INDIVIDUAL SPOTLIGHTS!
More Than Bubbles: The Many Ways Dennis Murphy Spreads Joy
In Plainville, Massachusetts, during the warmer days of late spring and summer, it’s not unusual to see cars slow down near the Plainville Public Library. Drivers smile, wave, or offer a friendly beep as bubbles drift through the air and Dennis Murphy stands right where he has for decades—doing what he loves most wearing specially made t-shirts from Plainville residents—reading “Beep for Bubbles!!” and “The World needs MORE Bubbles and SMILES.”
For years, residents quietly enjoyed seeing Dennis at the library, but in 2019, that appreciation became unmistakably public. Neighbors took to social media to celebrate the familiar face who had been spreading joy in town for more than 26 years. Soon, local media took notice. Dennis was featured on WBZ Radio, and the Country Gazette and Wicked Local published stories highlighting a “Bubble Party” held in his honor outside the library.
The celebration was filled with laughter, music, and community spirit. Dennis shared his bubble-blowing techniques with the crowd. The Unlikely Strummers added to the festivities, playing “Tiny Bubbles” and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.”
State Senator Becca Rausch presented Dennis with a citation from the Massachusetts Senate in appreciation of the joy he brings to others. Over the years, Dennis has received numerous accolades, including being featured again in The Sun Chronicle in September 2025.
But there is far more to Dennis’s story than bubbles.
While many people recognize him for the smiles he creates outside the library, fewer know just how deeply he has committed himself to Plainville and surrounding communities through decades of volunteerism. His presence is so well known that it often follows him beyond town lines; he’s been recognized at festivals, in stores, and even while vacationing on Cape Cod with his family.
Dennis has volunteered at the Plainville Public Library since 1993, his favorite place to give back. He regularly collects jigsaw puzzles from yard sales, carefully puts them together to ensure no pieces are missing, and donates them to the library for others to enjoy. He has also participated in community cleanups through Keep Plainville Beautiful, even collecting discarded nip bottles from local streets; redeeming enough to earn $20, the equivalent of 400 bottles removed from the community.
His service extends well beyond the library. Dennis volunteered at the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store as part of his Confirmation service until Covid-19 pandemic began. He served as a greeter at St. John’s Church in Attleboro, welcoming parishioners each Saturday. Then, during the pandemic, he volunteered at Hebron Food Pantry in Attleboro, greeting visitors and dispensing hand sanitizer as they entered. Through Advocates, a day and employment program he participates in, Dennis volunteers with Meals on Wheels, helping deliver meals to older adults in Attleboro and did piece work at Hilco in Plainville.
Dennis’s warm personality also makes him a natural greeter at community events. At Plainville’s Fall Festival in 2018, the Plainville Historical Commission invited him to welcome visitors at the historic Humphrey House. Afterward, they reported the highest tour attendance they had ever seen—with Dennis at the door.
His kindness has not gone unnoticed. The Unlikely Story Bookstore in Plainville recognized Dennis as part of its “Awesome Friendly Person” celebration, honoring five individuals for their ability to bring joy, kindness, and connection to others. Dennis was celebrated for his service, his friendliness, and his unmistakable ability to make people smile.
In addition to volunteering, Dennis has held a variety of jobs over the years, reflecting his strong work ethic and pride in contributing wherever he was needed.
Through the South Coast Collaborative, he worked at the Seekonk Public Library and worked in data entry for a company in Rhode Island, among other roles.
Outside of work and volunteering, Dennis and his family enjoy traveling. While he can feel anxious before departing, his mother, Terri, notes that once he arrives, he embraces each destination with enthusiasm. His favorite trip was to Oregon, where he was especially captivated by Multnomah Falls. He has also enjoyed visiting Ireland, traveling through the Pacific Northwest, attending the Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Festival, and exploring destinations across the United States, the Caribbean, Disney World, and beyond.
