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Dear Archway Friends and Family, 

As the summer draws to a close and the weather shifts to cooler temperatures, I reflect on the accomplishments of the passing season. I have so much to be proud of with our programs and the employees who keep the wheels turning and the services moving forward. All of you make Archway Programs a leader in education and human services. While I may be biased, I am not alone in my positive assessment of our programs.  

At the beginning of this year, Archway Programs was approached by Creative Achievement Academy (CAA), located in Vineland, New Jersey. Creative Achievement Academy is an approved private school. Creative Achievement Academy has been in existence for the past 30 years. The current leadership of CAA was looking to retire, and the founding board member wanted to entrust Creative Achievement Academy with a quality organization that would continue its founding mission.  

I am pleased to announce the merger of Creative Achievement Academy with Archway Programs. CAA is currently approved to serve up to 60 students and has the space to increase its capacity. During the previous school year, enrollment ranged from mid to upper forty students with approximately 45 staff members. CAA aligns with the Upper School Program and strategically opens up a potential presence of other Archway Programs in the Cumberland County of New Jersey. I want to welcome our new students, families, and staff to the Archway Programs and Woods Services family.   

Sincerely, 

George Richards 

CEO/CFO 

Sliding Into The 2023 Archway Summer Olympics

On August 18th, Archway Pride was on full display across the Archway Campus as Lower School students Joseph, carrying the Olympic Torch; Derrick, bearing the American flag; and Nick, the Olympic flag, proudly led the procession for the Opening Ceremony of the 2023 Archway Summer Olympics. Mr. John, Lower School Principal, opened the games with an encouraging speech highlighting his pride and appreciation for the students and staff. Students from the Lower and Upper School students paraded in front of the Archway administration building, eager to begin the games. Each class was dressed in their team colors, their T-shirts displaying their designs and logos, which they all had a hand in creating.  

The teams competed in Kickball Darts, Slip and Slide Races, Precision Rocket Landing, Bowling, and Skee-Ball, and they all met the challenges of a Water Obstacle Course, to name just a few. The water sports were an especially welcome relief from the tropical weather and blazing hot sun. Students were courteous, fair, and excellent sports during the entire competition, proving once again that Archway Students and staff are second to none! 

Red, White, and Blue Bingo and Rainbow Jimmies

Among the many activities offered during the ESY program, the students and staff from the Upper School engaged in an enjoyable game of Red, White, and Blue Bingo. During the competition, staff members and student helpers served juice and red Jello topped with rainbow jimmies and whipped cream. The crowd was excited as they all listened carefully to the letters and numbers hoping to be the first to call out "BINGO." Winners were able to choose from various red, white, and blue prizes. 

Student Farmers Enjoy the Farm-to-Table Experience

In 2021 a student asked Ms. Fannisha Dreher, Upper School Special Education Teacher, about learning how to garden and grow vegetables. The inquiry led Ms. Dreher to inquire about and request garden boxes for an open area outside the Upper School, offering students an opportunity to plant a vegetable garden.   

Since adding the boxes, the students have planted and nurtured a vegetable garden that produces a healthy harvest each year. The students share their harvested vegetables with staff and use them in recipes such as a delicious pasta sauce, Zucchini Lasagna, and Zucchini Bread that students prepare together. Click here to read the article and view the photo gallery on our website. 

Upper School Students are Schooled on How to Eat Philly Soft Pretzels and Water Ice.

On Friday, July 28th, Upper School students and staff were treated to delicious Rita's Water Ice and fresh pretzels from Philly Pretzel Factory. Rumor has it that a staff member shared that back in her old neighborhood in Philly, everyone liked to dip their pretzel in their water ice, even when it was covered in mustard! Maybe a little experiment happened among the students and staff, or perhaps they all enjoyed the special summertime treats without testing the interesting combination. Maybe we can check back in on that one. 

Students (and staff) Make a Big Splash During the Upper School Swim Meet

The Upper School students competed in the Annual Summer Swim Meet on Monday, August 1st and 2nd. All of the students did their personal best during the meet, and they made sure to cheer each other on throughout the competition. We are Archway Proud of all of them for their efforts and their consideration of each other throughout the meet!  

