Northeast Arc

01/16/2026

Join the Northeast Transition Collaborative Network on Tuesday, February 10, for a free webinar exploring options that support independence for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Learn the
basics of guardianship and explore less restrictive options, including supported decision-making,
powers of attorney, and health proxies. Register here: https://ow.ly/78Bk50XU6Gi

01/14/2026

Exciting news: Northeast Arc's Day Hab programs have open spots and are accepting referrals! If you or a family member are looking for a place to learn new skills, make skills, and have fun in the community, then these programs may be good fit. Our Endeavor and Patton Center programs focus on arts, music, community engagement, life skills training, and much more. Visit our website today to complete a referral: https://ne-arc.org/services/day-services/day-habilitation/

01/12/2026

Join Planned Lifetime Assistance Network - PLAN of MA & RI on February 10, 2026, for a free webinar exploring what Special Needs Trusts are and how they can help you and your loved ones plan for the future. During these webinars you will learn: the purpose of a Special Needs Trust, types of Special Needs Trusts, trustee responsibilities, trustee consideations, ABLE accounts, and how to establish a trust. Visit the PLAN website now to register: planofma-ri.org/plan-events/

01/09/2026

Northeast Arc recently celebrated graduates from our three employment internship programs: Project Perk, Project Parcels, and Project Pizza. During their internships, which take place at Breaking Grounds Cafe, Northeast Arc Gifts, and Amazing Pizza & More, each participant learned all facets of the respective businesses including food preparation, greeting customers, and merchandising. These internships are an important part of career exploration for people with disabilities and autism. Some graduates, like Erin, have already secured jobs, while others will begin looking for roles in the community. Congratulations to Charlie, Hilary, Steven, Erin, and Julia!

01/08/2026

The Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council and The Arc of Massachusetts invite Massachusetts residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to submit original artwork to honor “Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month” in March. Learn more and subimt your art here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/6LVM8DG

01/07/2026

"This job has helped me turn my life around."

Jessica Freeland has been thriving in her new role as a cashier at Ocean State Job Lot in Saugus. While she initially faced some challenges with money-handling and basic math, her determination and consistent coaching have helped her master these essential skills. She has also gained independence in transportation by using The RIDE service to commute home — a big step in her personal growth.

A standout moment at work came when Jess assisted a Deaf customer by using sign language to help them find items throughout the store. Her empathy and professionalism created a truly inclusive experience, leaving the customer feeling valued and respected.

“I like working with my co-workers. They understand me and support me knowing that I have a disability," said Jess when asked about her job. "My co-workers help me naturally with things that I may need help with. Ocean State Job Lot treats their employees well and they treat us to lunch and ice cream socials. I love when my boss tells me how well I am doing and how I handle the customers.”

Jess says she's proud of learning how to successfully work the register and complete online order pick-ups. "Having a job has helped me earn money, " Jess said. "This job has helped me turn my life around."

01/05/2026

Since launching in the fall, 58 children have been able to take potentially life-saving swim lessons at the YMCA of the North Shore, YMCA of Metro North, and Jewish Community Center of the North Shore.

The program is made possible by the Changing Lives Fund, which was established in 2017 through a gift from Marblehead philanthropist Steven P. Rosenthal.

In yet another effort to help babies and toddlers in early intervention (EI) services learn and grow, Northeast Arc is offering them access to swim lessons.

12/31/2025

As we reach the end of 2025, we want to share a message of thanks from those who you have supported throughout the year: Our program participants. Brett Gray, Dan Gill, and Stefanie Sacks recently called donors to our Annual Fund to share a message of appreciation.

Whether you have donated your money or your time in 2025, you have helped people with disabilities and autism live as inclusive members of their communities. Thank you for your support, and best wishes for a happy new year!

12/29/2025

Francis Kimenyi recently joined Northeast Arc as the Director of Residential Nursing, a role where he oversees the care provided to residents across NeArc's 30+ residential homes.

Francis earned his LPN at Greater Lowell Technical High School and then got his Associate Degree in Nursing from Middlesex Community College. He brings a wealth of experience to NeArc thanks to previous roles at Lowell General Hospital, Vinfen, and Bridgewell. "Whether I’m supporting individuals in housing or coordinating care as a nurse, I bring empathy, grit, and a whole lot of heart to the work," says Francis.

When he's not working, you can find Francis cheering for Arsenal or enjoying a trail run.

12/25/2025

Residents in Northeast Arc homes are waking up to some incredible gifts this Christmas morning thanks to our friends at Fluid Industrial Associates, Inc. 🎄🎁 FIA President Andrew Pratt was introduced to NeArc by former Board Member John Holian and the team has been generously making the holidays bright for residents over the past 17 years! Each year they work through a wishlist of gifts, and beautifully wrap them. We are so grateful for the support and generosity of FIA!

12/23/2025

12/22/2025

Join the Northeast Transition Collaborative Network on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 to learn how Adult Family Care Services can support individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. Register here for the virtual meeting: https://nearc.zoom.us/meeting/register/ECwuxPKhRMCVIy7-HO3k6A #/