What truly sets Dennis apart is his remarkable memory. He doesn’t just remember faces, he remembers names, often years after a brief meeting. When he meets visitors from other countries or encounters people while traveling, he delights in greeting them in their native language. A lifelong learner, Dennis is currently taking Spanish classes through the Advocates program.
When asked why he gives so much of his time and energy to others, Dennis’s answer is simple: he finds immense satisfaction in spreading joy.
From blending creative Dunkin’ Donuts coffee flavors to returning each spring for another bubble-blowing season at the library, it’s the small, familiar details that make Dennis Murphy such a beloved part of everyday life in Plainville.
If you’d like to see Dennis in action, stop by the Plainville Public Library, give a friendly beep, and enjoy a smile. His first appearance this year will be on Saturday, May 23, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., as part of the library’s Puzzle Sale event.
Finding Purpose at Work: Anna’s Journey with Lifeworks Employment Services
Work is more than just a paycheck—it’s about building independence, confidence, and a sense of belonging. At Lifeworks, our Employment Services team partners with local businesses to create inclusive job opportunities for individuals we serve. One inspiring example of the power of employment is Anna Sweet, who has thrived in her role at Walgreens over the past eighteen months.
When Anna first joined the Walgreens team, her goal was clear: to master the responsibilities of a cashier. Through support from Lifeworks Employment Services and her own determination, she quickly developed the skills and confidence she needed to succeed. Today, Anna has not only become a highly dependable cashier but has also grown into a leader and mentor for her peers.
Nick, her manager at Walgreens, who has watched her progress closely, shared, “Anna’s growth has been remarkable. She went from learning the basics of the register to becoming one of our most reliable cashiers. She handles transactions with accuracy and professionalism, even during our busiest times. Beyond that, she’s stepped into a leadership role—training new hires, leading our curbside program, and ensuring compliance on critical audits. She’s become a cornerstone of our front-end operations.”
Anna’s work is making a real difference for both her team and the customers she serves. Whether processing curbside orders in record time, assisting in the photo department, or helping during delivery days, Anna brings focus, efficiency, and pride to everything she does. She has even protected the store by spotting and stopping scam attempts at the register—proof of her keen awareness and dedication to doing her job well.
For Anna, the impact of her job goes beyond the tasks she performs. “I feel proud of the work I do every day,” she shared. “I like being able to help customers and my coworkers. Learning new things and teaching others has shown me how much I’ve grown. My job makes me feel confident and independent.”
Anna’s story is just one example of the importance of meaningful work in the lives of people we serve. With the right support and opportunities, individuals like Anna can thrive, contribute, and lead in their workplaces and communities.
At Lifeworks, we believe that employment unlocks possibilities—possibilities for independence, inclusion, and fulfillment. Anna’s journey is a reminder of what’s possible when businesses embrace inclusive hiring and when individuals are given the chance to show what they can achieve.
Tyler Can! How One Young Man With Autism Became a Hero
Tyler Forgeron is known for his Bottle & Can Redemption Charity and his dedication to the community. Over the years, Tyler has donated his hard-earned proceeds to Lifeworks, helping to support our mission and inspire those around him.
Now, Tyler’s story is the inspiration behind Tyler Can!. Based on the true story of his life, this heartwarming children’s book shares how, when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted Tyler’s routines, he began collecting cans around his neighborhood to stay busy. What started as a small idea quickly grew into an act of kindness that inspired his entire community.
The book celebrates Tyler’s determination, generosity, and the powerful impact one person can make. Tyler has also chosen to donate a portion of the book’s proceeds to Lifeworks to continue supporting our mission. Tyler Can! is available for purchase on Amazon.
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Lifeworks’ Michael Manning Featured on the Cover of Westwood Living
You may know Michael Manning as an Assistant Director in the Day Habilitation program, from leading the Cheer Club, or from his Polar Plunge appearances. What you may not know is that the same creativity he brings to Lifeworks every day recently landed him on the cover of Westwood Living.
