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Massachusetts Solar Power Equipment Supplier, altE Store, assists with Hurricane Relief Efforts.

altE’s John Laflamme builds pre-wired solar power systems

altE, a leading supplier of solar panels and solar power equipment in the Northeast, is powering ahead to provide alternative energy assistance in Puerto Rico and other areas hit hardest by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria and Jose.

altE is donating an off grid solar power system – 3300 watt solar panel array, hybrid solar inverter and batteries with a retail value of $15K – to Family Medical Clinic de Cedros in Puerto Rico, which is situated near Iglesia Emmanuel Casa de Refuge and is currently without electricity and clean water.

The system will power the most critical functions of this medical clinic, which is located near San Juan. altE is working with an installer, the nonprofit SonLight Power of Fairfield, Ohio.

Discounted Solar Power Equipment in Hurricane-Affected Areas

altE is also providing discounted solar power equipment to residents in great need in hurricane torn areas of Puerto Rico, Florida, Texas and the Caribbean Islands throughout October. altE offers a 15 percent discount to anyone has been affected by the storms.

“Solar and alternative energy allows people to become quickly self-sufficient with a robust power source,” said Sascha Deri, CEO of altE. “We are providing solar power equipment at close to cost to help people immediately in areas devastated by the hurricanes. Folks can install the systems to get back up and running off grid, independently and self-contained. It also empowers communities with the opportunity to create small, more resilient micro-grids in the future that won’t have the same vulnerabilities as traditional, large, centralized utility grids.”

altE has also been working with other organizations, offering free design and expertise with heavily discounted equipment. altE has contacted many of the major solar equipment manufacturers and is currently working on obtaining discounted equipment from them to help with relief efforts.

These storms aren’t the first time that altE has stepped in to offer assistance with off grid alternative energy. Last year, altE assisted International Rescue Group as they were delivering emergency supplies to Haiti after Hurricane Matthew by building portable solar generators, which were delivered to the local mayor’s office to improve their communication.

For more information, visit their website altEstore.com, or call toll free (877) 878-4060.

About altE

Founded in 1999, altE, Inc. has catered to customers on every continent of the globe. A 2006 Inc. 500 awarded company, altE aims to continue to fulfill its motto, “Making Renewable Do-able,” by offering cost competitive, high-quality renewable energy related products and educational services to a broad spectrum of the public.

altE sells all of the equipment needed to install a solar system – solar panels, racking, inverters, charge controllers, batteries, and other balance of system equipment like breaker boxes and PV wire. The company will custom design a system specifically for the customer and also offers systems that they have pre-designed.

altE’s headquarters is located at 330 Codman Hill Rd, Boxborough, Mass. The company also has a sales office in Colorado catering to a fast-growing customer base in the Western and Southwestern regions of the U.S. For more information visit their website at http://www.altEstore.com or contact Toll Free (877) 878-4060.

Massachusetts Solar Power Equipment Supplier, altE Store, assists with Hurricane Relief Efforts.Read More

“Halloween Full of Pieces” Autism-Friendly Halloween Party on October 29th.

With lots of lights, sounds and scary decorations, Halloween can be an especially tricky time for children and families with autism.

Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a company of behavioral clinicians specializing in the care of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) throughout Central Massachusetts, is proud to sponsor the first annual “Halloween Full of Pieces” autism-friendly Halloween party which will be held on October 29, 2017 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Knights of Columbus, 91 Mannville Street, Leicester. This event is open to the public.

Hosted by the Knights of Columbus in Leicester, this special event is a sensory-friendly and safe trick or treating experience for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). BCI’s Applied Behavior Analysis Therapists (ABAs) will oversee the event alongside the Knights and parent volunteers.

The event will feature a sensory corner, haunted house, and a variety of activities such as face painting, pumpkin bowling, pumpkin painting, sugar cookie decorating, paper plate monsters and more. A raffle and bake sale will also be held.

There is no cost to attend and children may wear costumes if they wish. RSVP to the party by visiting http://conta.cc/2xK7LUC.

