News from our members

Governor Healey Signs Legislation Renaming Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission to ‘MassAbility’

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Governor Healey Signs Legislation Renaming Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission to ‘MassAbility’

Governor Maura Healey signed legislation that renames the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission to MassAbility. Governor Healey filed this bill last year to reflect the administration’s goal of expanding the agency’s reach and ushering in a new, more inclusive model for disability career services and independent living. The legislation also removes outdated terms from the general laws like “handicap,” “handicapped,” and “retarded,” replacing them with “barrier,” “person with a disability,” and person with an “intellectual disability.”

“Words matter. This legislation ensures that the names and terms we use accurately reflect the strength and capabilities of the disability community, supports our goal of helping the people we serve achieve autonomy and independence, and breaks down stigma,” said Governor Maura Healey. “I’m grateful to our partners in the Legislature for advancing this legislation, and to the members of the disability community and our team at MassAbility and the Executive Office of Health and Human Services who advocated to make this a reality in Massachusetts”

“MassAbility exemplifies a sense of community and belonging,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “By updating these laws, we are putting outdated terms aside while honoring the disability community’s tenacity. MassAbility today provides services that break down barriers, cultivate diversity and empower people to thrive in their workplaces and their communities.”

The new name directly resulted from feedback from the disability community and was selected following significant research, focus groups, surveys, and conversations with the community, businesses, providers, and advocacy organizations.

“The new name MassAbility and language changes reflect both the state and agency’s commitment to inclusivity, because we know that words matter,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Kate Walsh. “MassAbility represents pride and self-determination. It’s about rights and equal access. It’s about building a future and being fully present and counted in the world.”

The name directly resulted from feedback from the disability community and was selected following significant research, focus groups, surveys, and conversations with the community, businesses, providers, and advocacy organizations.

“This historic legislation represents the state’s commitment to propelling the disability movement forward,” said MassAbility Commissioner Toni Wolf. “Language has the power to shape people and culture, tackle stigmas, biases, and stereotypes. For too long, the words we’ve used have not reflected the strengths, resilience, and determination of the disability community. This legislation changes that. We are changing life in Massachusetts for the better, making it more equitable, accessible, and inclusive for people with disabilities.”

“MassAbility signals the intentionality of the Healey-Driscoll Administration for driving a more inclusive workforce, workplace, and work opportunities for individuals with all capabilities,” said Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Lauren Jones. “Massachusetts is dedicated to fostering an equitable workforce system, and the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development looks forward to building on shared strategies to achieve this in collaboration with MassAbility.”

“Every person has the right to live an independent and meaningful life regardless of ability, with the same access to work, housing, and services that every resident deserves,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “With the Governor’s signature, we change this name to one which reflects the strong work of MassAbility to deliver that access to every individual who works with them, and we remove archaic laws — an important step towards becoming a more equitable Commonwealth. I am deeply grateful to the Governor for her signature, my colleagues for their support, Speaker Mariano, and our partners in the House.”

“This legislation is our latest effort to ensure that our state laws do not use antiquated words that carry negative connotations, words that also serve as a reminder of past injustices,” said Speaker of the House Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “I would like to thank Governor Healey for filing the bill originally, as well as all my colleagues in the House and our partners in the Senate for working to pass this important legislation.”

Working alongside the disability community, MassAbility provides services that break down barriers, cultivate diversity, and empower people to thrive in their workplaces and their communities.

To learn more, visit mass.gov/MassAbility.

Statements of Support

Colleen Holmes, President and CEO, Viability Inc.:
“The name change to MassAbility is cause for celebration by anyone who has had to bear the indignity of being labeled by their circumstance, condition, or diagnosis. “MassAbility” is more than just a new terminology. It signals a willingness to continue to evolve towards ensuring space and opportunities for individuals who may access services to be seen for who they are, heard as someone possessing the knowledge of walking in their own shoes, and counted in full.”

Kristen McCosh, City of Boston Disability Commissioner:
“The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission has been a valued partner in advancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities in the City of Boston. We are excited to carry this work forward with ‘MassAbility,’ the agency’s new name which focuses on strength and respect for workers with disabilities.”

