welcome
welcome
Dear Friends,
The last year has been a time of growth, organizational change, and impact at Easterseals NH & VT as we made strides in becoming a more efficient, effective, and unified organization.
Relying on the goals of our strategic plan as guideposts, we acted intentionally to hire the best people, implement new systems and procedures, and refine our brand. Looking back, it is truly inspiring to see how all of our efforts add up to build the momentum to move Easterseals NH & VT forward, supporting our enterprise goals to Serve Our Clients, Strengthen Our Organization, Engage Our Community, and Advocate for Our Cause.
The data and the stories in the following pages are presented to you through the lens of our tagline, ELEVATING ALL ABILITIES. Reading our annual report will show you how far we have come and give you a real sense of the powerful impact our organization has on the people of New Hampshire and Vermont.
We are proud of our organization and the dedicated people who make it such a game-changer for people of all abilities – children, adults, seniors, and veterans in New Hampshire, and children and families in Vermont. We are indebted to people like you, our staff, donors, partners, volunteers, and sponsors, who help us realize our vision of being a top provider of choice for our neighbors. Thank you for your loyal support.
With gratitude,
Bryan Bouchard
Board Chair
Maureen Beauregard
President & CEO
Dedication
We dedicate this annual report to the memory of Paul Voegelin, whose recent passing is a tremendous loss to our organization. Paul joined our Board of Directors in December 2020 and was an invaluable team player. His dedication to elevating people of all abilities was evident in every role he undertook.
Paul served as Assistant Treasurer in 2022 and 2023, and he became Treasurer of the Board in 2024, guiding our fiscal strategies. He shared his acumen on the Farnum, Audit, and Executive Committees and chaired our Fiscal Committee. Paul was a member of the former Farnum Center Board of Directors from 2018 to 2020.
Paul’s commitment, wisdom, and kindness touched everyone. His legacy inspires us, and his absence is deeply felt. We extend our condolences to his family and loved ones.
impact
Impact
2,357
NH children supported through therapeutic and developmental services and child care
1,299
VT families helped to improve their safety, security, and well-being
204
NH adults achieved independence and inclusion in their communities
209
VT families formed by adoption or guardianship given needed support
280
NH children provided with special education and residential care
766
NH students, adults, and seniors given curb-to-curb transportation
191
VT teens and young adults helped to secure stable housing and employment
86
VT children and families facing stability and safety challenges were provided intensive support
9,660
NH residents provided with valuable information and guidance about our programs
145
NH adults given access to stable housing
742
NH service members, veterans, and their families provided with care coordination, counseling services, and emergency financial assistance
1,886
NH adults reclaimed their lives free from alcohol or substance use
48
At-risk youth in Rutland County, VT, supported in transitioning to adulthood
48
At-risk youth in Addison County, VT, supported to become productive community members
97
NH Campers provided with life-changing summer camp experiences
1,050
NH seniors utilized therapeutic care, in-home assistance, and meaningful social engagements
348
NH children and adults assisted in achieving their career goals and aspirations
19,416
People in NH AND VT UTILIZED OUR SERVICES
financials
Financials
Revenues
| Program Service Fees & Grants | $121,856,250 |
| Contributed Income & Other Revenues | $4,032,265 |
| Total Operating Income | $125,888,515 |
Expenses
| Program & Support Services | $112,207,886 |
| Administration | $13,397,910 |
| Total Operating Expenses | $125,605,796 |
Public Support
| Special Events (net) | $1,234,610 |
| Contributions and Bequests | $864,137 |
| Annual Campaigns (net) | $369,785 |
| Total Public Support | $2,468,532 |
$9,589,850
Free and Reduced-Price Services
*Note: Unaudited Preliminary Numbers (from 9/1/2023 to 8/31/2024)
new hampshire
New Hampshire
Camping & Recreation
97 CHILDREN & ADULTS
Camp Sno-Mo is our residential camp for youth featuring water sports, team sports, hiking, archery, arts and crafts, and more at our fully accessible location in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region.
Gilmanton Iron Works
Community-Based Services
204 ADULTS
Residential and community-based support for individuals with intellectual disabilities or acquired brain injuries promoting independence and inclusion in their communities.
Belmont, Concord, Manchester, Stratham, Statewide
Early Childhood Services
2,357 CHILDREN
Integrated child development services for children of all abilities. This includes developmental services such as speech therapy, physical therapy, and social and emotional supports, as well as child care for all children from birth to 5 years old.
