Building Friendships Through Partnerships
For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, opportunities to participate meaningfully in social, recreational, arts and athletic activities are vital and enriching – yet far too often out of reach.
Through the support of generous donors, Seven Hills’ Community Connections Program provides those opportunities to more than 2,500 children, teens and adults in Massachusetts and Rhode Island annually, helping them to build friendships, confidence, and a supportive foundation in their communities. Our team works tirelessly to build partnerships with funders, community organizations, coaches, teachers, and volunteers to connect the individuals we serve with opportunities in the creative arts, unified sports, outdoor recreation, and so much more. We’re proud to share the inspiring individuals and stories below, which represent just a small sampling of the joy and accomplishment unfolding every day in the Community Connections program.
Nicholas: Growing with Community Connections
Nicholas looks forward to Seven Hill's events, outings, and sports because they allow him to practice, compete, and have fun with his peers who share his interests. Being part of a team, cheering for others, and being cheered on in return has given him a sense of purpose and accomplishment, while helping him develop social skills and deeper friendships.
His mother Teri shares that “Whether it's watching him catch the ball on the softball field, getting the rebound and dribbling down the court for a shot, or when he does "his move" on the football field – that smile tells me he also knows what he can achieve. Seven Hills has given him a chance to shine in a place where effort and courage are celebrated every day.”
Coach Tyrone Hicks: the Power of Volunteering
New Haven native and Clark University graduate Tyrone Hicks has dedicated his life to inclusion through sports. Inspired by his own son Tyrone, Jr. being diagnosed with cerebral palsy, he became a passionate advocate for athletes with disabilities. Tyrone founded the Seven Hills Blue Nation flag football program with one team of 12 players, and ten years later three teams of athletes — the Shamrocks, Spartans, and Sharks —build friendships, support one another, and grow both on and off the field. Every year at least one team has competed in the Special Olympics state tournament at Gillette Stadium, and in 2025 all three teams qualified – bringing home gold, silver, and bronze medals. Under Tyrone’s leadership, the Community Connections program has grown to include softball and bowling teams, creating even more inclusive spaces for athletes to thrive. With honors including Special Olympics Coach of the Year (2016) and the Boston Celtics Heroes Among Us Award (2022), Tyrone continues to demonstrate how sports can build confidence, foster community, and create lasting opportunities for athletes of all abilities.
Kyle - The Road to Confidence and Giving Back
Kyle started as a Special Olympics Athlete with Seven Hills Community Connections in 2008. His involvement grew from basketball to include softball, bowling, and flag football -- and eventually to earning a gold medal with his Blue Nation teammates at the 2022 Special Olympics National Games in Orlando. Kyle shares that “participating with Seven Hills in Special Olympics has meant everything to me. Here, I can be myself, have great friends, and learn to have fun while playing and spending time together. This year, my basketball team, the Panthers, asked me to coach them. It has been an honor to move to this next level, and I don’t regret saying yes! Teaching athletes I’ve played alongside has been an adjustment, but I am proud of what we have accomplished so far this season, and I am grateful for their respect. I wouldn’t have it any other way!”
