One might argue that 40 years is a long time to do just about anything, especially something as demanding as dedicating yourself to a nonprofit for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in MA. In fact, given the continued uncertainty and unprecedented challenges facing nonprofits across the country, it might seem like an ideal time to wind down one’s tenure.
Instead, Chief Operating Officer, Linda Bleau still shows up every day with the same motivation that first drew her into this field: helping individuals with disabilities in MA live fuller, more independent lives.
“I started at Turning Point 21 years ago,” Linda shares. “Before that, I worked for another nonprofit for two decades. I even devoted some of my career to teaching Special Education in a public school, but I missed the nonprofit sector. When I interviewed at Turning Point for a Coordinator of Program Services position, I knew right away I had found my place and since then, I have never looked back.”
That sense of belonging isn’t just for staff; in fact, it’s the heart of what Turning Point creates as a Massachusetts-based nonprofit focused on disability rights.
Spinning a Wish into a Real-Life Milestone
One story stands out among Linda’s many years of service.
Suzy and Richard, two individuals supported by Turning Point, shared a dream: they wanted to get married.
Rather than seeing barriers, staff saw an opportunity to empower. A plan came together to make their commitment ceremony a reality, complete with a church presence, a reception, and a ceremonial first dance.
“It was such a heartfelt moment,” Linda recalls. “Watching Suzy spin Richard in his wheelchair as the music played… it’s something I will never forget.”
More than a celebration, that dance represented independence, dignity, love, and community integration. All of the things that Turning Point strives to make possible for those with developmental delays, whom we serve every single day.
What Empowerment Really Looks Like
Turning Point, Inc. is committed to providing exceptional services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities; in fact, we’ve been fostering inclusive communities in MA for nearly 50 years. Nurtured by a dedicated team, our organization works to teach, empower, and encourage individuals to be self-confident and to make positive contributions to their communities within a safe and healthy environment.
Our mission comes to life in big milestones like Suzy and Richard’s ceremony and in everyday victories, too.
“TPI individuals live fulfilling lives,” Linda explains. “We empower people to achieve their goals, grow their independence, and discover what they are capable of.”
Turning Point is known by its funding partners for providing diverse, specialized services, including forensic, medical, behavioral, and autism support. These programs help individuals with complex needs receive care tailored to their lives and goals.
Why Community Support is Crucial
While state funding provides a foundation, it does not keep pace with inflation or the increasing complexity of needs among those served and those required by community-based services in MA.
Many individuals supported by Turning Point rely solely on Social Security benefits. After contributing toward their care, they often have very limited funds left for personal items, experiences, and extras that add joy and dignity to daily life.
This is where donors make an extraordinary difference.
More than a “nice to have,” community support is truly a need to have, as it helps provide opportunities beyond basic care, whether that means celebrations, activities, personal items, or meaningful experiences that foster connection, confidence, and belonging.
Turning Point welcomes the community into its homes and programs, offering a chance to meet the incredible individuals whose lives are shaped by our advocacy for intellectual disabilities.
A Career Sustained by Smiles
“There’s a reason I’ve done this work for 40 years,” Linda says. “It always puts a lasting smile on my face and in my heart when I see the opportunities given to those we support that bolsters their independence and growth. There is nothing more rewarding than feeling you have made a difference in someone’s life.”
At Turning Point, those differences happen every day, often in quiet breakthroughs, sometimes in joyful celebrations, and, once upon a time, a first dance that said more than words ever could.
Help Us Create More Moments Like This
When you support Turning Point’s efforts of empowering individuals with disabilities in MA, you help make life-changing opportunities possible. Your donation helps provide resources, experiences, and care that empower people to live with dignity, independence, and joy.
Join our community of supporters and help nurture more stories like Suzy and Richard’s.
