Jessica Gremila Accepts Teaching Position at Latham

I am pleased to report that Jessica Gremila has accepted a position at Latham Centers as the teacher in our youngest classroom. Jess has been a substitute here for over a year, spending her time floating amongst classrooms and residences. Jess was born and raised on Cape Cod and attended school at Bridgewater State University. Jess is currently pursuing higher education in Special Education and is looking forward to starting her teacher career here at Latham Centers.

When asked what Jess enjoys most about Latham she stated that, “watching the kids grow educationally and seeing how much they overcome is extremely rewarding." Jess also stated that she “chose to begin my teaching career here because it was a great setting to challenge myself and work with the kids I have fostered relationships with over the past year.”

Jess is extremely enthusiastic about her social skills and English Language Arts curriculum. Upon walking into her classroom this morning, the students were engaged in researching information about their new book series. As a Cape Cod native, Jess cites the summer as being the best part about living here, and she is excited to be working with the students during Latham’s Summertide Program this year. Jess will begin leading this Spring’s Sensory Art Club and she hopes to “engage the students in multi-sensory art projects that explore all the senses."

Congratulations Jess! We are looking forward to watching you flourish and grow in your new classroom!

Kara McDowell

Assistant Principal

LATHAM PROFILES: Gina Desimone

LATHAM PROFILES:
Gina Desimone
Adult Residential Counselor


What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy all of the experience and skills that working for this company has given me. I have been able to apply my trainings to real life situations and continue to build on my expertise in this field. Latham has allowed me to be very flexible with my work schedule, and you never live the same day twice in this work environment, every day is different.

Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time.

In my current position at Latham, I am responsible for med administration, meal prep and ensuring the general safety of the individuals that I help support. I encourage them to be the best they can be and role model appropriate behavior. I spend most of my time with the individuals I help support just doing regular daily activities; watching movies, going out into the community, playing board games and decorating for holidays and celebrations.


What skills are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?

Patience and humor are two very important things that can really be helpful in this line of work. Being confident in your decision making and following Latham’s general rules and guidelines can also help you excel in your position. Communication is always a great trait in the workplace. Working with the individuals that Latham supports also requires a lot of improvising and creative thinking, you have a lot of freedom to try new ideas and have a lot of fun with the people you work with.

What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff?

There is a lot to learn and pay attention to at Latham. It is normal for it to take awhile before new staff are settled in. The best thing you can do is continue to ask questions. Everyone here is very helpful and so many people working for this company can be great mentors to help you along the way.

What do you love about working with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?

I love experiencing the big things that happen in their lives with them; from graduations to Birthdays and holidays, to new jobs and responsibilities. It’s really special to see the joy and pride in their eyes when something important and exciting happens to them, especially when you see how hard they’ve worked for it and encouraged them along the way.

Has this job taught you anything about yourself?

This job has taught me that I can handle confrontation well, and I can be very level headed when faced with some difficult decision making in tough environments.

How do you spend your time when you’re not working at Latham?

When I am not working at Latham, I spend my time at home raising my two kids and enjoying my time with our family.

What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers?

Working for Latham is an experience that is well worth trying. It will teach you skills and give you some experiences that you wouldn’t find anywhere else. 



Interested in a career at Latham Centers? Click HERE to view our latest job postings.

LATHAM PROFILES: Ron Sume

LATHAM PROFILES: 
Ron Sume
Activities for Daily Living Teacher

Ron has worked at Latham Centers in the Children's Program since July 8th, 2001. Throughout this interview Ron was smiling from ear to ear. This emphasizes how much he loves the work and being a part of our students' lives.

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

The work is enjoyable. Everybody is different. There is a lot of fun to have. To witness the changes in the students and to think I might have had something to do with it. Appreciate the small changes. Assisting students with how to act in the community and increasing their manners in the community.

Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time. 

Planning for everyday activities. Planning and running community trips. Food shopping and meal prep. Running activities. The big ones are always a lot of fun. In the house, keeping everyone respecting each other. Much of my time is spent problem solving with students. These guys have individual problems and behaviors they are working on every day. For me the most important part of the work is to: talk and laugh with them, share ideas, get through tough times and have fun.

What skills are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs? 

Patience and understanding with what they are going through. Teaching takes time to help them get to where they need to be with life. Understand where they are coming from. Care for them.

What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff? 