Unstoppable Tracy Schmitt, International Association of Top Professionals #1 Inspirational Speaker, Disability Hall of Famer:
“Expressing my wholehearted support for your administration’s recent legislation to rename the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) to ‘MassAbility.’ This proposed change is not just a mere adjustment of terminology, but a profound step towards reflecting a more inclusive, respectful, and empowering perspective on disability. As someone who was born a 4-way amputee and who has dedicated much of my life to advocating for individuals with disabilities, I understand deeply the power of language in shaping perceptions and experiences.”

Meg Coffin, CEO, Center for Living & Working:
“The Center for Living & Working congratulates you on new name MassAbility. We look forward to continuing our partnership in ensuring those living with disabilities in Massachusetts are provided the same opportunities, supports, and services that have been offered for years. Your name reflects what our work is all about affording everyone the ability to achieve their goals.”

Destiny Maxam, Disability Inclusion Team Leader:
“To me, the name change reflects my voice being heard. For so long, things were being done about us without us. And now through multiple ways my voice is not only being heard, but listened to and acted upon. The name change reflects this, we may be disabled but have so many abilities especially when we put our voices together.”

George Farrington, Disability Inclusion Team Leader:
The new name says it all. I’m a brain tumor and brain injury survivor, and I belong to the New Start Brain Injury Community Center, which is a program that falls under the vast umbrella of MassAbility. Thanks to New Start, I realized that I still had the ability to live a meaningful life and the ability to still chase my dreams. One of which is furthering awareness and helping better the lives of people with disabilities. This name change puts the emphasis more on people with disabilities actual abilities, which is a sign that the state is ready and willing to do the same thing now and for generations to come.”

Kristen Flynn, Family Inclusion Ambassador:
“The name change to MassAbility is the public facing representation of the commitment of this agency to continue to ask questions and challenge the norms in support of all people with disabilities. It has been an exciting time to be part of the progressive effort that MassAbility is making as Massachusetts continues to be a leader in disability advocacy and inclusion.”

Aimee Rodrigues, Family Inclusion Ambassador:
“As the disability community continues to break down barriers toward an equitable future, it is only fitting we rid the stigma and support independence and self-determination with a powerful name change. MassAbility encompasses our commitment to leading the way for a more inclusive and accessible life for all.”

Gillan Wang, Family Inclusion Ambassador:
“The name MassAbility celebrates all that each person brings to the table; we are, all of us, differently abled, but together we are at our strongest. This name change signifies an awareness that words matter, and it reflects the genuine commitment of this agency to support individuals and families and empower all of us to live our best lives.”

Briana Berthiaume, Disability Inclusion Leader:
“The name change from MRC to MassAbility shifts the focus from a faceless bureaucracy to a participant-oriented organization. Everyone who receives services is unique, and MassAbility honors the individual and what they can bring to the world with the right support.”

Jeffrey Snyder, Disability Inclusion Leader:
“The evolution of disability support is never ending and we must do whatever it takes to support the disability community at large whether it’s in education, employment or everyday life. As a Disability Inclusion Leader, I feel that the next step in the evolution from MRC to MassAbility can give hope and confidence to the individuals and families we serve.”

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From Ramen to Riches – Main Street Bank Partners with Lunenburg Skate Park Project to Empower Local College Students with Financial Education

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Pictured, left to right: Jamie Conaghan (Main Street Bank), Chris Roy (Lunenburg Skate Park Project), Griffin Caiozzo (Lunenburg Skate Park Project), Bill Keyles (Main Street Bank), Aidan Moore (Lunenburg Skate Park Project) & Allison Migrants (Main Street Bank)

Main Street Bank, a pillar of financial stability in the
community, proudly teamed up with the Lunenburg Skate Park Project to host an interactive financial education session for local college students. This exciting initiative, held at the Lunenburg Public Library, brought together the community’s youth to learn essential life skills in budgeting, money management, and understanding credit scores—all in a setting that promotes connection and creativity.

