A Place for Exceptional Women
Our Mission:
Riverbrook empowers women with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead enviable adult lives.
At Riverbrook, women with intellectual and developmental disabilities are empowered to lead enviable adult lives. Riverbrook is a true community, where women with a wide range of developmental disabilities are encouraged to reach their full potential.
“As you admire the majesty of the setting and open the front door, you enter into the life of a unique community. Each woman, with her own poignant history, has found a place in this warm home as she pursues a full and meaningful life.”
–Joan Burkhard, Founder
WELCOME TO RIVERBROOK
As you open the front door, you enter into the life of a unique community. Light spills from the arched heights of a two-story window as women are purposefully engaged in the daily upkeep of their home. The morning begins with the chores of preparing breakfast, washing the night’s sleep away, and straightening rumpled beds. The women gather laundry, play radios and exchange gossip. Someone comforts a friend who is worried about a sick parent, and another reports that a lost sweater is found. These are ordinary occurrences in the daily life at Riverbrook.
Yet a quick glance around reveals that the ordinary routine in this setting is actually quite extraordinary. Each of these women has had a lifelong struggle learning to do these routine tasks. Each has been loved by families who cheered at every achievement, who understood the effort involved in moving towards each developmental milestone.
They have come to Riverbrook with unique experiences and a range of diagnoses and other forms of intellectual disability. Yet these diverse women have all found a place in this exceptional community.
HISTORY
ESTABLISHED IN 1957, Riverbrook is the oldest all-women residence in the Northeast. Riverbrook is a model of care for women with Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Vision and Hearing Impairments and other developmental challenges. The program is housed in a gracious historic mansion which began its life as a “Berkshire Cottage.” Designed by architect George deGersdorff and finished around 1912, Riverbrook was the lavish summer home of renowned painter and stained glass artist Frederic Crowninshield, whose son, Frank, was the first editor of Vanity Fair. In the early 1990’s, Riverbrook’s first Executive Director Joan Burkhard purchased the property and began the work of expanding the program into the model of care that it has become. Riverbrook Residence Inc. was incorporated as a non-profit in 1996.
LOCATION
RESIDENTS LIVE on an estate of great natural beauty, in a large and gracious house built for an artist at the turn of the 20th century and the detached semi-independent living cottage. The grounds feature vegetable and flower gardens designed to be accessible to disabled gardeners, as well as an in-ground swimming pool, and many outdoor spots to sit and enjoy the spectacular views. The neighbors are artists, business owners, retirees, and town employees; their quiet neighborhood on Ice Glen is a natural wonder and a destination for hikers from around the world. The quaint, thriving town of Stockbridge and the whole of the Berkshires beyond forms a welcoming backdrop for the business of everyday life, from banking and library errands to dinner out and a night at the theater.
Natural & Cultural Resources
- Skiing at Butternut
- Dance Performances at Jacob’s Pillow
- Concerts at Tanglewood
- Hiking at Monument Mountain
- Historical Museums
- Theater at Shakespeare & Company
- Yoga at Kripalu
Is your family ready for Riverbrook? Learn More →
STAFF
RIVERBROOK BOASTS A STABLE STAFF with some staff members with us for over 20 years, and several approaching the 15-year mark. The women benefit from this level of support, safety and stability rare in residential and day programs for people with disabilities. Riverbrook’s administrative offices are located on-site, so program administrators are present and active in the daily lives of the women they serve.
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Rebecca Amuso WendellExecutive Director -
Lynn CicconeClinical Program Director -
Colleen PowersDay Program Director -
Ruth HanleyISP & Human Resources Manager -
Karen CarlottoController -
Tammy KalinowskiResidential Supervisor -
Joan BurkhardFounder
Rebecca holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Service Management from the University of Massachusetts. She also completed a graduate certificate program at Clark University in Not-for-Profit Management. Rebecca first began her career at Riverbrook Residence in 1998 at the age of 20 years old as a direct care staff. In 2005 she took on the role of Day Program Coordinator. In 2012, she moved into the position of Program Director. Rebecca earned her RN at Berkshire Community College in 2013 with the goal of offering a more holistic approach to providing care to Riverbrook’s residents.