Patience, understanding, don't jump to conclusions, take time for you and students to get to know each other, learn--do not act like you know more than they do, have a thick skin--it is not always a good day, sometimes there will be hurt moments. This job is not for everyone.

What do you love about working with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs? 

Through daily routine they can be successful. This routine can alleviate anxiety. They love to have fun! Talking with my students before and at the end of the day. Making sure to spend time with them before leaving shift. I love the conversations with the students. Sometimes there are tear jerking moments. I love when they are really thinking something through and ask: "What should I do?" You talk with them and get from them what they think and feel. I also love being able to use humor throughout the work!

Has this job taught you anything about yourself? 

It has increased my patience. Now that I have a family of my own I want to carry on with this patience.
 
How do you spend your time when you’re not working at Latham? 

Fishing, time with family, friends, and my boy.


What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers? 

Wow--come and check it out! Get to know these students. Give it a chance, even if your career is in something else. When something is new to us we need to try and take our time.




Come join our team! Latham Centers offers a dynamic and supportive work community where your skills, experience, and passion are valued and put to great use. Check our job listings HERE

LATHAM PROFILES: Meghan Pouliot

Latham Profiles: Meghan Pouliot
Teacher at Latham Centers



What do you enjoy most about your job?

The best part of my job is when I see the students working together. It makes my day when I see one of my students help another student during a difficult time. All they may offer them are coping skills or just an open ear, and you will see the other student instantly feel better. It’s the best.

Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time.

Some of my responsibilities include creating interactive lessons, managing the classroom, and implementing each students IEP. Most of my time is spent in the classroom working with my students.

What skills are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?

It is a toss-up between a good sense of humor and patience. When a student is going through a challenging time, it is important to be patient and listen to their needs or concerns. I also find that humor works well in assisting a student back to baseline.   

What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff?

Take in everyone’s perspective. This goes for both my colleagues and students. When working with anyone, it is important to understand the reasoning behind their actions and not to just jump to conclusions. 

What do you love about working with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?

The compassion and dedication they have is amazing. I am constantly in awe of my students. When I think I have seen the height of their compassion, they do something that leaves me speechless.

Has this job taught you anything about yourself?

I have a voice. Prior to Latham, I mostly kept to myself and was somewhat shy. Latham has forced me to come out of my shell both personally and professionally. While working at Latham you can’t help but to advocate for your students’ needs. Not only have my students brought me out of my shell, but my colleagues are the best support system I could ask for.

How do you spend your time when you’re not working at Latham?

While not at Latham, I spend a lot of my time trying not to think about Latham! When you love what you do, it’s hard to not think about it. But when I am relaxing, going to the beach with a good book is the best. Now that’s its colder, I enjoy surrounding myself with family and friends.

What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers?

Do it! You will not meet a more dedicated and helpful staff. When I first started at Latham, I was petrified with starting my career. That quickly ended when I realized how united the staff are. They made me feel at home, and when I had a question, they were supportive and ready to help. Not only are the staff great, but the students are out of this world. They are creative, funny, and eager to learn. I could not ask for a better working environment. I’m lucky!


Interested in joining our team? Check out our latest job postings HERE.

LATHAM PROFILES: Katrina Fryklund, Development Associate

LATHAM PROFILES
Katrina Fryklund
Development Associate

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Every day I am so grateful to have the opportunity to help raise funds to further enhance the life-changing programs here at Latham Centers. Moreover, I enjoy telling the story of what we do at Latham Centers and how amazing our residents and staff are – they are truly my inspiration!

Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time.

As a Development Associate it is my responsibility to help with fund raising. This is done through event planning, community outreach, sound media/donor communications, grant writing and working with board and Capital Campaign Committee.

What skills are most important for professionals who raise funds for individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?

When you’re raising funds for residents like ours who struggle to raise monies on their own, or have limited vocational opportunities, it is critical that the public knows how special and brave everyone is at Latham Centers. As a fundraiser, you need to know how to tell these stories in an eloquent and interesting manner.

One question I get all the time is, “How can you ask people for money?” My answer? I feel that I’m not asking for money, rather I’m asking for funding to support our amazing residents and innovative programs.

What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff and what advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers?

Annually the Development Team works with a summer intern. I tell them to keep their head up when giving is down, think of new and innovative ways to raise monies, and to ALWAYS say, “Thank you for your generosity.” Also, I tell them it’s about who you know and how you network – don’t be afraid to be outgoing and to involve yourself in community events.

