Bello Machre Blog Archive
Stay up to date with the Bello Machre community.
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Building Self-Care & Independent Living Skills for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Independent living skills are crucial for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live full, independent, and rich lives. Such skills lead to better physical and mental health, stronger relationships, and more community involvement.
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How Bello Machre Helped Amy Realize Her Birthday Wish
Amy’s dream of skydiving comes true with the support of her caregivers and the team at iFLY Baltimore, making her birthday an unforgettable adventure.
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Congratulations to Lori Skalitzky, our November Volunteer of the Month!
At Bello Machre, we are deeply grateful for the kindness, dedication, and positive energy that Lori Skalitzky brings to our community. “Lori is effervescence personified. She is often the first person to respond to a need, and no task is beneath her. She is an exceptional human being—everything you look for in a good person:…
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Advocate of the Month – Kendra Baldwin
Congratulations to Kendra Baldwin on being our Advocate of the Month for November! “Kendra is a dedicated and compassionate Employment Specialist who goes above and beyond to support individuals with disabilities in finding meaningful employment opportunities,” shares Tameka Estwick, Employment Program Director. “Her positive attitude, genuine care for others, and unwavering commitment to her work…
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Reese’s Journey: Challenges, Courage & Ray of Hope Program
A Season of Hope: Reese’s Journey of Love, Resilience, and Community Support
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What is National Disability Employment Awareness Month?
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), observed each October, marks an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities to America’s workplaces and economy. During NDEAM, we confirm our commitment to ensuring workers with disabilities have access to good jobs all year round.
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DSP Month 2024
This September, we’re extending our celebration of DSPs throughout the entire month! Instead of focusing on just one week, we’re dedicating all of September to honoring our amazing Direct Support Professionals.
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The Role of Accessible Housing in Supporting Adults With Disabilities
By Randon Bittings, Chief Services Officer, Bello Machre
Accessible group homes in Maryland help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities build independence and community connections.
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Bello Machre featured on “Local Business Spotlight”
On the most recent episode of John Frenaye’s Local Business Spotlight, he visits Bello Machre and interviews Bello Machre President & CEO, Dr. Robert Ireland. John Frenaye is publisher with the Eye on Annapolis, and in his podcast series he spotlights business and organizations from around the community and dives into their history, goals, and…
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Bello Machre’s Personal Supports and Employment Services help Hannah Thrive
Bello Machre is helping Hannah reach her goal of helping others with developmental disabilities. Through our Personal Supports and Employment Services, Hannah holds purposeful employment in the community and pursues her passion of helping others.
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Meet One of Our Community Group Homes
Meet the residents and learn more about one of Bello Machre’s community group homes.
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Learn how Bello Machre helps Jared live his best life
Discover how Bello Machre empowers Jared to pursue his passions, from meaningful employment at Carroll Lutheran Village to pursuing his dream career in video production, while also achieving independence through personalized supports.
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Achieving Dreams: Tyler’s Journey with Personal Supports
Learn how Tyler, a member of our Personal Supports Services, navigates his educational journey and community exploration with assistance from Bello Machre.
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Meet Ed: The Artist & Businessman of The Bello Machre Community
Meet Ed, a long-time resident of Bello Machre’s Residential Services, who showcases his artistic talent and entrepreneurial spirit in one of our community group homes. Explore Ed’s passion for painting and his journey as a true artist.
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A Rewarding Career Working with Intellectually & Developmentally Disabled Adults
Bello Machre offers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the services, opportunities, and support they need to live full, independent, rich lives. Our direct support professionals (DSPs), are at the heart of what we do.
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Developmental Disabilities Awareness
This past March we celebrated Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM) to raise awareness and support for people with developmental disabilities. Get a recap of this month-long celebration.
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A Guide to Person-Centered Care Plans for those with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Five considerations when developing a care plan to successfully address the unique needs, preferences, and goals of an individual with intellectual disabilities.
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Empowering Independence: Courtney’s Journey with Bello Machre
Follow Courtney and her family’s journey in finding the right disability service provider. Learn how Bello Machre’s programs enriched Courtney’s life and empowered her independence.
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The Transition to Adulthood for Youth with Developmental Disabilities in Maryland
A guide for families and individuals to successfully transition from an education-based support system to adult services provided for those 21 and older.
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Rebecca’s Path to Independent Living with Bello Machre
Rebecca’s story is a testament to the power of determination and support. Born with a learning disability, she has overcome challenges to live independently, pursue a career, and build meaningful relationships. This blog provides Rebecca’s perspective on her journey with Bello Machre.