Greater Manchester, Greater Salem
housing
145 ADULTS
Stable, affordable, and accessible housing solutions for some of the state’s most vulnerable populations. These include transitional and supportive housing in Manchester for homeless individuals and families; residential homes that provide staffing 24 hours per day, 7 days per week for some of the adults in our Community-Based Services program; and Champlin Place in Rochester, an independent living community for seniors.
Southern NH, Lakes Region, Seacoast
Information & Referral
6,625 ADULTS
Connecting New Hampshire residents with valuable information and guidance so they can find the support and programs they need to move forward.
Manchester, Nashua, Statewide
Residential & Educational Services
280 CHILDREN
Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities-accredited special education and therapeutic services ranging from intensive-level care in residential settings to support for individuals at home or in their community for children and youth ages 5 to 21.
Keene, Lancaster, Manchester
Senior Services
1,050 SENIORS
Promoting better living while aging in place for older adults. Includes Adult Day program with peers in a therapeutic and caring environment in our facilities. In-home services including one-to-one support with housekeeping, errands, personal care, and nursing needs.
Belmont, Manchester, Rochester, Stratham
Substance Use Treatment
1,886 ADULTS
Farnum is our Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities-accredited, comprehensive alcohol and other substance use treatment program for adults that offers detoxification, residential, and outpatient programs.
Manchester
Transportation Services
766 CHILDREN, ADULTS & SENIORS
Accessible curb-to-curb transportation services for program participants, students, and seniors that help them remain independent and connected to the community.
Manchester, Rochester
Veterans Count
742 VETERANS
Providing critical and timely case management and clinical services, as well as financial assistance, to meet the unexpected needs of service members, veterans, and their families.
Franklin, Manchester, Statewide
Workforce Development
348 ADULTS
Partnering with employers, schools, and government agencies to assist youth and adults’ goals of education, training, volunteering, and employment.
Belmont, Concord, Keene, Lebanon, Manchester, Stratham
vermont
vermont
Balanced & Restorative Justice
48 FAMILIES
Enhancing youth-focused restorative justice in Addison County, VT. We create safe, youth-based learning environments, identify skills and resource gaps, and support youth to become productive and invested community members.
Middlebury
Child & Family SupporT
1,299 FAMILIES
Through Family Time Coaching and coordination we help families who are currently separated due to safety concerns to spend quality, healthy time together. We also support at-risk families who are working to overcome challenges by providing care coordination and Family Safety Planning meeting facilitation. For children who are in the state’s custody, we provide family finding services so children can stay connected with kin who are available for ongoing support and assistance.
Barre, Bennington, Brattleboro, Burlington, Hartford, Middlebury, Morrisville, Newport, Rutland, Springfield, St. Johnsbury
COMPASS
48 CHILDREN
A prevention and stabilization program that serves at-risk youth ages 12 to 23 in Rutland County. Our program supports youth and families in developing well-being, education and employment, permanent connections, and stable living environments as youth transition to adulthood.
Rutland
Intensive Family Based Services
86 FAMILIES
Supporting children and their families facing challenges that threaten their stability and safety at home and in their community through clinically guided assessments, case management, facilitating community connections, family safety planning, and therapeutic services.
Burlington, Morrisville, Newport, St. Johnsbury
Post Permanency Services
209 FAMILIES
Supporting families formed by adoption or guardianship with in-home adjusted parenting education, consultation to treatment and school teams, and community resource referrals.
Barre, Bennington, Hartford, Morrisville, Rutland, St. Johnsbury
Substance Use Testing
1,069 tests administered
Coordination of substance use testing services that include observed collection of specimens, shipment of specimens to a lab for analysis, and arranging for test results to be brought back to the Vermont Department for Children and Families worker. The fundamental goal of this service is to inform child safety and risk decision making.
Barre, Bennington, Brattleboro, Morrisville, Newport, Rutland, Springfield, St. Johnsbury
Transportation Services
9,377 riDES
Transportation services for children and youth accessing parent-child contact support services through Easterseals VT.
Barre, Bennington, Brattleboro, Burlington, Hartford, Middlebury, Morrisville, Newport, Rutland, Springfield, St. Johnsbury
Youth Development
191 CHILDREN
Promoting independence for teens and young adults ages 14 to 22 transitioning out of foster care to adulthood by helping youth identify and attain their goals around things like stable housing, secure employment, and post-secondary education.
