Credit Coaching
Learn to attain and maintain fiscal health.
This program trains skilled volunteers to assist community residents with the nuts and bolts tasks required to improve a credit score in need of boosting! Assistance is practical and hands on and may include helping to draft a letter to a credit agency or helping to establish a personalized plan for tackling several delinquent accounts. The monthly Wednesday evening clinics offer a no-stress, friendly environment that clients can return to month after month, or drop-in only once to address a specific problem.
Locations:
- DotWell@450
450 Washington Street, Dorchester - Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Eligibility requirement: None
Cost: No charge
For more information contact:
Shauntell Foster, Fiscal Health Coordinator
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
Youth Sports
Play team sports at the recreation facilities at the Dorchester House Multi-Service Center. Our program includes Girls Soccer, Girls Basketball, Boys Basketball and Asian Boys Basketball, Sports Clinic and Open Gym.
For summer basketball clinics, click here.
For Open Gym sessions, click here.
Age range: 12 ? 18 years old
Location and Hours
- Dorchester House Multi-Service Center Recreation Facilities
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Hours vary by sports type as well as season
For more information, contact
Paul Hill
617-288-3230
Paul.Hill@dotwell.org
Skills for Life
Learn the keys to financial success!
In this highly interactive class, we will combine lessons in personal finance with career exploration by making field trips to Harvard Business School, the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston and other organizations. You will learn the basics of how to prepare tax returns using IRS approved tax software, freeing you from the paid-tax-preparer trap for life! This is an extremely practical ? and highly marketable ??life skill for everyone. And it is especially useful for students interested in accounting or business careers. Finally, we will emphasize the importance of giving back to the community. Each student will have the opportunity to receive a stipend if they apply their skills at a DotWell community tax clinic during the tax season.
Location
- Codman Square, Additional Offices
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Eligibility: Students must be in the 11th or 12th grade
Cost: Free
For more information, contact
Shauntell Foster, Fiscal Health Coordinator
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
Computer Technology Programs
We have developed a series of programs to help adults and teens of all skill levels?become more familiar with computers and the Internet.
- Public Access is for beginner computer users and teaches basic computer literacy skills.
- Microsoft Computer Training gives individuals sufficient Internet and computing literacy skills to enter current job markets or begin higher education programs.
- BATEC is a 9-month, 6-college credit course in information systems.
For more information about our Computer Technology Programs, click here.
Credit Counseling
Learn to attain and maintain fiscal health.
DotWell Civic Health works with American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC) to provide the Dorchester community with tools and resources to reduce debt and solve credit problems. A professional credit counselor from ACCC is available to provide free one-on-one credit counseling to participants. The counselor will analyze their credit reports as well as help them develop a personal budget and debt reduction plan. Credit counselors are also available to provide advice on more difficult credit problems, such as debt collection and bankruptcy.
Generally offered twice a month; twice a week during tax season
Locations
- DotWell@450
450 Washington Street, Dorchester - Codman Square Health Center
637 Washington Street, Dorchester - Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Eligibility requirement: None
Cost: No charge
For more information contact:
Shauntell Foster, Fiscal Health Coordinator
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
Aquatics Programs
The pool at Dorchester House Multi-Service Center?is open year-round, offering youth a wide variety of recreational and fitness programming. ?For more information, click on one of the programs listed below.
Location and Hours
- Dorchester House Multi-Service Center Pool
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Monday ? Friday, 6:30 a.m. ? 8:30 p.m.
Saturdays 8:00 a.m. ? 4:00 p.m.
Eligibility: Varies by program type
Cost: Annual pool memberships, pool use passes, swim lessons and pool rentals are available at a nominal fee
For more information contact:
Nate Caverly
Aquatics Program Coordinator
617-740-2234
Nate.Caverly@dotwell.org
Earned Income Tax Credit Program
Take advantage of our free tax clinics
As a member of the Boston Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Coalition, we offer free tax clinics. Taxpayers who earned less than $40,000 in the previous tax year can have their taxes prepared for free and claim important tax credits such as the EITC.
The program is staffed by a cadre of volunteers who are trained to prepare tax returns and assist clients with asset building. In addition, the staff and volunteers help taxpayer?s access additional services including credit counseling, benefit screening and FAFSA assistance, as well as training programs.
Our goal is to ensure that individuals and families build assets at tax time by maximizing the value of the Earned Income Tax Credit, connecting to asset-building resources, and avoiding predatory tax practitioners and products.