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Triumph over Adversity: Eric’s Inspiring Journey with Bello Machre
Eric’s story is a journey of resilience, courage, and the unwavering human spirit. Born with Down Syndrome and intellectual disabilities, Eric has faced many challenges in his life — from battling cancer to coping with the devastating loss of his beloved brother.
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Jobs for People with Intellectual Disabilities
All people should have access to a safe job and working environment in which they feel part of a team. Inclusion of all people, including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, strengthens our communities, businesses, and economy at large.
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Samantha’s Story Told on CBS Baltimore
Samantha tells CBS Baltimore her journey with Bello Machre and SCLogic.
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Maryland Disability Services: A Guide
Bello Machre provides a guide for Maryland families searching for services and supports for their loved ones with intellectual & developmental disabilities.
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Special Needs Trust – A Caregiver’s Guide
Bello Machre shares important information for families creating financial plans to support the future needs of loved ones with disabilities. Learn more.
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Autism Services: Where and How to Find Support
A guide to autism services in Maryland, from therapies and waivers to education and community support.
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DSP Careers: Choosing a Direct Support Professional Job
What you need to know to become a DSP. If you want a meaningful job with good pay, benefits, shifts that fit your lifestyle, & professional growth, read on.
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Bello Machre on CBS Baltimore
Kelly Sigmon, a member of Bello Machre’s Community Services, was recently featured on CBS Baltimore alongside her business, Kelly’s Homemades!
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Tax Benefits of Qualified Charitable Distributions for 2025
Learn about the benefits of donating your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) with a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD).
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A Mother’s Dream For Her Daughter Leads To A Loving Home At Bello Machre
Thanks to donations from people like you, Bel knows her daughter, Belinda, will always have a safe, loving home at Bello Machre. Learn more about their story and donate today so we can continue providing a lifetime of loving care for Belinda and others like her.
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Bello Machre helps two sisters find a lifetime of loving care
Our support for Jaime and her sister, Jessica, exemplifies Bello Machre’s commitment to empowering people with developmental disabilities to live full, independent, rich lives – no matter what challenges life presents.
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September 2020 Advocate of the Month
Thank you to our Community Heart Heroes – Andy Cooch and Kellie Nicoleo (pictured right) of Progressive Title in Arnold for supporting the Bello Machre Advocate of the month. Birgit was chosen for September Advocate of the Month because she goes above and beyond for the individuals she supports, her team, and Bello Machre as…
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How Technology Aids those with Disabilities in the Job Market
As more people with developmental disabilities are competitively employed, there are a number of ways technology can support people with personal and professional growth. Patrick Young, from AbleUSA.info, shares how technology can support people with disabilities . . . According to the numbers collected by the U.S. Census Bureau, around 52% of people of working…
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Jade’s Next Adventure
You may have recently received a letter telling you about an amazing family who has put their trust in Bello Machre. Jade was born with an extra piece of chromosome that causes very slow development, low muscle tone, and cognitive impairments. Bill and Peggy, Jade’s parents, were told that she would never walk or talk….
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Cheryl’s Life at Bello Machre
Cheryl found love, safety, and belonging at Bello Machre—a home for life made possible through your support.
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Stay Safe While Using Technology: 5 Personal Cybersecurity Tips
5 Personal Cybersecurity Tips from Skyline Technology Solutions, Bello Machre’s Community Partners Skyline Technology Solutions (Skyline) is one of Bello Machre’s generous community partners! In addition to supporting Bello Machre’s events and frequently volunteering in our homes, Skyline provides Bello Machre with technical support in our offices and 60 community homes. In addition to needing…
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A Family’s Call for Help
“Bello Machre was there for our family during a tough time. Help was truly a phone call away. I called and, within an hour, Bello Machre had a plan.” Pat Cook was introduced to Bello Machre almost ten years ago. She was seeking Respite Care for her daughter, Katie, so she and her husband, Jack,…
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We Are Just Like Any Other Family
We Are Just Like Any Other Family “I love Bello Machre because we have good people who take care of us, who take us to all kinds of places, and who love us,” says Tayborie, an individual who lives in our Crest Lane home in Carroll County. Jen, the loving caregiver who lives in the…
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Finding Hope and Support at a Bello Machre Residential Group Home
After tragedy, Aunt Connie finds hope as her niece, Jennifer, thrives at Bello Machre, gaining strength, care, and a supportive home.
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Bello Machre’s Ray of Hope Program Supports Young TBI Survivor
When Zack, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivor, needed support communicating and focusing outside of school, his family looked to Bello Machre’s Ray of Hope Program to fund an essential resource.