Hartford, Middlebury, Rutland, Springfield
mission
MISSION
Purposeful Growth
Executing Our Strategic Objective of Engaging Our Community
Purposeful Growth
EXECUTING OUR STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE OF ENGAGING OUR COMMUNITY
As we continue our work to ELEVATE ALL ABILITIES, one of our strategic objectives in the last fiscal year was to engage our community by providing thought leadership to our sector and creating a greater awareness of our brand and mission. Here is a look back at some of these accomplishments.
- Maureen Beauregard, our President & CEO, was named one of Business NH Magazine’s 40 “Influential Leaders.” She also spoke at NH Futurecast, the magazine’s annual event, joining other business leaders and experts from various sectors across the state who provided their forecasts for the upcoming year.
- Easterseals NH was selected as the Nonprofit Business of the Year by Business NH Magazine for exemplifying leadership in serving the people of New Hampshire and holding a track record of effectively responding to changing community needs.
- Easterseals NH hosted two separate roundtable discussions with U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire. Senator Shaheen’s roundtable focused on New Hampshire child care centers’ current access and staffing challenges, while Senator Hassan’s centered on the Inflation Reduction Act.
- Maureen Beauregard was a featured panelist at the University of New Hampshire’s Women in Business Conference. The theme, “Lift As You Lead,” emphasized the importance of leadership extending beyond one’s achievements.
- Maureen Beauregard participated in NH Business Review’s event, Leadership: Unscripted. She joined four other successful business leaders to share candid personal and professional growth stories.
Advancing the Mission
Fiscal Year 2024 was a year when we rolled up our sleeves and dug into several of the essentials behind Easterseals NH & VT, our staffing, and our strategic thinking.
Recognizing that we are only as good as our people, we brought on seasoned professionals to help shape and guide critical functions of our organization. Two new members of our executive leadership team were named. Michele Talwani was promoted to Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, responsible for the strategy, direction, and oversight of branding, visibility, and a broad range of communications and marketing activities. Jeffrey Zwillenberg was appointed as Chief Administrative Officer to develop and implement operational plans to enhance quality, performance, and efficiencies related to organizational systems, processes, and staffing. In addition, four new Senior Vice Presidents were named: Marie Poole for Property Management; Chris Wellington for Housing and Property Development; Amanda MacLellan for Organizational Culture and Policy; and Dino Quintero for Information Technology.
To ELEVATE ALL ABILITIES and succeed in our strategic initiatives, we must reach the New Hampshire and Vermont communities. We conducted an unbranded, anonymous email survey to get a better understanding of public perception. We found that respondents had a very narrow understanding of the services we provide, often thinking we only serve those with disabilities and in particular, children with disabilities. Just over a third of respondents recognized the Easterseals NH & VT brand, pointing to the need for stronger branding throughout New Hampshire and Vermont. We subsequently expanded marketing and communications efforts to elevate the brand, raising awareness of our programs to attract and retain clients, staff, donors, and other key stakeholders. This aligns with our strategic plan goals, To Serve Our Clients and To Engage Our Community.
Many Voices,
One Easterseals
Introduced in the spring of 2023, Many Voices, One Easterseals is an initiative dedicated to enhancing all Easterseals NH & VT employees’ sense of inclusion in the workplace. Many Voices, One Easterseals is directly tied to our strategic goal of strengthening our organization by creating a thriving community of professionals who feel like they belong, thus helping us fulfill our mission of ELEVATING ALL ABILITIES.
The Many Voices, One Easterseals Steering Committee, made up of staff members across the organization and in collaboration with Senior Leadership, adopted a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion work plan in the fall of 2023. As of the end of Fiscal Year 2024, Phase One of this three-phase plan has been executed.
Other notable achievements aligned with the work plan include a successful series of Listening Sessions open to all staff for Leadership to hear what staff need, what they experience, and what they envision for the organization. The Listening Sessions are part of an organization-wide strategy to become the employer of choice in our sector. The organization has also, with stakeholder input, reviewed high-impact policies to ensure equity. In addition to ongoing training and policy development, the agency is adopting a new focus on holistic accessibility practices.
children
CHILDREN
Zoey and Theo Make Strides
Early Childhood Services Help Zoey and Theo Thrive
Zoey and Theo Make Strides
Early Childhood Services Help Zoey and Theo Thrive
Easterseals NH’s Early Childhood Services ELEVATES ALL ABILITIES, providing child care, therapeutic, and developmental services to 2,357 children in Fiscal Year 2024.
