science, Several new Citizens Advisory Board Memberships, Attending and speaking at the Mass Advocates Strong Conference, Volunteering at the Food Warehouse, Food Pantry, Library and Salvation Army,
Baking, a boat ride on the Pilgrim Belle, Bowling, taking many nice long walks on the waterfront, enjoying an ice cream with a friend, taking in the beauty of our local parks,
group trips to the library, putting up posters for The Chamber of Commerce, lunch with staff, and Coming Soon: photography of local historical landmarks and Independent
Living Skills: learn how to do laundry, grocery shopping and pay your own bills.
It’s nice to be recognized: Joe Conley was recognized at the Playoff Game for his 2 years of helping out the Pilgrims Scouting Team. Joe got his own shirt and also received a
stipend this year for his service with the team. I asked Joe how he felt when he got recognized and what it is about working with the team that he likes. Joe responded: “I felt
shocked when I got to throw out the first pitch and they helped me to get a paying job.” Leigh Ann Barry was the recipient of two awards of late; #1-The United Way Courage
Award “I was excited but very nervous about getting this award”, said Leigh Ann and #2-The Nancy Maynard Leadership Award; Leigh Ann said she was shocked “I didn’t
know I was getting this award” and finally Jessica Duro was recognized for the Employment Services Employee of The Year and when asked how getting that award felt Jess
said “It felt really good and I felt proud.”
Quest: As an agency, we opted to take part in the Self Assessment Process this year. It was a tough process but it was also a great learning experience. It was late August
when the surveyors from Quest came, liked what they saw and granted us a 2 year license to operate. Quest will be back in early December for a review of our new Community Based Day Supports Program.
“If the world seems cold to you, kindle fires to warm it”, Lucy Larcom: Marie’s Blanket Drive will happen again this year. Marie and her peers are about to announce a fundraiser to raise money to purchase blankets for the homeless. It is Marie’s goal to have the efforts of this year’s blanket drive reach the homeless in Boston. Watch and listen
for the Blanket Drive Fundraiser starting soon. Also, the Arc Employment Advisory Committee’s Annual Coat Drive will begin collecting your gently loved jackets and coats
in November. Also, donations of new hats, mittens, gloves and scarves will be accepted again this year. Thank you for joining in the efforts of the AEAC to help keep people
warm. “Try sleeping without a blanket tonight”, B. Parker.
That’s all “the buzz” in Archway’s Employment & CBDS for now - Deb Monopoli
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Employment Services News
Who’s New in Employment
Susan Carberry – Job Coach Susan joined The Arc Employment Department in April of this year as a job coach. She
Susan Carberry
comes with a background of experience as Activity Director in an assisted living facility for many years. Susan wanted to experience supporting people with a different set of challenges and to learn to advocate in the community for people with disabilities of all ages. “I really enjoy working at The Arc, meeting new people and finding what we have in common,” says Susan.
Chris Hazel - Job Coach Chris started to work at The Arc of Greater Plymouth on September 25, 2014 and works Monday
thru Friday. Chris likes to help the individuals complete their jobs and make sure they are safe. What Chris likes best about
his job is meeting friendly people, and appreciates how his fellow employees have helped him get acquainted with the work.
Chris has not been employed in this type of work before, but his Father has.
Ruth Roach - Job Coach In June, Ruth Roach joined the Employment Services Team here at The Arc of
Chris Hazel
Greater Plymouth. Ruth likes interacting with the individuals and taking them to their jobs. She says that it
is the individuals she supports that have helped her learn to do her job. Ruth had worked in this type of community many
years ago and enjoyed helping individuals with disabilities find satisfying jobs. She describes her work as rewarding.
Interviews and Photos by Erin Kelley
Take me out to the ball game
Ruth Roach
This summer the Plymouth Pilgrims Baseball team
invited the folks from Employment Services out to
Forges Field to PLAY BALL!
6 players from around the country who play for the team greeted everyone with high fives, smiles, and a lot of enthusiasm. After they gave a
brief introduction about the team, its players, and the game, it was time
to get to the real fun. We enjoyed a great game of kickball that had everyone getting up to bat and running the bases. The
players took the time to autograph baseballs for everyone and the team handed out Pilgrims baseball hats and bats. Everyone enjoyed a picnic lunch on the field filled with lots of laughs. What a wonderful afternoon! Special thanks to Chris Patsos
and Grace Eng for making this day such a joy.