According to Sally Burke, a Licensed Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) at BCI, “Some children with autism struggle with pretend-play, and can have issues related to different types of costume clothing fabrics as well as to costume accessories. Social skills may be an area of need and some children may not be able to engage in appropriate responses that may possibly lead to other behavioral challenges.”

Burke continued, “You want your child to be part of this exciting experience and engage in these fun traditions, but you are worried that Halloween may just not be for you and your child.”

Burke offers the following five tips to help families with autism celebrate Halloween:

  • Create a visual social story or find a book that discusses the topic of Halloween and all it offers and what to expect prior to the event.
  • Look for opportunities to practice trick or treating. Review and rehearse the act of trick or treating and practice the skill with a family member or neighbor you know well.
  • Know their limits. If they can only handle a few houses, do not push them to do more and be sure to praise them for a job well done.
  • Go to places where your child may already be comfortable, such as relatives, friends, etc. This pairs the new activity of trick or treating with already established places and people. Consider skipping homes with lots of lights, sounds and scary decorations.
  • Consider staying home and having your child help you pass out treats. They may enjoy this just as much as going out.

For more information, visit www.bciaba.org.

About Behavioral Concepts, Inc. (BCI)

Behavioral Concepts (BCI) provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to children with autism and their families in central Massachusetts.  BCI identifies and facilitates effective personalized instruction that allows children to discover more, learn more, and be more – increasing their independence and enhancing their quality of life at home, in school, and in the community. As a Massachusetts Department of Public Health approved provider of specialty ABA services for early intervention, BCI provides center, home-based, and after-school services through private and public health insurance. The organization was founded in 2002 by Dr. Jeffrey R. Robinson. Further information on BCI is available at http://bciaba.com.

“Halloween Full of Pieces” Autism-Friendly Halloween Party on October 29th.Read More

Old Colony Elder Services Announces New Volunteer Center in Plymouth. Grand Opening on Nov. 8

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities, has recently announced the grand opening of their new “OCES Volunteer Center” on Wednesday, November 8, 2017. A celebration will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 pm and the public is invited to attend.

Serving as a central resource for volunteers as well as for local agencies offering volunteer opportunities, the OCES Volunteer Center resides within the nonprofit’s Plymouth office at 204 South Meadow Road. This office is also home to key departments including Home Care, Senior Care Options, Nutrition, and Information and Referral.

“Through the OCES Volunteer Center, we are continuing our efforts to empower people to build stronger communities through volunteerism,” said Brenda Carrens, OCES’ Volunteer Programs Manager.

OCES recruits volunteers of all ages for all volunteer programs at OCES, as well as for other volunteer positions at nonprofits, government agencies, schools and other agencies in Plymouth County. Included in OCES volunteer programs is the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Plymouth County; RSVP of Plymouth County is part of the Senior Corps network of programs. Senior Corps is a program of the Corporation for National and Community Service, the federal agency for volunteering, service and civic engagement.

The OCES Volunteer Center is a designated space for volunteers to work together on specific projects, such as Letter Writing to Troops for National Days of Service and Remembrance. It is also a place for prospective volunteers to talk one-on-one with Volunteer Program staff who can assist them in their search for volunteering opportunities that fit their skills and interests. The Center has full service capabilities for researching volunteer opportunities including computers, phones, brochures and other literature from organizations seeking volunteers.

Health and wellness are important to OCES, both for employees and volunteers. In the future, the Center will offer workshops and seminars on topics related to health and volunteer satisfaction. OCES will draw on its Nutrition, Healthy Living and Employee Wellness programs to provide these offerings. Our goal is healthy and happy volunteers who make a difference in the community.

After the Grand Opening, the OCES Volunteer Center will be open Tuesday mornings and Wednesday afternoons. It is anticipated that days and hours will be expanded in the near future. Volunteers may also make an appointment to meet with OCES staff.

For more information about how to become involved with volunteering through OCES, visit www.ocesma.org.