2,357
NH children supported through therapeutic and developmental services and child care
We provide in-home early developmental intervention in Greater Manchester and Greater Salem through Family-Centered Early Supports & Services. Our Children’s Therapeutic Services offer extensive outpatient care at our Manchester and Salem, NH locations. Our Early Childhood Centers of Excellence (ECCE) in Manchester, NH, offer nationally-accredited child care to children of all abilities and deliver integrated developmental and therapeutic services based on each child’s needs.
Kate shared the positive impacts our ECCE has had on her children. Her daughter Zoey struggled with social interactions but improved significantly in our program. “When we walk into the playground every morning, her friends come to the gate and are so excited that Zoey is there,” Kate explained.
“Recently, I’ve really seen [Zoey] blossom; she’s made close friends.”
—Mariah Reed
Assistant Director of Easterseals NH
Early Childhood Centers of Excellence
“When Zoey first came to Easterseals NH, she was very quiet, didn’t really interact with other children,” added Mariah Reed, Assistant Director of Easterseals NH ECCE. “Through many connections, we were able to get her the services that she needs.”
Kate’s son Theo benefits from our integrated services model, receiving speech therapy through ECCE. “His speech has grown the last two weeks since he started,” Kate noted. “The teachers incorporate everything he’s learning.”
“We’re so fortunate to have so many services right here,” added Kristen McGuigan, Senior Vice President of Easterseals NH Early Childhood Services. “There’s this really beautiful way of collaborating and really focusing on continuum of care.”
We are committed to increasing our investment to support families facing financial barriers, but we need your help.
To learn more and to hear from Zoey and Theo’s mother Kate, visit eastersealsnh.org/childcare.
families
FAMILIES
Exploring the Past, Present, and Future
Over a Decade of Support from Easterseals VT
Exploring the Past, Present, & Future
Over a Decade of Support from Easterseals VT
Aiden’s beginning of life was far from ordinary. He was placed in three foster care homes; Nancy and Andy were his fourth placement at three months old, and they adopted him before he turned one.
Having raised two biological children, Nancy and Andy felt prepared to raise Aiden. They knew he was exposed prenatally to drugs; post-adoptive challenges arose when Aiden entered the school system, experiencing educational and behavioral issues. Nancy struggled until she connected with Easterseals VT’s Post Permanency Services when Aiden was six. “I remember begging for help, and once Ann came into our lives, everything changed,” shared Nancy.
Since then, Easterseals VT Post Permanency Coordinator Ann Wheeler has been a constant support to the family. Post Permanency Services is ELEVATING ALL ABILITIES by supporting families formed by adoption or guardianship in an effort to help meet the child’s needs, increase family stability, and locate community resources.
Ann has been pivotal in providing educational support and advocacy, aiding Nancy and Andy as they navigated the school system. Despite his challenges, Aiden found outlets to engage with and help people. Today, his passion for helping others is apparent in his recent fundraising efforts for Easterseals VT’s Over the Edge event and in securing a job at a local restaurant.
“It’s rare to find someone who truly understands what you’re facing and is that one constant support like Ann.”
— Nancy, Aiden’s mother
209
VT families formed by adoption or guardianship given needed support
Aiden and his parents look to the future with excitement as he journeys into adulthood, knowing they have the support of Ann and Easterseals VT when needed. They’re proud of where Aiden is today and reflect back on how far their family has come thanks to the profound support of Easterseals VT.
To learn more about our Post Permanency Services and to hear from Aiden and his family, visit eastersealsvt.org/post-permanency.
adults
ADULTS
A Continuum of Care
Mike’s Story
A Continuum of Care
Mike’s Story
Mike is one of many individuals who has benefited from Easterseals NH’s integrated services model. This holistic approach considers all the needs of those we serve and allows them to stay within the Easterseals NH family of services, allowing us to ELEVATE ALL ABILITIES throughout different stages of life.