Arc Employment Services Classified Ad
Meet Athena! She is a bubbly, intelligent and bright young lady. Athena has her Serve Safe certification and recently
completed courses at Cape Cod Community College. She would love to work in a restaurant or café. Athena would make
a great addition to any crew so don’t miss out on this hardworking young lady. Please contact Kasey Bishoff, Job Developer for more information about hiring Athena. Kaseyb@thearcofgp.org 774-773-9190 ext. 18
Athena Perry
ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS - Help us find competitive job placement for this skilled, motivated and loyal job
seeker. If you, a neighbor, a friend or family member own a business, we have an opportunity for you to make a real difference. The Arc of Greater Plymouth Employment Services has programs in place for grant-funded on the job training,
as well as job coaches tailored to your job requirements.
“It was fantastic to have our friends and supporters at
Arc of Greater Plymouth involved in our Kick-Off and
Day of Caring this year! They sent a team to help spruce
up downtown Plymouth and we were able to send volunteers to assist with a cleaning and painting project
at their Supported Employment Services office.”
FALL/WINTER 2014
Kimberly Allen
United Way of Greater Plymouth County
Director of Community Relations & Marketing
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Self Advocacy
By: Natalia Norman and Victoria Pattinson
Legislative Advocacy Update: The advocates at the Arc of Greater Plymouth have been very busy educating their Legislators!
Letter writing, calling, and visits with Legislators were focused on two important priorities:
1. Funding for additional staff at the Disabled Persons Protection Commission for FY 2015
2. The Passage of the Real Lives Bill
Advocacy activities included individual meetings and attending Legislative Education Days.
Members of the Arc’s Employment Self-Advocacy group discussed the passing the Real Lives Bill and building an accessible
playground in Plymouth with Representative deMacedo.(Our new Senator!)
We have visited the State House multiple times to help our legislators advocate for adults with disabilities. In June,
Jack, Lisa, and Josh (members of the Inter-Agency Self-Advocacy group) spoke to legislators about helping to pass
the Real Lives Bill, which is designed to assist adults with disabilities in making their own choices to help make their
lives successful and happy!
In August, Kailee and Brooke (members of the Transition Self-Advocacy group) thanked
Senators for their help in passing the Real Lives Bill (yea!).
In September, Ashley, Marie, and Leigh Ann (members of the Employment Self-Advocacy group)
visited Senators to ask if they would like to attend the Mass Advocates Standing Strong Conference
in October. They discussed what the conference is about and gave them a brochure with details
inside. This was especially exciting for Leigh Ann, who will be presenting at the conference!
Marie Saldi was also able to discuss her fellowship at the Institute for Community Inclusion about
accessible playgrounds. Marie’s project generated much interest and many of the legislator’s teams
requested more information about it.
Transition Self-Advocacy Group: The advocates from the Transition Self-Advocacy group have focused on understanding some of the
important issues in Legislative Advocacy. We also have been exploring person-centered planning and what we would like our lives to be in the future.
Advocacy with DDS: Advocates from the Employment advocacy group discussed person-centered planning and joining the Citizen Advisory Board
with Casey Seaman. Eight self-advocates recently joined the Plymouth area Citizen Advisory Board! “As a member of the Citizen Advisory Board, we
advise and help DDS solve problems. Also, we can help evaluate programs, and make sure everything is going well.” (Adam) “To look at programs, we
can go and interact with individuals” (Leigh-Ann) “ “For example, programs have to be age appropriate for adults.” (Amanda) “We can attend and speak
at Legislative Breakfasts with politicians.” (Leigh-Ann) “We talk to about Turning 22 / Transition.” (Jackie) “It is important to be on the Board.” (LeighAnn) Self-advocates have the opportunity to have their voice heard and reach out to their community!
Future Plans: Self-advocates from different advocacy groups are collaborating to start a Rainbow Support / Anti-Bullying Group. “A lot of gay,
lesbians, and transsexuals get a lot of hate for being different.” (Athena) “Many people get bullied.” (Marie) “People are teased because of how they look
or how they feel. People are mistreated and laughed at. It would be great to start a group for gay-straight alliance. Everyone should be loved for who
they are.” (Athena) “A lot of times when people are bullied they don’t know how to speak up for themselves.” (Leigh-Ann)
The group will provide opportunities to meet and support one another to speak up for themselves and others! The Rainbow Support group is beginning this fall!
We are very encouraged with all of the progress that has been made and we look forward to the exciting events that will be happening in the fall!
The advocacy program at the Arc of Greater Plymouth offers the opportunity to join self-advocacy groups and attend advocacy events! If you are interested in learning more or joining a group, please contact Victoria at victoriap@thearcofgp.org or Natalia at natalian@thearcofgp.org.