Availability: January through April 15 every year; by appointment year round
Locations
- DotWell@450
450 Washington Street, Dorchester - Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Eligibility requirement: Taxpayers earning less than $40,000
Cost: No charge
For more information contact:
Shauntell Foster, Fiscal Health Coordinator
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
Midas Collaborative
Develop your financial assets.
DotWell is a partners of the statewide organization Massachusetts IDAs (MIDAS), which seeks to promote financial stability in low-income households through asset development. MIDAS offers an evolving portfolio of asset development programs, including financial education, savings programs, and tax credits.
For current program information, please contact:
Shauntell Foster, Fiscal Health Coordinator
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
Personal Finance Workshops
Become financially savvy. Sign up for a personal finance workshop.
We regularly work with partners throughout the city of Boston to provide financial workshops to the community. In the past, these workshops have focused on topics such as budgeting, credit, banking, taxes, identity theft, foreclosure prevention and a first-time homebuyer?s class.
Locations
- DotWell@450
450 Washington Street, Dorchester - Codman Square Health Center
637 Washington Street, Dorchester - Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Eligibility requirement: None
Cost: No charge
For more information contact:
Shauntell Foster, Fiscal Health Coordinator
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
Sports Programs
For Information about youth sports and aquatic programs available at the Codman Square Health Center and the?Dorchester House Multi-Service Center,?please click on the program of interest.
About Us
DotWell is a community-based organization, specifically a formalized collaborative effort of its two founding organizations: the Codman Square Health Center (CSHC) and the Dorchester House Multi-Service Center (DHMSC). DotWell was previously known as the Health Services Partnership of Dorchester (HSP).
DotWell generates trust and respect by providing the highest quality comprehensive clinical and community-based services; a well-maintained physical plant that meets the needs of the community; a team of staff that are both entrepreneurial and practical; state-of-the-art technology available for use by the staff and the community; and unparalleled involvement by a diverse group of stakeholders including staff, clients, board members, elected and appointed officials, and collaborators.
Our Mission
The mission of DotWell is to work in collaboration with our founding health center partners -?Codman Square Health Center?and Dorchester House Multi-Service Center - to provide integrated clinical and community services that address health disparities, build social capital, and meet the complex needs of our communities.
Our History
In 1998, leveraging a combined 150 years of service, Codman Square Health Center and Dorchester House Multi-Service Center formed what is now one of the strongest and most strategic partnerships in Boston. This collaboration, previously known as the Health Services Partnership of Dorchester and now more aptly named DotWell, quickly emerged as a cost-efficient way to provide management services to its founding organizations.
The health centers founded DotWell to provide state-of-the-art and enterprise-wide management support including a comprehensive IT infrastructure, a performance improvement framework, development and public policy advocacy, as well as financial management. In recent years, the health center partners have charged DotWell with cross-site coordination and management of non-clinical programs, including health education and outreach, Civic Health, Youth Services, Wellness Integration and, most recently, the Diabetes Initiative.
DotWell has been recognized by The Boston Foundation and the Catalogue for Philanthropy as a model in the not-for-profit community for its ability to meet the complex needs of at-risk populations while realizing significant cost-savings.
Partners and Affiliates
At DotWell, we strongly believe in building partnerships for creating positive change; many together can achieve what one alone cannot. We work with our many affiliates to strengthen the community of Dorchester at multiple levels and angles, so among our affiliates you can find everyone from community health providers to grassroots initiatives.
Learn more about our major partnerships:
Codman Square Health Center
Codman Square Health Center opened its doors in 1979 to serve as a resource for improving the physical, mental, and social well-being of the community. Codman Square Health Center serves over 20,000 patients a year and is a Federally Qualified Health Center and receives federal support through its designation as a section 330 community health center.
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
Dorchester House?s mission is: to be an essential resource for our community in its efforts to achieve the highest levels of health, well-being and quality of life for its residents; to provide affordable, accessible and exceptional health care and other essential services in an environment that respects our consumers, staff and diverse community; and to be a leading force for change in the health, economic and social well-being of our community.
Learn more about all our partners and affiliates:
Breath of Life Dorchester (BOLD) Teens
The BOLD Teens are commited to protecting and enhancing the health, safety, and environment of our community through education, service and advocacy.
Boston Collaborative for Food & Fitness
The Boston Collaborative for Food and Fitness is comprised of over 52 organizations. It is dedicated to creating vibrant communities that support access to locally grown, healthy, affordable food and safe places for physical activity and play?for everyone!
Boston HealthNet
Boston HealthNet is a unique partnership including Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine and 15 community health centers. It is an integrated service delivery network serving most of Boston?s neighborhoods and Quincy.
