May 2025 News
Welcome to May!
The Spring Flowers Are Blooming & So Are Things at Eiros Group!
This Mother's Day Remember: Gentle Teaching, Gentle Living & Nurturing Care
by Kristen Mathews, Chief Operations Officer
We take time this May to reflect on the principles of Gentle Teaching and the important role of nurturing relationships in the lives of the people that we support. Gentle Teaching is about building trust, offering safety, and teaching others that they are valued and
connected.
Mother's Day reminds us of the many ways people provide care, support, and guidance, not only in families but also within our communities. It is an opportunity to recognize the daily efforts made by mothers, caregivers, and everyone who takes on the role of supporting and encouraging others.
This month, we ask you to think about how you can create a sense of belonging for the people around you. Whether through small acts of kindness, listening with patience, or offering reassurance, every action makes a difference.
Thank you everyone for leading with care and kindness, helping to make Eiros Group a place where people feel safe, respected, and supported. Happy Mother’s Day to all who nurture, teach, and walk alongside others.
Patience and Perseverance!
by Coby Hurd, Supports Broker
Nicholas is thriving in his new apartment, embracing independence and success like never before. Growing up in the foster care system, he faced many challenges, including instability and uncertainty. But he refused to let his past define him, staying determined to build a better future.
With hard work and the right support, Nicholas took steps toward self-sufficiency. Through Eiros Group, he worked with a support broker to find the perfect apartment and a place that gives him both stability and independence.
Now, Nicholas is not only enjoying his new home but also excelling in his job, proving he can succeed on his own. His story shows the strength of perseverance, reminding us that no matter where you start, a brighter future is always possible, and we are so proud of him.
Each month, we receive submissions from Eiros Group Employees, the people we support, and their families, about a variety of topics including services, insights, vacation or holiday experiences, family memories or traditions, favorite recipes and stories about life with disability. If you would like to submit an article, photos or both for consideration in an upcoming edition, please send to: maryb@eiros-group.com We are grateful for all of the contributions to our newsletter!
May Eiros Group
Anniversaries & Birthdays!
Happy Birthday to Kaylee B., Samantha D., Stephanie D., Robin E., Darius H., Michelle H., Naviet H., Otto H., Wanda L., and Tiffany Q.!
We also want to wish Happy Eiros Group Anniversaries to Jonathan B., Julia B., Lindsay B., Jean D., Wanda L., and Tina N.!
Thank you to all of you for being a part of our amazing group!!
It has been a busy couple of months for the Eiros Group team! During most of March and April, Eiros Group attended Resource and Transition Fairs all across New Jersey. We want to thank each and every one of our Support Brokers, Direct Support Coordinators, Executive and Administrative staff members for making each of these events. We really appreciate all that ALL of you do!
As "Transition Season" winds down, and students are looking towards graduation, summer, and the future, Eiros Group is always here, ready to answer any questions you have about planning and lining up resources for your future and assist graduating students in developing person-centered plans.
If there is a student you know who will be graduating this coming Spring, and they will need assistance with DDD Services, or if your school district is hosting a Transition Fair, please let us know!
We invite you to find us, and learn more about all of the opportunities that are available for young adults! Eiros Group is also a fully trained resource in "Charting the Life Course" and we would love to help your student plan their Life Course too!
For questions, or more information, please contact Kristen Mathews at kristenm@eiros-group.com
If your district is hosting a Transition or Resource Fair this year or in the Fall, please send us the information so that we can not only attend, but also share the news! Email us here!
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More Housing Workshops Are On The Way! Join Us At The Next Session!
Interested in being a part of an upcoming housing workshop? Click the button below, or send an email to MaryB@Eiros-Group.com to be added to the invitation and announcements list!
A Mother's Day Letter For A Special Needs Mom
by Suzanne Perryman, www.SpecialNeedsMom.com
This Mother's Day there will be many Moms of Special Needs kids, who don't receive handmade notes or home crafted, crayon colored cards. These moms mother for a smile or a tender touch, they mother because this is simply what Moms do.
I wrote this letter years ago, before my girl had the words to tell me how she feels. I wrote this years ago before my girl was, what she is today. I wrote the words I know I needed and hoped to share with others.
Please share this with a Special Needs Mom you know, whose child is unable to write or say the words she may long to hear.
Dear Mom,
Even without my words you always know what I need.
When I am hurting or afraid, frustrated or weary, you gather me home into the safety of your arms.
You know what makes me smile, and fills my face with light.
You make my heart full with happiness when you sing my favorite song, and sweep the softness of my favorite blanket, across the curve of my cheek.
And when you take me for walks and I feel the warmth of the sun , the cool breeze brushing by my skin , with you by my side.
You ignore the words of others, telling you what I cannot do- and then fill the hours of every day telling me what I can.
Every day you see other kids - doing more, still you choose to celebrate me.
Pushing away sadness, you focus on the hope of my future , you let my small simple steps, lead us forward.
Never standing still, always in motion- You move before me , your planning- protective and positive, prepares me for success- meeting new people, and new everyday challenges.
