The Monarch School of New England and Great Bay Services recently hosted Trucks & Tastes, the first event in their new Connections that Count collaborative initiative. Designed to bring together individuals of all abilities in a spirit of community and inclusion, Trucks & Tastes celebrated connection, joy, and partnership.
The morning brought together members, staff, families, alumni, and students from both organizations for an inclusive event at Monarch’s high school and vocational campus. Guests enjoyed exploring trucks and displays from Breezeline, CB Excavation, Eastern Propane & Oil, Eversource, Freedom Disposal Solutions, Newington Police Department, Norman Vetter Foundations, Rochester Fire Department, the Ricker Family, SLC Transportation, S.U.R Construction, Waste Management, and Yankee Electric—along with local treats and opportunities to connect. The event marked the beginning of a growing partnership between the two organizations to foster inclusion and community engagement.
“The day was truly about community, bringing people together to share experiences, laughter, and a sense of belonging,” said Jeanette Souther, Executive Director of the Monarch School of New England. “Trucks & Tastes was a beautiful example of how connection and inclusion can create joy for everyone involved.”
Added Jon Stimmell, Executive Director of Great Bay Services, “It meant a lot to see our community come together, not just for the event, but for the larger goal of building meaningful connections. Thanks to everyone who came and supported. It’s days like these that emphasize why community matters.”
Sponsors Yankee Electric & Co. LLC, Breezeline, Partners Bank, Eastern Propane & Oil, SUR Construction, Inc., Potter’s House Bakery and Café, and Lovebirds Donuts generously supported the event. Their partnership and commitment to inclusive community initiatives helped make this day of connection and celebration possible.
Connections that Count will continue with additional events and collaborative efforts designed to build meaningful relationships between members of both organizations. Next up is a winter dance, slated for January.
For more information about Connections that Count and upcoming events, visit www.monarchschoolne.org or www.greatbayservices.org.
About Monarch School of New England
Monarch School of New England is a nonprofit, specialized day school located in Rochester, NH, serving students across New Hampshire and Southern Maine, ages 5–22, who experience significant physical, medical, and developmental disabilities. Rooted in the belief that each child deserves an environment in which they can flourish, Monarch creates educational plans based on the individual needs and capabilities of each student—their abilities, not their disabilities—supporting every student to learn and reach their greatest potential.
About Great Bay Services
With offices in Dover, NH, and Sanford, ME, Great Bay Services is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Great Bay offers programs that promote independence, inclusion, and community engagement. Individuals are empowered to lead fulfilling lives on their terms through personalized case management, employment support, independent living assistance, and innovative program enrichment. Great Bay Services continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people and families they serve throughout the region.