Boston Landmarks Orchestra
The Boston Landmarks Orchestra presents exceptional orchestral music performances in significant architectural, historical, and geographical settings throughout the Boston area, always free to the public.
Boston Medical Center
Emphasizing community-based care, Boston Medical Center provides a full spectrum of pediatric and adult care services from primary to family medicine advanced specialty care.
Centering Healthcare Institute, Inc.
The mission of Centering Healthcare Institute, Inc (CHI) is to change the paradigm of health services to a group care model in order to improve the overall health outcomes of mothers, babies, new families and all individuals across the life cycle.
Codman Academy Charter School
Codman Academy?s mission is to prepare students for full participation in the intellectual, economic and civic life of society by ensuring their full preparation for and access to further education, by developing the skills and vision to undertake a rewarding career and the motivation and character needed to engage deeply and productively in community life.
Codman Square Connection
The Codman Square Connection encourages community members to communicate with each other and develop support systems within the community. The Codman Square Connection starts with connecting to neighborhoods, communicating with each other, collaborating on initiatives and utilizing services within the city.
Codman Square Health Council
The Codman Square Health Council is a coalition of organizations who aim to improve the health of the Dorchester community and its members through various initiatives, such as the Codman Square FAMILY Farmers Market.
Codman Square Neighborhood Council
The Codman Square Neighborhood Council is an all-volunteer, grassroots group of community residents and partners seeking to improve living and working in Codman Square.
Dorchester FAMILY School Initiative (DFSI)
The Dorchester FAMILY School Initiative (DFSI) helps to provide health, social support and enrichment services for children attending their partner schools: Oliver Wendell Holmes School, Joseph Lee School, and Lee Academy.
Dorchester Youth Collaborative
The mission at Dorchester Youth Collaborative is to engage these teens in relationships and projects that promote the health and safety of the community and the psycho-social development of the youth.
HealthWorks at Codman
HealthWorks at Codman, located at our 450 Washington Street site is our partnership with the HealthWorks Foundation, a fitness center for women and children.
Health Resources in Action
Health Resources in Action is a nonprofit, public health and medical research funding organization committed to helping people live healthier lives and creating healthy communities through prevention, health promotion, policy and research.
Partners Healthcare
Partners is an integrated health care system that offers patients a continuum of coordinated high-quality care.
Safe City Initiative
The Safe City Initiative is a formal collaboration between The Dorchester Youth Collaborative, Catholic Charities, Dorchester House Multi-Service Center, and Codman Square Health Center. The initiative?s purpose is to provide safe haven and positive youth development to reduce the fear of violence and increase the hope for success of Boston?s most desperate teens.
SCI Dorchester
SCI Dorchester is a partnership between Social Capital Inc. and DotWell with the goal of strengthening our community by connecting individuals and organizations through civic engagement initiatives such as volunteering.
Leadership
Our 8-member Board of Directors meets?monthly to set the strategic vision and ensure that DotWell?s mission is fulfilled. DotWell?s Board includes the CEOs of both partner health centers, representatives from both health center?s Boards, and community members. The partner health centers boards are representative of our community.? At CSHC, 51% of directors are minorities, women, or women minorities while DHMSC?s diverse board is comprised of more than 50% of individuals who are users of DHMSC?s services.
The Board?s mandate is to provide policy guidance and direction for the co-CEOs and DotWell staff. They are responsible for approving annual budgets and to ensure compliance of all mandated fiscal requirements appropriate for a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization. The Board of Directors are also responsible for maintaining the organization?s fiscal stability by overseeing its diversified funding streams.
DotWell Leadership includes:
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Co-Chief Executive Officers: Sandra Cotterell, CEO of Codman Square Health Center and Joel Abrams, CEO of Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
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Chief Operating Officer: Karen van Unen
Careers
DotWell is a community-based organization, specifically a formalized collaborative effort of its two founding organizations: the Codman Square Health Center (CSHC) and the Dorchester House Multi-Service Center (DHMSC). DotWell was previously known as the Health Services Partnership of Dorchester (HSP).
For more information about working for DotWell, please visit the Careers sections of Dorchester House Multi-Service Center or Codman Square Health Center .
Community Services
DotWell offers an array of community services through our collaborative partnership with the Codman Square Health Center and the Dorchester House Multi-Service Center to provide the highest quality comprehensive clinical and community-based services to the residents of Dorchester.
Adult Education
Earn college credit while learning about literature, history, and art in our Clemente Adult Education course. Strengthen your computer expertise through Microsoft Computer Training and the college credit BATEC course, and apply your new skills in our Public Access Computer Lab .
