Stay tuned for the 2026 Essential Puzzle Piece Honoree(s)
2025 Honorees
Marie Cassidy
Medford Family Network
Marie Casidy has had the honor and privilege of heading up the Medford Family Network (MFN) since its inception in 1996. Drawing upon 51 years of experience in the fields of social work, program development, legislative advocacy, community organization and education, she is passionate about building and bolstering opportunities and systems that connect families to each other, to community organizations, and that enhance their lives – resources, referrals and relationships! Marie holds a Masters in Family Support from Wheelock College and a Bachelors of Science in Education from Salem State University. She loves to hike, ski, cook, laugh, dance and spoil seven grandchildren.
Bobby Monteforte
Teamsters Local 25 Member
UPS Chelmsford
Brother Bobby Monteforte has been a Teamster for 20 years. He was a UPS part-timer for about 18 years, working out of the Somerville Hub. He transferred to UPS Chelmsford in 2024 and is now full-time, working the overnight shift. A dedicated Teamster, he has never called in sick to work, not even during the Covid pandemic! In his spare time Bobby likes cheering on the Boston Bruins!
2024 Honorees
Spectrum Connection
Chris Chagnon and Rob Ferragamo are committed to helping young adults with autism succeed. With backgrounds in psychology and sociology, the men both work at a school for students with developmental delays. Spectrum Connection was developed in their off hours to provide a safe and welcoming group to address a decline in social skills primarily caused by the COVID pandemic. Individuals are selected based on need, capacity, and cohesion of all members.
The program has continued to grow over the past two years and serves an average of 8-10 adults per activity. Some key milestones include introducing a Women’s Group, providing combined outings for all genders, and offering weekend getaways throughout New England and New York City. Their next goal is to expand support to those 18 and older in hopes of easing anxiety leading up to their transition to adult services. Their overarching hope is to be able to continue making a positive impact on the lives of individuals both on and among the autism spectrum.
East Coast Jumbos
East Coast Jumbos Hockey Program is an organization whose goal is to provide a positive athletic and social experience for athletes with autism and other developmental disabilities who wish to participate in the great sport of ice hockey.
Founded in 2007 by Waltham natives Ray LeBlanc and Jim Perry, with only five players, the team now has over 50 athletes ranging in age from seven through adulthood, and all ages are welcome. The team is not focused only on hockey, but hopes to help participants grow and learn, build their confidence, increase communication skills, and develop and maintain relationships both inside and outside the hockey environment. More information: https://eastcoastjumbos.com/