What do you love about working with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?

When given the great opportunity to go to campus or adult residential homes I love seeing the appreciation and vivacity of each and every one of our residents. They motivate me and help me to stay engaged on a daily basis.

Has this job taught you anything about yourself?

This job has made me impress upon myself and others, “What’s the worst that can happen when you ask for funding – they might say no?” The positive energy that comes from our donors, friends, volunteers, staff, and residents is absolutely contagious and I’ve learned to act as a sponge and absorb that enthusiasm.

How do you spend your time when you’re not working at Latham?

When not at Latham I enjoy time spent with friends and family, as my roots are on Cape Cod – whether it be lounging on the beach in the summers or teaching my nephew new and exciting things about Cape Cod. I also work in restaurants on the side and enjoy the customer interaction that comes with the service industry. Lastly, I find myself getting more involved with other causes such as CCYP, and co-chair the Live for Lou Fund.

LATHAM PROFILES: Christine MacDonald

LATHAM PROFILES:
Christine MacDonald
Residential House Manager


What do you enjoy most about your job?

Walking into the house I manage every morning and getting warm, smiley greetings from the clients. If they’re happy, I’m happy!

Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time.

A lot of my day is spent scheduling and making sure the clients get where they need to be. They are my main concern, and I want them to lead the most meaningful lives possible, and keep them engaged in activities.

What skills are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?

Patience, calmness, and flexibility.

What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff? 

A lot of our clients have led some really challenging lives before coming to Latham. Always, always, always take the time to build a relationship with a client, even if it means finding that one connection to start a conversation.  

What do you love about working with individuals with PWS or other complex special needs?

I enjoy laughing just as much as my clients enjoy laughing. Every day we find new ways to be silly and help bring cheer to our Latham community! 

Has this job taught you anything about yourself?

Absolutely! This job taught me to be selfless and increasingly patient. I realized I wanted to make Latham my career. I started at Latham Centers almost 6 years ago as a residential counselor in the children’s program and currently manage a house in the adult program. 

How do you spend your time when you’re not working at Latham?

I enjoy reading, going to the beach, playing trivia, going to the movies, playing with my dog, and spending time with family and friends.

What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers?

You will never know unless you try. You have to be willing to give 100% every day.
 

Interested in joining our team? Check out our latest job postings HERE!



Related Posts:
Latham Profiles: Amie Gould 
Latham Profiles: Kara McDowell
Latham Profiles: Meaghan Hengst

Latham Centers Announces New Director of Children's Services

Latham Centers is pleased to announce that Gerry Pouliot, III has been appointed the new Director of Children's Services, working from the Latham School Children's campus in Brewster, MA. As a native Cape Codder, Mr. Pouliot began his career as a special education teacher in the public system before choosing to join Latham in 2010 as the lead teacher in our Nauset classroom. Mr. Pouliot has been Latham School's Director of Education since 2012. Under his leadership, the school and its education program have experienced a number of improvements. During his tenure, Mr. Pouliot has demonstrated skill in creating community, recognizing and developing talents in others and fostering collaboration.

Having worked up "through the ranks," we are especially excited to have a leader that intimately knows the program. In recognition of this, we have asked Gerry to explain why he believes Latham is the best place to work. Here are his Top Ten Reasons:

• Love working in an environment that promotes creativity and outside-the-box thinking!

• Staff, staff, staff... I may be biased but Latham staff members are the most dedicated group of professionals that I have ever worked with.

• The curriculum allows educators to educate our students with a hands-on approach that meets the core curriculum.

• The moment when a student smiles because they achieved an important milestone such as passing the MCAS, scoring a touchdown at Special Olympics, or participating in a residential social skills group.

• Watching the campus-wide after school activities (I just recently learned the game of SPUD!)

• Observing our students working so hard in Speech, Occupational, and Physical Therapy. I do not think everyone truly knows the dedication and commitment our students have to excel with these specialized therapies.

• The Community Meeting! Once a month all components get together with the students to celebrate student and staff accomplishments over the course of the month. Watch out, I personally give out the "Hey, that's really cool award."

• Sensory Art, Lights, Camera, Action!, Woodworking, Maintenance staff, and classes they offer our students, Seasonal Crafts, Student Council, Gardening, Book Club, Science, and Swim Outings, the Nauset Garden Club Ladies, Visiting Companion Animal Dogs, and the PWS Club, and 21-Club―just a few clubs/activities that Latham has to offer.

