Frequently Asked Questions about The Bridge Center

What types of programs are offered at The Bridge Center?

• The Bridge Center (TBC) is operated by Easterseals Massachusetts (ESMA), whose mission is to provide children and adults with disabilities equal opportunities to live, learn, work, and play. We offer group and individual programming, dependent on the participant's interests and goals. The Bridge Center’s core programs include Equine Assisted Programs, such as adaptive horseback riding, Recreation, Camp, and Therapeutic Services such as Physical, Occupational, and Speech-Language Pathology. Customized field trips can also be held on our vast 22+ acre campus. Inclusive, family-friendly annual community events are held throughout the year. Programs are continuously evolving, so check back regularly or follow us on social media for updates.

Where is The Bridge Center located? How can I contact you?

• Location: 470 Pine Street, Bridgewater, Massachusetts 02324
• Phone: 508.471.1478
• Email: tbc@eastersealsma.org

Who are the programs at The Bridge Center designed for?

• All of our programs are inclusive, welcoming individuals with or without disabilities. However, due to the farm environment and nature of our campus (which includes woods, a pond, horse paddocks, and multiple building exits), participants must be able to engage in program activities and follow directions with no more than 1:1 staff support. All participants are expected to adhere to our Behavioral Code of Conduct to ensure a safe, fun, and welcoming environment for all.

What ages are the programs at The Bridge Center designed for?

• Programs are open to individuals starting as young as 2 years old, with opportunities for participants up to 100+. Programs are developed for various ages throughout the lifespan. Please check our website for more specific age ranges for each program.

How do I sign up for programs?

• The Bridge Centers uses a web-based platform called CampDoc for all documentation, registration, and payment processes. To sign up, you must create a CampDoc profile and complete and submit all registration information through CampDoc, including the Healthcare Provider Form if you are registering for adaptive horseback riding or Therapeutic Services. Throughout the year, we offer special event programs do not require Healthcare Provider Forms. In those instances, we will specify whether pre-registration is required through another platform, like Eventbrite.

Can we stop by for a visit?

• No, unless it is scheduled with our staff/ management before arrival. Our campus is reserved for participants and their caregivers; however, we will happily schedule a tour by emailing us at tbc@eastersealsma.org.
• If you are interested in coming out to the campus, please be sure to check out our community events throughout the year to join in on the fun. Annual community events include but are not limited to, Trunk or Treat (the Friday before Halloween), the Bridgewater Lions Club Fishing Derby (the first Saturday in May), and Move with Me, an annual Easterseals Massachusetts fundraiser.

Are dogs allowed?

• To protect the safety of our animals, no outside animals are allowed on the premises, except for well-trained service animals that always remain under the control of their handler. Service animals must remain in their parked vehicle if not providing a service to participants so as not to spook the horses.

Do you offer customized field trips?

• Yes! We work closely with schools, universities, day habilitation programs, and other organizations to create customized field trip experiences. Whether it's a recreational day, therapeutic activities, learning hands-on skills, or a combination of all the above, we can tailor the visit to meet your group's unique needs.
• For more information or to schedule a field trip, please contact us at tbc@eastersealsma.org. 

What payment methods do you accept?

• Programming at The Bridge Center is primarily structured as private pay. We encourage caregivers and participants to explore potential funding opportunities and reach out to us if we can be of any assistance during the application and approval process. Please note that each program on our campus may have its own specific payment guidelines and requirements. For more information, feel free to contact us at tbc@eastersealsma.org.

How can I help?

• We are always in need of volunteers! Check out our volunteer opportunities here.
• We also accept specific donations, such as arts and crafts supplies. Please email tbc@eastersealsma.org to confirm if we can accept your donation or view our Wish List.
• If you would like to make a direct gift or get your company involved, please contact philanthropy@eastersealsma.org for more information.
   

Additional questions or comments?

• We would love to hear from you! Please reach out to tbc@eastersealsma.org with any questions or comments.