Opportunity Works

10/08/2026

Haverhill Specialized restarted their cook group! They made Halloween themed treats that were enjoyed by everyone.💛💙

10/05/2026

Check out our job developers at The Annual Employment Matters Conference!

This year’s focus was-> Collaborating for Inclusive Employment 💼

Left to right, Devon O'Connor, April Driscoll, Jim Field and the newest job developer John D! 💛💙

10/02/2026

🏆Last week we celebrated our Newburyport Division Director- Melissa Charest! She was one of the well-deserved winners of the Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce 40 under 40. It was great to not only support her but also learn more about the people that make our community so special. We cheered so loud for Melissa that someone asked how many tables Opportunity Works brought. (The answer is one 😉) Melissa we are so proud of you and all that you’ve done for the folks that we support!!!💙💛

Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce

09/29/2026

The staff were so excited to share and celebrate their cultures for the Latin Heritage Month Celebration! They had a wonderful time preparing and showcasing their traditional foods, and the Hungry Hunnies had a difficult-and delicious- task of choosing a few classrooms to receive the following awards:
🏆 ¡Ay, Qué Rico! Award — Best Bite Overall
The bite that made everyone say, “¡Ay, qué rico!
🌶️ Sabor Supremo Award — Biggest Flavor
For the dish that brought the boldest, most unforgettable sabor.
💃 Baila en Tu Boca Award — Most Fun/Creative Bite
“A dance in your mouth!” For the bite with the most exciting combination of flavors.

09/28/2026

For 18 chapters the NBPT book club listened, reviewed and ultimately enjoyed Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets! Last week, the group came together to watch the film adaptation of the book they had just finished. What a magical time! There were themed snacks and decor on behalf of staff Julie M who even brought some of her love for the series from home. Here's to the rest of the series!!🔮💫✨

09/21/2026

Last week was Direct Support Professionals Appreciation Week! In both locations we showed our appreciation for our amazing staff members that make our mission possible. We showered them with treats, hot breakfast, tasty lunch, 20-minute professional massages, and more. Thank you again for all that you do and shout out to all the direct support professionals supporting the folks at Opportunity Works and our local community!!!!

09/09/2026

Congratulations to our Newburyport Division Director, Melissa Charest!

"Melissa is Division Director of Opportunity Works in Newburyport, supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is passionate about community outreach, building partnerships, and expanding access to meaningful programs."

09/08/2026

A CBDS group with Staff Warren, Julie M and Dane, went on a special day trip to Spencer Pierce-Little Farm of the Historical New England right here in Newburyport MA. They got to feed the animals that lived there and enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds.

08/27/2026

Meet our August Workforce Hero: Tamsin McNally! 💛
Tamsin never planned a career in human services — "It was never actually my plan to get into this field," she says. Twenty-four years later, she leads a specialized program at Opportunity Works in Newburyport, supporting individuals aging with Down syndrome and dementia.

"If the people I am supporting have a good day, I have a good
day." Thank you, Tamsin, for all you do! Read her full story here:

This August, we honor Tamsin McNally, a Developmental Specialist at Opportunity Works in Newburyport.

06/17/2026

Summer is here!!! We took a trip to The Butterfly Place in Westford.