The event, which took place on December 30th, aimed to address a critical need among young adults: financial literacy. With college students juggling tuition, living expenses, and often their first steps into the world of credit, Main Street Bank recognized the importance of equipping them with the knowledge and tools to build a secure financial future.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with the Lunenburg Skate Park Project to support our local students,” said Jamie Conaghan, SVP Marketing and Digital at Main Street Bank. “Financial literacy is a cornerstone of personal success, and empowering young adults with these skills today lays the groundwork for a brighter tomorrow.” The session was anything but a typical classroom experience. Students participated in hands-on workshops and engaging discussions led by Main Street Bank’s expert financial advisors. Topics ranged from setting realistic budgets and saving for short-term goals to understanding how credit scores impact future opportunities like renting an apartment or securing a loan. Attendees also had the chance to ask questions about their personal financial concerns, making the session both practical and relevant.

College students receive a hands-on learning experience, focused on budgeting, credit, and savings for the future, held at Lunenburg Public Library.

“This partnership with Main Street Bank is a perfect example of how we can combine community engagement with meaningful education,” said Anthony Caiozzo, President of the Lunenburg Skate Park Project. “We’re proud to see our project used to inspire and empower the next generation.”

The event concluded with a lively networking session, where students connected with bank representatives and community leaders over refreshments. Eachparticipant left with a financial literacy toolkit provided by Main Street Bank, ensuring that the lessons learned extend beyond the day.

Main Street Bank’s collaboration with the Lunenburg Skate Park Project underscores its commitment to the community’s well-being and future success. Together, they’ve shown how financial education can be both impactful and fun, proving that learning to budget doesn’t have to be a grind.

For more information about Main Street Bank’s financial education initiatives, visit www.bankmainstreet.com or contact Jamie Conaghan at 508-460-4166 or .

For more information about the Lunenburg Skate Park Project or to get involved, visitwww.lunenburgskatepark.org. Together, we can build a brighter, more inclusive future for our community!

All One Credit Union Honoring 70 Years in Business

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Pictured Left to Right: Barbara Mahoney, President & CEO, All One Credit Union; Brandon Robbins, Executive Director, Ginny’s Helping Hand; and Kelli Rooney, Senior Vice President, Community Engagement and Marketing, All One Credit Union.

All One Credit Union (formerly known as Leominster Credit Union) is honoring our 70 Years in Business by organizing 70 Acts of Kindness within the diverse communities we serve. We kicked off the celebration on Giving Tuesday, December 3, 2024, which is a movement that inspires people all over the world to give back, collaborate and celebrate generosity. Our 70 Acts of Kindness initiative will conclude before the holidays. Among the Acts were delivering pastries to local senior centers, care packages and cookies to police stations, supplies and food to animal shelters, making donations to Leominster High School for a student club and Longsjo Middle School for their Washington, DC trip and much more!

As part of the 70 Acts of Kindness, we wanted to make one large gift within the community that would make an impact on those in need this holiday season. This gift of $10,000 was a donation to Ginny’s Helping Hand and Food Pantry in Leominster to assist in their holiday program, ensuring that individuals and families in need experience the joy and warmth of the season.

“Our commitment to our community is very important to us at All One Credit Union. We are dedicated in helping to make a difference in people’s lives and Ginnys is a wonderful community partner whose mission is to provide essential resources and support to individuals and families in need, helping to foster a stronger, more compassionate community,” stated Barbara Mahoney, President & CEO, All One Credit Union.

“We are honored to be among the many worthy organizations recognized by All One Credit Union’s 70 Acts of Kindness initiative to celebrate their 70th Anniversary,” said Brandon L. Robbins, Executive Director, Ginny’s Helping Hand. “This generous donation came at a critical time for Ginny’s as those experiencing food insecurity is at an historic high. This donation will enable us to serve 500 individuals and families with all the holiday essentials and the opportunity to thrive.

We are thankful for our members and the community partnerships we have developed over the years. We hope to continue to build on our strong history, trust, and commitment to our communities for the next 70 years.