204
NH Adults achieved independence and inclusion in their communities
Adopted at an early age by his former foster mother, Mike had been in multiple residential therapeutic settings by his tenth birthday. At twelve, he joined Easterseals NH’s Residential & Educational Services program as a resident of the Gammon Academy at Krol House, a shared living space in Manchester where residents practice independent living skills in a neighborhood setting.
When Mike reached adulthood, he continued with Easterseals NH Residential Services in our Community-Based Services program. “We decided it would be best for him to move into a staffed residential environment, and when he turned 21, that’s where he moved,” said Renee Fisher, Easterseals NH’s Senior Vice President of Long Term Supports and Services.
Mike has since thrived in this setting, which includes 24-hour-per-day, 7-days-per-week staffing by Easterseals NH professionals. The agency provides services to individuals in more than 20 such homes across the state to help them live fulfilling lives by becoming responsible, accountable, and productive citizens.
When I first got to Easterseals [NH], I always thought that I’d be the same person that I’ve always been. But there’s always a chance to make yourself better.”
—Mike
Community-Based Services consumer
Thanks to staying in the Easterseals NH family of services, Mike has learned valuable life skills and even secured employment as a landscaper for our maintenance department. He enjoys a variety of physical activities, from playing basketball to riding his bicycle, as well as cooking healthy meals at home. Lastly, Easterseals NH has provided Mike with the skills and structure necessary to manage his anxiety and emotions during stressful situations.
To learn more about our Community-Based Services program go to eastersealsnh.org/community-based-services.
SENIORS
SENIORS
Finding Community with Senior Services
Finding Community with Senior Services
Easterseals NH’s Senior Services ELEVATES ALL ABILITIES by supporting older adults’ health, safety, and independence at home and in the community. Our In-Home Care and Health Services provide an affordable alternative to nursing home care tailored to each client’s needs. Our Adult Day Programs in Manchester and Rochester, NH, offer stimulating community settings for social engagement, exercise, activities, and integrated care.
“I’ve made more friends here than the place I live.”
—Bob, Adult Day Participant
Bob joined the Adult Day Program in Manchester, NH, to overcome isolation, and said his outlook on life has improved since joining the program.
“I get to meet a lot of people,” Bob explained. “It’s good that way, better than sitting at home.”
Bob’s inability to drive isolated him, but Easterseals NH’s Transportation Program, integrated with the Adult Day Program, allows Bob and others who cannot drive to access the program. Many older adults struggle with loneliness, but 80 percent of Adult Day Program participants say they feel less lonely since joining the program, and 85 percent say they feel less depressed, indicating the importance of aging alongside peers.
Bob stays engaged by participating in the various activities the program offers. “I play a lot of games: card games, dice games, word games,” he shared, noting that cribbage and the drumming workout class are his favorites.
1,050
NH Seniors utilized therapeutic care, in-home assistance, and meaningful social engagements
Bob encourages others to join the Adult Day Program but acknowledges that some are reluctant like he was. Meeting the program’s staff and members changed his perspective, and he hopes to do the same for others.
Bob’s positive experience with Adult Day Program staff has inspired him to seek Easterseals NH’s In-Home Care and Health Services. “They’re wonderful,” he said of the staff. “Every one of them.”
Easterseals NH offers Adult Day Programs in Manchester and Rochester, NH, and In-Home Care and Health Services in the Lakes Region, Seacoast, Greater Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and Rochester areas. To learn more, visit eastersealsnh.org/senior-services.
Veterans
Veterans
Overcoming Obstacles with Veterans Count
Overcoming Obstacles with Veterans Count
Transitioning from military service to civilian life was Chris’ lowest point, and asking for help was no easier than facing his hardships alone. Despite living out of his car, Chris continued to deal with his situation rather than seeking the assistance he needed.
“At the time, it was a lot easier for me to just accept reality than it was for me to reach my hand out and ask for help,” Chris noted.
As a former National Guardsman, Chris discovered that Easterseals NH Veterans Count could help him get back on his feet.
“Our approach at Veterans Count is to meet individuals where they’re at and help them work toward the goals that they establish for themselves,” explained Andrea Chrisstoffels, Director of Easterseals NH Veterans Count.
With that support, Chris found employment, secured housing, and got his children the resources and services they needed.
“My transition out of the military was easily one of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to face.”
