BHN Marks Grand Opening of Fall River Abilities Learning Center

May 13, 2026

Program staff and leadership were honored to be joined by community partners and local leaders on May 8th for the grand opening of the Fall River Abilities Learning Center—a new therapeutic space designed to support children and youth who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or Down syndrome through play, connection, and individualized care.


The celebration welcomed community partners and local leaders for a ribbon cutting, guided tours, and remarks recognizing the impact of the program. Attendees included Mayor Paul Coogan and State Representative Alan Silvia - an important show of support for the work BHN teams do every day for families across the region.

  • BHN Sr. Vice President Michelle Michalian speaks at the Fall River Abilities Center grand opening.

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    BHN Sr. Vice President Michelle Michalian speaks at the Fall River Abilities Center grand opening,

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  • BHN Sr. Vice President and Michelle Michalian and Mayor Coogan at the BHN Fall River Abilities Center grand opening.

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    BHN Sr. Vice President and Michelle Michalian and Mayor Coogan at the BHN Fall River Abilities Center grand opening.

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  • Robert Churchill, BHN Sr. Program Manager speaks at the BHN Fall River Abilities Center grand opening.

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    Robert Churchill, BHN Sr. Program Manager speaks at the BHN Fall River Abilities Center grand opening.

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  • Amanda Lee, Program Manager speaks at the BHN Fall River Abilities Center grand opening.

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    Amanda Lee, Program Manager speaks at the BHN Fall River Abilities Center grand opening.

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  • Staff and community members gather for the ribbon cutting at the BHN Fall River Abilities Center grand opening.

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  • Staff and community members gather for the ribbon cutting at the BHN Fall River Abilities Center grand opening,

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  • Matthew Matroni, Program Manager for Abilities Programs gives a tour of the Center.

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  • Attendees of the event sign the ribbon.

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  • Attendees of the event sign the ribbon.

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  • BHN Fall River Abilities Center team members gather for a group photo.

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  • Attendees of the event sign the ribbon.

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  • Attendees of the event gather for a photo.

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  • BHN Fall River Abilities Center team members gather for a group photo.

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Expanding Access to ABA Services

The Abilities Learning Center reflects BHN’s commitment to helping young people thrive through connection, skill-building, and compassionate care. The program offers Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services tailored to each child’s needs, supporting the development of communication, social, and daily living skills. 


Families may choose between in-home ABA services or center-based support at BHN’s new Fall River location, which features structured learning environments, opportunities for peer interaction, and calming sensory rooms.


In addition to the Fall River location, BHN offers Abilities programming in Springfield, and Worcester, expanding access to services for families across Massachusetts.


“We’re proud to bring these services to Fall River and increase access for families in the South Coast region,” said Matthew Matroni, Program Manager for Abilities Programs at BHN. “This center allows us to meet children where they are and support their growth in a structured, welcoming environment.”


Locations


Get Started

To make a referral, check eligibility, or schedule an assessment, call 413-301‑WELL (9355) or visit bhninc.org/aba.


BHN accepts most private insurance, MassHealth Managed Care plans, and private pay, making it easier for families to access the care they need.

Learn More

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