Youth Pickleball Open Play

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Looking for a fun, active way to spend your winter break? Come for open play with a coach—a great opportunity to learn the exciting game of pickleball while enjoying the holiday season! Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your skills, this is the perfect chance to get involved, stay active, and enjoy with family and friends.

Event Details:

Youth Pickleball Open Play
Thursday, December 26 – Friday, December 27
Monday, December 30 – Tuesday, December 31
Ages 10 – 24 | Ages 14 -18
$10 per Person (Balls and Paddles provided)
471 Lancaster Street | Leominster, MA

Learn More

Gardner Community Action Committee Signs Lease with city of Gardner at Waterford Community Center

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The City of Gardner and the Gardner Community Action Committee (“CAC”) recently entered intoa lease agreement to relocate the CAC to the new Waterford Community Center. The CAC has been a staple of support for families who are facing financial challenges in the Greater Gardner area. This move reflects a new chapter for the CAC, providing almost three times more space for their services than they have at their current location. The City is proud to help strengthen the resources needed to provide crucial services to the community.

“I am really excited to see the CAC move in as the first tenant of our new community center,” said Gardner Mayor Mike Nicholson. “The work they provide to our residents in need is invaluable, and I’m excited to see their programs and services be able to grow and expand as a result of this partnership.”

The vision for the Waterford Community Center is to be a hub of collaboration and support for any citizen who may be seeking services. With upgraded facilities and more space expand programs, the hope is to create a welcoming environment targeted at addressing the critical issues present in the Greater Gardner area.

In 2022, the City of Gardner opened the newly constructed Gardner Elementary School, leaving the former Waterford Street School property vacant. Later that year, Mayor Nicholson announced the City’s plan to convert the former school into a new non-profit community center to be able to allow the City’s social service organizations to work in a more collaborative space in order to grow and expand their programs together. The Gardner CAC is the first tenant to move in and begin to outfit the space to house their new expanded food pantry, clothing closet, and food preparation areas.

Pictured: Mayor Nicholson, CAC Executive Director Julie Meehan, State Representative Jon Zlotnik, City Council President Elizabeth Kazinskas, Members of the Gardner City Council, and Members of the Gardner CAC Board of Directors celebrate the signing of the new lease and the expanded programming to take place at the new location.

“The Gardner CAC is excited about the opportunity to relocate to the former Waterford Street School. This move will allow us to significantly expand our capacity, strengthen partnerships, increase volunteerism, and offer a wider range of programs to better serve our community. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this new space will have on our organization and the individuals we serve!” said Julie Meehan Executive Director of the CAC.

The CAC is a non-profit organization that offers a variety of different services to those in the community who are striving to overcome economic barriers. Some of the resources available at the CAC include a backpack program for students, access to personal care items, new or gently used clothing such as winter coats and blankets, fresh produce and canned goods, and Holiday toy distribution.

From the period of July 1, 2024, through December 6, 2024, the CAC provided services to 4,450 individuals in 1,824 households. The demand for their services has seen over a 64% increase in the last two years.

“The Gardner CAC’s move to 62 Waterford Street continues the building’s transformation and begins its revitalization.  A new physical space is also a new opportunity for the CAC to grow and thrive.  I could not be happier for Julie Meehan, her team, and all those in our community who benefit so significantly from their important work.  A very proud day for Gardner.” said Elizabeth Kazinskas City Council President.

The CAC was founded in 1970 when a group of concerned citizens came together with the hopes to curb hunger in the Gardner area. Over the years their mission has grown stronger as they work diligently to promote self-sufficiency to low-income families along with improving the quality of life for the community.

“The Gardner CAC is a vital partner in our efforts to provide the services our residents need to get through their daily lives,” concluded Mayor Mike Nicholson. “Their outreach to our underrepresented and disadvantaged populations makes permanent differences in people’s lives each and every day. I’m very proudwe were able to partner with them on this project and I look forward to seeing how their expanded services provided through this space allow them to make an even greater impact for years to come.”

The selfless work and services provided by the CAC are made possible through donations. If you are looking to make a donation their wish list is located here: https://gardner-cac.org/wish-list/ or a monetary donation could be made on their website. Any donations are appreciated and can be dropped off at the Gardner CAC 294 Pleasant Street, Gardner, MA.

