Developmental Center Director Receives Award From State

For the second year in a row, the Wrentham Developmental Center was represented when awards were given out by the Department of Developmental Services' (DDS) at a function honoring members of their Urban Youth Collaborative Program (UYCP). While the Wrentham Developmental Center was given the the Paulette Anjorin Community Service Award last year, Nicholas D’Aluisio, director of the Wrentham Development Center was this year’s recipient of the award. 

Also receiving special awards were Jesse Hayston of Quincy who received the Steven E. Collins Leadership Award and Camille Serelus of Methuen and Amanda Granfield of Billerica who were presented with the the Current Service Award.

The awards were given in a special ceremony where the Patrick/Murray Administration recognized more than 200 young people at the State House event for their participation in the UYCP this summer, working with individuals with developmental disabilities at state-operated programs and at developmental centers throughout the state.

“I am impressed by the efforts of these amazing young leaders through the Urban Youth Collaborative Program,” said Governor Deval Patrick. “Their commitment to serving the people of the Commonwealth makes them incredible role models for the next generation.

Local names among the 200 interns honored include Rebecca Cavallari of Plainville and Kimberly Champagne of Norfolk.

The UYCP began in Boston in June 1992 as a collaborative effort between Madison Park High School and Bay Cove Human Services, with the goal of attracting young adults from diverse backgrounds to careers in human services.

The program has since expanded statewide, with interns placed at state-operated programs, developmental centers and non-profit organizations across the Commonwealth in full-time summer jobs, providing support to individuals with intellectual disabilities. Some employers have partnered with local colleges to offer course credit to interns participating in the program. Since its inception, more than 3,200 interns have taken part in the UYCP, with nearly half choosing to pursue careers in human services.