Save The Date! DSP Appreciation Week!

September 8 - September 12

We look forward to celebrating the hard work and dedication of our Direct Support Professionals. These compassionate individuals are the backbone of our community, tirelessly enhancing the quality of life and independence for those they support. We invite you to click on the flyer to explore the exciting festivities we have planned throughout the week, and where you can join us in expressing our gratitude and appreciation for these everyday heroes. 

A special shout-out goes to Ashley Langevin for her hard work in organizing these activities. Thank you!

Design a Commemorative Ornament Contest

September 1 - September 30

For the past couple of years, Community Bridges has organized a holiday drive inviting donors to sponsor hand-painted ornaments created by attendees of our Holiday Social, which is hosted for individuals and families supported by Community Bridges. Donors are encouraged to include a message that will be inserted into the ornament and hung on the holiday tree in our lobby.

This year, we want to introduce a commemorative ornament that reflects our fundraising focus and expresses our gratitude to our biggest donors, designed by you!

The 2025 Holiday Drive will take place from November 19 to December 19 and aims to raise funds to support interest-based recreational activities. These funds will ensure that individuals supported by Community Bridges have access to their communities through holistic and truly inclusive experiences.

Currently, individuals who qualify for services covered by Medicaid can only participate in therapeutic recreational activities provided by licensed instructors. This creates a gap in opportunities to form connections and relationships within the community based on shared interests and aspirations.

Our goal is to close the gap and create opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to connect to their community.

We want the commemorative ornament to celebrate inclusive recreational activities.

Your design must include:

- The year "2025"

- The Community Bridges name or logo

- An element reflecting recreational activities, such as sports, arts, or group activities.

The final ornament should be no larger than 3 inches by 3 inches (the size of a standard Post-It). We encourage you to be creative and remember that the ornament will be three-dimensional (3D). Your design can be drawn, sculpted, or digitally created. We will need a visual representation of your design to consider it for submission.

How to submit your design:

Beginning September 1, you can email us at photocontest@cbinnh.org. The deadline for submissions is September 30. Please include the following information:

- Your full name

- Your address

- Your phone number

- Your connection to Community Bridges

Attach an image or images of your ornament design in PDF, JPEG, or PNG format. Please note that adjustments to the design may be made to accommodate the production of the ornament.

The winner will be announced on October 15. This announcement will be shared on our social media and included in our monthly newsletter. Additionally, the winner will receive an ornament once it is produced. 

Consider your options

The MCO open enrollment period this year will be in August. It is the only time of year when someone can change their provider to WellSense, NH Healthy Families, or AmeriHealth. While this occurs every year, it seems wise to encourage individuals and families to review their options. With the recent changes in pharmacies, such as the closure of Rite Aid and CVS no longer accepting WellSense, it may be beneficial to explore the available options. As always, the plan directories should be checked to ensure that PCPs and specialists accept the MCO they are considering.

If you need assistance or have questions, please contact your service coordinator or our Medicaid Specialist, Jane Cote.

https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/programs-services/medicaid/medicaid-care-management

REQs 2025 Switch-Adapted Holiday Toy Drive

This holiday season, REQ is returning to its roots with a meaningful twist. For our 2025 Holiday Toy Drive, every toy we provide will be switch-adapted to promote inclusive play opportunities for individuals of all abilities. We are also offering a limited amount of switch-adapted kitchen tools because adults deserve independence tailored to them, too! 

What is a Switch-Adapted Toy? 

Switch-adapted toys are specially modified to work with external switches, making them accessible to individuals with physical, fine motor, or cognitive challenges. These toys allow children and adults to engage, explore, and develop social and motor skills in a way that is tailored to their unique needs. 

Who is Eligible to Receive a Toy? 

· Individuals of all ages 

· Residents of New Hampshire 

· Those who would benefit from accessible play solutions (these are not standard, off-the-shelf toys) 

Participants will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited, so we encourage early applications. 

· Recipient Notification: By December 5, 2025 

· Application Deadline: December 15, 2025 

· Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/mACFGVA6cA  

Our 2025 Goal 

We aim to deliver 100 switch-adapted toys to New Hampshire residents of all ages. Each toy package includes: 

· A switch-adapted toy 

· Batteries 

· A 3D-printed switch 

· Gift packaging and shipping 

· Total cost per toy: $45 

· Total fundraising goal: $4,500 

How You Can Help

You can support this initiative by sponsoring a toy or donating supplies. 

· Shop our Amazon Wish List: https://a.co/2zGenRP 

· For direct donations, coordination, or questions, contact: Tiffany Kelley at TKelley@REQinc.com