As a bonus, and for the entertainment of all involved, Mr. V. raced against two students and the Lifeguard, Mr. Chris from the Lower School, with Mr. Chris pulling ahead and winning first place.  

Congratulations to all the students who competed and placed in the competition and to lifeguard Mr. Chris. 

Day One:  

1st Place: John H.  

2nd Place: Amari K.   

3rd Place: Ahmir V.  

Day Two:  

1st Place: Miranda D.  

2nd Place: Aiden F.  

3rd Place: Lewis W.  

Day Three:  

1st Place: Madisen F.  

2nd Place: Yasir W.  

3rd Place: Jordan C.B.  

Upper School Luau

On Wednesday, August 9th, students and staff from Archway Upper School donned their most colorful Hawaiin shirts and flower leis (we even saw a few grass skirts swooshing around) and enjoyed a fun-filled Luau. The festivities included colorful decorations, delicious food, games, and traditional Hawaiian music. Everyone had a great time; it was the perfect way to wrap up a summer school day. 

Upper School is all A-Buzz About the Spelling Bee Winners

Congratulations to our two Upper School Annual Spelling Bee winners! Christopher represented the younger students, and Ah’mir represented the older students. Mr. Dustin, Mr. Dylan, and Miss Lashonda acted as judges for the competition, and the students watching the competition were outstanding! They encouraged each student and cheered for them all. Even the competitors cheered each other on! What a great show of respect for fellow students!  

All the students in the competition and the audience did a fantastic job, and we are Archway Proud of every one of them! 

Sunny Compliments Day Causes Smiles to Break Out Throughout the Lower School

Sunshine and joy were covering the walls of the main hallway of the Lower School, on Wednesday, July 29th, in celebration of Sunny Compliments Day. Students praised one another by taking turns writing or typing the stand-out qualities of their fellow students and adding them as a ray of sunshine bursting from each student’s personalized sun. Caden was kind enough to give us a smile as he posed by his own sun, filled with all the qualities his classmates shared about him. What a great reminder that each of us is unique with our own special qualities that make us shine! 

The Smiles Continue on Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwich Day

During the week of August 4th, the calendar noted two days honoring two equally delicious desserts, Ice Cream Sandwich Day and Chocolate Chip Cookie Day. Instead of celebrating two different days, Lower School staff and students did the only thing that made the most delicious sense. They combined the two celebrations into one scrumptious Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich Day! Judging by the happy grins, everyone seems to agree the two yummy desserts were made for each other!  

Lower School Students Limbo Their Way to a Hawaiian Luau

On a toasty July 9th, staff transformed the Lower School campus into a Hawaiian Luau. Students and staff donned Hawaiian shirts, grass skirts, and flower leis while they enjoyed lively music and colorful decorations. Games and activities were set in place by the staff. Sand Art and the Limbo Stick were favorites among both students and staff, while the sprinkler was the preferred activity for the students. Everyone enjoyed Rita's Water Ice and a variety of delicious snacks and juices during the festivities. 

Calorie Free Banana Splits and Ice Cream Cones

With a big scoop of creativity and a little help from Miss Terri and Miss Lisa, students in Horticulture class created delicious-looking Banana Splits and Ice Cream Cones! The summer-time treats were made using silk flowers, paper rolls, pom-poms, and other craft goodies. The adorable arrangements were the perfect summer project for the students to keep or take home to their families. They all did a fantastic job; they looked scrumptious! 

Angie Gets Her Game On at Dave and Busters!

Residents of Archway Group homes look forward to enjoying many of the activities their surrounding community offers during their frequent outings. From our Voorhees group home, Angie experienced an exciting day out that included visiting Dave and Busters for some gaming fun. She had a great time checking out the game floor and enjoyed trying her hand at several games that caught her eye!  

Voorhees Ladies Celebrate the 4th of July With a Parade

The ladies from our Lafayette group home enjoyed attending the Stratford Fourth of July celebration and parade. They enjoyed the brightly colored decorations and displays on the vehicles in the parade and the small floats. One of their favorite attractions was watching the family pets dressed in their patriotic best to mark the special occasion. 

