We are thrilled to introduce NERSC's new Member Engagement and Social Media Coordinator Cristina Boza!

Cristina joins NERSC with a strong background in nonprofit outreach, community engagement, and social media communications. Originally from Costa Rica and a native Spanish speaker, she has supported early childhood and family programs in Newport, Rhode Island, helping connect parents with valuable resources and services. Cristina has also been actively involved in outreach efforts within the Hispanic community, using culturally informed communication to build trust and engagement.

She brings a global perspective from her years as a flight attendant, during which she traveled to more than 50 countries and developed a deep appreciation for diverse cultures. Outside of work, Cristina enjoys gardening and tending to her own backyard cut-flower garden. She’s excited to help strengthen connections across the NERSC community. Welcome Cristina!

As part of our initiative to celebrate the amazing people and organizations making a real difference in our community, our Marketing Committee has introduced the NERSC Spotlight series. By sharing your story, mission, and impact, you’ll help residents and your fellow RSCs discover valuable resources, connect with upcoming programs, and meet the dedicated individuals working to strengthen our community.


This month we are spotlighting Eugene Austin!

Eugene is the Resident Activities Director at First Realty Management, and brings the heart to the NERSC community. He has been a longtime attendee and member, and he adds thoughtful support to the conference planning committee each year. His presence at meetings and events reflects a clear commitment to Resident Services and to the people who rely on them.

Those who work alongside Eugene see how present he stays. He steps in without hesitation, offers a hand when tasks need attention, and follows through with care. He gives his time, shares ideas, and helps shape programs that support both residents and staff. Here are some events he hosted this year.

"I have not known Eugene on a personal level, yet I have seen his leadership through shared committee work. He shows up prepared and ready to support the team. His focus on community strength and his steady involvement make a true difference." - Krissy Ramaglia

Eugene is a role model in our community, and we are honored to spotlight his work this month.

Submit your spotlight today >

As part of our initiative to celebrate the amazing people and organizations making a real difference in our community, our Marketing Committee has introduced the NERSC Spotlight series. By sharing your story, mission, and impact, you’ll help residents and your fellow RSCs discover valuable resources, connect with upcoming programs, and meet the dedicated individuals working to strengthen our community.


This month we are spotlighting Kinship Farms in Massachusetts!


With the help of Wendy and Kinship Farms, the Ipswich and Hamilton Housing Authorities have transformed open spaces into thriving community gardens. These gardens offer more than fresh produce. They have become places for residents to gather, learn, and connect. This summer, a new lower garden bed was added so children could experience hands-on learning about where food comes from and how it grows.

Kinship Farm, a Massachusetts-based non-profit, focuses on cultivating projects that bring together spirituality, relationships, and the environment. Their work centers on building partnerships that strengthen community connections while promoting care for both people and the planet. They collaborate with organizations that share at least two of their focus areas, blending diverse expertise and perspectives to create sustainable community impact.

The team at Kinship Farms believes that collaboration is key to meaningful change. By working alongside local housing authorities, Resident Service Coordinators (RSCs), and community partners, they help residents develop skills, foster self-sufficiency, and build relationships rooted in trust and shared purpose. The community garden projects in Ipswich and Hamilton are strong examples of how this collaboration benefits residents of all ages.

For RSCs, these partnerships have created new ways to connect with residents and local organizations. Through gardening initiatives, RSCs are introducing opportunities for residents to grow food, share recipes, and exchange gardening tips while strengthening relationships within their neighborhoods. The gardens have become gathering places where people check in with one another, share stories, and celebrate small successes together.

Kinship Farms’ mission is centered on cultivating projects that nurture both the environment and the human spirit. Their purpose includes serving communities with compassion, promoting inclusive practices, and celebrating progress and healing. By involving youth and encouraging intergenerational participation, they help create environments where residents of all ages can contribute and feel a sense of belonging.

Their partnership with the Ipswich and Hamilton Housing Authorities reflects the heart of NERSC’s mission. Through these collaborations, RSCs are addressing food insecurity and also building stronger networks of support that extend beyond the growing season.

This kind of partnership shows what is possible when organizations and RSCs work together with shared intention. Residents gain access to fresh produce, new learning experiences, and a deeper sense of community. The gardens have become a source of pride and purpose, fostering both physical and emotional well-being.

As we look toward the seasons ahead, we celebrate how these partnerships continue to grow and inspire. The collaboration between Kinship Farms and local housing authorities demonstrates the lasting value of community connection, care, and shared effort. Through their collective work, residents are not only harvesting vegetables but cultivating community resilience and hope.

