October 1st, 2025
By: Rachel Pothier, Marketing & Support Coordinator
Early September of this year, Allyson K., Residential Director of Range Heights had the honor of traveling to Washington, D.C. as part of the Ancor Direct Support Program — a national initiative highlighting the vital role of direct care professionals and advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Allyson’s Communitas journey is a testament to her dedication, adaptability, and commitment to the people we support. She began her career in 2019 as a Direct Support Professional in our Day Program. When Day Services temporarily closed during COVID, Allyson stepped in to support our Residential Services. After Day Services reopened, she returned to her original post while continuing to pick up hours in the group homes. Her hard work and leadership soon led her into new roles—Assistant Director in 2023 and Residential Director of Range Heights in 2024. Allyson’s dedication and passion for advocacy led to her acceptance into the Anchor program, which provided training on speaking with media, policymakers, and the public about the challenges and importance of direct support work.
While in Washington, Allyson and fellow participants attended receptions, presentations, and workshops designed to strengthen advocacy efforts. Highlights included a session on seizure treatment advancements, a demonstration of Kibu — a platform supporting job readiness, art, and fitness for individuals with developmental disabilities — and opportunities to connect with ambassadors from across the country, including 19 representatives from Massachusetts.
The delegation visited Capitol Hill, met with staff from Senator Edward Markey, Representative Seth Moulton, Representative Stephen Lynch, and Representative Katherine Clark, with a follow-up virtual meeting scheduled with Senator Elizabeth Warren’s office. Key issues discussed included the impact of Medicaid cuts, healthcare affordability for staff, and immigration-related challenges facing the direct support workforce.
“It was the best educational experience I have done in a very long time. I felt honored to represent Communitas, collaborate with other agencies, and advocate for the work I am most passionate about.” – Allyson K.
Reflecting on the trip, Allyson emphasized the importance of advocacy and pledged to continue championing both staff and the individuals supported at Communitas.
About Communitas
Founded in 1954 and formerly known as EMARC, Communitas is committed to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities – and their families – in the community.
We offer Family Support, Residential Services, Day Services, and Recreational Programs – as well as employment and volunteering opportunities – for more than 1,000 families from Everett, Lynn, Lynnfield, Malden, Medford, Melrose, North Reading, Reading, Saugus, Stoneham, Wakefield and surrounding communities.
By eliminating barriers, expanding opportunities, and supporting independence, we empower people to lead full and meaningful lives. Whether you have a child, a young adult in transition, or an older adult, we provide a safe and supportive environment with services tailored to individual needs—wherever they are in life and as those needs change—all while inspiring dreams..