Resources, Affiliates & Testimonials
- "I feel so proud of the way our students participated thoughtfully, and then engaged in conversations that at times were a bit tough. I am blown away by the impact this program made, and am hopeful that we can repeat and reach even more students in future years." "Gavin, a 10th grader with Spina Bifida shared personal stories about his family and his life, and how they all navigate the world while in a wheelchair. He was able to connect with students by sharing how his 6th grade year was as a young person with Spina Bifida. Gavin educated them gracefully on how the world doesn't often accommodate his basic needs, and how people don't always know how to support him. Sixth grade students asked questions and learned a lot about how they can be a better friend and classmate to their peers." Michelle Hone Grades 3-6 Physical Education Teacher, Boxford
- "Jen is such an amazing teacher, leader and advocate for individuals with different physical needs. She displayed this in her thoughtful and impressive hands on stations in which my 5th grade students participated. Each station had such meaning and allowed students to immerse themselves in different scenarios covering limitations in everyday life that span physical, visual, auditory and cognitive. The compassion she showed to her work and growing awareness has created a lasting impact on my students and created lifelong advocates for individuals with disabilities. I am so excited to continue to work with Jen and share her program throughout our district!" "Gavin was such an inspiration to our students and gave them a view into daily life and simple tasks many take for granted while being able bodied such as traveling, going to school and restaurants that have multiple floors, or even going to a friend's house. He showed them how perseverance is key and that living with a physical disability and being in a wheelchair does not mean you can't be a tremendous athlete or travel the country. Gavin's perspective of his experiences gave my students the eye opening start of understanding how they can be an advocate and inclusive of individuals with different physical abilities." Danielle Pargoli K-5 Physical Education Teacher, Newton
- "During difficult times, Jen demonstrates her leadership. She can focus, execute, and respond rapidly to a constantly changing environment...Jen’s work ethic, strength of character, and ability to prioritize her obligations, without ever missing a deadline, are nothing short of extraordinary. Jen has integrity woven deep into her fiber. She is nonjudgmental to people of all ages and walks of life. She prides herself in creating a safe space for everyone and meets everyone “where they are”. Jen ensures everyone feels recognized and encourages each individual to be their true, authentic selves. I cannot express on paper the level of respect I have for Jen. She is an inspiration for anyone that has the pleasure to know her." Jason Slattery, North Reading Youth Services, Vice-Chair Proctor & Gamble - Gillette, Principal Researcher
- "To talk about Jen, where can i even start? She is one of the most insightful and understanding people I've ever met in my life.She is a mom to all of us and there hasn't been a single time where i didn't feel like she had my best interests at heart, she always makes sure to give you her time of day so she can better understand you and your needs, because she truly understands that everyone has their own way of dealing with things.Jen spends her life trying to give back to the people that need it the most. I've seen her countless times tell me about her vision and what she wants to do and get it done without no hesitation, so you best believe ain't no mountain high enough for her to climb.I'm truly blessed to have such a generous and loving person in my life! She always gives me a safe space to share my thoughts and she completely dives into my world to better understand me, I've never felt judged or uncomfortable around her because she truly is what she shows and that is one of the most amazing, kind, and respectful people I've ever met.
I love you Jen! 💜
Thanks for everything!" Lucas Dias, Boston I.C.E. Storm, sled hockey & wheelchair lacrosse athete Survived 4 gunshot wounds, paralyzed from the chest down at the age of 16 - "With sheer tenacity, Jen created a loyal following by providing activities and enrichment programming that went way beyond the traditional MS/HS after school activities. She did this all with compassion and heart...Jen was successful in this role because she considered the individual needs of her kids and created programs that addressed those needs on a group scale. Her programs were relevant...she remains eternally optimistic and has unparalleled empathy for those who are struggling now." Rich Wallner, North Reading Select Board, Member Service Financial Group, Financial Advisor
- "The group was a really fun experience and I look forward to the next meeting!" Deirdre Rogers, Go-getters Girls Group Member, 8th grade
- "The Mental Health First Aid Training has been thought-provoking and has already changed the way I view my students and their mental health. This training is helping me become a more well-rounded educator and not only focus on supporting students academically, but also socially and emotionally. I highly recommend this training to everyone!"
Andrea Gagnon, North Reading High School Math Teacher & Curriculum Coordinator - "My daughters found the group very beneficial. Jen made them feel comfortable and they were able to open up about their feelings about school and friends."
Kathleen Logan, FNP-C, Broadway Healthcare Owner mother of 13yo and 11yo youth What's the most important thing that I learned?
"Never judge someone by first glance and don't take anything for granted" "some places are not exesibal to disabiled people which means we should do somthing about it" "probably that sometimes you have to respect that disabled people don't want help with things" "You don't have to be fully enabled with your body to be a great athlete" "to not take things for granted" "That you should ask before you assume something about someone with a disability" (Ward Elementary School, Newton, MA - 5th graders) "That people who have a disibility can still do the things that others can but it might be harder." "how toling it is being in a wheelchair. Both physically and mentally" "that almost any sport is possible even when someone can't do it the traditional way" "how different, and how difficult adaptive basketball is" "disabilities don't define anyone" "the amount of upper body strength to do that" "is to be fair and don't underestimate disabled people" (Spofford Pond Elementary School, Boxford, MA - 6th graders)