Supporting Creativity and Community: Community Foundation Grants $104,761 to Enhance Arts and Civic Programs

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The Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts is pleased to announce $104,761 in community enrichment grants awarded to twenty-one area nonprofits. These grants will support a diverse range of arts and culture, community development, and civic engagement programs aimed at enhancing the vitality of our region.

“Community enrichment grants are vital to nurturing the arts and preserving our cultural heritage,” said Stephen Adams, President of the Community Foundation. “They empower local artists, cultural organizations, and community groups to bring creative programs to life, making the arts accessible to all. By investing in arts and culture, we’re enriching quality of life, fostering community pride, and building vibrant, thriving neighborhoods. Together, we’re laying a foundation of creativity and resilience that strengthens the fabric of our communities.”

The Community Enrichment grant program is one of six competitive grant programs of the Community Foundation. To learn more, go to www.cfncm.org.

Organization Project Recommended Amount
Boys & Girls Club of Lunenburg #HTS x BGCL: Digital Wellness for Boys and Girls in Lunenburg $3,000.00
Clinical & Support Options (CSO) Cut Loose’ Collage Workshops in Greater Gardner $3,000.00
Community Legal Aid North Central MA Legal Aid Outreach Project $8,000.00
East Quabbin Land Trust, Inc. Installing an Accessible Walkway at the Petersham Country Store $8,000.00
Fitchburg Historical Society Making and Remaking the American Dream: Bringing my story to the Fitchburg Historical Society $5,225.00
Greater Gardner Community Choir 2024-25 GGCC Concert Season (Spring and Holiday Concerts) $2,500.00
Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts, Inc Creating the Pathway to Social and Civic Engagement through Home Ownership $5,000.00
Harvard’s Cultural Collaborative, Inc. 2025 Harvard Music Festival $4,000.00
Health Equity Partnership of North Central MA (CHNA9) Legislative Breakfast on Health Equity $5,000.00
LaunchSpace, Inc. Mobile MakerSpace $8,000.00
Leominster Public Library Celebrate a World of Music! $3,391.00
NewVue Communities Community Connections Through Arts and Culture $8,000.00
Princeton Arts Society Princeton Arts Concert Series $1,000.00
Templeton Senior Community Center Art and Inspiration Series $3,500.00
The Gardner Museum Mini Festival for Singer/Songwriters $1,000.00
Thurston Consort, Inc. Thurston Consort Duet Ensemble monthly, downtown Fitchburg performances $3,000.00
Townsend Historical Society Brushstrokes of the Past: Preserving the Artwork of Rufus Porter at the Reed Homestead $8,500.00
United Way of North Central Massachusetts United Way Youth Venture, Academic Year 2024-25 $8,000.00
Winchendon Parks and Recreation Winchendon Connects: Inclusive Arts & Culture Series at the Parks $8,000.00
Winchendon Public Schools Everybody Loves a Story-An Evening Celebrating Literacy, Arts, Culture, and Community Connections! $6,645.00
Worcester Youth Orchestras “Americana” Fall Concert at Clinton Town Hall $2,000.00

Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts Awards $61,623 in Organizational Development Grants to Strengthen Nonprofit Effectiveness

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The Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts is pleased to announce the awarding of $61,623 in organizational development grants to twelve area nonprofits. These grants are dedicated to empowering nonprofits with the tools and resources they need to enhance their effectiveness, sustainability, and impact within the community.

The grants aim to bolster key areas of organizational development, including strategic planning, technology upgrades, staff training, and capacity-building initiatives. By investing in the infrastructure and internal capabilities of local nonprofits, the Community Foundation is helping to ensure these organizations can better meet the needs of North Central Massachusetts.

“These organizational development grants are an investment in the future of our region’s nonprofits,” said Stephen Adams, President of the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts. “By strengthening the foundations of these organizations, we are enabling them to serve our communities more effectively and sustainably. This support not only enhances their operations but also helps to build a more resilient and resourceful nonprofit sector that can adapt to changing needs and challenges.”

