Pathways to Friendship

05/27/2026

From our friend Lisa Drennan at MERGE Inclusion Consulting

05/20/2026

05/19/2026

The need for social connections exists across the. lifespan!

1 in 3 older adults report feeling lonely. For many, a knock on the door from a meal delivery volunteer is the only human contact they'll have that day. This Older Americans Month, F4SC Social Connection Fellow Arielle Galinsky explores why federal nutrition programs are essential social connection....

05/11/2026

It's officially a month until Pathways to Friendship's Forum- Foundations of Friendship. Join us on June 11th for an inspiring day of connection, learning, and hands-on experiences focused on building meaningful relationships between people with and without disabilities.

Register: https://bit.ly/Pathways2026Forum

05/11/2026

Abba Church, Marlborough, MA – Inclusion Immersion 2026

On April 11, 2026, Abba Church hosted its 5th annual Inclusion Immersion, a half-day gathering for families, volunteers, and professionals focused on strengthening relationships and connection within the church community.

Rooted in the theme “Identity That Includes,” the event highlighted how the church can be a place of belonging, care, and meaningful relationships for individuals and families of all needs.

Educators, parents, clinicians, and church leaders shared practical ways to build connection, support families, and create a welcoming church community where people are known, valued, and supported.

04/28/2026

Join our friends at Piers Park Sailing for FREE food, music and SAILING at their opening day event, this Saturday May 2nd at 1pm. All are welcome!
https://piersparksailing.org/

04/20/2026

✨ Pathways to Friendship 2026 Forum: Foundations of Friendship ✨

Register: https://bit.ly/Pathways2026Forum

Join Pathways to Friendship and The Arc of Massachusetts on Thursday, June 11, 2026 for an inspiring day of connection, learning, and hands-on experiences focused on building meaningful relationships between people with and without disabilities.

This event is for everyone- community organizations, staff, families and people with disabilities.

We’re honored to welcome keynote speaker Dr. Ann Turnbull, a nationally recognized leader in intellectual and developmental disabilities, known for her groundbreaking work in family support, inclusive communities, and quality of life.

📍 Location: The Verve Hotel Boston Natick, Tapestry Collection by Hilton (Constellation Ballroom)

🗓 Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026

⏰ Time: 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM

A special thank you to Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services for their generous support of Pathways to Friendship.

For more information, contact Rachel Hayward at [email protected]

We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful and energizing day! 💛

04/17/2026

Camps and Recreation are natural places to build friendships! Here is a helpful resource for camps, recreation programs, and youth-serving organizations from our friends at MERGE Inclusion Consulting:

Building Inclusive Camp & Recreation Communities
An on-demand training focused on practical inclusion strategies.

Learn more: bit.ly/MERGEcamp