Civic Health
SCI Dorchester @ DotWell is a civic partnership between Social Capital Inc. and DotWell with the goal of strengthening communities by connecting diverse individuals and organizations through civic engagement initiatives. This increase in social capital will result in communities that are safer, healthier and more vital. A signature feature of the SCI activities is the well-developed interactive community portal www.mydorchester.org as well as the weekly SCI Dorchester E-Blast, a weekly electronic newsletter announcing community events, programs and opportunities.
Financial Health
Get help with our Free Tax Preparation and see if you are eligible to receive important tax credits through the EITC. Skilled volunteers and professional counselors offer practical Credit Coaching and one-on-one Credit Counseling sessions to those who need help reducing debt or solving credit problems. You can also sign up for a Personal Finance Workshop, which focuses on topics such as budgeting, identity theft, and foreclosure prevention, among others. For those wanting to save for education, we offer Matched College Savings. Finally,?students in 11th and 12th grade can take Skills for Life, a highly interactive class that combines lessons in personal finance with career exploration by making trips to the Harvard Business School, the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, and other organizations.
Recreation and Fitness
Take advantage of a wide variety of recreation and fitness activities, especially our Gymnasium and Pool programming, which include Youth Sports and Aquatics Programs.?? Shoot some hoops with the Beantown Slam or join the Sting Rays Swim Team.? Take Swim Lessons, participate in Lifeguard Training or take part in our Water Safety Program.? ?If you are a woman and or child under 15, you have access to HealthWorks at Codman, a fitness center we offer through our partnership with the HealthWorks Foundation that provides memberships on an income-based sliding scale.
Youth Services
Drop by our Teen Center and make some movies with our I AMM film crew, participate in our drawing club, join the Dorchester Youth Council or take advantage of our tutoring program. Need a job for the summer? Our Community Health Careers Internships offered in partnership with the Boston Youth Fund can be a great way to test out your dream career. And our Dorchester FAMILY School Initiative connects parents and kids at three local schools with health and social service organizations and other enrichment groups.
Adult Education
Clemente Course in Humanities
Public Access
BATEC
Microsoft Computer Training?
The?Clemente Course provides a comprehensive introduction to the humanities through the study of literature, art history, philosophy and American history. Students are also coached in writing and developing critical thinking skills. The Course is accredited by Bard College and qualifies students for six college credits upon successful completion of the program. Our goal is to expose students to the humanities and its riches while building their confidence to meet the demands of a college education and encourage them to pursue a college degree.
Location:
Codman Square Tech Center
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Eligibility requirement:
18 years and up; must complete an application and admission interview
Cost:
Full scholarship awarded to all accepted students
For more information, please contact:
Doreen Treacy
Director, Civic Health Institute
617-474-1409
doreen.treacy@dotwell.org
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Our on-site staff coaches individuals who have never used a computer in our on-site computer lab. This highly individualized coaching assists students in achieving skills such as logging onto the Internet, navigating with a mouse, and setting up and using an email account. Students also learn how to use a search engine and the basics of Microsoft Word.
Location and Hours:
Codman Square Tech Center
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Monday ? Friday, 10:00 a.m. ? 2:00 p.m.
Eligibility requirement:
Public Access is open to all ages, however, users under age 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Cost:
Free
For more information, please contact:
Mary Cleveland
617-822-8268
mary.cleveland@codman.org
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?
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BATEC is a nine-month course in Information Systems that meets twice a week. The course introduces students to the fundamentals of computers, including operating systems, system architecture, data storage/capacity, and software configuration. The course is accredited by Roxbury Community College and UMass Boston; however classes are held in a familiar community setting, math and English tutoring supplements IT learning, and all students are provided a full scholarship, including funds for books and materials. The goal of the program is to give aspiring students the opportunity to experience college in a community setting and foster a sense of security that will help them move to the next level and continue on in a traditional academic setting. After successful completion, all participants will receive six college credits.
Location:
Codman Square Tech Center
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Eligibility requirement:
18 years and older, must complete an application and placement test
Cost:
Full scholarship awarded to all accepted students
For more information, please contact:
Doreen Treacy
Director, Civic Health Institute
617-474-1409
doreen.treacy@dotwell.org
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?
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The Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC3) program is a standard-based, validated certification program in basic computing skills. IC3 is the ideal starting point for anyone interested in learning basic computer and internet skills. The program gives individuals sufficient internet and computing literacy skills to enter the job market or begin higher education programs. Students learn and increase proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite while preparing to take the online certification exam. The goal of the program is to provide students with the foundation necessary to further develop their job readiness skills and marketability in the workforce.