—Chris
Veterans Count Client
742
NH Service Members, veterans, and their Families provided with care coordination, Counseling Services, and emergency financial assistance
“With the help of Veterans Count, currently, I actually have not one but two jobs,” said Chris. “It is enriching to be able to provide for my family the way I used to be able to.”
Veterans Count ELEVATES ALL ABILITIES by ensuring the military community’s dignity, physical and mental health, and overall well-being. Chris is happy to know that other veterans and their families can get the assistance they need to live their best lives.
“Knowing that there are civilian organizations in America that are willing to help its veterans and go above and beyond the call is the most meaningful thing to me personally,” Chris added, “and to know that they’re still doing it for other people and they’re going to continue to do it for a very long time.”
Since its inception, Veterans Count has expanded significantly. Thanks to the dedication of our Executive Committee and Regional Chapter Ambassadors, we spread awareness of this amazing program and raise funds to support our veteran community and their families.
Visit vetscount.org to learn more and hear from Chris.
Center of excellence
military & Veterans Campus
Center of Excellence
Military & Veterans Campus
Easterseals NH Military & Veterans Campus Moves Forward
Easterseals NH Military & Veterans Campus Moves Forward
The transition from military life to civilian life can be a challenge for many, but the Easterseals NH Military & Veterans Campus is under development to meet the specialized needs of service members, veterans and their families.
“What the Easterseals NH Military & Veterans Campus is going to do for people like me is huge,” said Sid, a veteran formerly deployed to Afghanistan.
In the United States, approximately 40 percent of the homeless population are veterans. “This campus is going to offer affordable housing to veterans,” explained Sid. “We become part of a community—the campus can provide that for us.”
We are transforming our 15-acre campus and facilities in Franklin, NH, into a unique center of excellence for members of the military community like Sid. Designed and developed by PROCON, the campus will ELEVATE ALL ABILITIES by providing affordable housing, a retreat center, and enhanced support for service members, veterans, and their families through centralized access to a variety of services and recreation activities.
“The Campus is a wonderful thing, because it’s going to provide a one-stop shop where all your needs can be provided. You’ll be able to get counseling, clinical services, and get connected with your VA benefits,” Sid added.
Phase I construction of the Military & Veterans Campus, including affordable housing, the connector building and elevator that provides accessibility, and The Bernadine Herron Center is expected to be completed in the summer of 2025. Phase II, including the multi-purpose recreation center and outdoor recreation components, will unfold dependent on raising $23 million in additional funds.
Belonging and connection is important to everyone, including those who have served our country. “The campus is a place that can save lives,” said Sid. “As a veteran, I am grateful that the effort is being put in to make that a reality.”
It will take all of us working together to realize this important vision to the fullest and sustain the campus for future generations. Learn more about the campus and hear Sid’s story by visiting eastersealsnh.org/welcomehome
For information on how you can get involved, please reach out to Pamela Hawkes, Chief Development Officer, at 603.793.3858 or [email protected].
Center of excellence
gammon academy
Center of Excellence
Gammon Academy
Modernizing Gammon Academy on Zachary Road
Modernizing Gammon Academy on Zachary Road
Easterseals NH has embarked on major upgrades to expand its Manchester, NH-based Gammon Academy on Zachary Road. Gammon Academy provides residential and educational services, a true continuum of care for individuals with significant developmental, behavioral, or intellectual disabilities throughout the school-age years and into early adulthood.
“The children we work with don’t fall into any socioeconomic class. They could be your neighbors or your employees’ children.”
—John Soucy
Senior Vice President
Residential & Educational Services
The project’s first phase is a purpose-built school that more than doubles the existing educational space with additional classrooms and conference rooms, as well as designated rooms for various forms of therapeutic care. Once additional funds are raised, the second phase will include updates to modernize the campus residence.
With these enhancements, Easterseals NH is working to ELEVATE ALL ABILITIES by empowering children and young adults to live their best lives and reach their full potential.
Nicholas joined Easterseals NH’s Residential & Educational Services program in March 2022. Like many of us who thrive on consistent schedules and routines, Nicholas struggled with the sudden disruptions in everyday life caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program provided Nicholas with the resources necessary to create and maintain consistency in his routine, which has helped him regulate his emotions and regain his independence.
Nicholas receives regular campus visits from his family, who have noticed positive changes in their son since joining the program. “Easterseals NH really came through for us,” his father, Jack, said. “Gammon Academy has allowed him to become the person he can be.”
