When guests walked into Aspire Living & Learning’s new Leominster program space on October 17, the excitement in the room was unmistakable. Sunlight poured through the windows, laughter filled the air, and you could feel the sense of pride from families, staff, and community partners who had come together to celebrate more than a new building. They were celebrating the possibilities it represents for choice, connection, and belonging throughout North Central Massachusetts.
The 10,000-square-foot space at 484 Lancaster Street was designed with people in mind. The building brings together the people Aspire supports, the staff who walk beside them, and the neighbors who welcome them into community life. Each room encourages connection, from lively activity areas filled with conversation to quiet spaces where friendships grow.
“This is more than the opening of a new building,” said Steve Mendoza, Aspire’s Senior Director of Program Operations. “It’s the beginning of new opportunities for connection, growth, and belonging in Leominster.”
Those opportunities are already unfolding. Inside the new Leominster program, Aspire’s Community-Based Day Services are offering people daily opportunities to connect, learn, and participate in community life. Days might include volunteering with Meals on Wheels, taking wellness or cooking classes, or working on creative projects that build confidence and strengthen relationships. Each experience empowers people to grow their skills and lead more meaningful lives within their communities.
The new location also highlights Aspire’s commitment to innovation. Participants are using adaptive technology and clinical supports to build communication skills and prepare for employment. Virtual reality tools allow people to practice job-readiness scenarios, while new devices support self-expression and everyday connection. A behavioral therapy group will soon meet in the space, helping participants build mindfulness and emotional regulation skills that support well-being and independence.
Community partnership was at the heart of the celebration. Mayor Dean Mazzarella, State Representative Natalie Higgins, and Beth Walsh, representing the office of State Senator John Cronin, joined Aspire employees, families, and friends to mark the milestone.
“As someone who has loved ones who rely on services like the ones Aspire provides, I’m so grateful that you’re here,” said Representative Higgins.
The event included a moment of honor as Aspire received official citations from the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Senate, recognizing this milestone and our shared commitment to helping people live more fully in their communities.
Throughout the ceremony, gratitude filled the room. Aspire thanked the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, the North Central Massachusetts Community Foundation, and the Avidia Bank Charitable Foundation for their partnership and support. Appreciation was also shared with Apex Properties for helping bring the project to life and with Anna Clementi, whose leadership gift is making possible a new outdoor recreational and gardening space that will offer a welcoming place for learning, relaxation, and connection with nature.
As the celebration continued, Aspire CEO Erica Hare reflected on what the day meant for the organization and the community it serves.
“This building represents more than a new location on a map; it represents our mission in action. What you see here is growth with purpose. We expanded because the people we support deserve more opportunities, more choices, and more connections to their communities.”
That growth is continuing. Erica shared the site will soon include Children’s Behavioral Health Services, giving families access to evaluations and clinical supports in a welcoming environment close to home.
The opening of the Leominster program marks a collective step forward. It’s a space shaped by partnership and shared purpose, where people can connect, explore their interests, and unlock their potential. While the celebration has ended, the work of building inclusive communities continues every day and we invite you to stay connected by signing up for our quarterly eNewsletter.