Submit your spotlight today >

As part of our initiative to celebrate the amazing people and organizations making a real difference in our community, our Marketing Committee is debuting NERSC Spotlight. By sharing your story, mission, and impact, you’ll help residents and your fellow RSCs discover valuable resources, connect with upcoming programs, and meet the dedicated individuals working to strengthen our community.


This month we are spotlighting Cornerstone Housing Partners in Vermont!


Cornerstone Housing Partners provides affordable housing opportunities to renters, and to potential and current homeowners. Recognizing the ongoing shortage of affordable housing, we are focused on the development, rehabilitation, and management of rental housing, as well as providing essential homeownership services including energy efficiency improvements, homebuyer education, foreclosure counseling, home repair and lending services. Cornerstone Housing Partners is a NeighborWorks America Charter member, this national affiliation requires that we maintain the highest standards of excellence in community development and homeownership services. As a 501©(3) non profit, we develop, manage and maintain perpetually affordable housing in Bennington and Rutland Counties and affordable homeownership services primarily in Addison, Bennington and Rutland Counties, and also in additional counties throughout Vermont. Cornerstone Housing Partners is a grassroots organization. We work hand-in-hand with local service businesses, reinvest in our communities by paying property taxes and municipal fees, and are committed to addressing neighborhood concerns and community needs. The Cornerstone SASH Team work with residents and community members to help older adults and people with disabilities age in place for as long as possible. Our Resident Service Coordinators mirror this important work for our residents that may not qualify for the SASH program.

Submit your spotlight today >

Let’s be real. Getting people to show up for community events can be a challenge. But when there’s already buzz around a holiday, half your marketing work is done! Think about it: February alone gives you the Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day, two built-in themes that practically promote themselves. This year, I leaned into the Valentine’s Day hype and hosted a Paint Night at my property. And let me tell you, it was a hit! The room was full, the energy was high, and the smiles were everywhere. If you’re in the Boston area, I highly recommend checking out At Peace Arts. They helped make the night a total success.

Now, the key to packing the house for your holiday-themed event is making sure your residents actually know about it. Try using Punchbowl to send out digital invitations that feel personal and fun. Old-school flyers in high-traffic areas, like the mailroom, elevators, and laundry room, are also a must. And don’t forget word-of-mouth! If you get a few residents excited about the event, they’ll bring their friends. Whether it’s a St. Patrick’s Day game night or a Fourth of July BBQ, tying your event to a holiday gives people a reason to show up and keeps your community engaged all year round.

As a Resident Service Coordinator, it’s always rewarding to see how events and programs can positively impact our community. In November and December, we created opportunities for connection, health, and learning that truly made a difference.

Mickey G's Thanksgiving dinner brought warmth and joy to our residents, many of whom shared how much it meant to feel like family during the holiday season. These moments of togetherness strengthen the bonds within our community and remind us of the power of shared experiences.



Park Ave Pharmacy provided flu and COVID vaccines, ensuring our residents had convenient access to vital healthcare services. This initiative not only promoted wellness but also demonstrated our commitment to supporting residents’ health needs.

Finally, we wrapped up our 4-week Food is Medicine classes, presented by Lifespan. These sessions empowered residents with knowledge about how nutrition plays a crucial role in their overall well-being, inspiring healthier choices and lifestyles.

In December, we welcomed BH Link, who shared critical mental health resources and showed residents what it’s like to call their support line. Residents were surprised to learn they could even call on behalf of a friend, helping them feel more prepared to support loved ones in need.



At the start of the month, residents came together to decorate the tree with ornaments they crafted in November. We then celebrated with our very first tree lighting countdown, filling the room with excitement and holiday cheer as the lights illuminated their beautiful handiwork. These moments highlighted the importance of connection, creativity, and coming together as a community.

 

December was filled with festive cheer! Residents enjoyed pictures with Santa, featuring my son dressed as Santa, capturing heartwarming moments with family, neighbors, and their furry companions.

Knowing how much joy and comfort my residents' furry companions bring them, I made holiday treat boxes for the pets and transformed their photos taken with Santa as a personalized holiday card for each resident. This small act truly brightened their season.

It’s incredible to witness how these efforts come together to enrich the lives of our residents. The 2024 holiday season was a beautiful example of how we can foster a thriving and supportive community.

This season, I organized a Holiday Bazaar to provide residents with a stress-free, affordable shopping option. Local craft vendors offered unique gifts priced under $15, ensuring everyone could find something special for their loved ones. A $5 table donation funded raffles for residents, and even Santa made a surprise appearance! The event was a huge success, bringing joy, connection, and affordable resources to our community.

How did I do it?

