IDDI
News
  • On August 11, 2007, Special Olympics hosted their August Games at Quabbin Reservoir in Amherst, MA. Griffin, Justin, Jonathan S. and Jonathan K. were all in attendance for this great event. Gold medals were awarded to everyone. After spending the day fishing off the dock with some great results, everyone was able to catch at least one fish. Jonathan K. and Jonathan S. returned on August 12th for another fun day of fishing and to receive their medals that they worked so hard to earn.
  • On June 5, 2008, Leonard, Mulherin & Greene sponsored its 4th annual Spring Wine Tasting for IDDI at the magnificent New Bedford Whaling Museum. While Crossroads Liquors presented a wide array of domestic and international wines and beer, ten restaurants and caterers served some of the most delicious cuisine found anywhere on the Southcoast. Entertaining the over 350 friends of IDDI that were in attendance, the Marcus Monteiro Jazz Trio and Joy Pereira each provided their own unique musical stylings to the evening’s festivities, adding the perfect touch to a great event. We want to thank all of our sponsors, donors, and friends, including Snapdragons Floral Design, for making the evening a wonderful success for the children and adults of IDDI.

  • On June 2, 2007, IDDI hosted a Special Olympics Motor Activities Clinic. 74 children and adult athletes participated in events such as assisted bowling, tee ball, soccer kick, tennis ball throw, bean bag throw/drop and basketball. This event was a great success. IDDI’s Special Olympics committee members are currently working on this year’s event.
  • On March 1st and 2nd of 2008, the adult program participated in Ten Pin Bowling at the Special Olympics Winter Games in Shrewsbury, MA. The athletes practiced for 8 weeks prior to the states games, placing third and fourth om their divisions.
  • On March 24, 2007 IDDI’s children and adult Special Olympic teams held its second annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser. This has been an annual tradition, and over $1,300 was raised this year. Our third annual dinner will be held in late summer.
  • Special Olympic athletes are encouraged to reach their fullest potential with assistance from coaches, volunteers, and families. The Special Olympics are seasonal events. Athletes from both the Children's and Adult Programs train for eight weeks prior to the assessment round, a time which helps to assess an athlete’s ability level. Our Community Support and Recreation staff are responsible for coordinating Special Olympics and work closely with residential supervisors so that the needs and wants of the individuals are always met. In previous Special Olympics, we have participated in bowling, track and field, and fishing events. Athletes receive recognition, as well as a ribbon for participation. Special Olympics promotes dedication and sportsmanship through competition, while enhancing athletes' self esteem.
  • At IDDI, our Employee Appreciation Programs are important ways to recognize our staff for their hard work and dedication to the children and adults at IDDI. Our Employee of the Month Program recognizes employees who go above and beyond their regular duties. Nominations for this award are submitted to the Management Team by the 20th of each month, and each nominee is presented with a gift catalog, from which s/he can choose an item. Each winner of the Employee of the Month Award receives $100, plus an Employee of the Month certificate.
  • Thanks to the kindness and generosity of Mr. And Mrs. Donald Carleton (parents of a former resident, Willie, who passed away unexpectedly in August, 1998), IDDI implemented an Employee of the Year program. This award, beginning in 2006, was designated for a direct-care staff member. Because of the many outstanding nominations received in 2006, IDDI established a second Employee of the Year award, designated for a professional staff member. The recipients of both Employee of the Year Awards must have been employed at IDDI for at least three months in either a full- or part-time position. Any staff person may be nominated by any employee after which time all nominations are presented to the Management Team. All nominees are recognized at our annual Staff Appreciation Luncheon, and the winners are announced at that time. The recipients of both Employee of the Year awards each receive an award certificate, and can choose a vacation in the continental United States, including $500 in spending money, valued at $1,500. In addition to these awards, IDDI , began in 2006, to recognize all staff members whose dedication and services exceeded 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 or 30 years. Each was applauded and presented with a gift that reflected those years spent in support of the residents at IDDI.

  • IDDI’s Open Forum is held each spring as an opportunity for parents, guardians and other family members to meet with key members of clinical, health care and rehabilitation staff, to get answers to questions regarding licensing; fundraising initiatives; promising new practices on therapies; and to attend short, informative seminars on topics of general interest.


Check back on our site for more information in the upcoming months.