• The parents. As the Director of Education I was responsible for communicating the Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) with parents/guardians and funding school districts. I have learned so much about our population through the parents of our individuals. I have learned that compassion, patience and focused guidance are key attributes that one must have when working with our unique population.

• Finally, our students. It is their courage that inspires me and the staff on a daily basis. It is the everyday occurrences that serve as minor miracles that we may take for granted; but once we can take a step back and breathe, we collectively realize that we wouldn't want to work anywhere else.

LATHAM PROFILES: Kevin Monteiro, Maintenance Dept.

LATHAM PROFILES: Kevin Monteiro, 
Maintenance Department

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy working with a great team and knowing that what we do impacts the lives and well being of residents that live here at Latham.

Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time.

My responsibilities include landscaping, which sometimes involves having the students help with gardening and clean up. Maintenance in general is a big part of my day and we also have the students participate in a “maintenance class”. In a group of three to six students, we will pick up or fix things around the campus.

What skills are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS?

I believe the ability to listen and show patience is important when working with our students and residents. Being caring and having the willingness to learn about the cause and effects of PWS are important. It is key to know how best to care for individuals with PWS.

What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff?

How to be present in the moment and realize that each resident is different and may require a different approach.

What do you love about working with individuals diagnosed with PWS?

Watching and helping them to achieve goals that are set before them. I also enjoy the teamwork displayed in the groups.

Has this job taught you anything about yourself?

Working at Latham has helped me with my patience and has taught me to put other people’s needs before mine. It has also taught me that I can handle situations that I wasn’t sure I could.

How do you spend your time when your’re not working at Latham?

Spending time with family and friends and enjoying all that Cape Cod has to offer.

What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers?

I would tell them that working at Latham gives you a great feeling about what you do every day. Working here with the great staff and residents is very rewarding.


Interested in a career at Latham Centers? Click HERE to view our latest job postings.

LATHAM PROFILES: Meaghan Hengst

Latham Profiles: Meaghan Hengst
Children's Residential Counselor


What do you enjoy most about your job?

The things I enjoy most about my job is that I am able to go to work knowing that I will be amazed every day and that I’m making a difference in the lives of the residents here at Latham Centers. I also have an amazing group of coworkers who offer great support to help keep the students and Latham at its best.

Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time.

Some of the responsibilities that I have here at Latham are that I help to teach the students proper hygiene, eating etiquette, and social skills that they can use and apply when they leave Latham. I plan activities that bring the students into the community. I also help the students to identify something that is a challenge for them and figure out ways to handle this challenge appropriately. 

What skills are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS?

The skills that are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS are the qualities that one needs to possess even before starting to work with children with special needs which are patience, compassion and adaptability. Another huge skill to have is to be able to let go of power struggles. 

What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff?

The students each have their own history and therefore come to Latham for various reasons. Get to know each student by what the student says and also by their individual behavior plan. These students come here for consistency and support so it is our job as a whole Latham community to provide that consistency. 

What do you love about working with individuals with PWS?

I admire their courage in dealing with this syndrome. To have the constant effects of this illness and yet be able to laugh, smile, form friendships, and have fun is amazing. 

Has this job taught you anything about yourself?

This job has taught me that I have far more patience than I ever believed I had!

How do you spend your time when you’re not working at Latham?

I enjoy going to the beach, reading, listening to live music, and spending time with friends and family.

What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers?

The advice I would give someone who is considering a career at Latham is to be energetic, have an open mind, and be ready for many challenges that are, in the end, extremely rewarding. Also, one can review the website because it offers a great deal of information that will help you decide if Latham is the right fit for them.


Interested in joining our team? See our latest job postings HERE!

Why I Work at Latham Centers

The ability to create special, personal memories with the students is why being a teacher at Latham beats anywhere else. Being able to create a mural in my sensory room with all of my students AND being able to attend community outings with all of my students are memories I will never forget.
And the administration team is pretty awesome, too.

Kara McDowell
Teacher

Interested in joining our team? Click HERE to view our latest employment opportunities.