I started reaching out to vendors on our Facebook community page about 2 months before. I let them know everything had to be under $15, and most of them reduced their prices for the event.  After I had finalized the date and sent flyers, I learned the local library was also having a huge craft fair on the same day. I thought this would work against me, but it actually went in my favor! Those vendors that couldn't fit at the library came to my property instead. Also, I posted on the community page “If you’re visiting the library please visit us next” and that’s exactly what happened. We were packed from open to close. 

I was impressed everything was good quality and there was so much variety!  At the end of the bazar I asked the vendors how they made out, and they were surprised to do so well. Residents were happy to be able to get their family and friends such unique gifts at a low cost. 

Have you held a similar event? Tell us about it!

NERSC member, Nayroby Rosa, was recently featured in an article for MassLive that highlighted Hispanic and Latino leaders in Massachusetts. Check it out!

https://www.masslive.com/news/2024/09/nayroby-rosa-empowers-holyoke-families-through-nonprofit-leadership.html

We recently hosted a heartwarming Cute Animal Contest, and it was a huge success, sparking joy and connection throughout our community! Residents eagerly submitted adorable photos of their pets, turning our laundry room into a mini gallery filled with cuteness and personality. For an entire month, everyone cast their votes for their favorite furry friends, enjoying the friendly competition and the chance to see each other's beloved pets.

In the end, a sweet pup named Lovely stole the show! With her irresistible charm, she won over the hearts of voters and proudly took home first place. To celebrate, we presented Lovely with a basket filled with goodies, including a precious pumpkin costume that she proudly wore for her big reveal. The sight of Lovely in her costume brought even more smiles and laughter to our residents!

This contest wasn’t just about finding the cutest pet. It was a small action that helped us build connections and create new friendships through sharing moments of joy and laughter together. Events like these remind us that small acts of togetherness can make a big difference.

What are ways you have helped residents connect with one another on your sites?

When it comes to crafts, my residents are big fans! Here are a couple of fun and budget-friendly projects we’ve done recently:

We decorated sea shells. My kids and I collected the shells during a beach day, and the residents brought them to life using tissue paper and Mod Podge from Dollar Tree. The entire craft cost under $10! Many of the residents use their decorated sea shells as little jewelry holders on their bureau, both functional and beautiful!

Another project we did was personalized postcards. I picked up supplies from Hobby Lobby when they had their 40% off paper sale, along with plain brown and white cards. I drew lines on the back for the residents to write a friend or family member’s address and a short note. We used clear plastic sleeves to protect their beautiful creations, making sure they could be displayed while keeping them safe. This project was also super affordable and residents loved the feedback from their loved ones.

In July, I started the Walk and Roll Club, and it's been a hit! I chose the name to make sure everyone feels welcome, whether you're walking with us or rolling in with your wheelchair. We meet every Tuesday and Thursday at 9 AM, and each day we mix it up, walking either around the building or the parking lot.

The best part? The conversations, health tips, and laughter we share along the way! I always walk with the group, and depending on how everyone is feeling, we either go around three times or walk for about 30 minutes. The residents love it so much that we’re now on our third month!

I've also added some fun photos from our walks. No faces are shown to protect anyone who may not want their picture posted. One of my favorites is of us having fun with our shadows, and another is a beautiful shot of the flowers behind one of the residents.

And of course, I make sure everyone stays hydrated with a water bottle for each participant.

This month, we had a fantastic speaker from the Rhode Island Special Needs Emergency Registry who gave an insightful presentation on all thing’s emergency preparedness!

Residents learned about the importance of having emergency kits and what to do in various emergency situations. Each attendee received a special emergency bag, and the speaker took the time to go through each item in the kit, explaining how it can be used during an emergency.

The best part?

Residents were able to sign up for the Special Needs Emergency Registry right on the spot!

If you would like to schedule outreach for your community, you can do so by calling 401-222-5960 or emailing RIDOH.RISNER@health.ri.gov.

Meghan Tedder Appointed to NERSC Board of Directors

East Haven, CT – New England Resident Service Coordinators, Inc. (NERSC) proudly announces the appointment of Meghan Tedder to its esteemed Board of Directors. As the leading organization for training and professional development in resident services across New England, Tedder will contribute her expertise and leadership in advancing the field of Service Coordination.

With a strong commitment to enhancing community living and sustainable development, Meghan Tedder brings a wealth of experience and passion for housing policy, racial justice, and community organizing. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science from Franklin Pierce University, complemented by coursework in Leadership and Social Justice. She has continued her education with a focus on policy through a master's in public policy currently underway at Northeastern University.

John Painter Appointed to NERSC Board of Directors

East Haven, CT – New England Resident Service Coordinators, Inc. (NERSC) proudly announces the appointment of John Painter to its esteemed Board of Directors. As the leading organization for training and professional development in resident services across New England, Painter will contribute his expertise and leadership in advancing the field of Service Coordination.