About OCES

Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 26 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of elders and people with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency has 232 employees and operates more than 15 programs serving older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

Old Colony Elder Services Announces New Volunteer Center in Plymouth. Grand Opening on Nov. 8Read More

LinkedIn Sales Funnel–How you can get more out of your LinkedIn account.

Most business people have a LinkedIn profile. It’s a great way to research prospects before a meeting to see who they might be connected to in your network. Yet besides using it as a reference, have you ever gotten any business directly from people you reached out to on LinkedIn? Would you like to know how to?

On Wednesday, November 1 in Norwell and Wednesday, November 15 in Plymouth , The LinkedIn Sales Funnel – Hands-On Workshop will teach you how to transform that passive channel that currently is your LinkedIn account into a robust, proactive lead-generator.

Led by LinkedIn experts Steve Dubin of PR Works and Eric Warner of Praxis Growth Advisors, a Sandler Training Company, each session will include:

  • A review of your LinkedIn profile and how to maximize it to be found and convert visitors;
  • How to use LinkedIn’s advanced search to create a prospect profile and segmented target audience by Industry, Title, Geography, etc.;
  • How to develop a drip campaign and ask for five connection requests per day;
  • The essence of a messaging system – including five messages to develop a know, like, trust relationship with the recipient; when to allow prospects to “marinate” and wait for a response;
  • When to ask for a telephone or coffee meeting;
  • How to harness discussion group to showcase your expertise; how to leverage LinkedIn’s Pulse publishing to expand credibility;
  • When to add profile updates and use the gentle prod;
  • How to export LinkedIn contacts to a spreadsheet and utilize that e-mail data for a monthly e-newsletter

The cost to attend each session is $149. To register, click on the links below:

Wednesday, November 1, 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

62 Accord Park Drive, Suite 4,

Norwell, MA  02061

Register here

Wednesday, November 15, 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Plymouth Chamber of Commerce

134 Court Street, Plymouth, MA  02360

 Register here

 

 

LinkedIn is like no other social media resource. Chances are your best prospects are on it. With this workshop, you will learn a viable strategy for connecting with those prospects and converting LinkedIn into a cash generator for your business. Sign up today!

LinkedIn Sales Funnel–How you can get more out of your LinkedIn account.Read More

Brick by brick. Solid foundation for home builders is launched. Builders Concierge Service of Southeastern MA offers subs to professional services.

Mitch Zucker

TAUNTON, MA…

Most home builders are gifted at construction. It is often the other aspects of their business that are a challenge. From a second source for roofing to an accountant who keeps them on track, a new service entitled Builders Concierge Service of Southeastern MA offers easy access to subcontractors and professional services.

Participating home builders also receive a complimentary contract review and discounts on continuing education and test preparation.

The new service, developed by the FireWalker Development Group of Taunton, MA, helps home builders become more efficient, save money, save time and connect with vetted subcontractors and business professionals.

Mitch Zucker, founder of the innovative company, noted, “Having spent almost five years as a member, volunteer Board of Director, and full-time employee of a nonprofit Builders Association, I learned quite a bit about the challenges of operating a residential building/remodeling firm. With that knowledge in mind, I designed the Builders Concierge Service to address the single biggest challenge of this type of organization: finding the best local subcontractors and business services vendors quickly and efficiently.”

Continued Zucker, “Small residential builders know that they need to stay focused on getting the work done on their projects. Every time they need a new sub or vendor, it’s a huge distraction which pulls them away from their primary mission of getting the current projects completed on time and under budget. We help solve that equation.”

The Builders Concierge Service has met with and worked with each vendor within the organization. Standard protocol for all vendors is to return calls immediately.

For more information, please contact, Mitch Zucker, (774) 218-9486,
mitchz@firewalkerdevgroup.com.

Brick by brick. Solid foundation for home builders is launched. Builders Concierge Service of Southeastern MA offers subs to professional services.Read More

Converting surplus equipment into funding non-profits, Key For Hope and Proactive Philanthropy launch collaboration.