Top 10 Reasons Why I Teach at Latham Centers

1. Being part of a multi-faceted approach to the entirety a student’s care and growth.

2. Being part of that approach with a large group of people who are not ego driven, but focused on the kids.

3. Getting to know the students to the level where you can’t imagine life without them.

4. Feeling like I’m part of something that’s of great value to society.

5. Flexibility to try new ideas and develop the ones that work.

6. Being around co-workers who seem to be enjoying what they are doing.

7. Casual dress code.

8. Flexible days off (we won’t mention the year roundedness!)

9. It’s 10 minutes from home (for me anyhow)

10. A sincere feeling of belief in the organization’s stated mission.

Andy Needel
Vocational Teacher


Interested in a career at Latham Centers? Click HERE for our latest job openings.

LATHAM PROFILES: Kara McDowell

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The flexibility in the opportunities to implement personalized curriculum here that creates memorable experiences, cannot be found in many schools. Each teacher here at Latham is allowed to be creative in their approach which makes our school extremely complex and unique. I am a part of an amazing educational team that is supportive and dynamic. It makes this job enjoyable and exciting. 

Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time.

As a classroom teacher I am responsible for creating engaging lesson plans, drafting Individualized Education Programs for each of my students, and creating an environment that is safe, social, and stimulating. I spend much of my time teaching my class basic school subjects, as well as providing support in social scenarios, implementing anti-bullying curriculum, and supporting each student’s individual needs. 

What skills are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS?

Flexibility, resiliency, and patience are all important for working with individuals with PWS. The ability to “think on your feet” and change your plans as necessary, is extremely important. Our students need people who will do anything they can to help them achieve their goals. 

What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff?

The most important lesson I attempt to teach new staff is to listen. Listen to the students’ stories, comments, concerns, etc., and you will learn more about them as individuals. Listen to veteran staff’s advice, helpful hints, stories, etc., and you will learn more about how to be successful with our population. 

What do you love about working with individuals with PWS?

Their perseverance and ingenuity is incredible! All of the students at Latham are capable of surprising themselves, peers, and staff everyday! 

Has this job taught you anything about yourself?

As a recent college graduate embarking on my first teaching career, I did not realize that I was accepting a position that would teach me so much about myself. This job has taught me that I have incredible patience, tenacity to help others achieve, and an amazing sense of creativity and imagination.  

How do you spend your time when you’re not working at Latham?

As a new resident of Cape Cod, I spend most of my time exploring all this area has to offer and enjoying the beach. I also enjoy relaxing in my apartment by reading and painting in my free time. 

What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers?

Learn about what we do here at Latham! Take a look at our website and blog to see what we do and what we are all about. Learning about the individuals we serve and their complex needs is also essential to any one’s success here at Latham. And if you want to be a part of a wonderful team.. apply! We are an amazing group of professionals and we work with an even more amazing group of young individuals!

Top Ten Reasons Why I Teach at Latham Centers

10. My own schooling: In order to maintain my educators’ liscensure here at Latham, I went back to school to pursue an M. Ed., which has forced me to test my limits academically while working full-time. In doing so, I have honed my research skills while learning the tools to effectively initiate a robust learning environment. Furthering one’s education is one of the single best ways to experience success and teaching at Latham has pushed me to do it!

9. The Nursing Staff: Coordinating with the nurses in a Special Education School is essential, and these coworkers have given me a great deal of knowledge surrounding medical issues related to the many diagnoses we deal with here at Latham. Aside from offering their own health advice for staff, they constantly support my own work when medications have to be packed, a scrape needs to be tended to, or I need my own health checked out.

8. The Clinical Staff: Since working at Latham, I often utilize our Clinical staff for my own debriefing. This team has worked wonders with my students, most of whom attend therapy twice weekly. Their perspectives often add a great deal of insight as to what’s happening in the classroom, and help assess the entire ecology of each student. They tend to be a gentle, creative bunch, and their attitudes are contagious!

7. The trainings and professional development: Since working at Latham, I’ve had opportunities to educate myself on complex issues such as working effectively with Youth-At-Risk, Bullying Prevention, Suicide Prevention, PTSD, and Borderline Personality Disorder, to name a few. The ability to educate myself continually here has helped me enhance my scope of knowledge surrounding the students I work with while growing professionally because of it.

6. The location: The Brewster campus where I work is constantly beautified by the Maintenance department here. My own classroom sits in a historic captain’s house, which for many, embodies the quintessential Cape Cod home. Did I mention I work on Cape Cod? The setting here lends itself to a plethora of educational field trips and recreation for our students while offering easy access to the single best healer in the world: the ocean.

