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Bello Machre

COMMUNITY-BASED Services for individuals with developmental disabilities in maryland

Our Community-Based Program Builds Confidence, Skills & Friendships

Contact Our CDS Team

Supporting Adults with Intellectual Disabilities through Community Development Services

Bello Machre’s Community Development Services (CDS) offer group, community-based day programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with transportation provided for added peace of mind. Each day is structured around social, recreational, and educational activities that build confidence, foster friendships, and support personal growth while creating meaningful community connections.

a meaningful day in cds

  • 7:30 – 9:00 am – Home Pick Up
    Participants are safely transported from home to start their day.
  • 9:30 am – 2:00 pm – Community-Based Activities and Lunch
    The day includes social outings, recreational programs, educational experiences, and skill-building activities—all designed to be engaging and meaningful. Transportation is provided for any off-site activities, ensuring participants can explore the community safely.
  • 2:00 – 3:00 pm – Home Drop-off
    Participants return home after a full, rewarding day.
Contact Our CDS Team

49,530 – The number of Community Development Services hours we provided last year.

Creating Meaningful Connections & Growth

At Bello Machre, our dedicated staff go beyond providing care, they become true partners in your loved one’s growth, well-being, and happiness, bringing warmth, patience, and expertise to every interaction. Each day is meaningful and fulfilling, with participants feeling valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

  • Skilled and Knowledgeable
    Professionals trained in developmental disability support
  • Personalized Support
    4-to-1 staff-to-participant ratio for individualized attention
  • Dedicated to Growth
    Encouraging independence, skill-building, and meaningful community connections
Meet Our Team

Our Community Services Partners in Maryland

Our community services partners help us create meaningful opportunities for the people we support. By opening their doors and collaborating with Bello Machre, these organizations across Anne Arundel and Carroll County make it possible for participants to engage in enriching social, recreational, and educational experiences that foster connection and growth.


ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY PARTNERS

  • Backpack Buddies
  • Baltimore City Recreation & Parks
  • Blue Ribbon Project
  • Cycling Without Age
  • Elks Lodge
  • Farring Baybrook Rec Center
  • Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce
  • Lucky and Blessed Fishing
  • Meals on Wheels
  • Middle Branch Rec Center
  • Northern Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce
  • On Our Own
  • Orphan Grain Train
  • People on the Go
  • Pic-n-Paint
  • Severna Park Community Center
  • Weis Market – Pasadena

CARROLL COUNTY PARTNERS

  • Carroll County Chamber of Commerce
  • Carroll County Health Department
  • Carroll County Recreation & Parks
  • Carroll Lutheran
  • Community Media Center
  • Exploration Commons
  • House of Madness – Creepy Jason
  • Moonlit Acres Retreat Farm
  • Restore
  • The Skill Tree

Get Started with Community Development Services

Starting our community-based program at Bello Machre is a simple, supportive process. Our team will guide you and your loved one every step of the way—from the first phone call to full participation in our programs.

contact our team

Reach out to Bello Machre to discuss your loved one’s needs, interests, and goals. We’ll answer your questions and walk you through the process.

confirm eligibility

Community Development Services are available to adults age 21+ with developmental or intellectual disabilities in Maryland who qualify for services through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA).

personalize planning

Once eligibility is confirmed, we’ll collaborate with you to design an individualized plan that includes social, vocational, and community engagement opportunities.

Start Your Journey

Participants begin with tailored programs that build independence, develop skills, and create meaningful community connections.

Contact Our CDS Team

Explore Employment Services

Bello Machre’s Employment Services support individuals pursuing work with personalized guidance at every stage – from career exploration and skill-building to job placement and ongoing coaching. Each plan is tailored to build confidence, independence, and success, while our team partners with families, employers, and community organizations to create inclusive opportunities and lasting outcomes.

Explore Employment Services

We’re here to help

Contact us to learn more about our Community Development Services.

Contact our CDS Team

FAQs About Our Community Development Services

understanding our services

Community-based services, also called Community Development Services, are structured programs focused on community integration, skill-building, and personalized support through social, recreational, and volunteer activities.

Bello Machre’s Community Development Services (CDS), formerly called the “Meaningful Day Program,” continues to focus on community integration, skill-building, and individualized support by offering social activities, volunteer work, recreational programs, and learning opportunities that build confidence and independence within a safe, supportive environment.

Adults age 21 and older with developmental or intellectual disabilities in Maryland seeking community-based day activities, skill development, and social engagement can join.

Visit our Employment Services page to explore job coaching, training, and placement opportunities.

program activities and daily life

Every day at Bello Machre is filled with purpose, connection, and discovery. Our Day Program is designed to help people with developmental disabilities explore their interests, build new skills, and engage meaningfully with their community, all while having fun.