“The personal growth that I have experienced as a part of the Riverbrook community is immeasurable. I know irrefutably that I would not be the same person I am today had I not been embraced by the many loving people at Riverbrook Residence. I am deeply grateful on a daily basis that I am given the opportunity to do work that I know makes an enormous difference in the lives of the others and my own. It truly is a gift.”
Lynn Ciccone RN holds a bachelor of science in nursing with honors from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She is board certified in psychiatric mental health nursing and comes to Riverbrook Residence after eighteen years at Berkshire Health Systems. Lynn resides in Canaan, NY with her husband, Henry Ciccone.
“There is a philosophy of kindness and compassion that permeates Riverbrook. You feel it the moment you walk through the doors. The staff is committed to working together to make each day a “best day.” In turn, the residents support each other. This dynamic creates an extraordinary quality of life and opportunity for each woman to feel safe, secure and supported in exploring her fullest potential. It is a privilege to be included in the process.”
Colleen comes to Riverbrook following 14 years working with Easter Seals New Hampshire. She began her career there as a Job Placement Specialist, and upon obtaining her Master of Science degree in Human Service Organization and Management in 2010, became Easter Seals NH’s Director of Workforce Development. Colleen specializes in helping people with disabilities seek and maintain paid employment, and her background trained her to match the resident’s interests and aptitudes with specifically carved out positions within the community. Colleen believes that “anyone who wants to work, should and can work,” and the Berkshires community has responded enthusiastically with over ten employment sites in the region at any given time.
Ruth has been working with people with developmental disabilities since 1995 and has been Riverbrook’s Human Rights Officer since 2002. She has had extensive training in this field through the Department of Developmental Services. Ruth is very passionate about human rights and says that watching the women advocate for themselves is her favorite part of her job.
As the Individual Support Plan (ISP) Manager, Ruth works closely with the women’s DDS caseworker and their parents and guardians to ensure that the women’s wishes are heard and respected. She reminds the residents that this is their life and they should make as many decisions about it as they are able to, and that family and staff are always there to help when needed.
Ruth also participates in Shared Living with one of the women living in her home and attending day classes at Riverbrook. Her little farm in West Stockbridge is a Community Supported Agriculture sight with organic veggies and flowers available Spring through Fall.
As Controller, Karen sees to all of Riverbrook’s day-to-day monetary needs, as well as accounting and financial reporting. She comes to us after 8 years as the Accounting Manager at the nearby Option Institute, but long-time Berkshire residents might remember her from her tenure as the manager of Gatsby’s, a popular store on Railroad St. in Great Barrington. Karen loves working with numbers and enjoys interacting with the Riverbrook women as she assists them with their funds. She and her husband, Andy, live in Housatonic with their two bunnies, Reuben and Bentley.
Tammy has worked at Riverbrook since 2006 and is our Residential Supervisor – a job she was born for! Tammy knows where everything is and what everyone needs. She says the most satisfying part of her job is just being with the women and helping with their everyday challenges. She celebrates every accomplishment with them and says their smiles are priceless. When not at Riverbrook, Tammy enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, Selyna and Cameron.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
AS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION, Riverbrook’s success is guided by a deeply committed Board of Directors who come from across the United States to assure the program’s long-term viability. The board includes resident and family representation, local business expertise, and leadership in the fields of nursing, special education, financial management and more. Ever mindful of the needs of our residents, board members are frequent visitors and we are grateful for their generous spirits.