The Medford ladies take a stroll along the boardwalk in Atlantic City.

The Ladies from our Medford Group Home Visit Atlantic City

The lovely ladies from our Medford group home slathered on the sunblock and headed down the shore for an enjoyable afternoon walking the boards in Atlantic City. The group shared a delicious lunch outdoors at a local restaurant and took in the sites along the beach and boardwalk.

The Medford ladies enjoy a day at the Eagles Game compliments of Resource Renewal, LLC.

The Ladies Cheer Their Team on!

The ladies from our Medford group home donned their Eagles' wear. They headed to Lincoln Financial Field on August 17th to watch their favorite football team, The Philadelphia Eagles, compete against the Cleveland Browns in an exciting pre-season game. The ladies cheered their team on and enjoyed the excitement and thrill of being in the bleachers as the game progressed, ending in an 18-18 tie.   

We want to thank Resource Renewal, LLC, a leader in environmental services, for their kindness and generosity in supplying the tickets to our lovely ladies and staff, giving them a fabulous experience they will never forget! Go E-A-G-L-E-S!   

Obed enjoys a horticulture lesson while attending the AADP (Advanced Abilities Day Program.)

AADP Participants Get a Lesson in Horticulture 

Program participants in the AADP (Advanced Abilities Day Program) enjoyed a Horticulture Activity along with a lesson in the care of potted plants and an outdoor garden. The group learned how to pot plants and how to properly water and care for them. Great job, everyone keeping those plants hydrated and well cared for!  

Dillon stuffs one of the pillows the group designed.

The AADP group sang Happy Birthday to Daniel and treated him to a cupcake.

Decorative Pillows and Special Birthday Wishes

Participants in the Archway AADP (Advanced Abilities Day Program) got to try their hands at making decorative pillows. The participants each chose their pillow design and then stuffed it as firm or soft as they liked. They enjoyed the special activity and were pleased to take home a unique pillow they made themselves.   

Later, the group celebrated their friend and fellow program participant Daniel’s birthday. His friends from the program helped him celebrate by singing Happy Birthday and presenting him with a special birthday cupcake and balloon! Happy Birthday, Daniel! 

Obed smiles for the camera during a visit to the Noyes Art Museum in Hammonton.

AADP Group Get a Taste of Local Culture at the Noyes Art Museum in Hammonton

AADP (Advanced Abilities Day Program) participants went on a group outing to visit the Noyes Art Museum in Hammonton, NJ. The group enjoyed viewing the beautiful artwork on display and learning a bit of history about each piece. It was a wonderful opportunity to socialize with one another and participate in the community. Everyone enjoyed the trip, and they are already looking forward to their next outing!   

Robert Murrell holds up his oversized retirement card during his retirement party.

After 42 Years on the Job, Robert Murrell Clocks Out for the

Last Time

On July 28, 2023, Robert Murrell clocked out of Archway for the last time. After 42 years of service, Robert was officially retired. He moved with ACT a few times during his lengthy tenure before settling at the Sewell location. A client was under his care from the beginning of his career at ACT until the day he retired. An excellent historian, Robert could always be counted on for answers concerning historical events. Regarding plans for his future, he intends to relax and pursue his hobbies. We wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement! 

ACT Participants Get Energized with Outdoor Exercise Session

On June 28th, ACT participants took to the beautiful outdoors for an invigorating outdoor exercise day at the Archway ACT program. Coach K (Makema Grimes) from K-Fitness led a high-energy, low-impact workout with fantastic music for ACT consumers. Coach K ended the session with a fun line dance that kept everyone's energy and excitement up while they moved to the music.     



ACT Participants Enjoy a Delicious BBQ

Friday, June 30th, Nutraserve staff provided an amazing BBQ experience for the ACT consumers and staff. The spread included hot dogs, hamburgers, coleslaw, potato, macaroni salads, and chips with guacamole and onion dip. ACT wants to thank Kathy, Korine, Kaitlyn, and Mohammad for their excellent service.  

