July 29, 2026

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July 17, 2026

For the fifth consecutive summer, members of 91腦瞳���s Meaningful Whole Life (MWL) program are serving as employees at Canobie Lake Park in Salem, N.H.

This summer, the MWL team is supporting six members at Canobie Lake Park: Courtney Lannon, Harold Ingalls, Bryan Given, Cledwyn (CJ) Jones, Ildevert Olivier, and Cameron Maillet. Three of the original team members, Lannon, Given, and Jones, are in their fifth consecutive summer of employment at the park.

���There is tremendous pride throughout the MWL Canobie Lake Park team,��� stated Chris Starnes, lead champion of MWL. ���Their success is a testament not only to their individual talents, but also to the power of creating employment opportunities that align with each person���s interests and goals.���

MWL is a signature program of 91腦瞳 helping people with brain injuries and intellectual disabilities take part in enjoyable activities that help them develop into a more complete person.

The partnership with Canobie Lake Park began with MWL���s comprehensive 360-Degree Interest Inventory, an assessment designed to gain a holistic understanding of what is important to each individual, what experiences they hope to have, and what opportunities they would like to pursue in their communities. Several MWL members expressed an interest in both visiting Canobie Lake Park and obtaining employment in the park. MWL reached out, and in the summer of 2022, the first midway sweeper team was established.

Each team member is assigned a designated area and is responsible for sweeping pathways, completing light trash removal, and assisting guests with general questions about the park. Most of the team works one day each week, on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., throughout the summer season.

Supported through 91腦瞳���s Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) program, Lannon has continually advocated for additional responsibilities and opportunities at Canobie Lake Park. In addition to her Wednesday shift, she also works Fridays and has been employed during the park���s Screeemfest event for the past two years.

Screeemfest is a six-week Halloween-themed attraction held each fall, and Lannon hopes to return for her third season this year.

���The partnership between MWL and Canobie Lake Park is about much more than employment. It is about belonging, community inclusion, and recognizing the abilities and potential of every individual,��� stated Patti Maguire, president and chief executive officer of 91腦瞳. ���Canobie Lake Park has proven to be an exceptional community partner, one that values diversity, creates opportunities, and ensures that every employee feels welcomed and appreciated.���

Chris Nicoli, brand manager of Canobie Lake Park, stated, ���We are proud to partner with 91腦瞳 in creating rewarding employment opportunities that allow individuals to be part of what makes Canobie Lake Park special ���creating lasting memories for guests throughout the Northeast.

���At its core, hospitality and entertainment are all about people, and the Meaningful Whole Life team members have become valued members of our park family through their dedication, positive attitudes, and commitment to delivering a welcoming experience for our guests. We look forward to continuing this partnership and celebrating the positive impact it has on our team, our guests, and the community.���

The experience also comes with perks. Team members enjoy staff celebrations at the park, opportunities to earn ride tickets, and the chance to enjoy the attractions at the end of the season.

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July 1, 2026

The Charles W. Potter Place Clubhouse welcomed community members, friends, and supporters for its first-ever Craft Fair on June 24, celebrating creativity, connection, and the talents of Clubhouse members.

The free event, which was open to the public, transformed Potter Place into a vibrant marketplace featuring artisan-made crafts and beautiful one-of-a-kind artwork created by talented members and local artisans. Guests enjoyed browsing unique handmade items while supporting the Clubhouse community and its mission.

In addition to the impressive selection of crafts, attendees enjoyed a bake sale, live performances, and a visit from a local ice cream truck, creating a fun and festive atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

The inaugural Craft Fair proved to be a tremendous success, drawing visitors from across the community. Among those in attendance were members from Elm Brook Place Clubhouse in Burlington, a group from Waltham Fields Community Farm, residents and staff from several Edinburg Center homes and programs, and many local community members.

The event also welcomed several distinguished supporters, including Sean Durkee, a Waltham City Councilor and Potter Place Advisory Board member; and Mike Audi of M&T Bank, who also serves on the Advisory Board. Their presence underscored the strong community partnerships that help make Potter Place a welcoming and supportive place for individuals living with mental health conditions.