Leigh Ann Barry has been with The Arc of Greater Plymouth for 5 years. In that time she has made great strides
toward many of her personal and professional goals. When Leigh Ann first came to The Arc, she felt shy and
withdrawn. Since participating in various opportunities through the internship program funded by the United
Way of Greater Plymouth County, Leigh Ann has blossomed into an outgoing and friendly young woman.
She participated in 3 internships which led to her finally finding her own voice and now holds a job with Mass
Advocates Standing Strong. MASS is an agency that provides training sessions to various programs throughout the state, teaching individuals to advocate for themselves regarding work and other areas of their lives.
Leigh Ann is a trainer who speaks in front of the audience, presents a power point presentation, and conducts
various activities. The Leigh Ann we see today is a very different young lady from the one who arrived five
years ago. Through the United Way and The Arc she has developed courage and tenacity to overcome all her
obstacles and grow into a professional, courteous and kind young woman.
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THE ARC HONORS IT’S HEROS ON JUNE 1, 2014
Patti Goulding, 15 yr Service Award
Jill O’Reilly, Employee of the Year
My Team Triumph
Dennis Carmen
Volunteer Award Ben Caliendo
Adam King, YMCA Employer of the Year
Ann Marie Happnie, 15 yr Service Award
Ryan Wildman Guilfoyle Reading Excellence Scholarship winner
Jessica Duro, ES Employee of the Year
Sauchuk Famrs, Partnership Award
Volunteer Award Christina Ditullio
Agency
News
On a beautiful summer evening at the Plymouth Yacht Club, The Arc of Greater Plymouth held their 2nd Annual Recognition event to celebrate
those who have best represented our mission for 2014. Guest speaker, Dennis Carman, Exec. Director of The United Way of Greater Plymouth
County set the tone of the evening with inspiring words and music. ( Insert photo)
Senate Citations for Excellence in Inclusive Education were presented to seven Plymouth and Hanover teachers, the 2014 recipients of The
Arc Spreading Inclusion Grant. High School graduate recipients of our Building Community Scholarship and Ryan Wildman, Guilfoyle Reading Excellence Scholarship winner, were honored . Community Partner of the Year Award was shared by Scott Sauchuk of Sauchuk Farms ,
for creating a monthly Farmer’s Market as part of the Arc Food Pantry at Algonquin Heights and Macy’s in Hanover for their 5 years of support
through the corporate Bag Hunger program: employee United Way donations ; providing gifts of food, clothing and time to benefit families
during the Arc holiday giving program.
Citations to outstanding volunteers were awarded to Jose Nogueras from MyTeam Triumph, Christina DiTullio of Hanover for her work as an
Arc intern, and Ben Caliendo of Duxbury for his dedication to Hoop Heroes and Soccer Stars Recreation Programs.
Employer of the Year Award went to Adam King of South Shore YMCA for his inclusion of Arc Employment Services individuals into the Camp
Clark family for competitive employment.
Employment Individual of the Year Award went to Jessica Duro for her high level work ethic and peer role modeling. Arc Employee of the Year
was awarded to Jill O’Reilly, Social/Recreation Coordinator and 15 year Service Awards were given to Patti Goulding,
Ann Moore and Ann Marie Happnie. Congratulations all!
Who’s New @ 52
Welcome! Peter Finnegan. New Community Connector Peter Finnegan joined The Arc Supported Living Department in September. “My job, engaging clients in meaningful and purposeful recreation in the community, fits really
well with my political background and gives me satisfaction when I see the smiles that greet me and the enjoyment
they experience being out in the community” says Peter. “I have recently taken on additional responsibilities doing
recruitment for many of the staffing needs here at the Arc. After graduating from Elon University, I made the move
Peter Finnegan
out to Los Angeles and worked for a talent agency for two years, wearing many hats. One of my bigger roles was
initiating and managing a massive recruitment drive for new talent, signing over 200 people and interviewing countless more. It is that
prior experience that I hope to bring with me to the Arc outside of my Community Connection responsibilities. Some of the main areas of
focus initially are finding an additional 40 hours of Community Connection, as well as working with Employment Services to find more Job
Coaches. I am also actively trying to enlarge our network of both home providers
and respite care workers. As positions become filled and new ones arise across the
departments, I hope to make myself available to and work closely with all the various directors in addressing everyone’s needs.”
Receptionist Jaqui Draper
FALL/WINTER 2014
Family Support Center welcomes two new receptionists; Jacqui Draper, on Mondays and Fridays, and Alicia DeCristoforo, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Their smiling faces and welcoming voices make a fabulous first impression for
our new center. Welcome!