Michael was featured on the cover for his incredible work with collages and multimedia art. The opportunity came unexpectedly in September during a 5K in Westwood, when a reporter from Westwood Living recognized him from Instagram, where Michael shares his artwork and even posts a daily drawing and collage challenge. What Michael first thought was the reporter saying, “he’s got him covered,” turned into, “I want you on the cover.”
He was interviewed, photographed with his artwork, and featured in a full spread. Since then, he’s been recognized around town at places like Roche Bros and Not Your Average Joe’s by people who saw the cover.
But for those who work alongside Michael at Lifeworks, his artistic skills and creativity are no surprise.
Michael uses his artistic ability every day to support the individuals he works with at the Abel Therapeutic Center, where he is an Assistant Director He keeps a sketch pad in the day habilitation room to write and draw messages back and forth with the individuals. He also keeps a sketch app on his phone to quickly draw things throughout the day, which helps with communication.
“You have to be creative and think on your feet, calibrating to what this specific person likes and what their favorite things are,” Michael shared.
Michael studied Visual Communications at Endicott College, and those skills have become an important tool in how he connects with the people he supports.
Michael also uses his creativity in leading the Lifeworks cheer team. He creates new songs every other week, making each one special, spotlighting different individuals and their achievements. He makes sure everyone has a place, whether they’re leading the cheers or bringing the spirit with pom poms. He encourages them all to use their own creativity, even coming up with cheers on the spot.
At a recent Lifeworks Patriots rally for the AFC Championship, the cheerleaders came up and performed a cheer on the spot, chanting, “Go boys go, it’s gonna snow!”
Michael describes his work at Lifeworks as “miraculous,” feeling a great sense of purpose in the work he does every day. His passion for this work began in childhood, watching his mother work with adults and children with disabilities, and supporting his best friend in kindergarten, who had a disability, who he is still friends with today.
“I am driven by being an advocate and sticking up for those who can’t stick up for themselves,” Michael shared.
This past July, Michael was selected for an artist residency at Château Orquevaux in France, where he was one of 28 artists and writers from around the world.
“Thank you to my team, Tara, Maria, and Gertrude, for allowing and helping me to achieve my bucket list thing I’ve always wanted to do, which was go to France. They’re so hardworking. Room 6!”
The creativity that earned Michael a magazine cover is the same creativity that makes him an extraordinary part of the Lifeworks community.
View Michael’s work on Instagram @thecollagedon and on YouTube @EverydayManning
LIFEWORKS NEWS
Lifeworks Holiday Celebrations
Holiday cheer was spread throughout Lifeworks across our Norwood, Westwood, and West Roxbury locations, as well as in our residential homes. Individuals and staff came together to celebrate with pizza parties, cookies, arts and crafts, karaoke, dance parties, and more. The holiday season was celebrated with joy in every corner of Lifeworks.
Lifeworks Recognized for Employment Leadership
Lifeworks was recently recognized at the MetroWest Employment Collaborative’s (MWEC) All Partners Meeting Celebration, held in November 2025. This year’s event, themed “The Power of Collaboration,” took place at TJ’s Food & Spirit in Ashland, MA, and brought together MWEC partners for a luncheon featuring guest speakers, an employer spotlight, award presentations, and inspiring employee success stories.
Lifeworks was honored with the MWEC Partner of the Year award, and Wendy Elder, Job Developer at Lifeworks, received the Most Engaged Member of the Year award. “The moment Wendy started working at Lifeworks 2.5 years ago, she saw the value in a collaborative partnership with MWEC. She has a strong desire to find meaningful employment opportunities for the people we support and her active participation in ongoing meetings with the Collaborative have aided in this endeavor,” said MaryEllen Cameron, Director of Employment & Day Services for Lifeworks LES-Norwood program. The Employer of the Year award was presented to Sodexo. These honors are a meaningful reflection of our shared commitment to inclusive employment and strong community partnerships.