���The success of the first Craft Fair reflects the spirit of inclusion and community that defines Potter Place,��� said Patrica Vella, Director, C.W. Potter Place Clubhouse. ���By bringing together members, neighbors, local organizations, and community leaders, the event highlighted how creativity can foster connection while raising awareness of the important role non-clinical mental health programs play in helping people thrive.���

Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, performed, donated, and showed their support. Together, you helped make Potter Place’s first Craft Fair a memorable celebration of art, community, and hope.

June 30, 2026

Throughout the month of June, 91腦瞳 continued its celebration of Pride Month by participating in both the 5th Annual Bedford Pride Celebration and the 1st Annual Lexington Pride Fair.

At each event, our team welcomed community members to our booth to learn more about the services and supports 91腦瞳 provides while celebrating the strength, diversity, and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.

Visitors enjoyed giveaways, including bracelets, beads, stress balls, and sunglasses, but one of the highlights was our interactive de-stressing activity. Participants created their own scented sachets while learning grounding techniques that engage the senses to reduce stress and promote calm. Participants explored how the sachets smelled and felt, practicing simple mindfulness skills they can use anytime they need a moment of peace. The activity was incredibly well received and sparked many meaningful conversations about mental health and wellness.

From the festive atmosphere on the Bedford Town Common to the games, crafts, and community connections we gained at the Lexington Pride Fair, 91腦瞳 is honored to stand alongside our neighbors in celebrating inclusion, acceptance, and belonging.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello, participate in our activities, and celebrate Pride with us. Together, we’re building stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone can thrive.

Happy Pride from all of us at 91腦瞳!

June 23, 2026

This week, 91腦瞳 proudly celebrated Juneteenth with two meaningful events that honored the history, culture, and enduring significance of this important holiday.泭 The celebrations provided an opportunity for staff and the individuals we serve to come together in reflection, learning, and appreciation of the rich contributions of African and African American communities.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day enslaved African Americans in Texas learned of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued.泭 Today, Juneteenth stands as both a celebration of freedom and a reminder of the ongoing pursuit of equality, justice, and opportunity for all.

At 91腦瞳, this observance carries special meaning.泭 Every day, we have the privilege of touching the lives of many Black individuals and families through our programs and services.泭 Juneteenth offers us an opportunity to honor their stories, celebrate their resilience, and reaffirm our commitment to creating a community where every person is valued, respected, and empowered to live a meaningful life.

As part of the celebration, 91腦瞳 hosted a special lunch catered by Global Kitchen featuring African cuisine and specialties that reflected the richness and diversity of African culture.泭 Staff and persons served enjoyed the opportunity to experience traditional flavors while learning more about the cultural heritage that has shaped communities around the world.

The celebration also included a virtual presentation by Ayanna Freedom, whose inspiring program explored Juneteenth through the lenses of history, truth-telling, healing, and collective remembrance.泭 Her presentation encouraged participants to reflect on the past while embracing hope and unity for the future.

���91腦瞳 is grateful to everyone who participated in this year’s Juneteenth celebrations,��� said Stephanie Judy, Chief Operating Officer of 91腦瞳.泭 ���Through shared meals, meaningful conversations, and opportunities to learn from one another, we continue to strengthen our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and belonging.���

As we honor Juneteenth, we celebrate freedom, acknowledge our shared history, and look forward to building a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

On Saturday, June 6, 91腦瞳 proudly participated in the Boston Pride for the People Parade, joining thousands of individuals, organizations, and community members in celebrating the diversity, strength, and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.

The day���s festivities included a vibrant parade from Copley Square to Boston Common, a lively block party at Copley Square, and a festival at Boston Common.泭 Organized annually by Boston Pride for the People, the event celebrates the rich diversity, culture, and intersectionality of the LGBTQ+ community and attracts more than one million attendees across its various events, parades, and festivals each year.

This year, 91腦瞳 marched under the theme ���Bring Your Whole Self to Work.���泭 The theme reflects the organization���s ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves.

