Kendall: A Success Story
First and foremost, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Kendall Lechmere, I am 18 years old, and I am voluntarily in the custody of the Department of Social Services (DSS). I have been away from home since the age of 13, and since then have been searching for a home. A house is not a home, as many in situations similar to my own may know. I have attended 7 different high schools, resided at 5 different residential group homes, and have been in 3 different foster homes. I have been in several different houses, but had yet to find a home until I arrived at Rediscovery.
Next, I would like to tell you about how Rediscovery compares to the other programs I have been in. Coming from little to nothing, I have learned to appreciate everything. The majority of the houses I stayed in gave me little to be appreciative of; however, my home here at Rediscovery provides me with what I could never have dreamed about receiving. I am not only provided with a bed and 3 meals a day, but I have the honor of interacting with staff that are passionate about their jobs, and peers that are passionate about becoming productive citizens. I am given the opportunity to live independently with the guidance of an amazing support system. Whether I am at the group home, out in the community, or living independently, Rediscovery still provides the amazing support not many residential homes are known for.
Last, but not least, I would like to briefly describe the opportunities Rediscovery has provided for me. I am still in the group home/pre-independent living program; therefore still interact with staff on a daily basis. They have helped me find both of the jobs at which I work as well as a GED test center. They are helping me work on independent-living skills, so that I can transition to the Independent Living program as soon as possible. I would also like to give a shout-out to those at Rediscovery, as well friends of Rediscovery that allowed me to have the best birthday I have had in a in years. Thank You!
Sincerely,
Kendall Lechmere
Board of Directors
Arden O’Connor, Chair
Elizabeth Pattullo, Treasurer
Tripp Jones
Paul McNamara
Matt O’Connor
Scott Simpson
Paula Stahl
Danielle Ferrier, CEO/President
Danielle has over nineteen years of experience in the human services industry in addition to dual masters degrees in social work and business.
John Casey, Operations & Fiscal Director
John Casey holds a masters degree in social work from Boston University and comes to Rediscovery with extensive experience in human services. He has held numerous positions within the Department of Social Services, worked for the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and most recently served as the Regional Director for Communities for People.
Emily Archibald, Marketing & Development Director
earchibald@rediscoveryhouse.org
Emily Archibald comes to Rediscovery with a background in marketing and public relations. She has worked for a variety of firms including Hill & Knowlton, the Corporate Executive Board and Matter Communications. She has worked with firms in several different industries including technology and environmental awareness before making the switch to human services.
Melanie Burke, Program Director
Melanie Burke started at Rediscovery as Assistant House Manager and was promoted to House Manager before becoming Program Director. Prior to joining Rediscovery she worked for the state Department of Youth Services as well as other nonprofits throughout the state.