Ed McPherson and Ralph Greenberg

NEW BEDFORD, MA…

Who knew that old and unwanted household keys could produce enough money to help local food banks pay their bills? Similarly, whoever thought that unwanted equipment, overstock and distressed real estate and surplus equipment could also be resold to support local non-profits and generate good corporate citizenship recognition and tax deductions for the company donor?

Two organizations are now working together to harvest surplus capital goods from companies throughout New England that are no longer wanted or needed and can be converted to cash for grants to charities.

Proactive Philanthropy and Key for Hope, two synergistic 503(c) (3), non-profit organizations, are now working together to convert the full spectrum of surplus equipment, from keys to lab equipment and other assets, into cash and reinvesting the proceeds into charitable organizations in the form of grants. This enables the donor companies to enjoy tax benefits and to be recognized for their role in creating the charitable funding.

The two organizations are located in a six-acre, 760,000 square foot warehouse in the North End of New Bedford located at 25 – 51 King Street, New Bedford, MA 02745. The expansive space provides an ample staging ground for transforming surplus keys, stock and equipment into a major financial injection for impactful non-profits.

Ed McPherson, founder and CEO of Proactive Philanthropy noted “Most non-profit organizations are starved for funding. And most non-profit organizations compete day in and day out for the same thing. Cash! What if we turned that paradigm on its head? We know that the money and the funding solution wasn’t in cash, it was in the value of every other asset. ”

He continued, “For example, a bulldozer is donated, the heavy equipment is sold to a construction company, the proceeds of the sale is used to fund a charitable organization. The donor is recognized for the gift. This is a true example of a win-win transaction. Every company works hard to create net revenue. Those hard earned dollars are needed to propel the company into a leadership position. Using surplus capital assets to create charitable funding is smart business. Keep in mind, that the assets that are no longer in service continue to add costs like storage, insurance, heat, lights and security. When these assets are donated, space is freed up, costs stop and tax deductions are created. Additionally, when the asset is sold and the charitable funds are reinvested in grants, your company receives the acknowledgment (This grant made possible by…). Using surplus assets to give back is the ideal example of doing well by doing good.

Ralph Greenberg, founder and President of Key for Hope commented, “Unwanted, outdated household keys are another overlooked and alternative source for funding needed charities. Schools and companies have found key donation campaigns to be a great way to rally their students and employees to take simple steps to donate and help out. Everyone has a bunch of keys stuffed in a junk drawer or desk that are associated with a previous car, lost bike lock or former apartment. We are encouraging people to donate these keys and will be donating the value of the metal to food pantries.”

Working together to create awareness, share warehouse space and combine resources, Key For Hope and Proactive Philanthropy are looking to transform how non-profits are funded.

Proactive Philanthropy background
Ed McPherson earned his stripes in commercial construction and real estate development. Witnessing that a vast majority nonprofits struggled from the absence of long-term, stable funding made a strong impression upon him.

After a nonprofit asked him to find a real estate donation, he realized that a solution could come from not only real estate but from converting the broadest spectrum of surplus assets into charitable funding. McPherson witnessed the non-profit struggle to attract and convert assets into funding. He knew by providing this service it would allow the non-profit to focus on their charitable mission.

Key For Hope background
Ralph Greenberg never took his personal comfort for granted. Simultaneously operating his recycling business and a used scientific equipment business, he discovered the vast quantity of things that can be recycled. After trips to poverty-stricken areas of Siberia and Africa to further expand his understanding of the world we live in, Ralph was devastated by the hunger and poverty and resolved to take action and do something.

Upon his arrival back home, he realized that feeding the hungry was a problem at home too, so he started Key for Hope. Understanding that the few keys his customers gave him were a great start, but not enough to make a difference, Ralph envisioned a key recycling campaign that could be the tipping point that would create a new and additional source of funding for the battle against hunger.

The partnering of Proactive Philanthropy and Key For Hope provide a unique fundraising alternative for companies and charitable causes.

For additional information about Proactive Philanthropy and Keys For Hope, call 508-990-2222 or visit http://www.proactivephilanthropy.org/ and http://www.keyforhope.org/.