The twelve organizations selected represent a wide range of missions and community impact, all focused on improving quality of life in North Central Massachusetts. This initiative underscores the Foundation’s commitment to supporting nonprofits as they work to address community needs with innovation, resilience, and long-term vision.

The Organizational Development grant program is one of six competitive grant programs of the Community Foundation. To learn more, go to www.cfncm.org.

Organization Project Recommended Amount
Aspire Living & Learning Equipping Operation Health and Well-Being $5,000.00
Big Brothers Big Sisters Central Mass MetroWest Foster Youth Support and Mentorship $10,000.00
Gardner Community Action Committee, Inc Relocation and Accessibility $10,000.00
Guild of St. Agnes Devens Child Care Center Kitchen Update $5,000.00
JUST UNDERSTAND MY POTENTIAL, INC Clothing and Gear Room Upgrade $840.00
Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry, Inc. Shelving for Walk-In Cooler/Freezer $5,500.00
LUK Crisis Center, Inc. Project Management System $7,500.00
NewVue Communities NewVue Website Finish Line $7,000.00
Society of St Vincent de PAUL Cooler Upgrade $1,800.00
St. Anna Catholic School Purchase and Install Nightlock Door Barricade and Lockdown Security Door Shades $3,000.00
Voices of Truth Corporation Voices of Truth – Technology $2,992.00
Winchendon CAC Winchendon Community Hub Transformation: Phase 2 $3,000.00

Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts Community Foundation Racial Equity Fund Supports Local Initiatives

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The Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts is pleased to announce $49,250 in grants to five area nonprofits working to advance racial equity and social justice in our region. Programs were reviewed and recommended by the Community Foundation’s Racial Equity Advisory Committee co-chaired by Leona Whetzel and Sergio Paez.

The Racial Equity Fund is focused on promoting more just, equitable and compassionate communities in North Central Massachusetts by providing grants to nonprofit organizations working to advance racial equity and social justice.

“These grants reflect our community’s commitment to building a society where equity and opportunity are accessible to everyone,” said Stephen Adams, CFNCM President. “By supporting these initiatives, we’re investing in the power of community-driven solutions and better ensuring meaningful impact for the people of North Central Massachusetts,” Adams said.

The awardees are:

Org Project Award Amount
Kings Rooted Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Young Men 10,000
HEAL Winchendon Community Changemakers 8,000
Three Pyramids Leadership & Empowerment Training 10,000
Seeds of Solidarity Community Building Across Cultures 6,250
Growing Places Fun Farm Days 15,000

This year’s grants were made possible by the generous support of Ted and Connie Lapres, Lucy Crocker Abisalih, Sue and Bob Lotz and the Trustees of the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts.

To support racial equity programs in our community, consider donating to the Racial Equity Fund at www.cfncm.org/donate-now.

The road to financial independence begins with a few simple rules

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The-road-to-financial-independence-begins-with-a-few-simple-rules

Why are some people more successful investors than others?

Do they know a secret? Definitely not — because there are no real secrets to investing. But there are rules you can follow as you work
toward your goals.

Join us for our Rules of the Road presentation. You’ll learn:
• The most common investing mistakes and how to avoid them
• Investing strategies to help you reach your long-term goals
• What you can do to help ensure you stay on track

Save The Date

January 14, 2025 at 4:00 PM
– Or –
January 16, 2025 at 9:00 AM

North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
860 South Street
Fitchburg, MA 01420

We hope you will join us. Please call 978-630-8670 by 01/10/2025.

Bitcoin Ben’s Crypto Club Massachusetts Christmas Get Together

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What better way to celebrate the season than with a festive gathering of fellow crypto enthusiasts at Bitcoin Ben’s Crypto Club Massachusetts! Whether you’re here to network, enjoy some delicious food, or just have a great time, the Bitcoin Ben’s Massachusetts Christmas Party is the place to be. Bring your holiday cheer and your best crypto stories for a fun-filled afternoon celebrating the season!

Event Details:
Date: December 21, 2024
Time: 3:00pm – 7:00pm
Location: 91 Central St, Leominster, MA 01453

Learn More