Kevin O’Grady School (KOG)
Katie’s 5-year-old son Cashen has complex medical needs, including visual impairment, which have hindered his developmental milestones. Thanks to the unwavering support of the staff at KOG, Cashen is starting to make strides in his mobility. Katie can’t help but feel a wave of relief and joy as she watches her son thrive in an environment that nurtures his happiness and sense of belonging. “I just feel so confident and safe dropping him off every day,” she says. “You can feel the love flowing out the front door.”
Northshore Academy Upper School (NSAU)
As a student, William’s journey into the world of science began with a spark ignited in the NSAU Animal Husbandry program. It was there that he discovered his deep love for the natural world. After studying environmental science and becoming an animal educator himself, he felt a calling to return to NSAU, not just to teach but to nurture the very passion that had once transformed his own life. He takes great pride in the Northshore Animal Science Presents Course, where NSAU students provide interactive animal encounters to educate children in local schools. “I get to wake up every day, work with the animals I love, and inspire that same passion in the next generation of kids,” he says. “I honestly can’t imagine doing this anywhere else.”
Northshore Academy Lower School (NSAL)
Charles consistently resisted going to school and struggled with social interactions that left him feeling isolated and overwhelmed, but his mom Vanessa said this all changed on his first day at NSAL. “The consistency, expectation of behaviors, the schedule, and the support of the staff completely changed Charles’ outlook in school.” Her other son, Curtis, faced his own battles with anxiety in crowded, loud spaces. “I’ve seen a huge improvement in his behavior and his confidence in being part of a school community,” she says. “Community was something both of my sons had longed for, but didn’t feel until they were part of NSAL.”
Northshore Recovery High School
After years of struggle and a fresh commitment to sobriety, Faith transferred to Recovery High School where she found not just academic guidance but a deep emotional support system that has been vital to her healing journey. “They did, and they still do, provide a really good framework for people who are struggling with substance abuse and the trauma that comes along with it,” she says. “I am blessed to have gone there and I am really grateful that the Consortium exists.” Inspired by her own journey, Faith now gives back to NEC as a peer mentor, recovery coach, and graduation speaker, sharing her story and hope with others who are walking a similar path.
T
opsfield Vocational Academy (TVA)
Meg began her career at NEC as a paraprofessional at TVA. Years later, she transitioned into the role of English as a Second Language teacher where she ignites TVA students’ imaginations through engaging, interactive activities that expand their vocabulary and introduce them to new possibilities. Each day, Meg finds herself inspired by the unique perspectives of her students. “I really love that aspect of the job–working with these wonderful young people who often don’t realize how much they have to offer in this world,” she says. “I’m really grateful to be doing what I’m doing now.”
Transition Programs (Embark & SOAR)
Katie’s son, Alex, is a vibrant young adult who is fully engaged in NEC’s Embark program. He prefers hands-on learning, so job internships have been a wonderful opportunity for him. Katie is deeply appreciative of the caring staff who have created a plan that meets his unique needs while instilling in him a sense of pride. Seeing Alex flourish in this supportive environment brings her an overwhelming sense of joy and optimism for his journey ahead. “There is no question that this program will lead to his success going forward,” she says.
Philanthropic giving directly supports the programs, services, and staff that allow us to provide innovative educational and therapeutic solutions to students facing extraordinary challenges, and helps us keep tuition rates low against the high cost of programming.
Thank you, in advance, for your support and belief in our mission. Together, we change lives and build a brighter future for all.