5. My administrators: My administrators have provided me with great support and understanding. I’ve heard of administrative battles in other schools that simply don’t exist here. Most of the people that supervise me have once taken on the responsibilities that I currently hold. Because of this, they show great empathy for problems that arise and have also become great cheerleaders for their staff.

4. Education Staff: My coworkers on the education team have provided me with great role models who have mentored me into teaching today. They not only know how to express themselves professionally in everyday interactions and meeting, but they also make time to meet outside of work, debrief, and connect.

3. Freedom within the Frameworks: As a great deal of our students complete the Alternative Assessment, and as others come from different states, Latham, like many other private schools, offers much flexibility within the MA frameworks. Because of this, I’m not subjected to the judgments and anxieties involved in high-stakes testing that many other school systems are prone to. I can tailor my classroom to theme-based units around respect and diversity, while still allowing students access to the general curriculum provided by the state.

2. The curriculum: The curriculum within my classroom centers on fostering independence needed for effective transition into adulthood, including necessary life skills and community integration. It offers me the flexibility to be creative in my planning while holding students to a higher level of expectations and trust. The transitional curriculum at Latham gives me an opportunity to not only teach but also be a resource for our students during these often anxious times of impending transition.

1. The students: While the obvious answer, the truth is this: These guys have more courage than most people realize. Some come from broken homes; others are dealing with a lifelong genetic disability that affects their ability to self-regulate. Watching them exercise their “mind muscles” in the classroom and within the community brings me the most joy working here because they are able to overcome these intense issues, press on every day, and do it with a smile. They’re the real heroes!


Submitted by:
John Bonanni, teacher

Top Ten Reasons to Work at Latham Centers

1. You will not find a better group of adults and children to help. Staff who work at Latham always point to the relationships they have with the adults and children they serve as one of the best things they love about their job. Over time, staff develop a sense of connection and care with our individuals that makes their work truly meaningful and important. At Latham your work is directly changing the world for the better, one person at a time.

2. Latham is an international leader. Latham is one of the few programs in the world that works with both children and adults with Prader Willi Syndrome. Each day our blog, website, Facebook Page, and Twitter feed are viewed from individuals from around the world looking for help. Although we are located on tiny Cape Cod, the work we do is recognized as progressive and innovative.

3. We are a Mission driven team. As an Agency, we are bound together through our focus on achieving a single Mission: Latham Centers compassionately and creatively helps children and adults with complex special needs, including Prader-Willi Syndrome, to lead meaningful, abundant lives. In order to be successful, we must work collaboratively with each other. Working with others who “get it” is comforting and enjoyable.

4. No experience is necessary. Many of our best employees came to Latham as a first step. If you have no formal experience that is alright; in fact, fresh eyes and ears can sometimes be very beneficial to our overall team. All you need is a genuine interest in our adults/children and a true willingness to learn. We provide ample amounts of training for all staff to ensure that they have the tools they need.

5. There is room for advancement if you develop your skills. Our jobs allow for advancement and provide career development in-house. Many of our supervisors, administrators, clinicians and nurses, -started as direct care staff in entry level positions. If you are looking for a job with potential, Latham has opportunities.

6. There are a variety of schedules to fit any lifestyle. We offer full time, part time and substitute positions. For some staff this is their full time profession while others work only one weekend a month. If you have an interest in the work, we can figure out a way to have you join our team.

7. We will help pay for you to go to school. Latham has tuition reimbursement for staff obtaining their undergraduate or graduate degrees. Many of our staff work and attend school at the same time.

8. Dress code is casual. We prefer that you be comfortable. That’s something you don’t hear at most jobs.

9. Paid time off, full benefits and occasionally free donuts. Latham provides reliable and consistent employment. We provide excellent benefits that rival any employer on the Cape. The doughnuts regularly show up at trainings and meetings. Who doesn’t love an occasional free doughnut?

10. You would be doing really, really important work. Latham has a very stable team of employees. The average length of service is six years. One-third of our staff has been here over five years. Employees stay with us that long because they believe the work they are doing is important.

If you feel the need to impact the world around you, then please consider joining our team.

Latham Profiles: Amie Gould

What do you enjoy most about your job?

    "I love when a student comes running up to me saying, “Amie, Amie, you’re going to be so proud of me, I used the skill you taught me and it really worked!!!!” I enjoy when the students are proud of themselves for using a coping skill that we have practiced over and over again in the classroom. When they are able to use it in a situation that may have been challenging for them in the past, successfully, I know the hard work was worth it!" 