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Jackie Stores IovienoChair -
Lynn BarryVice Chair -
Ron FontanaBoard Treasurer -
Max ScherffSecretary -
Susan BoothResident Board Member -
Ann C. Jones, Esq.Board Member -
Chris HamickBoard Member -
Jorja MarsdenBoard Member -
Charlotte Rodgers RN, MA, CCMBoard Member -
Jeremy RidenourBoard Member -
Michael Sternick, Esq.Board Member -
Lorita TromblyBoard Member
Jackie Stores Iovieno
Chair Since 2022, Board Member Since 2019
Jackie is a clinical psychologist who has been practicing in Berkshire County for over 20 years. She has a general practice and treats adults, children, families, and couples for almost any psychological or life struggle. She’s currently training to be a Designated Forensic Psychologist, evaluating defendants who have mental health issues for competence to stand trial, insanity defenses, and aid in sentencing, amongst other things.
Jackie served on the Riverbrook Human Rights Committee for over 8 years before joining the Board of Directors in 2019. “Riverbrook is a very special place and I would welcome the opportunity to continue to serve this community of special women.”
Jackie describes herself as a happy (overscheduled and maddeningly Type A!), married, mother of three awesome kids. She and her husband, John, have somehow managed to keep them alive and happy and reap the benefits of watching them do amazing things every day. Sam, her sweet (but naughty) guy, has Down Syndrome. He has been, hands-down, the greatest “pleasant surprise” of her life. He is an advocate, an example, and an inspiration to many, especially to his family. He is also in trouble most every day. Jackie says, “trust me when I say the Vice Principal at his middle school has us on speed dial.” Despite all of this, his family adores him, and are eternally grateful for the happiness and laughter he brings to their daily lives. “He’s hysterical!”
Vice Chair Since 2019, Board Member Since 2013
Born and raised in the Berkshires, Lynn graduated from UMASS with a degree in Finance and a Minor in Economics. After a long career in the banking industry, she joined Iredale Cosmetics as the Assistant Controller. She and Bill, her husband of 34 years, live in Housatonic, and are the parents of two grown children. Lynn and Bill love to boat, golf, travel and garden. A job change and her younger child leaving for college prompted Lynn to join the Riverbrook board. “I felt very lucky and wanted to give back to a meaningful organization”, says Lynn. “I spent the better part of the last year learning and listening as this world was all new to me. Gradually, I began to get more engaged and now find myself as the VP!! I love the organization and the vibe of Riverbrook. The ladies are great, as are the families that I have met.”
Board Member Since 2016, Currently Treasurer
Ron is a former General Electric Capital Corporation Sr. Risk Executive who was responsible for the risk management function of its equipment finance businesses. These businesses specialized in providing equipment loans and leases to middle market companies for growth, acquisitions and turnarounds. Ron had risk oversight of Corporate Finance Leasing as well as the Rail Services, Fleet, Canada and Mexico platforms.
After 23 years with GE Capital, Ron became a founding partner of Encina Equipment Finance, a mid-market equipment leasing and finance company headquartered in Westport, CT.
Ron’s 30 years of experience in finance, accounting and risk management help Riverbrook’s management to finance its operations, invest its reserves and properly account for its books and records. In addition, Ron’s experience in managing large, complex organizations gives Riverbrook insights into its own management philosophy.
Ron attended Fairleigh Dickinson University and graduated with a B.S. degree in Finance and Economics. He received his M.B.A. from the University of Colorado, Boulder.
Ron lives in Stockbridge Massachusetts with his wife Nancy. They have two children including Kelsey, who is a Riverbrook Resident.
Max has been in the hospitality industry for 25 years, and is currently the General Manager of the Red Lion Inn. His career has taken him to cities across the country – from San Francisco to Washington D.C., and from iconic brands such as Fairmont, Starwood and Omni Hotels.
In addition to his role at Riverbrook, Max also serves on the board as the Secretary for the Stockbridge Sportsman’s Club, and volunteers with CATA. He and his wife live in Lenox along with three cats and two German Shepherds.
Max is a strong advocate for those with special needs and disabilities, and is truly honored to support the mission of Riverbrook.