Location:
Codman Square Tech Center
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Eligibility requirement:
18 years and older, must complete an application
Cost:
Nominal fee
For more information, please contact:
Doreen Treacy
Director, Civic Health Institute
617-474-1409
doreen.treacy@dotwell.org
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Civic Health
SCI Dorchester @ DotWell is a civic partnership between Social Capital Inc. and DotWell with the goal of strengthening communities by connecting diverse individuals and organizations through civic engagement initiatives.
Our vision is to develop a community where individuals are strongly connected to their neighbors and play an active role in shaping the destiny of their communities. This increase in social capital will result in communities that are safer, healthier and more vital. A signature feature of the SCI activities is the well-developed interactive community portal www.mydorchester.org as well as the SCI Dorchester e-Blast, a weekly electronic newsletter announcing community events, programs and opportunities.
SCI Dorchester @ DotWell focuses on four priority areas:
- Engaging Youth: Engage 1,000 youth in civic activities through civic engagement and community service learning activities
- Connecting Citizens: Connect 2,200 citizens to information and resources in the community
- Leveraging Volunteers: Recruit and coordinate 200 adult volunteers for DotWell and in turn serve 600 community members through the volunteers
- Building Bridges: Build social capital and increasing civic engagement between adults, youth and the community
Location and Hours
DotWell@450
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Work takes place all over the community and in all DotWell facilities
Regular business hours plus evening and week-end activities
For more information, please contact:
SCI/DotWell Team
617-822-8296 or 617-822-8297
For general inquiries, contact info@mydorchester.org.
For event submissions or questions related to specifically to the weekly eBlast newsletter, please contact eBlast@mydorchester.org.
CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS:
If you are interested in volunteering please fill out our volunteer form?available here.
Financial Health
We offer a wide range of financial health services, from one-on-one credit counseling sessions to personal finance workshops, and we even train community members to assist others in maintaining their credit health.? We also offer Skills for Life, an interactive class for 11th and 12th graders that combines lessons in personal finance with career exploration.? For locations, cost and contact information of all our financial health programs, please click on the links below.
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As a member of the Boston Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Coalition, we offer free tax preparation for hard working Dorchester families.? Taxpayers who earned less than $49,000 in the previous tax year can have their taxes prepared for free and claim important tax credits such as the EITC.
The program is staffed by committed tax volunteers who are trained to prepare tax returns and help taxpayers access additional services including credit counseling, benefit screening and FAFSA assistance.
Please bring the following items to your tax site:
? Social Security Card (or Taxpayer ID Number-ITIN)?for you, your children, and your spouse
? Proof of Health Insurance- bring your 1099HC or Health Insurance Card(s) for you and all family members
? All W-2 forms
? All 1099 forms-1099G for unemployment and/or 1099R for pension payments
? All 1098T forms for tuition payments and receipts for books and materials
? Total childcare expenses last year and the name, address, Employer?Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number?for your child care provider(s)
? 1098E forms for student loan interest paid
? Total rent paid last year
? Any mail from the IRS
? A copy of last year?s tax return
? Your bank account and routing numbers to directly deposit your refund
? Total real estate paid last year (if applicable)
? Proof of sales tax and fees paid if you bought a car after February 16th, of last year (if applicable)
? All closing documents for all first-time homebuyers (if applicable)
Availability:
January through April 15; by appointment May-December.
Location and Hours:
Codman Square Technology Center
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Monday and Wednesdays 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Saturdays 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Monday and Wednesdays 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Saturdays 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Eligibility requirement:
Taxpayers earning less than $49,000/year
Cost:
Free
For more information, contact:
Shauntell Foster
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
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Let?s face it, no one?s perfect?and virtually no one has perfect credit! This program engages skilled volunteers to assist community residents with the nuts and bolts tasks required to improve a credit score in need of boosting! Assistance is practical and hands on and may include helping to draft a letter to a credit agency or helping to establish a personalized plan for tackling several delinquent accounts. The Wednesday evening clinics offer a stress-free, friendly environment that clients can return to month after month, or drop-in only once to address a specific problem.
Locations:
Codman Square Tech Center
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Eligibility requirement:
None
Cost:
No charge
For more information, contact:
Shauntell Foster
Fiscal Health Manager
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
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DotWell partners American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC) and the City of Boston EITC Campaign provide the Dorchester community with tools and resources to reduce debt and solve credit problems. Professional credit counselors from ACCC and highly skilled staff from the EITC Campaign are available year round to provide free one-on-one credit counseling to participants. Participants will view their currnt credit report with credit score, and learn how to read and understand the report, as well as develop a personal budget and debt reduction plan. Credit counselors are also available to provide advice on more difficult credit problems, such as debt collection and bankruptcy.