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Receptionist Alicia DeCristoforo
www.thearcofgp.org
Agency News (continued)
The Adult Family Care division continues to grow with 75 individuals now enrolled as well as all the new faces who have joined our
staff. Two very successful “Provider Nights” have been held in our new space to offer an opportunity for families and individuals to
share dinner, socialize, network and receive mandatory training in First Aid and Fire Safety.
AFC Update
Who’s New in AFC
Adult Family Care continues to grow with these six new faces. Julie Killian, B.A. , joined us
in March, as Assistant to the director of AFC. She comes with a varied background of work and volunteer experiences, including graduate work at Boston College and Suffolk University, some of which
included Special Education. “Working with the AFC group of dedicated people is a delight,” says Julie.
Geraldine (Dena) Puliafico , RN has been with AFC since Nov.2013, overseeing medical components of our
clients lives. A nurse for over 20 years, she believes in a Holistic approach (mind, body, spirit). Dena credits
having an amazing sister with DS as part of why she chose working with AFC and The Arc.“It’s wonderful
to see how far people with ID/DD have come and how The Arc as an agency is still growing and supporting the individuals we serve. I love visiting
clients at their home and at The Arc dances”, says Dena.
Kathy Baldwin, LCSW , Case Manager/Social Worker for ARC AFC , joined in July 2014. She has almost 14 years experience in various areas of
Social Service, with most of her time spent with Children/adolescents with behavioral/emotional needs and their families. Her most treasured
life experiences are her three busy little boys. “I love the opportunity to spend time getting to know my clients, helping them learn how to
best advocate for themselves, and recognize their own strengths!” says Kathy.
Mimi McCarthy RN , BSN. , joins The Arc AFC department with 25+ years of nursing experience. “That, and parenting a 17yr old daughter with
special needs enables me to better understand and relate personally to our many clients and their families. I love the job flexibility , the wonderful people here at The Arc , and love working with clients and their families.” says Mimi.
Joan Cashman R.N. B.A., has been with The Arc for a little over a year, overseeing the medical care and well being of her assigned AFC clients.
“ Home visits make sure all is well with the client and allow me to see if there is any assistance I can give to make their life the best it can be,”
says Joan. Volunteering during High School and College at St. Coletta’s and Belchertown State Hospital and her many years nursing have
provided experience with children and adults with disabilities in settings including school, hospital, psychiatric unit, and home care. “Eighteen
years ago my beautiful daughter Sarah was born with Down Syndrome. I was referred
to The Arc and they have been a great support to us. So I was thrilled when an opportunity came to work here. I love my coworkers, my clients and the providers. I feel very
blessed to know all of them.” says Joan.
Maryanne (Mae) McNamara , case manager for The Arc AFC department, holds a B.A. in Community Studies. She worked for DSS in the
US and Canada before joining AFC a year ago. “What I like best about
my job is the staff here and the wonderful clients” says Mae.
How This Helps You
 It may help you better communicate with your doctor
 May help you manage and prevent health problems
 You will learn about available community resources
 Opportunity to tell us more about what you need from our
health care system
 It’s completely confidential
How This Helps Us
 It will provide SSCPP a snapshot of the health of the
communities we serve
 The information from the survey will be used to guide
SSCPP’s health literacy initiative
Go to www.chna23.org to take
the confidential survey.
South Shore Community Partners in Prevention is a coalition that works to improve
the health of people on the South Shore. We are particularly concerned about how
well people use health information and health services.
FALL/WINTER 2014
2014 Arc of Greater Plymouth Building
Community Scholarship Winners
This year The Arc expanded the senior Scholarship Program to include the Duxbury and Hanover School
Systems . The candidates were so outstanding , we awarded all eight! We plan to include The Rising Tide
Charter School first graduating seniors in 2015.
The recipients of the The Arc of Greater Plymouth Building
Community Scholarship for 2014 are…….
Alexander Brisbois (Plymouth North)
Kristen DeCoste (Plymouth North
Bonny Hawes (Plymouth South)
Tim Faucett (Plymouth South)
Sabrina Linskey (Duxbury HS)
Sydney King (Duxbury HS)
Caroline Anne O’Connor (Duxbury HS)
Emilia Boess (Hanover HSl)
South Shore Community Partners in Prevention is a coalition that works to improve
the health of people on the South Shore.The Arc of Greater Plymouth has been actively involved with this group for many years. We are particularly concerned about
how well people use health information and health services and have joined in support of the “How’s Your Health” survey which can be accessed using the website to
the left. We encourage our members to take the time to respond.