Susan Booth
Resident Board Member Since 2019
Susan, affectionately known as “Boothie,” arrived at Riverbrook in 1963 at the age of 13. She is somewhat of an ambassador in Stockbridge. Everywhere she goes, people recognize her. She leads a very active and enriching life. For more than 25 years, she has worked at the Marion Helpers, an internationally-recognized organization right here in town. She’s also involved with Riverbrook on Main sewing, knitting, making coasters, Christmas ornaments, jewelry and sachets, delivering mail to town officials, and selling flowers from our abundant gardens. She volunteers in a Special Needs classroom, and gardens with a local landscaper. Boothie is a master knitter and puzzle maker. Gardening, swimming, walking, painting, and playing Mahjong and Solitaire bring her great joy. She maintains friendships with three pen pals, and is a member of a local church. Boothie’s family includes her sister, brother-in-law, nieces, and great nieces.
Ann C. Jones, Esq.
Board Member Since 2015
Ann is a lawyer, and recently retired after having served thirty-two years as a staff attorney at the Massachusetts Appeals Court. She previously was a board member of the Arc of Massachusetts and the Minute Man Arc.
Ann and her husband, Gary Monserud, have three daughters, two of whom have cognitive disabilities. Their oldest daughter, Josephine, has been a resident at Riverbrook since 2005. When the family initially visited Riverbrook, they were struck by the sense of community and caring that permeates the environment. “We knew that it would suit Josephine, and it does.”
She continues to appreciate the opportunity to serve on the Riverbrook Board with dedicated board members who are intent on preserving the Riverbrook tradition of excellence.
Christopher Hamick
Board Member Since 2009
Chris’ career in business spans over 25 years and has taken him across multiple industries. In each of these, he has developed a strong track record of leadership and business acumen. He has created, grown and sold companies in a variety of industries, including financial services, adtech, information services, and higher education. Chris earned a B.S. from Union College, Schenectady NY.
Chris’ sister has been a resident at Riverbrook since 1997.
Jorja Marsden
Board Member Since 2023
Jorja has lived in Stockbridge her entire life. She is retired Town Administrator from the Town of Stockbridge after 31 plus years where she met many of the exceptional women of Riverbrook. She continues supporting the Town and community by serving on the Historic Preservation Commission and the Finance Committee. Currently, she serves as the Senior Warden of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Stockbridge. Jorja was honored when she was asked to serve on the board of Riverbrook and looks forward to being an advocate for these exceptional, talented, and caring women.
Charlotte Rodgers RN, MA, CCM
Board Member Since 2012
Jeremy Ridenour, PsyD, ABPP
Board Member Since 2023
Jeremy is a clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst who works at the Austen Riggs Center in Stockbridge. At Riggs, he serves as the Director of Psychological Testing and conducts research on personality functioning and writes papers about how to treat people experiencing psychosis. Throughout his career, he has had a strong interest in helping people who suffer from severe mental health challenges by understanding their problems in a non-stigmatizing manner.
In 2016, he began volunteering at Riverbrook with a fellow church member through The First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, of Stockbridge to lead the Spiritual Group. For the past seven years, he has met with the women of Riverbrook every other week to help deepen their spiritual connections. This has been a deeply meaningful experience that has not only enriched his faith but has strengthened his interest in helping those with intellectual disabilities and understanding their unique experiences. On a more personal level, Jeremy has loved getting to know the women at Riverbrook and it inspired him to want to get involved in other ways to help serve the organization.
Michael A. Sternick
Board Member 1996, 2014 – Present
Michael is Partner at Flores, Sternick, Poosikian, L.L.C. Attorneys at Law. He received his Juris Doctor degree from Rutgers University School of Law and has been in active practice for over fifty years. His bar admissions include New Jersey, New York, Texas, United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, and the United States Supreme Court. Michael and his wife, Sarah, have three grown children. His daughter is a resident at Riverbrook.
Lorita Trombly
Board Member Since 2011
Lorita Trombly is a Branch Manager for Lee Bank’s main office in Lee, Massachusetts. She has over 35 years of financial, management and customer service experience. Her vast knowledge in the industry enables her to assist customers with their personal and business banking needs.
Lorita is proud and fortunate to live and work in such a great community here in the Berkshires. She understands the importantance of community involvement, being a member of other local organizations and always looking forward to meeting new people and lending a helping hand where needed. Lorita enjoys spending time with family, working in her gardens, and taking walks around her hometown of Lee.