ACCC credit counseling sessions are generally offered twice a month by appointment. Boston EITC Coalition supported credit counseling is at designated times and year round by appointment.
Locations:
Codman Square Tech Center
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Codman Square Health Center
637 Washington Street, Dorchester
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
For more information, contact:
Shauntell Foster
Fiscal Health Manager
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
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Develop your financial assets.
DotWell is a partner of the statewide organization Massachusetts IDAs (MIDAS), which seeks to promote financial stability in low-income households through asset development. MIDAS offers an evolving portfolio of asset development programs, including financial education, savings programs, and tax credits.
For current program information, please contact:
Shauntell Foster, Fiscal Health Coordinator
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
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We regularly work with partners throughout the City of Boston to provide financial workshops to the community. In the past, these workshops have focused on such topics as budgeting, credit, banking, taxes, identity theft, foreclosure prevention and first-time homebuying.
Locations:
Codman Square Tech Center
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Codman Square Health Center
637 Washington Street, Dorchester
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
For more information, contact:
Shauntell Foster
Fiscal Health Coordinator
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
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In this highly interactive class, we will combine lessons in personal finance with career exploration by making field trips to Harvard Business School, the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston and other organizations. You will learn the basics of how to prepare tax returns using IRS approved tax software, freeing you from the paid-tax-preparer trap for life! This is an extremely practical ? and highly marketable ??life skill for everyone. And it is especially useful for students interested in accounting or business careers. Finally, we will emphasize the importance of giving back to the community. Each student will have the opportunity to receive a stipend if they apply their skills at a DotWell community tax clinic during the tax season.
Ages:
11th or 12th grade students
Location:
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
For more information, please contact:
Shauntell Foster
Fiscal Health Coordinator
617-822-8171
shauntell.foster@dotwell.org
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Recreation and Fitness
Asthma Swim
Asthma Swim is a free program for children who have been diagnosed with asthma.? During the workshops, children learn the basics about asthma and its triggers, as well as how to manage the disease.? The children also spend time in the Dorchester House Multi-Service Center pool learning basic swimming skills and playing games.? Children must have a medical form completed by their health provider in order to enroll.
Ages:
8 ? 12 year olds diagnosed with asthma
Location:
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center Pool
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Hours:
Fall and spring cycles and meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m. for ten weeks.
For more information, please contact:
Nate Caverly
Aquatics Program Coordinator
617-740-2234
Nate.Caverly@dotwell.org
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Beantown Slam
Every year, starting in September and running through November, over 35 teams participate in the Beantown Slam at the Dorchester House Gym. This event is worth seeing!
For more information, please contact:
Tom Powers
Tom.Powers@dorchesterhouse.org
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Gymnasium Use
Location and Hours:
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center Gymnasium
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Monday ? Friday 7:00 a.m. -9:00 p.m.; Saturday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Cost:
The Gym and pool are available to rent at a nominal fee
For more information, please contact:
Tom Powers
617-740-2269
Tom.Powers@dorchesterhouse.org
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Healthworks Community Fitness
- Cardio and Strength-Training Studio with state-of-the-art equipment
- Multi-Purpose Group Exercise Room where classes such as Tai Chi, Sister Slimdown, and Afrobics are offered free for members
- New Balance Youth Fitness Zone with electronic fitness gaming equipment
- Teaching Kitchen: we are currently fundraising for a community teaching kitchen to be built on-site at Healthworks Community Fitness.
For more information, please contact:
Lauren Broadhurst
Executive Director
Healthworks Community Fitness
lbroadhurst@healthworksfoundation.org
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Healthy Weight for Life Clinic
Dorchester House?s innovative Healthy Weight for Life Clinic aims to reverse the increasing trend toward obesity in children. Over the course of this 6 month program, we work with our families in culturally appropriate ways to identify and attempt to overcome the barriers to implementing healthier habits, sustained behavior change, and reduced Body Mass Index (BMI).
Our program?s proven success is based around a 2-hour long, monthly group visit, that engages the entire family in the program and the child?s success. We believe that coaching the parents and provided them with resources is just as important as working with children. We have also recently added a swim-lesson component in our in-house pool, which provides the children a safe, effective way to exercise.
For more information, contact:
Mary Lynch
617-288-3230 x 2636
Mary.Lynch@dorchesterhouse.org
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Lifeguard Training
No lifeguard training classes are currently being offered, but we do regularly host new trainings, so please check back.
