The Westford Commission on Disability has launched the SociAbility Society, a new program designed to provide social opportunities for young adults with disabilities in Westford and surrounding communities.
The initiative, created through collaboration between former CoD Chair Kathryn Clear and current member Matthew Tricca, addresses a gap in programming for young adults with intellectual, physical, and neurological disabilities, as well as neurodivergent challenges.
“I wanted a place where young people with disabilities can come together and just hang out and feel like they are part of their community,” said Tricca, a lifelong Westford resident and recent Westford Academy graduate who has Tourette’s Syndrome, ADHD, OCD, and intellectual disability. “A place where we can get to know more people like ourselves. Everyone is included and everyone has a voice.”
Upcoming Event
Next SociAbility Society Meeting
When: Friday, September 19, 6:00-8:00 PM
Where: First Parish Church United of Westford
Activities: Games, crafts, snacks, social corner, and music
Note: Parents and caregivers are invited to gather in adjacent room
The group has already held several successful events, including movie nights, Lego building workshops, and arts and crafts sessions. Local residents and businesses have supported the initiative by providing pizzas, snacks, and drinks.
Clear, who also serves as Vice-Chair of the WPS School Committee, envisions the program becoming a permanent community fixture.
“I would love to see the SociAbility Society become an established group in Westford, just like the Cameron Senior Center or the Westford Recreation Department,” Clear said. “There needs to be an outlet for people with various disabilities that may take a different path than their typically developing peers.”
About the Commission on Disability
The Westford Commission on Disability operates under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40, Section 8J, with responsibilities including:
- Researching local problems affecting people with disabilities
- Advising municipal officials on compliance with disability laws
- Coordinating programs with the State Office on Disability
- Reviewing policies and procedures that affect people with disabilities
- Providing information and technical assistance on disability matters
Current Commission Members
- Chair: Wendy Gloyd
- Vice Chair: Dawn Brantley
- Secretary: Jamie Allard
- Select Board Representative: Sean Kelly
- Lisa Potvin
- Kathryn Clear
- Matthew Tricca
- Patricia Reppucci
- J. Scott Hazelton
As incoming Chair of the CoD, Wendy Gloyd is excited about continuing the journey towards accessibility. “I am deeply honored to step into the role at such a pivotal moment. Over the past few years, we have made meaningful progress that is personally important to me. We’ve focused on improving accessibility for voting and town meetings, advising the town on how to make building, events, and resources more accessible and fostering stronger connections within our community.”
The August 13 meeting, which marked the start of a new year for the commission, also covered updates on accessibility improvements to the Westford Community Garden, the CoD’s role in the Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee, and strategies for ensuring accessible social media posts.
Get Involved
The SociAbility Society seeks volunteers and student partners to assist with activities. The program is open to Westford residents and those from surrounding towns.
To attend, volunteer, or ask questions:
Email: WestfordMACoD@gmail.com
Next CoD Meeting:
Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 7:00 PM