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www.thearcofgp.org
Happenings
“Moment to Focus On”
Dr. Temple Grandin, diagnosed with autism as a child and later earning a Doctorate of Animal Science,
said it best. “The world needs all kinds of thinkers. We need to put more emphasis on what a child can
do instead of what he cannot do.”
The Arc of Greater Plymouth Photography Class of 8 participants displayed their original and inspiring
38 photographs at the Plymouth Center for the Arts Photography Show in August.
Many of these young adults have significant developmental challenges in their ability to communicate
verbally,to express thoughts or to show emotion. For these individuals, photographs serve as a conversation using visual vocabulary. Truly, the photos “speak louder than words.”
Thanks to a grant from the Department of Developmental Disabilities and under the guidance of Plymouth North Life Skill Teachers Christine Belmonte and Teresa Bonetti, the show “Moment to Focus On”
was a huge success.
Casey Seaman, Area Director of the Plymouth Department of Developmental Disabilities states “ the
photographs are amazing and reflect the participants unique perspectives of the world around them…”
For more information on Life Skill classes or other services at The Arc of Greater
Plymouth contact Susan O’Neal at susano@thearcofgp.org or 508 732-9292 ext 108.
CONGRATULATIONS
Deborah Monopoli has completed the 42 hours of the Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators ACRE - endorsed training curriculum in Employment Services presented by
the Region I TACE Center Institute for Community Inclusion University of MA.
The Arc’s 3rd Annual Trik-or-Trot Race
On Saturday October 27th under beautiful skies and warm weather (we luck out every year!) Over 300 runners gathered for a ¼
mile kids’ race and a 5K at Burial Hill in Plymouth. We were happy to partner this year with Catholic Charities and
the Webster Childrens’ Fund for a fun and busy race! The costumes were amazing- lots of Batmen, Batwomen,
Superwomen, Pumpkins, Bananas, Cheerleaders, Fred & Wilma Flinstone and Marilyn Monroe to name a few!
The bagels, hot chocolate and coffee donated from Dunkin Donuts were most welcome and participants enjoyed taking a chance on raffle items. We were also so pleased to have sponsors Cape Auto Body and Rockland
Federal Credit Union join us at the race.
A HEART-FELT thank you to our Sponsors!! Major Race Sponsors Cape
Auto Body, Webster Bank, VERC Rentals and Dunkin Donuts (Cadette
Enterprises). Registration Sponsors Rockland Federal Credit Union, Duggan Builders, Cartmell Funeral Home and Entergy. T-Shirt Sponsors Just Ride!, Plymouth
Pilgrim’s Baseball League, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Fruit Center Marketplace, The Cleanist,
Speedwell Tavern, Monponsett Inn, Tiny & Sons Glass Co. Course Sponsors, AAA Southern
NE, Law Offices of Timothy Kelliher, Harbor One Bank, Brenscott Building & Development, and Mama
Mia’s! Website Sponsors KC Graphics, Pilgrim Sands at Long Beach and Safeguard
Business Systems.
Special thanks to George Rose, Cross-Country Coach at Sacred Heart High School
and members of his team for running the race to benefit the Arc. Thank you to
volunteers Roger & Corinne Monty, Malissa & Bill Kenney, Jane O’Neal, Ed Fleming
and Kelly Norton!
FALL/WINTER 2014
Sponsorships benefit The Arc’s social/recreational/educational programs and
emergency funds for families in need. Photos by Denise Maccaferri
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www.thearcofgp.org
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Plymouth, MA
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Cordage Park Commerce Center
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Plymouth, MA 02360
Address Service Requested
Developing Partnerships, Enriching Communities
The Arc of Greater Plymouth is dedicated to providing personalized services, supports, and advocacy to individuals with intellectual
and other developmental disabilities. The Arc of Greater Plymouth is committed to changing attitudes, perceptions, and legislation
Mission Statement
so individuals will have the opportunity to choose and realize their goals of where and how they learn, live, work and play. The Arc
of Greater Plymouth provides services and supports to over 1000 individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in
Southeastern Massachusetts.
Supporting People, Supporting Families, Supporting Communities Providing Advocacy, Support and Services for Individuals with Developmental /Intellectual
Disabilities and their Families in the Towns of Carver, Duxbury, Halifax, Hanover, Hanson, Kingston, Marshfield, Pembroke, Plympton and Plymouth, Massachusetts.
FALL/WINTER 2014 Affiliated with The Arc of the United States, Arc Massachusetts12and United Way of Greater Plymouth County.www.thearcofgp.org