The MetroWest Employment Collaborative is a partnership of service providers, government agencies, workforce development organizations, and employers working together to expand employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
MaryEllen Cameron, Director of Employment Services, Norwood, accepting the MWEC Partner of the Year Award on Lifeworks Behalf
Employer Partner, Sodexo, accepting the Award for Employer of the Year
Wendy Elder, Job Developer, accepting the Most Engaged Member of the Year Award
Gallery Night
Gallery Night was a fun celebration of creativity, community, and connection. Guests gathered to enjoy a showcase of artwork created by talented members of the Lifeworks community. From paintings and pottery to jewelry, holiday ornaments, and many other forms of arts and crafts, every piece on display reflected the individuality and creativity of the artists—and all were available for purchase.
The evening was quite exciting as artists shared their work, connected with attendees, and took pride in seeing their creativity appreciated and supported. Delicious food added to the festive atmosphere, making Gallery Night not just an art show, but a truly memorable community experience. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the night such a meaningful celebration of talent and inclusion.
Lifeworks 2026 Scholarship Application
The Lifeworks 2026 Scholarship Application is now open!
Applications must be submitted by May 15th, 2026. This scholarship is available to students pursuing studies in Special Education, Social Work, Human Services, or a related field. Preference will be given to applicants who have not previously received one of these scholarships and those with a strong connection to the geographic area served by Lifeworks.
Applications can be submitted via email to dgyukeri@lifeworksarc.org or mailed/dropped off at Lifeworks, 789 Clapboardtree St., Westwood, MA 02090.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Polar Plunge
Lifeworks basketball coaches Kevin Murphy and Jackson McMorrow, along with John McMorrow and Michael Manning, are taking the plunge to support Special Olympics Massachusetts!
- Date: February 28, 2026
- Time: 12:00 pm
- Location: Nantasket Beach in Hull
Theater Arts Performance
Lifeworks Theater Arts presents Mamma Mia the Musical!
- Date: March 30, 2026
- Time: 1:30 pm
- Location: Foxborough Community Center
Inclusive Spelling Bee
Lifeworks and Morrill Memorial Library are hosting an Inclusive Spelling Bee for all ages! All forms of participation are encouraged (any means of communication, AAC, ASL, etc.)
- Date: April 24, 2026
- Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Location: Norwood VFW
Talent Show
Join us for Lifeworks’ Annual Talent Show fundraiser! Enjoy incredible performances by our talented individuals. All proceeds support the Rodman Arts Program and workshops.
- Date: February 21, 2026
- Time: 11:00 am
- Location: Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center
STARS of the Spectrum: Concert for Autism Acceptance
Join our partners at the Flutie Foundation for STARS of the Spectrum: Concert for Autism Acceptance at the Big Night Live in Boston, MA with special guest Kodi Lee!
As a celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, this concert is a powerful culmination of autistic voices, stories, and talent. As the nation’s largest concert series performed entirely by autistic artists, every performer takes the stage to share their lived experiences and advocate for autism acceptance and inclusion through the power of music.
All tickets are FREE for the autism community!
- Date: April 19, 2026
- Time: 12:00 pm –3:00 pm
- Location: Big Night Live
HUMAN RESOURCES NEWS
Leadership Update: Chief Financial Officer Appointment
After more than 13 years of dedicated service, Brenda Calder, Lifeworks’ Chief Financial Officer, will be retiring. “We extend our deepest gratitude to Brenda for her steady leadership, financial expertise, and unwavering commitment to Lifeworks’ mission. Her work has helped strengthen the organization and ensure long-term stability in support of the individuals and families we serve. We are incredibly thankful for Brenda’s leadership, dedication, and the many contributions she has made to the organization during her tenure,” said Dan Burke, Lifeworks President and CEO.
Brenda Calder
Reflecting on her time at Lifeworks, Brenda shared, “I am truly grateful for my time at Lifeworks. Over the past thirteen years, I have had the honor of providing financial oversight for the purchase and renovation of six additional residential properties, as well as securing a new location for our West Roxbury Day Programs. Together, those efforts represent 33% growth for Lifeworks and expanded opportunities for the community we support.
