How does Seven Hills help people with disabilities find meaningful employment? Through individualized training, job development, community partnerships, and innovative funding solutions, Seven Hills creates pathways to competitive employment that foster independence, confidence, and long-term success.
For people with disabilities, meaningful employment offers more than a paycheck. It creates opportunities for personal growth, social connection, skill development, and a stronger sense of purpose. Seven Hills works closely with public and private funding partners to secure resources for individualized employment services, ensuring that each person receives the training and support needed to achieve their career goals.
One recent success story highlights the impact of person-centered employment services.
When Jose sought support, he did not meet the eligibility requirements of existing funding programs. Rather than allowing that barrier to limit his opportunities, Seven Hills identified and secured an alternative funding source to provide the employment training and support he needed.
Following a comprehensive assessment, Jose participated in job development activities and hands-on employment training at the Seven Hills Café. There, he developed workplace skills, learned daily operations, and gained valuable customer service experience.
Jose quickly became a favorite among staff and visitors thanks to his welcoming personality, positive attitude, and infectious smile. After successfully mastering his responsibilities at the café, he advanced to a role at the Seven Hills Café at Coes Pond Playground in Worcester.
Today, Jose helps support expanded café operations, serving families and community members who visit the popular playground while continuing to build his skills and confidence in a competitive work environment.
Seven Hills continues to invest in programs that create pathways to competitive employment for people with disabilities.
Through the Career Resource Center in Worcester, participants gain practical, hands-on experience in a variety of career fields, including:
These training opportunities help individuals develop valuable skills, explore career interests, and prepare for successful employment in their communities.
Competitive employment empowers people with disabilities to achieve greater independence, build confidence, and become active participants in their communities. By providing personalized support, innovative funding solutions, and real-world job training, Seven Hills continues to help individuals like Jose discover meaningful careers and reach their full potential.
Learn more about Seven Hills employment and vocational services: Seven Hills is committed to expanding opportunities that connect people with disabilities to rewarding careers, stronger communities, and brighter futures.
How does Seven Hills recognize and celebrate its employees? By creating opportunities for staff to connect, recharge, and be recognized for their dedication, compassion, and commitment to serving the community.
Approximately 150 employees from Seven Hills Behavioral Health and Family Stabilization gathered at the Pavilion at Green Hill Park in Worcester for a staff appreciation event focused on connection, recognition, and team building.
Under sunny skies, team members enjoyed a relaxed morning away from their daily responsibilities. The gathering featured great food, meaningful conversations, and plenty of opportunities for colleagues to connect outside of their usual work environments.
One of the day's most popular attractions was a visiting ice cream truck, offering a refreshing treat and adding to the festive atmosphere. The event encouraged staff to spend time together, strengthen relationships, and celebrate shared accomplishments.
The staff appreciation event served as an opportunity to acknowledge the extraordinary dedication, resilience, and compassion demonstrated by employees throughout the year.
Every member of the Seven Hills Behavioral Health and Family Stabilization team plays an important role in supporting individuals, families, and communities. From direct care and behavioral health services to administrative and support functions, employees work every day to advance the organization's mission and improve lives.
Employee recognition and engagement help build stronger teams, foster workplace wellness, and support a positive organizational culture. Events like this provide opportunities for staff to feel valued, appreciated, and connected to one another.
By investing in its workforce, Seven Hills reinforces a culture of collaboration and mutual support—qualities that ultimately strengthen the services provided to the community.
The Green Hill Park gathering was more than a staff event; it was a celebration of the people behind the mission. Taking time to recognize achievements, share experiences, and enjoy one another's company helped reinforce the strong sense of community that defines Seven Hills.
As the organization continues to serve individuals and families across the region, the event served as a reminder that its greatest strength is its people—and that celebrating employees is an important part of sustaining a compassionate, dedicated, and mission-driven workforce.
On June 13, Seven Hills Rhode Island partnered with the Wallum Lake Rod & Gun Club to host its annual Fishing Derby, creating an inclusive and welcoming experience for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
The Fishing Derby provided participants with an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, build social connections, and take part in a fun community tradition. Individuals receiving services, family members, and staff gathered for a day centered on recreation, inclusion, and shared experiences.
Throughout the event, participants competed for a variety of prizes, including:
The event encouraged friendly competition while ensuring every participant could enjoy a supportive and engaging atmosphere.
A highlight of the day was a barbecue lunch generously prepared and served by volunteers from the Wallum Lake Rod & Gun Club. Their ongoing partnership and commitment help make the annual Fishing Derby a memorable experience for everyone involved.
Collaborations between community organizations and disability service providers create valuable opportunities for inclusion, helping individuals build relationships and engage more fully in community life.
At the conclusion of the derby, awards were presented to recognize participants' accomplishments.
The Overall Best Fisher honors were awarded to:
Their achievements added excitement to the event and highlighted the spirit of participation and accomplishment that defines the Fishing Derby.
Events like the Fishing Derby provide benefits that extend far beyond recreation. Outdoor activities and community events help support:
As noted by Dr. Isaac Adusu, Assistant Vice President of Seven Hills Rhode Island:
"Events such as these play an important role in supporting the physical, emotional, and social well-being of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting confidence, independence, and positive life experiences."
The annual Fishing Derby demonstrates how community partnerships can create meaningful experiences for people with disabilities. By combining outdoor recreation, social connection, and volunteer support, the event fosters a sense of belonging and celebrates the abilities and achievements of every participant.
Seven Hills Rhode Island extends its gratitude to the Wallum Lake Rod & Gun Club and its dedicated volunteers for their continued partnership and commitment to enriching the lives of the individuals and families served throughout the community.
The Seven Hills Rhode Island Fishing Derby is an annual inclusive community event that provides outdoor recreation, social engagement, and friendly competition for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and supporters.
Recreational programs help promote physical health, emotional well-being, social inclusion, self-confidence, and greater independence while creating meaningful community connections.
The event welcomes people receiving services from Seven Hills Rhode Island, family members, staff, volunteers, and community partners.
Community partnerships create more opportunities for accessible recreation, social engagement, volunteer support, and inclusive experiences that improve quality of life for people with disabilities.