Converting surplus equipment into funding non-profits, Key For Hope and Proactive Philanthropy launch collaboration.Read More

Get proactive with pain. Short circuit stress. Seminar serves up solutions.

WEYMOUTH, MA…

Research confirms that stress translates quickly to disease and pain. The breakneck pace of modern life and the desperate isolation of technology contribute to the expanding problem.

“The issue is in your tissue” is a stress and pain management seminar is set for October 26 and November 2, 6-7:30 p.m. in the conference room of Costantino Realty Group, 1581 Main St, South Weymouth, MA 02190. Cost for the 2-part workshop is $99 per person. The first session outlines the solutions, the second reviews and reinforces action steps. Each session is limited to 20 people.

The sessions will be led by Rosemarie Lanchester, owner of ‘Everything You Wish For’, an alternative health provider.

What are the red flags for stress? Trouble sleeping? Anxiety? Awaken and still fatigued? Suffering from surgery or health issues? Driven by ambition and unable to gear down? Obsessing about finances? Yes, to any of these questions indicate you need new skills.

The workshop will outline how your body responds to stress on a physical level; how to determine the ‘root’ cause of your pain and how to heal yourself; ways to get a great night sleep; and what muscle testing is and how to use it daily.
Lanchester is an Emotional Freedom Technique (Tapping) practitioner and has numerous alternative health credentials including Certified Consulting Hypnotist, Level lll Dowser, Level lll Yuen Method Practitioner, Negative Energy Clearing Specialist, Level ll Reiki Practitioner, Certified Laughter Yoga Leader and is a member of Association of Comprehensive Energy Psychology (ACEP).

To register for the workshops or for more information, call (508) 468-4506 or visit www.EverythingYouWishFor.com.

 

Get proactive with pain. Short circuit stress. Seminar serves up solutions.Read More

Rodman CPAs Appoints Jennifer Baessler as Accountant

Rodman CPAs of Waltham, MA, a full service tax and accounting firm serving small and mid-sized emerging and established businesses throughout the greater Boston area, has recently hired Jennifer Baessler, a resident of Waltham, as Accountant.

Baessler, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Bentley University, will be responsible for client accounts receivable, payroll and month-end close.  Baessler is also a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor and will be part of Rodman CPAs QuickBooks ProAdvisor team that provides training and consulting to hundreds of small to mid-size companies.

For five years previous to joining Rodman CPAs, Baessler was an Accountant at Distributed Technology Associates of Waltham. Prior to that, she was a consultant at Insource Service Inc. in Wellesley for four years.

Baessler looks forward to volunteering with Rodman CPAs in outreach efforts that support causes and organizations such as Camp Clark, Cradles to Crayons, Hope and Comfort, and Rosie’s Place.

About Rodman CPAs
Rodman CPAs provides tax advisory, accounting, and business strategy to small and mid-sized emerging and established businesses.  Named one of the largest accounting firms in Massachusetts by the Boston Business Journal, Rodman CPAs offers an innovative and strategic approach with the personal touch of a smaller regional CPA firm. For more than 50 years, Rodman CPAs has been specializing in customized accounting and tax solutions that improve business performance, processes, financial operations, and information technology.

The firm serves as a true business partner, helping clients perform and succeed during each stage of the business lifecycle. As domain experts in alternative energy, the “Green Team” at Rodman CPAs works with renewable energy producers and businesses throughout the U.S. offering tax advisory, financial, accounting services, and Investment Tax Credit (ITC) studies.

Rodman CPAs is an independent member firm of BDO Alliance USA, which enables them to expand services to clients by accessing the resources of BDO USA, LLP and other Alliance members, ensuring greater flexibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. For more information, visit http://www.rodmancpa.com or contact (617) 965-5959.

Rodman CPAs Appoints Jennifer Baessler as AccountantRead More

HMEA’s Autism Resource Central Celebrates 20 Groundbreaking Years – Gala to be held October 20th

BCIBehavioral Concepts, Inc. (BCI), a company of behavioral clinicians specializing in the care of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) throughout Central Massachusetts, encourages the community to join them in celebration and support of HMEA’s Autism Resource Central’s 20th Anniversary.