To learn more about our new Gammon Academy school and how it will impact students like Nicholas, visit eastersealsnh.org/residential-educational-services.
Center of excellence
champlin place
Center of Excellence
Champlin Place
Living with Independence
Living with Independence
Champlin Place, Easterseals NH’s new independent living community for adults 62 and older, is fully occupied. Construction began in November 2022, and after nearly eighteen months and an $18 million investment, Easterseals NH held the official ribbon-cutting for the building in May 2024. Now, Champlin Place’s 65 apartments are home to 70 residents.
Champlin Place ELEVATES ALL ABILITIES by offering affordable, well-equipped, modern apartments and features elevators, a community room, a library, an outdoor leisure space, and on-site parking. Each floor has laundry and trash rooms, and each unit has a dishwasher and microwave. Residents can access Easterseals NH resources, and many participate in our Adult Day Program or receive care through our In-Home Care & Health Services, both available on-site.
Maureen Smith, a Champlin Place resident (pictured above cutting the ribbon), shared that the community fulfills her need for accessibility, care, and independence.
“Being my age, I now know how my mom felt; she wanted her independence,” Maureen noted. “That’s what I feel here. I have my independence.”
Champlin Place is fully occupied but is currently accepting wait list applications for future availability. To learn more about the project, visit eastersealsnh.org/housing-at-champlin-place.
volunteers
Volunteers
Finding Fulfillment in Giving Back
Finding Fulfillment in Giving Back
Martin Cardella, a long-time Easterseals NH volunteer, has made a lasting impact through his dedicated service at one of our Manchester, NH, Early Childhood Centers of Excellence (ECCE). He became involved with the ECCE through United Way Day of Caring when he and his coworkers at Texas Instruments read to the children there in 2018.
“I had all sorts of fun, so I just kept going,” Martin explained.
“The kids make me laugh every time; there isn’t a single instance where I don’t leave here with a smile.”
—Martin
Volunteer at the Manchester ECCE
Now known affectionately as “Mr. Martin” to the kids, he has become one of Easterseals NH’s most frequent volunteers. He tallied 165 volunteer hours in 2023, earning the Bronze Presidential Volunteer Service Award, and logged over 260 hours in 2024.
Martin assists teachers with prep, cleanup, and activities like reading, games, and arts and crafts. However, he noted that the children particularly enjoy one special activity. “Once or twice a year, I’ll bring my guitar in,” Martin said. “I let the kids play the guitar—or half of the guitar if you will; they’ll strum it, and I’ll play the chords.”
Martin also contributes to the ECCE by donating classroom supplies and raising money through his employer, Texas Instruments, which makes annual contributions based on his volunteer hours.
“They allow me a flexible enough schedule that I can manage to volunteer a few times a week, and they also match my hours with so much per hour,” Martin explained.
Community support is essential to the ECCE’s mission of ELEVATING ALL ABILITIES, and Martin’s story is a testament to the difference one can make in the lives of young learners. He encourages others to experience the joy volunteering has brought him.
Visit eastersealsnh.org/volunteer to learn about volunteer opportunities.
donors
Donors
Bernadine Herron Estate Gift Makes an Impact on Veterans and Children
Bernadine Herron Estate Gift Makes an Impact on Veterans and Children
Easterseals NH was honored to receive a significant donation from the estate of Bernadine Herron of Hampton, NH, and is dedicating facilities in her name at both the Easterseals NH Military & Veterans Campus in Franklin, NH, and at our new Gammon Academy School in Manchester, NH.
Bernadine Herron was the co-founder of Herron & Smith, LLC, a provider of medical equipment and services located in Hooksett, NH.
“This generous gift from the Bernadine Herron estate will provide opportunities for relaxation and social connection among our service members, veterans, and their families, and it will also enrich the lives of young people with significant developmental and behavioral disabilities,” said Maureen Beauregard, President & CEO of Easterseals NH & VT.
“We are honored to see the impact of Bernie’s gift, which is so reflective of her dedication and concern for people from all walks of life,” said Tamme Dustin, President/CEO of Herron & Smith, LLC and co-trustee of the Bernadine Herron Estate with her husband, Tom Dustin.