Participants enjoy a wide variety of hands-on, enriching experiences, including:

  • Food Industry Exploration: Cooking sessions, kitchen safety, and meal prep activities that teach practical skills and confidence.
  • Retail & Customer Service: Learning real-world interaction and money-handling through guided volunteer or practice opportunities.
  • Creative Hobbies & Arts: Painting, music, crafts, and other outlets for self-expression and creativity.
  • Entrepreneurship & Small Business Skills: Exploring how ideas turn into products and services, encouraging independence and innovation.
  • Nature & Animal Care: Outdoor adventures, park walks, and opportunities to care for animals and gardens.
  • Physical Fitness & Wellness: Bowling, movement classes, and recreational sports that promote health and well-being.
  • Job Readiness & Skill Building: Hands-on activities that prepare participants for success in community or supported employment.

Beyond these core experiences, our groups participate in community-based outings such as museum tours, local volunteering, cooking classes, movie trips, and visits to sporting events. Through these experiences, participants build friendships, independence, and pride in contributing to their community.

Additional opportunities include:

  • Career Exploration and Workplace Visits
  • Community Outreach & Volunteering
  • Fundraising & Advocacy Projects
  • Historical & Cultural Learning Experiences

Our community-based day program maintains a 4-to-1 staff-to-participant ratio, ensuring each participant receives personalized attention, guidance, and support throughout the day.

Transportation and accessibility

Yes. Bello Machre provides reliable, door-to-door transportation as part of our Community Development Services (CDS) program. Transportation typically includes morning pick-up from the individual’s home, travel to and from scheduled community activities throughout the day, and afternoon drop-off back home.

Currently, tours and shadow visits are available only after meeting with our admissions team and submitting an application for Community Development Services (CDS).

Getting Started

Visit our Admissions Process page for details on how to begin the enrollment process and determine eligibility for our programs. Contact our team with any questions.

We also provide residential group home programs and employment services.

Building Independence Through Community Volunteering with Meaningful Day Services

At Bello Machre, our Meaningful Day Program is dedicated to helping people with developmental disabilities give back through community volunteering. We believe that volunteering is not only a way to serve others—it’s also a powerful opportunity to build life skills, explore interests, and form meaningful community connections.

Our team works closely with individuals to find inclusive and rewarding volunteer opportunities throughout Maryland, helping them grow in confidence, independence, and purpose.

Discover how our Meaningful Day services can connect you or your loved one with impactful volunteer experiences.

Volunteer Opportunities

Your Community Development Services Team

Christopher Engler
Community Services Director, Anne Arundel County

Chris has been with Bello Machre’s Community Services team since May of 2023, and a part of the Human Services field for over 10 years. With a rich background in Day, Residential and Employment programs, he has been able to develop a deep understanding of the diverse needs of the community. His experiences have allowed him to excel at providing tailored support, encouraging growth, and increasing independence in those he serves.

Lashae Morant
Community Development Services Program Director, Anne Arundel County

Lashae Morant, Program Director of Meaningful Day Program with Community Development Services has served individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities over the past 11 years. She has a focus in Mental Health and Nonprofit Management. Her goal and passion is to provide individuals with meaningful life experiences while showcasing their expertise and unique values.

Tameka Estwick
Employment Program Director, Anne Arundel County

Tameka Estwick is the Employment Services Program Director at Bello Machre, bringing over 13 years of experience in the human services field. With a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a passion for supporting individuals with developmental disabilities that began in 2012, Tameka is dedicated to creating inclusive employment opportunities and fostering independence. Through strong community partnerships and person-centered leadership, Tameka works to empower others and help them thrive in meaningful, competitive employment.

Thaddeus Amegashie
Community Development Services Program Director, Anne Arundel County

Oversees Meaningful Day Program services and supports community engagement activities.

Todd Bonney
Community Services Director, Carroll County

Todd Bonney has been working with people with disabilities since 2006 and has been with Bello Machre for over five years. Todd oversees the development and operations of the Support Services and Meaningful Day programs in Carroll County.

Hailey Henry
Meaningful Day Program Director, Carroll County

Hailey Henry is the Carroll County Meaningful Day Program Director at Bello Machre in Westminster, MD. Since 2019, she has served in several vital roles—including Employment Specialist, Coordinator, Program Manager, and now Director. A lifelong advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities, Hailey also serves on Carroll County’s CIT Collaborative Planning and Implementation Committee. Her diverse experience reflects a deep commitment to high-quality care and support.

Ashlie Pack
Community Services Coordinator, Carroll County

Oversees the community development services in Carroll County. Develops and facilitates the events for our CDS participants.

Learn About the Impact We Make in The Lives of People with Developmental Disabilities

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