Autism Resource Central is considered “The Center of the Autism Community” providing information and referral services as well as support and family activities to more than 3500 families in Central Massachusetts over the last 20 years. BCI is proud to sponsor Autism Resource Central’s 20th Anniversary Gala, which will be held at Cyprian Keyes in Boylston, MA on October 20, 2017 from 6 to 11 p.m.

The 20th Anniversary Gala will be an exciting red carpet event featuring dinner, dancing, silent auction, raffles and the “Guiding Star” awards ceremony.

Since 2002, Autism Resource Central has been presenting Guiding Star Awards honoring those in the autism community who go the extra mile for individuals and families challenged by autism spectrum disorders. This year, there are 15 nominees ranging from educators and ABA professionals to coaches and doctors, as the center believes that those who work to improve access to the community and acceptance of autism deserve to be commended for their efforts. Scott Morin, an ABA Therapist at BCI has been nominated by a family for a Guiding Star Award.

Among those being recognized are Janet George Ph.D., Assistant Commissioner, Policy, Planning, and Children’s Services for Department of Developmental Services (DDS), and Jeff Robinson, Ph.D., Founder and Executive Director of BCI.

“We are delighted to be a part of this very special event that celebrates Autism Resource Central and their positive impact on the community over the last two decades,” explained Dr. Robinson. “Autism Resource Central has always been at the forefront – creating awareness, educating families and the community and providing essential information and resources. For the past 15 years, BCI has proudly worked alongside Autism Resource Central, serving children and families throughout Central Massachusetts and providing services that increase their independence and enhance their quality of life at home, in school, and in the community.”

Over the years, BCI’s dedicated team members have volunteered countless hours at Autism Resource Central. BCI proudly supported many of the organization’s signature events in 2017: the 5K Run & Walk for Autism Acceptance held in April; Tee Up For Autism held in August; Autism Acceptance Day at Great Wolf Lodge held in September; and the 20th Anniversary Gala in October.

Dr. Robinson continued, “HMEA’s Autism Resource Central and BCI’s missions are similar. It is that synergy; our mission of family-first, which makes this a special partnership.”

“The autism community is made up of families, providers and state agencies all working together,” said Susan Loring, Director of Autism Resource Central. “BCI and HMEA have been working together for a long time, building that community and making the connections. We’ve come a long way and have made groundbreaking advances – such as getting legislation passed to ensure that services for children with ASD are covered by insurance.”

As one of seven autism centers in the state supported by DDS, Autism Resource Central supports thousands of children, adults and their families in the Central Massachusetts area. The center provides support, information, referral, family activities and events, activities for adults on the spectrum, educational programs for parents, and therapeutic programs for children with autism as well as siblings, school vacation events and community partnerships to area businesses. Membership is free, and all of the programs and events are free or low cost, with all fees collected going right back into supporting the center’s mission.

Loring continued, “The 20th Anniversary Gala is a ‘feel good’ night. We’re celebrating those who go above and beyond the parameters of the job to touch the lives of people with ASD and make their lives better. It’s not just a job, it’s a passion.”

Tickets to Autism Resource Central’s 20th Anniversary Gala are $75 per person and available on their website at http://www.autismresourcecentral.org/event-registration/

About Behavioral Concepts, Inc. (BCI)

Behavioral Concepts, Inc. (BCI) provides Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to children with autism and their families in central Massachusetts.  BCI identifies and facilitates effective personalized instruction that allows children to discover more, learn more, and be more – increasing their independence and enhancing their quality of life at home, in school, and in the community. As a Massachusetts Department of Public Health approved provider of specialty ABA services for early intervention, BCI provides center, home-based, and after-school services through private and public health insurance. The organization was founded in 2002 by Dr. Jeffrey R. Robinson. Further information on BCI is available at http://bciaba.com

HMEA’s Autism Resource Central Celebrates 20 Groundbreaking Years – Gala to be held October 20thRead More