Record last updated 2026/04/07 Comment on this info .Update this info

Narrative

Help through I&R to people with IDD including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) & their families. We to help them secure government benefits, to get appropriate services & access information which may be difficult to get. Offering rec programs for children and adults.

Charles River Center’s Family Support Services offers one-week special needs camps during school breaks. We offer children and young adults opportunities to participate in safe, fun, social activities with friends, new and old.

Camps are held at CRC’s fully accessible Merritt Center in Needham. We use our outdoor fenced-in play area, large indoor activity room with sensory corner, accessible kitchen and walkable access to a local playground. We do love our special themed days wth activities about magic, animals and circus life! A recent visit from Barn Babies was a huge hit! Our camp programs are staffed by experienced Charles River staff as well as volunteers from area high schools and colleges. All are trained in CPR and First Aid.

**Service now consolidated under Family Support**

Family Support works to empower families with information. We help them network with community resources. We give support and relief from the constant care needed by a child or young adult with a developmental disability (DD).

Charles River Center offers weekend respite services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Their parents and guardians may need to travel over a weekend. They might just like a break knowing their loved one is safe and in good hands.

• Members enjoy day trips, preparing meals, watching movies and playing games
• Weekends include transportation on a community trip

Service Types

• After School Programs
• Camps-Day
• Case Management
• Disability Awareness
• Domestic Violence Counseling
• Domestic Violence Services
• Family Rights And Guardianship
• Family Support
• Skills Training
• Socialization Activities

Program Type

• Adult Foster Care
• Advocacy
• Assistive Technology and Equipment
• Communication
• Housing
• Respite
• Support Groups

Populations Served

• All Disabilities
• Asperger's Syndrome
• Autism Spectrum
• Developmental Disability
• Intellectual Disabilities
• Physical Disabilities

Ages Served

• Birth to 3
• 3 - 4
• 5 - 8
• 9 - 13
• 14 - 18
• 19 - 22
• 23 – 59
• 60 +

Accessibility Features

• Accessible Parking
• Accessible Public Transportation
• Accessible Restrooms
• Elevators
• Near Public Transportation
• Services at Home
• Wheelchair Ramps

Additional Information

• Accredited By: CARF,QUEST
• Fees: Free Service, MassHealth, Personal Funds
• Licensed By: DDS