Annual Report FY 22
When the Community Becomes the Classroom
This summer, NECC’s ITT students had the opportunity to explore more of their community — including taking a hike, blueberry picking, and an ice cream trip — thanks to an initiative developed by the team to increase student opportunities for academic and social enrichment.
NECC Students Participate in Special Olympics Track & Field Event
The spirit of community and celebration was palpable on August 13 as the NECC Special Olympics Track and Field event took place at Marlborough High School. This marked a significant return to local competition after a hiatus, bringing back the excitement and camaraderie that defines the Special Olympics.
Summer Interns Reflect on Invaluable Experience
For ten weeks over the summer, 60 interns from 36 colleges and universities nationwide received hands-on learning and training through NECC’s award-winning programs. For two of NECC’s interns, this summer helped them realize the potential the field of autism education holds.
Acts of Generosity: Linda Donahue’s Legacy of Giving
Linda Donahue’s journey with NECC spans over three decades, during which she has become a cornerstone of the agency. With a calm demeanor, a friendly personality, and an unwavering commitment to the mission of NECC, Donahue has left an indelible mark on the countless students and fellow staff whose lives she has touched.
Teacher Feature: Miriam Ramirez-Garceau
When Miriam Ramirez-Garceau came to Massachusetts from her home in El Salvador in 2019, she arrived intending to enroll in a program to learn more about special education and working with children with autism. It didn’t take her long before she found her place at NECC.
Solomon Pond Mall Shares the Warmth with NECC Students
Christmas came early for NECC students when the Solomon Pond Mall in Marlborough donated a generous shopping spree, which was used to purchase winter clothes and jackets for our NECC students.
NECC Children of Promise Gala Raises $1.23 Million
On November 10, 2023, the NECC community celebrated the annual Children of Promise Gala, shining a spotlight on its robust research program and raising more than $1.23 million.
Teacher Feature: Helen Hedman
Helen Hedman, MSEd, would do anything for her students. Including running 26.2 miles while raising money as a member of NECC’s Boston Marathon team.
Acts of Generosity: Scott Schmadeke and BJ’S Wholesale Club
In just three years, BJ’s Wholesale Club has become a valuable community partner. In addition to sponsoring events, BJ’s has donated goods and supplies, pumpkins for the decorating contest at Halloween, literacy kits for students, and is one of NECC’s newest vocational partners.
Teacher Feature: Julie LeBlanc
As a vocational specialist, Julie LeBlanc, MS, BCBA, LABA is responsible for developing and overseeing job opportunities within NECC and in the local community, as well as working with students and their teams to determine the best vocational work for them.
International Staff Boost Southborough Staffing
For the last couple of years, the COVID pandemic and a national staffing shortage have burdened NECC staff and restricted the availability of extracurricular activities for students. While NECC’s staff count has been slowly increasing, this fall, the Center received an influx of help in the form of international staff.
Science Enrichment returns to NECC
For nearly 20 years, the Academic and Education departments have collaborated with educational coordinators to sponsor six-week science enrichment units that culminated in a Science Fair for NECC students. This January, after a three-year hiatus, science enrichment returned to NECC, albeit in a reimagined form.
NECC Students Have a Ball with Special Olympics Basketball
Throughout the months of February and March, NECC students participated in Special Olympics Basketball. During their gym sessions, students took part in basketball skills and games, while APE/OT/PT staff served as coaches and provided instruction for these skill-building activities.
Teacher Feature: Shawn O’Brien
Sleep is an essential part of a healthy and productive life. For children who are growing and developing, beginning the day with a solid foundation of a good night’s sleep is crucial. At NECC, ensuring that happens falls on the residential counselors.
Acts of Generosity: The Carlin-Handin Family
Elliot Handin is a fighter. Diagnosed with leukemia at just three months old, Elliot beat the odds, defied his doctors’ grim diagnoses, and is now a thriving 17-year-old student in NECC’s residential program.
Teacher Feature: Alex Heggie
Though Alex Heggie has only worked at The New England Center for Children (NECC) in Southborough for two years, his connections with the organization date back more than a decade – and another continent.