For more information, contact:
Tom Powers
617-474-1464
Tom.Powers@dotwell.org
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Swim Lessons
We offer six levels of swim instruction following the American Red Cross curriculum. Class sizes are limited to five students per instructor to insure the safety and quality of swim instruction and are offered in seven-week sessions.For more information on lessons, please click here.
Ages:
3 ? 16 year olds
Location:
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center Pool
1353 Dorchester Avenue, DorchesterCost:
$60 for pool members; $80 for non-members
For more information, please contact:
Nate Caverly
Aquatics Program Coordinator
617-740-2234
Nate.Caverly@dotwell.org
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Swim Team
Also known as the ?Stingrays,? the Dorchester House swim team ? ably led by Daly Hamilton, is a fun way to learn to swim! Team members also have ample opportunities to compete, including an annual trip with Team New England to North Carolina for a national competition.
Ages:
6 ? 15 year olds
Location and Hours:
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center Pool
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
September ? March:? Three evening practice sessions per week
January ? March:? Friday evening swim meets
For more information, please contact:
Nate Caverly
Aquatics Program Coordinator
617-740-2234
Nate.Caverly@dotwell.org
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Pool Use
The Dorchester House Multi-Service Center Pool is open year-round, offering the community a wide variety of recreational and fitness programming including swim lessons.? Fitness programs include water aerobics, water babies and lap swim.? The pool offers adult, youth, senior and family membership packages at competitive rates; some programs have a nominal fee.??The pool is also available for rent by community groups, organizations and schools.? Summer programs include daily Community Swim, when the pool is open to the community for two hours at a nominal fee of $1 per youth?up to age 16?and for those over age 60, and $3 for adults ages 17-59. Please check the schedule below for more information.? We also offer Aquatic Games to middle schoolers who want to participate in organized water games including volleyball, basketball and deep water diving. There are also a number of Youth Aquatics Programs held at the Dorchester House Multi-Service Center Pool.
The Pool schedule can be found on the Dot House Events page, here.
For membership information, please click here.
We have recently raised our prices modestly in order to continue to provide this benefit to our community ? for a letter on this change from our Director of Community Programs, click here. Thank you for your understanding.
For questions, call Nate at?617-740-2234.
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Water Safety Training
Ages:
Water Safety Assistant program is for students 12 years of age and older.Water Safety Instructor program is for students 17 years of age and older.
Location:
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center Pool
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Cost:
Water Safety Assistant, no charge
Water Safety Instructor, nominal fee
For more information, please contact:
Nate Caverly
Aquatics Program Director
617-740-2234
Nate.Caverly@dotwell.org
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Youth Programs
DotWell offers an array of youth programs open to youth ages 6-19, including pool and fitness classes, leadership development programs, after-school and tutoring programs, and our newly re-opened Teen Center.? Programs are listed alphabetically below.
Community Health Careers Internships (CHCIP)
Looking for an internship? Want to jumpstart your career? Apply to our summer internship program. As an intern, you?ll be able to develop your professional skills through hands-on work experience at the health centers. The daily schedule includes one hour of workshop time focused on key life skills areas including civic engagement, job readiness, financial literacy and wellness. Another key component of the program includes work site tours at other companies and organizations.? In 2011, DotWell employed 27 youth in the program. Interns held positions in departments such as Behavioral Health, Billing, Civic Health, Facilities, Finance, IT, Patient Services, Public Health, the Dorchester House Laboratory, and the Operations and Marketing Department.?Boston Youth Fund Summer Internships are made possible by the efforts of the Teen Center and the financial support of the Mayor?s Youth Funds.
Ages:
15 ? 17 years
Locations:
Codman Square Health Center
637 Washington Street
Codman Square Tech Center
450 Washington Street, Dorchester
Interns meet at 450, and then go to their worksite placements
Summers: Monday ? Thursday, 10:30am ? 4:30pm
For more information, please contact:
Iman Davis
Youth Development Specialist
617-740-2598
Iman.Davis@dorchesterhouse.org
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Dorchester FAMILY School Initiative (DFSI)
The Dorchester FAMILY School Initiative (DFSI) is a multi-organizational partnership that connects three public elementary schools in?central Dorchester?with health and social service organizations, colleges, other enrichment groups, and parents.? Our goals?are to:
- Support before-school and after-school programming
- Coordinate social and emotional services within schools
- Expose the children to positive youth development activities that will help them improve their health and wellness
- Provide enrichment activities that engage students in art, music, drama and sports
- Connect families with community programs and services
- Support teachers and the schools to strengthen math and reading skills
DFSI Schools and Community Partners:
- Oliver W. Holmes School is a K1-5 school of 282 students near Four Corners.