Lifeworks has also supported me personally during important milestones in my own life, including five family weddings and the joy of welcoming eight grandchildren. With so much to celebrate, I am happy to step back and begin a new chapter, for both Lifeworks and myself. I am confident the organization will continue to grow its mission for many years to come, and I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to have been part of this community.”
As we celebrate Brenda’s legacy, we are also pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Prewandowski as Lifeworks’ new Chief Financial Officer. Amy brings more than 35 years of accounting and financial experience, including over 10 years in senior finance leadership roles, across both for-profit and nonprofit organizations.
Most recently, Amy has served for the past five years as the lead financial officer for a Massachusetts-based agency supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. That organization provides residential services, day and day habilitation programs, transportation, and other critical supports; experience that aligns closely with Lifeworks’ programs and operations.
Amy is eager to step into this role and become a member of the Lifeworks team. She said, “I was especially drawn to Lifeworks’ commitment to empowering individuals to find happiness in their own homes, in their personal relationships, and to be contributing members of their community—an approach that deeply aligns with my own values and professional mission.”
Lifeworks and previously, when operating as two agencies, including the Arc of South Norfolk, has experienced remarkable stability in this leadership role.In the past 25 years, Lifeworks has had only two Chief Financial Officers, and prior to the reunification of the Arc and Lifeworks, the Arc had one CFO who served for more than 20 years. This continuity has been a tremendous asset to the organization and to those we serve.
Amy Prewandowski
Welcome Nashally Tejeda
Recruiting Manager
Lifeworks is pleased to welcome Nashally “Nash” Tejeda to the Human Resources team as the Recruiting Manager. Nashally joins Lifeworks with over 11 years of recruiting experience, bringing an impressive background and a fresh perspective to the team.
She brings valuable knowledge gained throughout her career in recruiting, including her role as an Employment and Staffing Coordinator with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Newbury College.
Nash is passionate about serving the communities and the individuals we serve by hiring top-notch employees. She shared, “Everyone at Lifeworks is so friendly, and being able to help train our managers on hiring and create a pipeline of strong candidates for our open roles is rewarding.”
Under her guidance, Lifeworks will be attending career fairs throughout Boston and the South Shore in the coming months, including Boston College on February 13 and Suffolk University on February 25.
Did You Know?
Lifeworks offers both an Employee Referral Bonus and a New Staff Retention Bonus. As Nashally, Recruiting Manager, shares, “Friends and family are often where the best hires are.”
Know someone who would be a great fit for Lifeworks? Full-time employees can receive a $3,000 bonus for referring a new employee who remains with Lifeworks for one year. Part-time employees are eligible for $1,500.
New staff who are referred by a current employee can also benefit. Referred full-time employees can receive a $2,000 bonus after one year of full-time work. Part-time employees are eligible for $1,000.
We encourage all staff to share Lifeworks career opportunities with friends, family, and colleagues!
Join us in Welcoming the Newest Members of the Lifeworks Team!