Describe a few of your responsibilities and how you spend much of your time.

    "I am a classroom teacher at Latham Centers. A few of my responsibilities include creating interesting and meaningful lesson plans, and managing the classroom. I also help create individualized education plans, and give input on behavior support plans. When I’m with the students, I am responsible for teaching them and practicing important social skills, supporting them in times of need, and creating an environment that is safe and conducive to individual growth."

What skills are most important for professionals who work with individuals with PWS?
   
    "I believe the most important skills one must have when working with individuals with PWS are patience, humility, creativity, and flexibility."
   

What are the most important lessons you attempt to teach new staff?

    "The most important lesson I attempt to teach new staff at Latham is to follow the students’ plans. The plans are put in place for a reason, and it is very important to know the plans of the individuals you are working with. I also stress that you must take student concerns seriously and attempt to make a plan with them on how they should handle it. The student needs to know that their voice is being heard. I also think it is important for new staff to ask lots of questions and feel comfortable enough to do so in the moment."

   
What do you love about working with individuals with PWS?

    "I love my students’ sense of humor, which can arise in just about any situation. When the day has been tough, one sly joke or comment can make your heart melt. I love their determination and will to succeed in everything they do. I love their caring and compassionate nature for others. I love seeing them smile and hearing them laugh, and hoping that I was just a small part of making their day a little less difficult, and little more enjoyable."
   

Has this job taught you anything about yourself?
   
    "Working at Latham Centers has taught me so much about myself. It has honestly been a life changing experience. I was young and did not know what I wanted to do with my career. Through working with the students and staff at Latham, I have realized many skills that I never knew I had. My patience and kindness with others has helped me to form meaningful relationships, and positive experiences with my students. Latham has also given me confidence in myself that I did not have before. The staff and the students have guided me in overcoming many personal fears with their gentle and caring support that I will always be grateful for."
   

How do you spend your time when you’re not working at Latham?

    "When I’m not at Latham, I’m usually thinking about Latham, but……. I try to relax and enjoy Cape Cod. I was born and raised on the Cape and still have many family members and friends that live here.  I try to unwind by taking long walks, going to the beach, and I also take a Pilate’s class once a week. I enjoy spending time with my family and also spend time on my fiancés family farm in Truro."

What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers?

    "If I could give advice to someone contemplating a career at Latham Centers, I would encourage them to learn about our population and educate themselves first. I would also encourage them to look into the many career opportunities Latham has to offer. If someone was seriously looking into a career at Latham I would definitely support them. I think very highly of this organization and believe that the individuals that live here deserve the best."

New Staff Arrive at Latham

June brings to Latham much joy and excitement. The Summertide program is just weeks away. The End of Year Celebration is coming up. Kids are going to the beach, playing outside after dinner, and enjoying the community we so joyfully live in. Adults are socializing after school or work, enjoying time in their yards, going to community functions, and being active participants here on the Cape. June also brings to the Cape a group of summer hires. Students home from college, interns seeking experience, new graduates embarking on their first job, or people changing their career course. Generally, our June Orientation class is one of the largest of the year and this one happens to be the largest class we have ever hosted. That always makes for lively discussion as we learn about them and they learn about Latham.

I have been fortunate to see our orientation program develop into a professional program that is a two week introduction to Latham and her mission. We are here during this time to educate new staff and help them understand the importance of their role and the impact they can have in their interactions with those we care for and support. We want well prepared staff walking into our community equipped with the knowledge and resources they need to do their job well. So, I am always interested to find out what brought them to us and where they see themselves in a few years as they begin to build or change their careers paths.

It is difficult to sum all up the comments I heard yesterday from this diverse group. Several are new to this field, several are new to the Cape. There were those with experience working in human services or non-profits, those with experience in education and performing arts, or experience in nursing. Some were returning after years away, some were friends of other employees. Many were college students seeking more knowledge in their field of study. What they each bring to Latham is important. Fresh eyes, curiosity, compassion, involvement, and enthusiasm all help make us a better, more vibrant organization. And if you wonder at all about the effect social media can have, know that quite a few in the room heard of Latham on-line or had someone recommend Latham to them on Facebook. So, share our posts, like us, follow us, and link to us!