- Joseph Lee School is a K0-5 school of 340?students near Franklin Field.
- Lee Academy is a K0-5 school of 340 students near Franklin Field.
- DotWell is the partnership of Codman Square Health Center and Dorchester House Multi-Service Center.? DotWell is DFSI?s lead agency and provides key staff members- DotWell?s Tom Powers,?Director of Wellness Integration, who coordinates services and activities between schools and community partners, and SCI Dorchester Americorps team member Colin Hunt, who connects the school?s parents with community programs and other resources.
- FAMILY, Inc. (Fathers And Mothers Infants?eLders and Youth) is a non-profit organization that works as a community organizing system.? By creating partnerships with individuals and institutions, FAMILY, Inc. connects educational, health care, economic, and other systems to collaboratively create healthy, safe, sustainable communities throughout the world.
For more information, please contact:
Tom Powers
Director of School Based Programs
617-474-1464
tom.powers@dotwell.org
For Families:
- Oliver Wendell Holmes?School, Larina Mehta 617-635-8773
- Joseph Lee School, Ellen Stonkus 617-635-8687
- SCI-Dorchester@ DotWell, Colin Hunt?617-740-2598
Generation Next Academy
Whether you need help academically, want to socialize with your friends, create an artistic masterpiece, dabble in technology, get advice from a peer leader or just want a cool place to hang out, the Teen Center is for you! The Teen Center also offers youth leadership development programs, mentoring and healthy lifestyles education, and recreation opportunities in the gym and pool. We provide a safe, fun and nurturing environment where you?ll feel supported in the pursuit of your dreams.? Thursdays are cooking and baking days, and Fridays we have Friday Fun Night with movies and field trips.
Location:
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center
1353 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Hours:
School Year Hours: Monday ? Friday, 2:00pm ? 6:00pm
Summer Hours: Monday ? Friday, 11:00am ? 6:00pm
For the Generation Next Academy schedule, please click here.
For the Generation Next Academy brochure, please click here.
For the Generation Next Academy flyer, please click here.
For more information, please contact :
Cheryl Brickey
Teen Programs Coordinator
617-740-2231
cheryl.brickey@dotwell.org
Dorchester Youth Council:
The Dorchester Youth Council is a diverse group of 12-18 year olds from Dorchester who work together to make a difference in the community. This group distributes mini-grants to other youth projects and implements various civic initiatives. Members attend leadership training and receive on-going support from adult advisors to coordinate the mini-grant process and address community issues that concern them. As community leaders, they also encourage their peers to become active citizens. Members develop practical skills, learn the importance of leadership and teamwork, and gain knowledge of community issues.
Academic and College and Career Preparation Support
Come receive educational and career support including help finding information on colleges, technical institutes, GED programs, filling out applications, filling out FAFSA paperwork, and applying for scholarships, in addition to help searching for jobs, filling out job applications, resume writing, and preparation for job interviews.
Date and Time:
Monday- Thursday 3:00 p.m.- 4:30 p.m.
(Fridays by appointment only)
The Generation Next Academy is also open Monday-Friday from 2:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m. for homework help.
Want to Learn more?
Check out the Generation Next Academy?s Web site on MyDorchester.org, ?like? them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter, or check them out on YouTube !
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Contact Us
DotWell
1452 Dorchester Avenue, 4th Floor
Dorchester, MA 02122?
Phone: 617-474-1442
Fax: 617-474-0465
Click here?for the contact information of specific program staff.
Departmental Directory
DotWell Department Directory:
| Department | Phone Number |
| Administration | 617-474-1457 |
| Civic Engagement | 617-822-8120 |
| Development/Fundraising/Public Relations/Communications | 617-474-1457 |
| Diabetes Initiative | 617-474-1405 |
| e-Blast/SCI Dorchester @ DotWell | 617-822-8297 |
| Evaluation Department | 617-474-1458 |
| Finance Department | ?617-474-1444 |
| HIV Program | 617-288-3230 |
| ? | ? |
| ? | ? |
| Policy Department | 617-740-2521 |
| Public Health Department | 617-474-1422 |
| School Based Programming | 617-474-1464 |
| Youth Programming | 617-740-2232 |
Partners:
| Codman Square Health Center | 617-825-9660 |
| Dorchester House Multi-Service Center | 617-288-3230 |
| HealthWorks | 617-825-2800 |
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