..and Mom, in case I ever go- before I can whisper my words of thanks, or wrap my arms around you.
Know what I know-that before you someday soothe me into heaven's sleep.
With you, I live the fullest life and I see the world, through your understanding eyes.
And with your gentle touch you fill my life to overflowing, with the greatest kind of love.
Arm In Arm in Mercer County:
48 Hudson Street, Trenton NJ
Monday and Wednesday : 9:30AM to 12PM
61 Nassau Street, Princeton NJ
Monday and Wednesday : 11 AM to 4 PM
Tuesday: 1 PM to 7 PM
Mobile Food Pantry
2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Township 08648 (Mercer County Library)
Mondays at 2 PM to 4 PM
142 E. Hanover Street, Trenton (located at Trenton Meeting of Friends)
Tuesdays 9:30 AM to 12 PM
Are you, or someone you know looking for either a way to bring more meaning to their career, or a to join a growing and dynamic group of caring professionals? Then you will want to visit our Work With Us page on our website! It is updated regularly, and because we are growing, we have a number of open open positions throughout New Jersey!. Want to learn more? Click here and apply today!
Curious about services, supports, housing, or need help with paperwork or other topics? If you are in the Morris County area, then join Kristen Thursday May 15th at Starbuck's in Mendham between Noon and 3pm! Sign up here. This is free and open to everyone.
Patrice and Gary: The Movie, Marriage Equality & Their Story
by Jean Marie Hanna, Supports Broker
Earlier this year, while I was attending a Community Resource Fair in Mercer County, I was fortunate enough to meet Patrice, who was in a recent Hulu documentary titled, "Patrice: The Movie".
Shortly after that meeting, I asked if Patrice and Garry would like to share more about their situation for the Eiros Group newsletter.
"Patrice: The Movie" is a documentary-style romantic comedy starring Special Olympics New Jersey athlete Patrice Jetter, and her boyfriend Garry, who also has a disability. The film is not only about the love story between Patrice and Garry, but also about the numerous setbacks they have encountered as a couple who wants to get married.
When I met with Patrice and her boyfriend Garry, we engaged in a bold, open discussion about how they met, and the different support systems they had growing up.
Patrice’s mom supported her in anything she wanted to do and provided a loving ‘you can do anything, do it yourself’ environment for her. This led to Patrice’s independence, wisdom and energy for life. Garry said he was more sheltered and had a tough time gaining his independence after his parents passed away, but adapted quickly with the help and friendship from Patrice.
They supported, trusted and respected each other. As their friendship blossomed into something more, both talked about the obstacles they overcame as an interracial couple that included their families and the community.
Finally, we discussed the 'marriage penalty', which is also the key topic of their movie. Garry and Patrice moved the conversation to the seriousness of marriage equality for people with disabilities.
Did you know people with disabilities can be penalized if they get married? Losing benefits and support due to marriage is complex for individuals with disabilities who depend on these programs to live independently. A few that Patrice and Gary discovered include:
- Individuals receiving SSI who choose to marry may have their spouse’s income included as part of their eligibility and benefit amounts?
- Depending on the program, disability benefit programs may have "marriage penalties," which reduce benefits for married couples.
- Medicaid, SNAP/EBT, and housing programs, may also be affected by marriage, depending on the specific rules of each program.
They are both firmly committed to continuing to speak openly about their love for each other, and their right to get married. Originally, our interview was supposed to be more of a question-and-answer format. However, this quickly turned into a friendly conversation consisting of witty banter, loving enlightenment, genuine devotion and the aura of admiration and love Gary and Patrice share. They even finish each other’s sentences. ☺
Meet Patrice and Gary and take time to watch the full length movie on Hulu: https://www.specialolympics.org/videos/patrice-trailer
Eiros Group Heads to Kansas City: Charting the LifeCourse Nexus
by Kristen Mathews, Chief Operations Officer
From April 29 to May 1, Sherry Cameron, Manager of Supports Brokerage, and I had the opportunity to attend and present at the Charting the LifeCourse Showcase in Kansas City, MO. It was an inspiring few days connecting with others who are also committed to person-centered thinking and meaningful system change.
We started the conference by participating in the CtLC Meeting Facilitator Badge intensive, where we learned new strategies for planning and facilitating meetings through the lens of the CtLC framework. This training gave us great tools for leading collaborative conversations that focus on reflecting the voices of the people we support.
Throughout the event, we attended several impactful sessions including one on New Jersey’s model for state collaboration and another on supporting advocacy in employment planning when job seekers and their families have differing visions. We also explored how to make person-centered planning accessible and empowering for nonspeaking individuals using CtLC tools.
On Wednesday, Sherry and I presented our own workshop: "Organize Hopes and Dreams: CtLC Tools with a FRIENDS-Inspired Twist for Actionable Life Plans." We used the familiar dynamics of the FRIENDS sitcom to bring a fun and relatable spin to CtLC tools, helping participants think creatively about building strong circles of support, identifying housing preferences, and creating personalized plans. It was such a joy to lead this session and share strategies that others could take home and use right away.