Welcome to Latham Centers: Kim, Lyndsay, Cynthia, Allison, Alan, Shaun, Lynn, Michael, Elizabeth, Gracie, Jeanne, Evan, Christine, Cornelius, Lee, Katelyn, Krystal, Genna, Jacob, Todd, Bob & Kristen!

We are so happy to meet you!

Submitted by:
Chris Gallant

New Fresh Faces this Summer in Latham Development Staff

Latham Centers is fortunate to have two additions to its small development team this summer.

In May, Katrina Fryklund of Wellfleet was hired as the new part-time Development Associate replacing the retiring Gail Meyers-Lavin.

Katrina is busy promoting the Cape Associates Playhouse Raffle to benefit Latham and taking on new web and support projects to bolster Latham’s fundraising efforts.  She graduated this year with a Summa Cum Laude MS degree in Professional Communication: Marketing from Clark University. 

As a Clark student, Katrina interned and was later hired at Girls Inc.  of Worcester—a nonprofit inspiring girls to “challenge themselves to learn, grow, and be an effective part of our community.”

Marcus Bailey was hired as a summer intern to primarily promote donations and sponsors for the Fourth Annual Latham Charity Golf Classic. Marcus is a rising Junior at Davidson College majoring in Political Science and minoring in Economics and French. He has lived around the world, but currently calls New York City his permanent home and Cape Cod his summer home.  Last summer, he interned at the American Action Forum in Washington, D.C. –“an independent and nonpartisan research institution engaging civil society, philanthropy, policymakers, academics and other thought leaders who shape American policy.”  This fall, Marcus heads to Tours, France to master his French during a semester abroad.

Both Fryklund and Bailey report to Gerry Desautels, VP of Development & Community Outreach, who is “truly grateful for the extra heads, hands and legs to cover the Cape and the cyber world.” According to Desautels, “Latham is developing a greater recognition in the community. As such, we are also steadily increasing our level of community support. Vibrant new part-time and seasonal staff helps to accomplish all the good that we want to achieve on behalf of our children and adults with special needs.”

Attached Picture by Charles Fields 
(Katrina Fryklund with Marcus Bailey at 2013 Latham Year End Celebration)

Submittetd by:
Gerry Desautels
VP of Development and Community Outreach

New Member of the Admissions Team!

Latham Centers welcomes Rachel Dewees to the admissions team. Rachel is excited to share her enthusiasm and knowledge of our services with interested families and professionals. She has worked in Children’s Services and most recently was a 1:1 Counselor in our Adult Program. Rachel joins Susan LaPlant and Chris Gallant in the admissions office on the campus in Brewster.  

The mission of Latham Centers is to compassionately and creatively help children and adults with complex special needs, including Prader-Willi Syndrome, lead meaningful, abundant lives. We welcome your inquiries about our menu of services.

Submitted by,

Chris Gallant

VP, Marketing, Training & Quality Assurance

A Note from the HR Director

I’m never happy to say goodbye to a staff person, particularly one who contributed so much to the kids at Latham Centers, but during an exit interview yesterday I was very pleased to hear what this person had to say about her time here.  She said that she had never learned so much about herself and what she is capable of doing in any other job before.  She has a renewed self-confidence and ability to handle stressful situations in her life because of the training she received at Latham.  She is taking that with her as she moves to a new State and starts a new life.

It is very gratifying to hear a story like this and to know that staff can receive this kind of fulfillment in their job.

"Great is the art of beginning, but greater is the art of ending." 

~Lazurus Long

A Message From Human Resources

Finding qualified and committed staff to work at Latham Centers is a time consuming business. Ideally, we look for people with experience in residential programs and behavior management, although these skills can be hard to find. So, next on the list is someone with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology or human services and some experience working with people with disabilities.

Equally important are the personality traits of the candidate. We look for people who are passionate about helping people with special needs. Our ideal candidates should also be friendly, compassionate, open, flexible, have a sense of humor and a calm demeanor—someone who will stay calm in a crisis situation. They should be able to admit to their mistakes (we all make them!), accept feedback and grow from those experiences. We are looking for enthusiasm as well as common sense. Someone who can follow the rules and provide a consistent message. The desire to grow and learn is also important. We hope folks stay long term and get the career fulfillment they are looking for while providing the support they love to give.

"The vision must be followed by the venture.
It is not enough to stare up the steps - 
we must step up the stairs."
~Vance Havner