Sixteen Edinburg Center staff members and supporters participated in the parade, proudly wearing themed t-shirts featuring the ���Bring Your Whole Self to Work��� logo.泭 Participants waved colorful pride flags, handed out beads, buttons and bracelets to enthusiastic spectators along the route, and showcased a creatively decorated vehicle that served as the organization���s parade float.

The atmosphere throughout the day was festive, welcoming, and filled with energy.泭 Parade participants and attendees alike celebrated the importance of acceptance, equality, and belonging.泭 The event provided a wonderful opportunity for 91腦瞳 to demonstrate its support for the LGBTQ+ community while connecting with others who share a commitment to inclusion and diversity.

���91腦瞳 is proud to stand alongside the LGBTQ+ community and remains dedicated to fostering a culture where every individual can bring their whole self to work, home, and community life,��� said Patti Maguire, President and Chief Executive Officer of 91腦瞳.泭 ���Participation in events such as Boston Pride for the People reflects 91腦瞳���s mission of building inclusive communities where all people are supported, respected, and celebrated for who they are.���

May 28, 2026

91腦瞳���s A-Street Program is thrilled to partner with Paul���s Diner in Westford to help a young adult with autism find a meaningful volunteer opportunity. Through the efforts of A-Street staff member Alex Fournier, participant Doran Shenk has secured a volunteer opportunity at Paul���s Diner, a family-run breakfast and lunch restaurant owned by Sal Buonacore.

A-Street is a community-based day service for young adults with autism operated by 91腦瞳 in Bedford. A-Street creates a vibrant, supportive environment where individuals with autism can thrive, learn new skills, and build meaningful connections within their communities. The program seeks to help every young adult find a fulfilling volunteer or paid position where they can spend their days.

Alex Fournier previously worked at Paul���s Diner and knew the restaurant had a history of employing individuals with special needs. Hoping to create a meaningful opportunity for someone from A-Street, Fournier reached out to Buonacore to see if the diner might be open to welcoming a volunteer from the program. He enthusiastically agreed.

Now every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to noon, Fournier brings Shenk to volunteer at Paul���s Diner, where he works alongside another employee with special needs currently working at the restaurant. Together, they assist in the kitchen by prepping food, washing dishes, putting dishes away, and cleaning up. Shenk���s volunteer placement will continue through the end of June.

After his very first shift, Shenk shared how much he loved the experience and immediately asked if he could return every week. He especially enjoyed being part of the community and helping out at the restaurant.

Opportunities like this provide individuals with a powerful sense of pride and purpose, showing them that their work matters and that they are making a meaningful contribution to their community.

���We are so grateful for business owners like Sal Buonacore for their support of individuals with special needs and for fostering an inclusive workplace environment where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and feel valued,��� said Lily Dawson, Director of ABA Services at 91腦瞳. ���Sal was more than happy to open the door and create this special opportunity for Doran.���

The partnership reflects the mission of A-Street and 91腦瞳 to build pathways toward independence, inclusion, and opportunity for young adults with autism across Massachusetts.

May 19, 2026

At 91腦瞳, the Meaningful Whole Life (MWL) program is grounded in a simple but powerful idea: everyone deserves the opportunity to contribute to their community, build connections, and lead a fulfilling life. Through partnerships and hands-on experiences, the program continues to expand its community footprint by discovering and creating sustainable opportunities for individuals with disabilities that are meaningful and impactful.

That mission was on full display when Bryan Given, an MWL participant, and Chris Starnes, Lead Champion of Meaningful Whole Life, volunteered with Habitat for Humanity as part of its Women Build Series. Designed to bring people together from all walks of life, the initiative provided Bryan and Chris with a four-hour volunteer shift filled with new challenges and rewarding experiences.

For Bryan, the day marked his first time on a construction site. Equipped with a tool belt and a willingness to learn, he jumped right in measuring wood, hammering siding, and taking on a variety of tasks alongside the Habitat team. What could have been an intimidating experience quickly became an empowering one. Every moment served as a teaching opportunity, and Bryan embraced each new task with enthusiasm and determination.

