Easterseals Massachusetts has been providing services that address the needs of children with disabilities at home, school, work, and the community for years. As the needs of this population are more thoroughly defined, we continue to offer programs to meet those needs.
Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology (AT) uses clinical expertise to help people with disabilities expand their independence by using devices to achieve greater access to education, employment, and their community. Learn more.
Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)
Augmentative & Alternative Communication Specialists work with individuals with congenital or acquired disabilities who have difficulty using speech for communication. Learn more.
Assistive Technology Loan Programs
The Alternative Finance Program improves the independence and quality of life of residents with disabilities through loan opportunities for acquiring assistive technology devices and services. Three loans with either zero or low-interest rates are available. The program is in partnership with The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC). Learn more.
Assistive Technology Regional Centers (ATRC)
MassMATCH Assistive Technology Regional Centers hosted by Easterseals are lending libraries of Assistive Technology (AT). Device demonstrations at two Center locations include equipment, software, and toys, from low-tech to high-tech solutions. Learn more.
College Navigator
This program provides individualized services to college students with disabilities based on their goals, strengths, and needs. Navigators assist students in identifying barriers, advocating for the student's needs, and accessing college services and resources to successfully reach graduation. Learn more.
Equine-Assisted Programs
ESMA’s Equestrian Center at The Bridge Center offers adaptive riding lessons, horsemanship, and hippotherapy services to the greater community. Equine-assisted services help people of all ages, with all types of disabilities, as well as the military and veteran community. Learn more.
Hippotherapy & Physical Therapy
Physical Therapists integrate equine movement into a client’s treatment plan to achieve functional goals in a process known as Hippotherapy. The rhythmic, multi-dimensional movement of the equines provides continuous motor and sensory input for clients ages 2 & up. Learn more.
Job Development & Placement
ESMA’s experienced employment specialists provide training and ongoing support so people with disabilities can increase their skills and secure competitive jobs. This comprehensive program offers individualized vocational rehabilitation and skills-based training. Learn more.
Rehabilitation Services & Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
ESMA partners with schools, day habilitation programs, skilled nursing facilities, early intervention agencies, and various other community programs and provides services to help clients achieve greater levels of independence. Our Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Pathologists, and Board-Certified Behavior Analysts have expertise in a wide range of settings across the lifespan. Learn more.
Transition & Pre-ETS
Transition services focus on assisting youth with disabilities to achieve personal growth and develop skills that will help them navigate educational, community, and career settings. Transition planning is a process that brings together a student and those individuals directly involved in helping the student prepare to enter a post-school environment. Learn more.
Recreation
ESMA is a proud provider of adaptive and accessible recreational programs for individuals with and without disabilities. A wide variety of programs are offered including Accessible Martial Arts, Camp, and Adaptive Swimming. The Bridge Center offers year-round recreational and skill-building activities to children, teens, and adults in a supportive and nurturing environment, accessible to all. Learn more.
Youth Leadership Network & Mentoring
Through funding by Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC), the Youth Leadership Network (YLN) promotes self-advocacy and self-awareness for teens and young adults with disabilities ages 14 to 26. This is a state-wide initiative with meetings, events, and the dynamic use of social media to unite youth across the state. ESMA mentoring programs strive to bring people with disabilities together to connect and learn from one another. Learn more.