Berlin Campus
Our Berlin Campus at Burelli Farm grew from a simple observation: Bridge Program graduates needed more than basic adult services; they needed a place where their skills could continue to flourish. Today, this specialized adult alumni program provides enriching experiences in a safe, stable environment where many students and staff have known each other for years.
Individual Choices, Shared Community
Each adult enrolled shapes their own journey at Burelli Farm. ​
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Not an academic program, Berlin students instead engage in educational initiatives centered on essential life skills, like employment, home maintenance, relationship building, and community participation. The experience is designed to enrich their lives, offering a range of activities, including swimming, tennis, art projects, and cooking, with employment opportunities available for those interested in community engagement remaining central to their daily lifestyle.
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At Burelli Farm, respect for individual choices guides everything. When a participant says "not today" to an activity, that choice is honored. When someone shows enthusiasm for fitness or cooking, say, that interest is encouraged. The program maintains consistent schedules that allow for flexibility to honor each person's daily needs and goals. Regular group activities – Monday bowling sessions or trips to creemee stands – create natural opportunities for socializing.
Growing to Meet Community Needs
The adult alumni program began in 2018 with four Bridge Program graduates, and the need continues to grow.
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​Plans are underway to expand Burelli Farm, reflecting NSM’s commitment to providing enriching experiences beyond traditional adult services.
​​Many staff members have worked with Bridge Program participants since they were children, some relationships spanning more than 16 years. This deep interpersonal familiarity means staff can read subtle cues in body language and tone of voice, thereby respecting each individual's unique way of communicating. Every participant has two dedicated staff members for support during community activities, ensuring both safety and comfort in a wide range of settings.
Our team knows that if you respect who you're working with – show them respect, show them you're there for them and that you care about them – you're going to earn their respect back.
Trust Transforms Challenges
Many people take routine medical appointments for granted. But for adults with complex needs, these visits can feel overwhelming. One client's journey shows how understanding, preparation, and respect can transform challenging situations into positive experiences.
The care team knew standard medical visits were difficult for this individual. Rather than forcing the issue, they created a gradual preparation process and purchased medical equipment for practice at home. When it came time for a routine dental cleaning, a staff member visited the dentist first to understand the experience firsthand. They then developed clear social stories about what to expect, from entering the hospital to riding the elevator.
The results exceeded everyone's hopes. Not only did the patient have a successful check-up, but they also completed a blood draw – a procedure that requires particular courage. The team coordinated every detail with hospital security and staff, creating an environment that felt safe and secure.
This achievement represents more than the simple completion of a medical procedure; it shows what is possible when adults receive support that conveys understanding and respect – support that comes from years of building trust and fostering an understanding of each person's unique needs.