Last month our Woburn nursing staff shared some important ways to keep ourselves safe on social media. What we choose to share on social media is always our decision, but what others choose to do with our information may not always be in our control. Here are a few tips to keep in mind and use to maintain safe boundaries and shield ourselves, the best we can from those that wish to scam us or be mean.

Know how to block and filter content.

Blocking unsafe websites, or websites that you might find upsetting, can be an important part of keeping yourself safe on social media sites. If you are not sure how to do this or when, seek out assistance from someone you trust.

Personalize your privacy settings

select options that limit who can view your information. Most platforms have security pages – check them out!

Pause before posting!

Before posting something, ask yourself if you are comfortable sharing this information or picture with everyone that may see it. Content that contains personal information such as where you live, where you keep your money should not be shared without much thought or discussion with a trusted family member, staff, skills instructor, or friend. You should also not post pictures or information about other people without their permission. You may think it is private… it is not… everything posted is out there and can be found if searched.

Look before you click!

If you get a suspicious sounding message or link from a friend/business through social media, like “please help me by buying gift cards , scratching off the backs and sharing the numbers” or claims that your data has been breached and you must share your social security or other private information… DON’T! These are scams. When in doubt… talk with a with a trusted person to verify request. NEVER SHARE PERSONAL INFORMATION OR SEND MONEY based on an internet or social media request.

Challenge this month:

Turn off social media and/or television one hour before going to sleep at night. Studies show that doing this helps us sleep better. Try it for a few days and see if you feel refreshed!

Johanne Pino, Project Coordinator at Massachusetts Advocates for Children, will be joining Communitas, The Arc of Greater Haverhill Newburyport, Bridgewell, & The Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association for a virtual Transition Training Workshop. 

This Transition Training Workshop will address transition planning and services required for youth with disabilities ages 14-22 and will focus on the transition special education services needed to prepare youth for employment, independent living, and further education. This training will also address compensatory services still available, and how to ensure districts fully address students’ transition needs.

Using case examples, parents and professionals will learn strategies that can help ensure students receive important transition services required by special education law. The workshop will also provide information about the transition to the adult human service system, including Chapter 688, the state law that helps plan for youth with disabilities after they leave school.

Date: September 27th 

Time: 6pm

Who: Families with loved ones from 14-24

To register: Please email Becky Mann at  for the Zoom link

Marlon is looking for a Skills Trainer to help him prepare and clean up after dinner on weeknights and to assist him in getting him to appointments.  The ideal candidate would have availability to work afternoons and early evenings during the week.  This would be a part-time position at roughly 20 hours a week.  The “perfect match” would be a mature person with a strong sense of self and an interest in cooking.  Marlon is outgoing and social and would thrive with someone who has well-grounded and realistic expectations.

Are you looking for part-time hours with a lifelong impact?

Marlon has been supported by Communitas for over 10 years.  He lives independently in his own apartment and had worked independently until the pandemic hit.  Marlon is a great guy with many interests including swimming, bowling, walking, and spending time with friends and his very supportive family. You could help mentor him on his journey to a more independent life.

Family Support Skills Trainers support people to live a more independent life.

If you enjoy getting out in the community and doing fun activities, this could be the perfect place for you! Would you like to earn a competitive wage while supporting others to explore their communities? Then think about joining our Family Support Skills Trainer Team! To learn more about Family Support Skills Instructors and Respite Providers, visit our Career Opportunities page, or contact our Human Resources Associate Tanner Moquin at 781-587-2242.

Individualized, family-centered services, programs, and support

Successfully caring for a loved one with developmental disabilities requires a strong and reliable partner; one who will provide moral support and offer guidance through necessary steps in an effort to secure the right services and programs to fit your unique set of needs. Every family relationship we have is built on open one-on-one communication. We focus on relieving the stress of care-giving while enabling individuals to successfully live with their families across their lifespan and in their community.

Relationships, guidance, growth

With over six decades of experience providing assistance and strengthening families’ capacities to support their family members. We are experts that provide pertinent information and advocacy, help with the procurement and coordination of in-home support and coordinate networking opportunities.

A long history of empowering people

Founded in 1954 and formerly known as EMARC, Communitas has a long track record of advocating passionately. All while compassionately delivering services for people with disabilities that expand opportunities, empower people, support independence and enrich lives.