In recognition of this transformative gift, the building that houses the hub of services for veteran service organizations, 22 hotel-style rooms, and conference center at the Easterseals NH Military & Veterans Campus will be named the Bernadine Herron Center. The climbing wall and ropes course in Phase II of the Military & Veterans Campus will also be dedicated to her. Her estate gift will also be recognized at Gammon Academy, where her donation in combination with other gifts has made possible an inclusive playground.
Making an estate gift to Easterseals NH & VT can be both thoughtful and strategic. You can ensure your legacy ELEVATES ALL ABILITIES and supports a cause that is meaningful to you, and you can reduce the taxable value of your estate. We would welcome a discussion with you and your personal advisors (CPA, wealth advisor, attorney) to review the options and determine what best meets your needs.
To learn more, visit eastersealsnh.org/individuals, or contact Pamela Hawkes, Chief Development Officer, at 603.793.3858 or [email protected].
Donors
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BACK ROW L. TO R.
Rob Wieczorek
President, Wieczorek Insurance
Sgt. Amanda Smith
Sergeant, Manchester, NH Police Department’s Patrol Division
Ryan C. Fox
VP, Specialty Lending, BankProv
Andy MacWilliam, Past Board Chair
Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP (Ret.)
Nathan Saller
President and CEO, Bellwether Community Credit Union
Gregory Baxter, MD
President, Elliot Health System
Tom Sullivan, Vice Chair
President, Sullivan Construction, Inc.
Jo Brown
Retired Active Duty Air Force Officer and Former Mayor of Franklin, NH
FRONT ROW L. TO R.
Dan Cronin
President and CEO, CGI Business Solutions
Sanjeev Srinivasan
VP, Corporate Dev & Strategy, Hypertherm
Linda James
Policy and Operations Manager (Ret.), VT Department for Children and Families
Susan Martore-Baker
President, Cambridge Trust Co. of NH
Bryan Bouchard, Board Chair
CMA & Assistant Professor, SNHU
Bradford Cook, Esq, General Counsel & Secretary
Sheehan Phinney
Tracey Pelton
VP Marketing & Business Development, PROCON LLC
Matthew Boucher
Deputy GM, COO, Airmar Technology Corp
William Lambrukos
Sr. VP Operations, Northeast Delta Dental
NOT PICTURED
Ajay Arigala
Head of HR Technologies, Fidelity Investments
Rick Courtemanche
IBM (Ret.)
Eddie Edwards
Assistant Commissioner of the Department of Safety, State of New Hampshire
Richard Rawlings
Northwestern Mutual (Ret.)
Paul E. Voegelin, Treasurer (d. 2024)
COO, Sheehan Phinney
Tim Wade
Regional President, M&T Bank
Board of Directors
BACK ROW L. TO R.
Rob Wieczorek
President, Wieczorek Insurance
Sgt. Amanda Smith
Sergeant, Manchester, NH Police Department’s Patrol Division
Ryan C. Fox
VP, Specialty Lending, BankProv
Andy MacWilliam, Past Board Chair
Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP
Nathan Saller
President and CEO, Bellwether Community Credit Union
Gregory Baxter, MD
President, Elliot Health System
Tom Sullivan, Vice Chair
President, Sullivan Construction, Inc.
Jo Brown
Retired Active Duty Air Force Officer and and Former Mayor of Franklin, NH
FRONT ROW L. TO R.
Dan Cronin
President and CEO, CGI Business Solutions
Sanjeev Srinivasan
VP, Corporate Dev & Strategy, Hypertherm
Linda James
Policy and Operations Manager (Ret.), Department for Children and Families
Susan Martore-Baker
President, Cambridge Trust Co. of NH
Bryan Bouchard, Board Chair
CMA & Assistant Professor, SNHU
Bradford Cook, Esq, General Counsel & Secretary
Sheehan Phinney Bass and Green
Tracey Pelton
VP Marketing & Business Development, PROCON LLC
Matthew Boucher
Deputy GM, COO, Airmar Technology Corp
William Lambrukos
Sr. VP Operations, Northeast Delta Dental
NOT PICTURED
Ajay Arigala
Head of HR Technologies, Fidelity Investments
Rick Courtemanche
IBM (Ret.)
Eddie Edwards
Assistant Commissioner of the Department of Safety, State of New Hampshire
Richard Rawlings
Northwestern Mutual (Ret.)
Paul E. Voegelin, Treasurer (d. 2024)
COO, Sheehan Phinney
Tim Wade
Regional President, M&T Bank