ACT Participants Get Cookin' With Miss Typhanie

The ACT (Adult Counseling and Therapy) Program Cooking Group enjoyed last month's special treat. They learned about blue crab anatomy and worked with fresh-picked crab meat transported straight from the Eastern Shore of Maryland. New Counselor Anderson assisted the ACT Consumers veteran "Chef Typh" in making Deviled Crab Salad (served with buttery crackers.) All would like to thank Joseph and Dennis for picking fresh parsley from the ACT Therapeutic Garden and cleaning up afterward! 

Saturday Drop-In Participants Get Busy Cooking and Crafting

The Archway Saturday Drop-In program has a crafty history. The group is known for its collection of craft projects and for working together to make tasty recipes for friends to share for lunch. The group enjoys the cooking and preparation as much as they look forward to socializing during their shared meal. 

Most recently, the participants enjoyed a late summer craft using construction paper and a bit of creativity; they constructed a colorful watermelon slice complete with seeds to remind them of summer.  

The following Saturday, the group spent part of their day getting creative with rubber bands, bottles of color, and T-shirts as they created awesome works of art in Tie-Dyed T-shirts!

If you know someone who would benefit from our Saturday Drop-In Program or would like to learn more about our Respite Programs, please visit our website for more information. https://archwayprograms.org/community-and-in-home-services/respite-services/ 

Nicholas shows off his sun catcher project that he completed while at the florist shop.

Callie shares a project she completed during her downtime at the florist shop.

Nicholas and Callie Create Colorful Sun Catchers 

Nicholas and Callie got creative during downtime while working at the florist shop. They each made beautiful suncatchers out of a collection of colorful gems! Great job, Callie and Nicholas! They’re beautiful!  

Callie showing off her completed arrangement.

Nicholas is busy working on a beautiful floral arrangement.

Blue Violet Work Study Program at Work

Callie and Nicholas enjoy their time working at Blue Violet Flowers and Gifts. They are taking advantage of the work-study program available to them and other students through Archway Programs. As part of the program and working with Bonnie and other staff members, they learn skills necessary in the florist trade. Students are also learning to be responsible employees, show up on time, and do their assigned work. We enjoy watching the students as they learn and seeing the pride they have in themselves when they see a job done well. We are Archway Proud of both Callie and Nicholas and all the other students participating in our various work-study programs.

Welcome to the Archway Family!

We are proud to welcome new employees to the Archway Family as our organization expands, allowing us to help more families throughout the community. Please help us give a warm welcome to the newest members of the Archway Family!

Legacy Treatment Services selected as facilitator for the New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services (NJ4S)

BUILDING THE BRIDGE 

In response to a national mental wellness crisis in youth and young adults, the New Jersey Department of Children and Families has launched a statewide, innovative hub-and-spoke model of services and resources intended to support youth mental wellness and promote prevention initiatives. Legacy Treatment Services has been selected by the Department of Children and Families (DCF) as the Burlington County facilitator for the New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services (NJ4S). 

Within this new role, Legacy will provide a variety of services to schools deemed at-risk in Burlington County. It is our goal to raise awareness of mental health issues and resources, as well as provide links to support through increased relationship building. Legacy will be able to further implement prevention and intervention methods, as well as decrease crisis situations among youth in the county. Staff will partner with community resources, schools, and families to provide accessible quality support and education to help combat the mental health crisis. 

Program director Stefanie Richardson is looking forward to the opportunity to build NJ4S from the ground up. She and her team will work closely to address barriers to service and meet the diverse needs of the community. Within this new venture, staff will be “designing what does not exist and augmenting what does” (Richardson), in order to holistically address crisis situations and provide consistent follow-through support for those struggling. Legacy’s NJ4S staff will be a known face in the community and build that bridge between the community and available resources. NJ4S is beginning its services this fall and is a welcome addition to Legacy’s diverse array of mental health programs and services.

If you have news or information you would like to see in the next issue of The Bridge, please contact Kelly by phone: 856.767.5757 ext. 242 or by email: kelly.jones@archwayprograms.org.