Great Barrington, Mass. – On Friday, August 2, ExtraSpecialTeas Executive Director Cherri Sanes and the staff of ExtraSpecialTeas received the outstanding results of their recent Quality Enhancement Review performed by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) early in July. Members of the review team met with ExtraSpecialTeas professionals and participants at ExtraSpecialTeas at 2 Elm Street, to personally deliver the impressive news that the therapeutic vocational day program’s scores were some of the highest ever achieved by a non-profit organization in the Commonwealth.
The report is the result of detailed responses to approximately 150 indicators of quality programs offered to young adults with disabilities in our community. These extremely positive scores indicate the excellent resource that ExtraSpecialTeas provides as a welcoming and inclusive environment for building employment skills and self-respect for many young adults in transition to the working world. ExtraSpecialTeas offers a day program to meet the transitional needs of area young adults and recently has added transportation services from Pittsfield and Lee in Berkshire County with their new 12 passenger van.
The ExtraSpecialTeas tea house at 2 Elm Street has become a popular spot for tea and conversation, with lounge areas, an outdoor garden and internet for small events and big ideas. Many Berkshire residents are regulars and enjoy the special bubble teas, over 50 varieties of tea, gluten-free baked goods, and special tea products, like soaps, bath brews and candles, made by the participants. Individuals interested in learning more about ExtraSpecialTeas can contact Cherri Sanes at (413) 645-3247.
About ExtraSpecialTeas
ExtraSpecialTeas is a teahouse where we employ and empower people with special needs, bringing them together with the community, inspiring new possibilities, purpose, and belonging.