Business Details
Empowering Adults with Disabilities in Massachusetts
Community Connections is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering adults with disabilities through personalized, person-centered programs. Established to promote independence and community integration, we offer a comprehensive range of services including day habilitation, employment support, life skills development, and social recreation. Our team collaborates closely with clients and families to design individualized plans that build on each person's strengths, focusing on safety, inclusion, and personal growth. With eight locations across Southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod, we serve individuals with diverse needs, including developmental disabilities, Down syndrome, autism, and physical impairments.Accredited by CARF and licensed by multiple state agencies, our organization combines professional expertise with compassionate care to help clients achieve their goals. We actively engage in community advocacy and partner with local organizations to create inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. Through innovative programs like Flower Angels and Explorers, we foster social connections and meaningful participation in community life.
Services
Day Habilitation
Employment Services
Life Skills Training
Supported Living
Social Recreation
Pre-Employment Transition
Community Integration
Transportation Services
Flower Angels Program
Advocacy Support
Highlights and features
- Specialized in serving adults with disabilities for over 20 years
- Offers individualized programs tailored to each client's unique needs
- Accredited by CARF at the highest level
- Operates eight accessible locations across Massachusetts
- Provides comprehensive support from employment services to life skills training
Associations and certifications
- The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)
- Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services
- Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services
- Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission
What people say
Compassionate staff
Effective programs
Strong community focus
Personalized support
Dedicated team
Services
Day Habilitation
Day Habilitation programs help individuals overcome obstacles to personal growth through structured skill-building activities. Our staff works one-on-one with clients to develop daily living skills, social competencies, and vocational readiness in a supportive environment. This service focuses on enhancing independence and community integration for adults with developmental disabilities.
Employment Services
Our Employment Services provide comprehensive career planning, job placement assistance, and on-the-job support for adults with disabilities. We offer individualized job readiness training, interview preparation, and ongoing workplace accommodations to help clients achieve meaningful employment in integrated community settings.
Life Skills Training
Life Skills Training programs develop essential abilities for independent living through personalized instruction. Clients learn practical skills in budgeting, personal care, cooking, and community navigation to enhance self-sufficiency. Our approach emphasizes real-world application through community-based practice opportunities.
Supported Living Services
Supported Living Services provide one-to-one assistance with daily living activities in home environments. Our staff implements individualized support plans that promote independence while ensuring safety and well-being. Services include personal care assistance, medication management, and household maintenance support.
Social Recreation
Social Recreation programs foster peer connections through organized group activities and community outings. Our Explorers program specifically helps adults with IDD/ASD build social skills and friendships through shared interests. Activities focus on developing communication abilities and community participation.
People
Katie Driscoll
President/CEO
Katie Driscoll leads Community Connections with over 25 years of experience in disability services. She oversees strategic operations across eight locations, focusing on expanding access to community-based programs. Her leadership emphasizes person-centered care and organizational growth.
Kevin Jones
Vice President - Program Administration
Kevin Jones directs program operations with extensive experience in disability services administration. He manages service delivery across all locations, ensuring quality standards and regulatory compliance. His focus is on continuous improvement of client support systems.
Denice Baker
Chief People Officer
Denice Baker oversees human resources and staff development at Community Connections. With expertise in nonprofit workforce management, she implements training programs and employee engagement initiatives to maintain high-quality service delivery.
Liz Rabideau
Chief Community Relationships Officer
Liz Rabideau leads advocacy and community engagement efforts. She develops partnerships with local organizations and manages fundraising initiatives. Her work focuses on expanding community inclusion opportunities for program participants.
Joseph Sullivan
Chief Financial Officer
Joseph Sullivan manages financial operations and resource allocation for Community Connections. He ensures fiscal sustainability while maintaining compliance with funding requirements. His leadership supports program expansion and infrastructure development.
Questions
What populations does Community Connections serve?
We serve adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, physical impairments, and related conditions across Southeastern Massachusetts.
How are services personalized for each individual?
Our person-centered approach creates individualized plans through client/family collaboration, focusing on specific goals, strengths, and community integration opportunities tailored to each participant's needs.
What locations offer Community Connections services?
We operate eight locations in Fall River, Fairhaven, Mashpee, Plymouth, South Yarmouth, and Wareham across Southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod.
How can families get involved in the program?
Families participate in planning sessions, progress reviews, and community events. We encourage family input in developing individualized support plans and program activities.
What advocacy resources are available through Community Connections?
We provide legislative advocacy tools, education resources, and partnership opportunities with organizations like The Arc of Massachusetts to support disability rights and policy improvements.
How can I support Community Connections' mission?
Support options include financial donations, volunteering, participating in fundraising events, or partnering with our organization to create inclusive community spaces and opportunities.
