Northeast Arc’s Latest

September 10-16 is Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, which is an opportunity to honor the dedicated DSPs who carry out our work of changing lives and discovering abilities every day.

Susan Truesdale and Donna Marden recently marked 40 years working with Northeast Arc.

Event will award up to $200,000 in funding to innovative ideas that enhance the lives of people with disabilities and autism.

“The most rewarding aspect of my job is watching the attendees at our social events make friends and then develop deeper relationships with those friends outside of our events,” Heather Burgess says. Many attendees at social gatherings and training programs report that in addition to being more adept at striking up conversations and friendships, they’re now able to form longer-lasting relationships. 

Energy North established the It Kicks! Foundation in June 2023, with the goal of fueling communities by listening, partnering and investing in youth and education across Northeastern Massachusetts. The grant to Northeast Arc will be delivered over the course of three years.

“The parents of kids who turned 3 several years ago will send me thank-you notes and pictures of their children with updates on how they’re doing. One mom wishes me a happy Mother’s Day every year!” Dara says a bit incredulously. “The fact that these parents still think of me speaks to the impact of our work.”

The ABA programs were previously part of the Family Services division, and have a long history of supporting individuals and families across the North Shore.

The State of Massachusetts has awarded Northeast Arc a $300,000 grant for its “A Weekend to Remember: Respite Program.” This program provides a “vacation” for young adults while offering respite to caregivers, families, and staff.

Beyond the clinical care specialists, job coaches, skills trainers and other direct care professionals is a team of employees, led by Graham Daniels, responsible for keeping Northeast Arc’s residential, medical and commercial space safe, presentable and functional. 

Northeast Arc has opened a new location at the Square One Mall in Saugus. The new location, which opened in late May, supports individuals in Northeast Arc’s Steps to Independence and Supported Employment programs.