Bridgewell, a nonprofit that provides social and human services that empower people with disabilities and other life challenges to live safe, self-directed, and productive lives, received an award this week at the State House from the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) for helping four individuals with autism experience a smooth transition into one of its homes. Bridgewell provides adults with autism residential living, day habilitation, and employment and work training.
The March 28 State House celebration “Highlighting DDS’ ‘Turning 22’ Transition Services” recognized Bridgewell for its program’s model of self-determination which allows residents to make their own choices and feel empowered to call the program their home. DDS currently provides services to more than 1,000 individuals with severe disabilities who aged out of the public education system and must transition into adult services. Each year, DDS helps hundreds of young people transition into the adult service system.
“We are honored to receive this award from the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services for our home’s dedication to providing our residents with the resources they need to live safe, happy, and enriched lives. Thank you to our residents, Brett, Chris, Josh, and Tommy,” says Nancy Marticio, director of Bridgewell’s Autism Services for 30 years. “This is a testament to our residents and our 12-person staff, who provide around-the-clock care to make this possible.”