HEAL Team.

He has been a high school science teacher for ten years and has been teaching at Gardner High School since 2020. He is dedicated to helping students grow and become involved members of their community.

“Being a Gardner Resident Leader and working with the Youth Change Maker allows me to do what I love, teaching and empowering young people. By helping them develop the skills they need to change the world around them we can ensure that our future is in the hands of educated and caring young adults.”

She has worked for House of Peace and Education in Gardner for ten years. Four of those last ten years, she became the Director of Operations.

She’s also the case manager for Gardner Emergency Housing Mission, her passion is helping her community.

“Becoming part of the Gardner Leadership team is a wonderful opportunity for me to continue my efforts in supporting the needs of our community and helping bring together the residents of Gardner and Winchendon empowering them to build a better tomorrow”

​

Introducing the Whiz in the Kitchen: Meet Marielle!

With a sprinkle of culinary expertise and a dash of dedication, Marielle has been spicing up school cafeterias for years, serving up more than just meals - she's been dishing out life skills and food wisdom to our youth!
She's not just about feeding the body; she's on a mission to nourish minds and empower our youth with the know-how to grow their own food and cultivate essential life skills.
As the Distribution and Processing Manager at Growing Places, she's stirring up excitement with a fresh project at the old Waterford St School. This isn't just a win for Gardner and North Central MA’s food scene; it's a game-changer for our local community and hardworking farmers!
Stay tuned as we plant seeds of change and watch our community flourish under Marielle's leadership!

​

With a passion for community engagement and dedication to making a difference, I've been proudly serving as the Administrative Assistant at the Winchendon CAC for six incredible years.
But that's not all! I'm also actively involved as a Heal Resident Leader, where I contribute to the wonderful initiatives of The HEAL Collaborative.
Additionally, I hold a position on the CAC Steering Committee, playing a vital role in steering our community's course towards growth and prosperity.
My love for being engaged in the community is not just a role, it's a part of who I am. I'm thrilled to be a part of these organizations and am excited about the positive changes we're making together.

Miranda has been a driving force behind numerous community initiatives, making a lasting impact through her dedication to unity and service.

At the Winchendon Community Center, Miranda leads a variety of programs designed to enrich the lives of residents. From youth sports and after-school activities to adult fitness classes and senior programs, there's something for everyone! She helps organize community events, educational workshops, and volunteer opportunities that bring people closer together, fostering a true sense of community spirit.

Through the HEAL Collaborative, Miranda is committed to transforming health and wellness in our community. By implementing innovative programs like wellness workshops, mental health support groups, and healthy cooking classes, she empowers individuals to lead healthier and happier lives.

At the Winchendon Council on Aging, Miranda ensures our senior residents receive essential services and programs. From transportation assistance and meal programs to health screenings and recreational activities, she works tirelessly to enhance the quality of life for our cherished seniors.

Miranda's unwavering dedication to fostering unity and service has touched countless lives. Join her in creating a stronger, more vibrant community, where everyone feels valued and connected.

As part of the Community Heart and Soul program and various other meaningful initiatives, he shares the commitment of Cornerstone Church to build connections with organizations that are dedicated to transforming lives, one person at a time.


In his own words, "Being a Gardner Resident Leader has given me the opportunity to collaborate with passionate individuals who share a common goal: making a difference in our community by working collectively to enhance the well-being and quality of life for all."

Rachel currently works for the United Way Youth Venture Program of Mount Wachusett Community College as an Outreach Liaison, empowering youth in our area to unlock their inner Changemaker by finding creative solutions to community problems they care about.

Rachel intends to leverage her passions and skills in marketing, student engagement, mental health, mentoring, advocacy, as well as her background in social work, to add further value to the HEAL team, and is deeply looking forward to growing alongside her town.

Rachel lives in Gardner with her husband and 2 pups, and enjoys spending her free time reading, buying more plants (shhh), hiking, being outside, or hanging out with friends and family.

I’m a Winchendon resident and a mother of two. My family is my center and my guiding light, they drive me to always work on becoming a better version of myself. Professionally, I’m the Associate Director of the Winchendon CAC and the Community Engagement Coordinator for HEAL in Winchendon. I’m committed to serving my community and have a deep love for its residents. I'm excited to interact with community members reaching across ages, socioeconomic status and identity to pursure residents' passions and envision the possibilities of Winchendon's future. I’m inspired daily and continue to strive to better serve. I’m dedicated to empowering Winchendon residents to reach their full potential through financial coaching, community education and more. I’m touched to witness the community come together in times of need. Winchendon is unlike any community that I have ever lived in before and is home to me. It is my hope that my work is a part of creating a sense of belonging in this community for all its residents. It is a privilege to serve in my home town and provides me with a sense of gratitude. I’m passionate about the enrichment of and investing in the success of Winchendon residents. The possibility excites me!

A retired senior with an eclectic past who loves to connect deeply with people.

Susan loves to tell and hear stories of all kinds.

“My special passion is helping out to alleviate loneliness and inspire connection for everyone but especially my fellow seniors”