As a board member for the last six years, Lorita is committed to the success of Riverbrook and ensuring that residents have the assistance and programs available to lead a safe, happy and fulfilled life.
Rebecca Amuso Wendell
Rebecca holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Service Management from the University of Massachusetts. She also completed a graduate certificate program at Clark University in Not-for-Profit Management. Rebecca first began her career at Riverbrook Residence in 1998 at the age of 20 years old as a direct care staff. In 2005 she took on the role of Day Program Coordinator. In 2012, she moved into the position of Program Director. Rebecca earned her RN at Berkshire Community College in 2013 with the goal of offering a more holistic approach to providing care to Riverbrook’s residents.
“The personal growth that I have experienced as a part of the Riverbrook community is immeasurable. I know irrefutably that I would not be the same person I am today had I not been embraced by the many loving people at Riverbrook Residence. I am deeply grateful on a daily basis that I am given the opportunity to do work that I know makes an enormous difference in the lives of the others and my own. It truly is a gift.”
Lynn Ciccone
Lynn Ciccone RN holds a bachelor of science in nursing with honors from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She is board certified in psychiatric mental health nursing and comes to Riverbrook Residence after eighteen years at Berkshire Health Systems. Lynn resides in Canaan, NY with her husband, Henry Ciccone.
“There is a philosophy of kindness and compassion that permeates Riverbrook. You feel it the moment you walk through the doors. The staff is committed to working together to make each day a “best day.” In turn, the residents support each other. This dynamic creates an extraordinary quality of life and opportunity for each woman to feel safe, secure and supported in exploring her fullest potential. It is a privilege to be included in the process.”
Colleen Powers
Colleen comes to Riverbrook following 14 years working with Easter Seals New Hampshire. She began her career there as a Job Placement Specialist, and upon obtaining her Master of Science degree in Human Service Organization and Management in 2010, became Easter Seals NH’s Director of Workforce Development. Colleen specializes in helping people with disabilities seek and maintain paid employment, and her background trained her to match the resident’s interests and aptitudes with specifically carved out positions within the community. Colleen believes that “anyone who wants to work, should and can work,” and the Berkshires community has responded enthusiastically with over ten employment sites in the region at any given time.
Ruth Hanley
Ruth has been working with people with developmental disabilities since 1995 and has been Riverbrook’s Human Rights Officer since 2002. She has had extensive training in this field through the Department of Developmental Services. Ruth is very passionate about human rights and says that watching the women advocate for themselves is her favorite part of her job.
In 2008, Ruth was excited to also take on the role of Human Resource Manager through courses with the Associated Industries of Massachusetts. When not at Riverbrook, Ruth can be found volunteering for Double Dog Rescue where she is a foster Mom for homeless dogs. The Riverbrook ladies love to meet the dogs and often help choose which home they should be adopted to. Ruth is always touched by their ability to look beyond their own limitations in order to help others.
Karen Carlotto
As Controller, Karen sees to all of Riverbrook’s day-to-day monetary needs, as well as accounting and financial reporting. She comes to us after 8 years as the Accounting Manager at the nearby Option Institute, but long-time Berkshire residents might remember her from her tenure as the manager of Gatsby’s, a popular store on Railroad St. in Great Barrington. Karen loves working with numbers and enjoys interacting with the Riverbrook women as she assists them with their funds. She and her husband, Andy, live in Housatonic with their two bunnies, Reuben and Bentley.
Tammy Kalinowski
Tammy has worked at Riverbrook since 2006 and is our new Residential Supervisor – a job she was born for! Tammy knows where everything is and what everyone needs. She says the most satisfying part of her job is just being with the women and helping with their everyday challenges. She celebrates every accomplishment with them and says their smiles are priceless. When not at Riverbrook, Tammy enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, Selyna and Cameron.
Joan Burkhard
Our Mission:
Riverbrook empowers women with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead enviable adult lives.