- Donald Adagbor, Awake Overnight Teacher Counselor, Residential
- Grace Adam, Case Manager, LES Boston
- Zenabu Aminu, Substitute Teacher Counselor, Day Habilitation
- Vianca Aquino-Zayas, Van Driver, Transportation
- Vivian Bean, Skills Instructor, DESE
- Christopher Black, Case Manager, Day Habilitation
- DiLorenzo Bush, Van Driver, Transportation
- Susan Carpenter, Substitute Administrative Assistant, LES Norwood
- Denise Cassidy, Substitute Administrative Assistant, LES Norwood
- Dania Charlemagne, Case Manager, LES Norwood
- James Cheatham, Teacher Counselor, Residential
- Merveline Chery, Awake Overnight Teacher Counselor, Residential
- Sarah Chubet, Per Diem Licensed Practical Nurse, Administration
- Cole Curl, Case Manager, LES Norwood
- Kelsey Diggins, Development & Communications Coordinator, Administration
- Melanie D’Onofrio, Assistant Program Manager, Residential
- Elizabeth Durand, Staff Accountant/Accounts Payable, Business Office
- Kaitlyn Flinn, Skills Instructor, DESE
- Eileen Forster, Administrative Assistant, Administration
- Syndie Fortune, Home Health Aide, Residential
- Deb Fryar, Licensed Practical Nurse, Residential
- Courtney Galuski, Per Diem Registered Nurse, Day Habilitation
- Kerrie-Ann Gillis, Registered Nurse, Administration
- Erikna Guzman, Program Manager, Residential
- Laurie Hulbig, Per Diem Registered Nurse, Day Habilitation
- William Jones, Licensed Practical Nurse, Connections
- Kerrie Lyons, Skills Instructor, DESE
- Chantara Miller, Case Manager, LES Boston
- Marie Noel Simeon, Assistant Case Manager, Day Habilitation
- Lateefat Olanrewaju, Substitute Teacher Counselor, Day Habilitation
- Amelie Pierre, Substitute Teacher Counselor, Day Habilitation
- Vincent Pitts, Teacher Counselor, Residential
- Amy Prewandowski, Chief Financial Officer, Business Office
- Jordan Rivera, Assistant Teacher Counselor, Residential
- Manouchecar Romain, Assistant Case Manager, Day Habilitation
- Jamie Juliet Saidu, Certified Nursing Assistant, Residential
- Ibrahima Sarr, Program Manager, Residential
- Inga Smirnova, Awake Overnight Teacher Counselor, Residential
- Courtney Sollis, Case Manager, Connections
- Kim Sparks, Senior Staff Accountant, Business Office
- Nashally Tejeda, Recruiter, Human Resources
- Emmanuel Valmir, Substitute Teacher Counselor
- Webert Vaval, Assistant Teacher Counselor, Residential
- Timothy Walsh, Case Manager, LES Boston
- Joe Younge, Case Manager, In Home Supports
ADVOCACY
Advocacy: Making Our Voices Heard
Advocacy is at the heart of Lifeworks’ mission. Decisions made at the State House directly affect the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and the staff who support them every day. By showing up, sharing our stories, and engaging with policymakers, we help ensure that critical services are protected, properly funded, and strengthened. Advocacy is how we turn lived experience into lasting change—and why our presence matters.
Upcoming Advocacy Events
Association of Developmental Disability Providers (ADDP) Budget Forum
- Date: February 25, 2026
- Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
- Location: Massachusetts State House, Great Hall
48th Annual Legislative Reception
Hosted by The Arc of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC)
- Date: March 10, 2026
- Time: 10:00–11:30 a.m.
- Location: Massachusetts State House, Hall of Flags
21st Annual Autism Advocacy Day
Hosted by The Arc of Massachusetts with AFAM
- Date: April 8, 2026
- Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
- Location: Massachusetts State House, Hall of Flags
Legislative Breakfast 2026
Hosted by Lifeworks and the Charles River Center
- Date: May 15th, 2026
- Time: 8:30-10:30 a.m.
- Location: Charles River Center, Needham, MA
We encourage you to visit the Lifeworks Advocacy page to stay up to date on advocacy news, events, and opportunities involving Lifeworks and our statewide partners.
DEVELOPMENT
FY26 Annual Appeal
This year’s Annual Appeal highlights the many ways your generosity brings opportunity, independence, and belonging to life at Lifeworks. Because of donor support, we are expanding housing, enriching creative programs, strengthening employment pathways, and responding to families in times of need.
If you would like to be part of this impact, we invite you to make a gift and help us continue building a future full of possibility.
In Memoriam
Members of the Lifeworks community—individuals we serve, families, and staff—are forever part of who we are. We pause here to remember those who have passed and to honor their lives, their relationships, and their enduring place within our Lifeworks family.
- Paul Daly
- Robert Findlen
- Mary Susan Hathaway
- Jeremy Jordan
- Michael Quinn
- Michael Stewart
- Dawn Tetreault
- Roger Walsh
- Matthew Warchol