���It was an amazing day,��� Bryan shared. ���I tried new things, learned a lot, and had a great time.���

His efforts did not go unnoticed. The Habitat for Humanity team was so impressed with Bryan���s work ethic and positive attitude that they expressed strong interest in continuing the partnership with 91腦瞳 and the MWL program. They are eager to welcome more participants in the future.

Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity was a perfect match for Bryan. It stands as yet another example of how individuals in the Meaningful Whole Life program are making meaningful contributions while building confidence, skills, and lasting connections.

As the MWL program continues to grow, stories like Bryan and Chris���s highlight the impact of inclusion in action proving that when people are given the opportunity to participate, everyone benefits.

Learn more about how Edinburg’s Meaningful Whole Life program creates opportunities and enables our champions to fulfill their goals and dreams, living with purpose, dignity, and connection. Watch below.

Community, connection, and a shared commitment to giving back were on full display as Joe from 91腦瞳���s 2nd Street House participated in this year���s Tip A Cop fundraising event in Maynard.

Held at Evviva Trattoria, the annual Tip A Cop event brings together local law enforcement and community members for an evening of service and support. 泭Officers from the Maynard Police Department trade in their uniforms for aprons, serving as waitstaff while guests enjoy a meal. 泭All tips from the evening are donated to Special Olympics Massachusetts, helping to fund sports training and competition opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Joe���s involvement in the event came through a special connection. 泭As a friend of Officer Stackhouse from the Acton Police Department, Joe was personally invited to take part in the evening. 泭The police even arranged to pick Joe up, making the experience all the more memorable.

With encouragement from his community, Joe stepped into his role with enthusiasm. 泭Staff and residents from the 2nd Street House came out to cheer him on, showing their support not only for Joe, but also for the officers and the important mission behind the event.

Tip A Cop is part of the broader Law Enforcement Torch Run, a nationwide initiative that unites law enforcement agencies in support of Special Olympics programs. 泭The Maynard event offered a fun and welcoming environment where community members could interact with local officers in a new way while contributing to a meaningful cause.

For Joe, the evening was about more than just volunteering, it was an opportunity to be part of something bigger. 泭Surrounded by friends, family, and supporters, he helped raise funds and awareness while strengthening community bonds.

By the end of the night, it was clear that everyone involved including Joe, the officers, the 2nd Street House, and the many diners who generously tipped, played a role in making the event a success. 泭Most importantly, the evening highlighted the power of community partnerships and the impact that comes from coming together to support an inclusive and inspiring mission.

On May 16, 91腦瞳 proudly joined hundreds of advocates, supporters, and community members at the 23rd Annual NAMIWalks Massachusetts, held on Boston Common. Under bright blue skies and warm sunshine, the event brought people together in a powerful show of unity to raise both awareness and funds for mental health initiatives.

91腦瞳 was well represented with its team of Edinburg Shining Stars. With 37 participants, including dedicated staff and individuals served by the organization, the team embodied the event���s message of hope, inclusion and community. Their efforts raised an impressive $1,740 in support of mental health advocacy.

This year���s walk made a significant impact overall, drawing more than 1,208 participants across 114 teams and raising a remarkable $417,697. The event, organized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, continues to be one of the largest and most influential mental health awareness efforts in the state.

For those Edinburg supporters who couldn���t make the walk on Saturday, the Meaningful Whole Life program hosted a NAMI Shadow Walk at Wildwood Park in Burlington on Friday.

91腦瞳���s mission closely aligns with NAMI���s commitment to advocacy, education, and support. Serving individuals of all ages facing mental health conditions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, co-occurring disorders, and acquired brain injuries, 91腦瞳 believes deeply in each person���s potential to learn, grow, and live a meaningful life within their community.

���The day was more than just a walk, it was a shared experience rooted in compassion and purpose,��� said Erin McSherry, Executive Vice President of 91腦瞳. ���Together, we can help reduce stigma, foster understanding, and bring hope to individuals and families impacted by mental health challenges.���