People with disabilities thrive when they have access to education, recreation, competitive athletics, meaningful relationships, and inclusive community experiences. Across Seven Hills Foundation and Crotched Mountain, recent events have highlighted how advocacy, achievement, and belonging can transform lives.

From a visit by U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan to national recognition at the Special Olympics USA Games, these stories demonstrate the power of inclusion and the impact of creating opportunities for people of all abilities.

Senator Maggie Hassan Visits Crotched Mountain School & Village

Why did Senator Maggie Hassan visit Crotched Mountain?

Last week, Crotched Mountain School & Village welcomed U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan for a firsthand look at the programs and services supporting individuals with disabilities.

As a longtime advocate for disability rights and inclusion, Senator Hassan toured the campus, visited the school, spent time in one of the student homes, and even joined students for a ride on accessible recreation bikes.

Throughout her visit, she listened to the experiences of students and staff, gaining a deeper understanding of the life-changing work taking place every day at Crotched Mountain. Her engagement reflected a commitment to ensuring that the voices of individuals with disabilities are heard at the national level.

We are grateful for Senator Hassan's time, genuine interest, and continued advocacy on behalf of the people and families we serve.

How a Virtual Wrestling Club Became a Model for Inclusion

What is the Seven Hills and New Order Wrestling partnership?

Sometimes the most meaningful community connections begin with a simple idea.

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted in-person activities, Seven Hills client Kevin created a Monday night Zoom wrestling club to stay connected with others who shared his passion for professional wrestling.

What started as a virtual gathering has evolved into a powerful partnership with New Order Wrestling (N.O.W.). Today, club members attend live wrestling events, form friendships with wrestlers, referees, announcers, and staff, and regularly interact with members of the wrestling roster during their weekly Zoom meetings.

Recently, New Order Wrestling celebrated its one-year anniversary and honored the partnership by presenting Seven Hills with the N.O.W. Community Revolutionary Award Championship Belt.

While the recognition is meaningful, the true achievement is the sense of belonging created through this partnership. Members have gained confidence, built lasting friendships, and become valued participants in a welcoming community that embraces inclusion both inside and outside the ring.

Inclusivity Takes Center Stage at the Hopedale Fairy Walk

How did Seven Hills ASPiRE! participate in the Hopedale Fairy Walk?

The Seven Hills ASPiRE! Program in Hopedale recently participated in the annual Hopedale Fairy Walk, a beloved community event held in the Parklands in Hopedale, Massachusetts.

Each year, the trails are transformed into an enchanting forest featuring fairy houses, miniature villages, and creative displays tucked throughout the landscape.

This year, Seven Hills participants and staff designed a fairy house called "Where We All Belong." The accessible and inclusive creation celebrated people of all abilities and backgrounds, reflecting the values that guide Seven Hills every day.

Built through teamwork, creativity, and a commitment to acceptance, the fairy house served as a miniature reminder of a larger message: everyone deserves a place where they belong.