Resources for Human Development

Today, RHD honors Juneteenth — a day of freedom, reflection, and celebration.

We recognize the resilience, strength, and contributions of Black Americans and reaffirm our commitment to equity, dignity, justice, and inclusion in the communities we serve.

On Autistic Pride Day, RHD celebrates the strengths, perspectives, talents, and contributions of autistic people/people with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Today, we honor neurodiversity and the many ways people think, learn, communicate, and experience the world. We recognize that we are all unique, we are all on our own journeys, and we are all great contributors in defining what it means to be human. At RHD, we respect the dignity and worth of each individual.

We embrace and encourage feeling pride for the infinite possibilities that make each of us who we are and the infinite possibilities of humans—for growth, innovation, connection, deeper understanding, and a more inclusive future.

For more information about RHD’s programs and services, visit our website at https://www.rhd.org/our-programs/

Happy Autistic Pride Day! 🌈♾️

Kevin Norton has been RHD Boston's maintenance person for more than 20 years. Over those 20+ years, Kevin has been consistently reliable, honest, hardworking, flexible, and dedicated. His contributions—while not always visible—keep the program running...literally.

Kevin's willingness to take on maintenance tasks and deal with problems is unwavering. Often working alone, he will contort himself into small spaces and duck into dark corners of basements to get any job done right. He does his research to find solutions that are cost-effective and efficient. He knows his skillset and knows when he should ask for help.

Kevin's contributions to the program go beyond maintenance. His kindhearted personality and dedication to his work have landed him a place in everyone's hearts and earned him respect from his peers. He is known by everyone in the RHD Boston community and beyond through the partnerships he has fostered with outside vendors and contractors.

We tip our hats to Kevin and all the facilities employees out there. Thank you for what you do!

RHD is proud to feature The Mobile Crisis Intervention Unit (MCIU) in New Orleans as this week's Spotlight program. MCIU is transforming the way the city responds to mental and behavioral health crises. The team's work, with the leadership of Program Director Tyesha Davis Rhodes, LCSW- BACS, reflects a commitment to dignity, safety, and recovery-oriented care.

Available 24/7, 365 days a year, MCIU is integrated directly into the city's 911 system and responds to non-violent calls involving individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Instead of relying on law enforcement, MCIU provides compassionate, community-based support from trained behavioral health professionals.

MCIU responds to more than 400 calls each month and successfully diverts about 42% of mental health-related 911 calls away from traditional first responders. This approach helps reduce strain on emergency services while connecting people in crisis with the care and support they need.

MCIU is setting a standard for Alternative Crisis Response models across the country, demonstrating how communities can create safer, more effective, and more person-centered emergency response systems.

Through innovation, commitment, and compassionate care, MCIU continues to make a meaningful difference in New Orleans and serves as an example for communities nationwide.

Kudos to the team for the incredible work, dedication, and example you set for all of us!

June is National Men’s Health Awareness Month. At RHD, we recognize that mental health is health — and asking for support is a sign of strength.

According to NAMI, men are nearly four times more likely to die by su***de than women, and many men experiencing mental health challenges do not receive treatment.

This month is a reminder to check in, start conversations, reduce stigma, and create safe spaces where men and boys feel seen, heard, and supported.

If you or someone you know needs support, NAMI offers resources through the NAMI HelpLine: call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text “HelpLine” to 62640, or email [email protected]. In a crisis, call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7.

RHD also encourages individuals, families, and communities to connect with our programs and services for additional resources, guidance, and support.

To learn more about RHD's programs and services, visit our website at: https://www.rhd.org/program_area/behavioral-health/

June is National PTSD Awareness Month. At RHD, we are committed to fostering a compassionate, informed, and supportive community.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects millions of people across the country. According to NAMI, about 4.1% of the U.S. adult population, or more than 8 million people, experiences PTSD. NAMI also notes that women are more likely to experience PTSD than men.

This month, we recognize the strength and resilience of those living with PTSD and reaffirm our commitment to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting access to support, understanding, and healing.

No one should have to face the effects of trauma alone. If you or someone you know wants to learn more about PTSD or needs support, help is available.

Call the NAMI HelpLine at 800-950-6264, text “NAMI” to 62640, or email at [email protected]. In a crisis, call or text 988 (24/7) to reach the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline.

If you are interested in learning more about RHD's mental health programs and services, check out our website: https://www.rhd.org/program_area/behavioral-health/

This week, we are spotlighting Mark Blasco. Mark is a Behavioral Health First Responder with RHD’s A-Team. The A-Team serves as a fourth emergency service, helping people in crisis while reducing pressure on other first responders.

Mark is celebrated for incredible work, heart, and dedication. He consistently embodies compassion, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to the individuals and communities served by the program.

Mark’s ability to connect with people is truly exceptional. Strong engagement skills, a positive attitude, and a collaborative spirit make Mark an invaluable member of the team. The praise and appreciation shared by community partners and fellow teammates speak volumes about the impact Mark makes every single day.

What truly sets Mark apart is a willingness to step up when it matters most. Whether assisting in the search for a missing participant, staying out late into the night responding to calls, supporting individuals through crisis and grief, or helping coordinate emergency shelter placements into the early morning hours, Mark consistently goes above and beyond without hesitation.

Mark’s dedication, reliability, and compassion reflect the very best of the A-Team’s mission and values. His efforts do not go unnoticed, and the difference made in the lives of others is immeasurable.

Thank you, Mark, for your hard work, selflessness, and unwavering commitment.

RHD's Community Passages in Western Pennsylvania is more than a residential program — it’s a place where individuals with developmental disabilities and dual diagnoses are empowered to grow, thrive, and make meaningful choices for themselves. In a home environment, residents build life skills, strengthen their confidence, and pursue the things that matter most to them.

That spirit of empowerment shines through in the actions of Paul and Brad, two individuals at Community Passages, who turned their passion for helping the environment into an inspiring Earth Day tradition. With the encouragement and support of Lead DSP David Joseph, the pair has spent the last three years giving back to their community by cleaning litter from local parks and recycling cans and bottles. This year, they expanded their efforts even further by helping an elderly neighbor brighten her yard with newly planted flowers.

As spring blooms across Western Pennsylvania, Paul has also been hard at work building new raised garden beds alongside staff Bob Wilson and James Shoaf. Now, with tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers freshly planted, Paul is looking forward to a season filled with fresh vegetables, hard work, and pride in what he has accomplished.

RHD is grateful for the outstanding and innovative leadership at Community Passages. The dedication and support empower individuals at Community Passages to pursue their goals, discover their potential, and recognize their value.

This Memorial Day, we honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to military families, veterans, and all who continue to serve. Their sacrifice reminds us of the value of freedom, the strength of unity, and the importance of supporting one another in our communities.

RHD is proud to honor the contributions and resiliency of the Jewish American community and heritage. We recognize and celebrate the generations of Jewish Americans who have strengthened our communities through leadership, service, and advocacy.

RHD is committed to fostering a community where diversity is valued, every voice is respected, and everyone belongs.