The experience reaffirmed just how impactful community and person-centered practices can be. We’re looking forward to bringing these insights and renewed energy back to New Jersey!
New Jersey Partners in Policymaking Is Now Accepting Applications for 2025-2026!
New Jersey Partners in Policymaking is a leadership development and advocacy education program for adults with developmental disabilities (over age 21) and family members of children and transition age youth available through collaboration between The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities, The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development, and Disability Rights New Jersey.
The goal of this program is to prepare the next generation of disability advocates to work toward meaningful change in our state. The Boggs Center is committed to building a diverse group of participants that is reflective of the needs, geography, experiences and backgrounds of New Jersey. Through participation in in-person and virtual educational leadership development sessions and completion of on-line assignments, selected participants learn about best practices and important areas for advocacy from nationally-known experts.
Upon completion of the program, participants will have developed the knowledge and skills needed to:
- Advocate for opportunities and supports that promote self-determination, independence, and inclusion in all aspects of community life
- Be members of advisory board and committees
- Work alongside policymakers and state agencies
Deadline for applications is JUNE 27, 2025
New Jersey Partners in Policymaking Flyer Here
Use this Application Form to apply. If you need assistance to complete the application, or would like to complete the application by phone, contact Jaime Zahid (jaime.zahid@rutgers.edu; 732-966-0305).
Upcoming events throughout NJ
Below are upcoming activities or events throughout New Jersey! If you are hosting a similar type of event, and would like it included in our newsletter, please send to maryb@Eiros-Group.com
*Please allow 2 weeks or more advance notice. Thanks!
NORTH:
May 3: 11am to 2pm
Alzheimer's Disease Seminar
May 8: 11:30am to 12:30pm
Creative Arts Festival
May 10: 10am to 4pm
The Winery Train
May 3 through October 26
10am, 12pm, and 2pm
Jersey Fest
May 17: 7pm to 11pm
Jersey Shore Food Truck Festival
May 24: 11am to 5pm
May 25: 11am to 5pm
May 26: 11am to 5pm
Downtown Somerville Bike Race
May 26: 8am to 5pm
May 30 through May 31
7th Annual Arc of Warren County Food Truck and Music Fest at Donaldson Farms
May 31: 12 to 7pm
CENTRAL:
Huddy Park In Water Boat Show
May 3: 10am-6pm
May 4: 10am-6pm
Highland Park Street Fair & Crafts Show
May 4: 11:30am to 4:30pm
Mother’s Day Carriage Rides
May 10: 10am to 4pm
Kenilworth Street Fair with Classic Cars
May 18: 10am to 4pm
Earthvibes Festival
May 23 through May 25
80’s Night Murder Mystery and Dinner
May 30: 7-9:30pm
SOUTH:
JFCS Social Group Activities for adults 21 years old and above
Bordentown Annual May Steel Mill Street Fair
May 17: 10am to 5pm
NJ Renaissance Faire
May 17, 18, 24, 25, 31
June 1, 7 and 8
Diggerland
Open weekends only until June 7
Hot Rod and Muscle Car Show
May 8 through May 10
Mercer County Park 2nd World Food Festival
May 17: 12 to 7pm
May 18: 12 to 7pm
44th Annual Colingswood May Fair
May 24: 10am to 5pm
All Sports Museum featuring South Jersey Professional Sports Memorabilia
Thursday: 10am to 3pm
Friday: 10am to 3pm
Saturday: 10am to 3pm
ONLINE:
Transition to Adult Life Webinars presented by NJ DDD
Dates are ongoing throughout 2025
If you are hosting a similar type of event, and would like it included in our newsletter, please send to
maryb@Eiros-Group.com
*Please allow 2 weeks or more advance notice. Thanks! Please note, we are relaying information found on other websites or through other organizations, and doing so as a service. Please confirm event details and information directly.
Experience the wonders and joy of birding in New Jersey on May 9th & May 16th, 9:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., at the Pinelands Preservation Alliance. These programs are geared towards individuals with visual disabilities (but does not exclude others) and is focused on teaching the various bird sounds and calls local to the Burlington County area. This program is an indoor/outdoor event; the indoor session will last about an hour and will be followed by an outdoor session in the Bishop Farmstead meadow trail and garden where we will take a slow hike to listen for bird songs and bird sounds. There is a registration fee of $10 per trekker.
Pinelands Adventures has several all-terrain wheelchairs available for use upon registration. If you have questions, concerns about the program or loan chairs for this event email Sean Kane-Holland, Access Nature Disability Advocate at sean@pinelandsalliance.org or call (609) 859-8860 ext. 117.
Note: Participants that are not requesting to use Pineland Adventures wheelchairs can come prepared with their own mobility assistive devices. If needed, please bring walkers, canes, crutches, and personal outdoor assistive gear. The trails are conducive to allowing electric assistive mobility equipment.
For full details click here for the Birding without Barriers Flyer
