Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services

10/14/2026

We are excited to partner with Work, Inc. on a series of free Painting Events across the Commonwealth for all Deaf individuals transitioning or supported by DDS who are living with hearing individuals in a residential group home, supported living or shared living setting, as well as their family members.

The events will be led by a Deaf Painting Instructor, who will teach participants step-by-step how to paint a selected holiday-themed artwork. No painting experience is necessary.

RSVP to [email protected] or scan the QR code.

We hope to see you at one of the events!

10/13/2026

Please consider joining us tomorrow at our Hiring Event in Milford! Scan the QR code for more information and to RSVP. We look forward to seeing you there!

10/08/2026

ATTENTION: If you are between the ages of 19-64, a new federal law may impact your MassHealth.

Starting January 1, 2027, the federal government is making changes to MassHealth.

To Keep MassHealth Coverage, you may need to:

• Work, attend school, or volunteer
• Renew your coverage every 6 months

You May be Exempt if you are:
• A parent of a child 13 years or younger
• Living with a disability or certain health conditions
• Other exemptions may apply

Visit: Mass.gov/MassHealthMemberChanges

10/08/2026

Tickets are now available for the November 12 screening of I Can Do Hard Things - Samantha's Story. This heartfelt documentary follows the remarkable journey of Samantha, a young woman with Down syndrome. It highlights how she has turned her life experiences into a powerful mission of advocacy, education, and inclusion.

Through intimate interviews and candid moments with family and friends, the film offers an honest look at the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her life. From her achievements as a Special Olympian to her current training as a cosmetologist, the film celebrates what we all know to be true about Samantha—that she is a shining example of what is possible with the right support, community, and attitude.

The Arc's CEO Maura Sullivan is honored to join Samantha, her mom, and the film's director for a talkback session after the film. We are so proud of Sam, and grateful for her long-time work with Operation House Call!

https://internet-ticketing.com/websales/sales/CSBSOM/actual_book?perfcode=966

10/07/2026

The National Disability Employment Awareness Month Celebration was held at the State House today, with Kim Driscoll congratulating the honorees. “Inclusion is not just something we talk about. It’s something we do every day,” she said.

Those honored include Senator Joan B. Lovely; Sean Garballey; The Langham, Boston and its lobby greeter Davey Farina; Disability Policy Consortium and its research coordinator Maggie Sheets; Eastern Bank and its business systems analyst Jessica Rodriguez; and Micah Fleisig of JVS Boston.

10/06/2026

Applications are now being accepted for the Children's Autism Waiver Program. Please scan the QR code on the flyer to learn more and to apply.

10/01/2026

We’re grateful for all of the individuals, families, friends, providers and community members who work so tirelessly all year long to make life meaningful for people living with Down Syndrome. Thank you.

10/01/2026

An inspiring way to start your Thursday.

High school senior Mason Wisnoski loves to support his high school football team. Typically, he does that from the sidelines, but recently, the team had him suit up for a major play. NBC News’ Tom Llamas reports.

09/30/2026

Today’s WORK Inc. conference “Promising Practices for Deaf Services 2026” featured fascinating presentations, including Dr. Waytte Hall, who spoke about language deprivation and the importance of getting deaf children exposed to a visual language at a young age to assist in their development. There was also a screening of the documentary, “Being Michelle,” about a deaf woman with autism who survived incarceration and abuse. DDS Commissioner Sarah Peterson delivered the opening remarks.

09/29/2026

We are excited for the premiere screening of "I Can Do Hard Things - Samantha’s Story," a film that celebrates the life, experiences and contributions of Samantha Gibbs, who has Down syndrome.

This heartfelt documentary follows Samantha’s remarkable journey. It highlights how she has turned her life experiences into a powerful mission of advocacy, education, and inclusion.

Through intimate interviews and candid moments with family and friends, the film offers an honest look at the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her life. From her achievements as a Special Olympian to her current training as a cosmetologist, the film celebrates what we all know to be true about Samantha—that she is a shining example of what is possible with the right support, community, and attitude.

Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026
Time: 6 p.m. doors open, 7:30 p.m. documentary begins
Location: Somerville Theatre

Please get tickets here: https://internet-ticketing.com/websales/sales/CSBSOM/actual_book?perfcode=966