“The NACA program in Boston is an excellent resource for individuals and families looking to achieve homeownership. The program provides comprehensive financial counseling, education, and support throughout the home-buying process. What makes NACA unique is its focus on affordability, including no down payment, no closing costs, and competitive mortgage terms for qualified buyers.”
“Beautiful light displays are set throughout the historic estate grounds (The Bradley Estate). The signage is clear and makes the route easy to follow. The walk through the entire display takes about 40 minutes, so plan accordingly. Restrooms are limited to portable facilities only, so it’s best not to drink too much water beforehand.”
“Affordable stay, especially considering the historic location of Boston's North End. A short walk to North Station as well. Great breakfast and the chef was very friendly.”
“completed the jewelry 101 course. Fantastic instructor who led us through a series of steps learning the correct techniques on every tool in the Artisan's Asylum jewelry shop. We completed a ring (which my wife liked) over the two day 6 hour course. I have had some previous experience but this was an excellent learning process that taught me many things that improved my skills. Highly recommend taking this learning journey!! Great value for your money.”
“A wild, vibrant neighborhood institution at the intersection of community, culture, and organizing. A truly inviting, down-to-earth community space with thoughtful programming that walks the talk. The beating, honking, dancing heart of Jamaica Plain.”
“I recently dined at the Lithuanian Kitchen, located within the South Boston Lithuanian Citizens’ Association, and it was a delightful experience. As someone of Lithuanian descent, the traditional dishes served here truly felt like comfort food, reminiscent of family gatherings. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the community. While the kitchen operates with limited hours, typically open on select Sundays, it’s well worth planning a visit. The authenticity and quality of the food make it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a taste of Lithuanian cuisine in Boston.”
“Really like this Y! Membership comes with two free personal training sessions and I've had a great experience working with one of their trainers, Miguel. He's very dynamic and has given me a lot of new exercises I can repeat on my own at home or at the gym.”
“The gym itself has lots of features like a weight room, yoga room, sauna, pool, and locker rooms. The weight room is a little small. Usually have to wait for equipment during busy times. You must check the pool schedule before using the pool, because swim lessons and swim team take up the entire pool for a couple hours every day.This gym is safe for all. I am trans, and it has never been acknowledged, even in the locker rooms. I’ve never received stares in the weight room, and the other regulars are very nice.The staff here are really great. I’ve had a couple problems with my account and they’ve been nothing but kind and resourceful trying to help. They’re personable and friendly to their regulars. I came with a friend who had a medical emergency in the weight room, they were quick to help.The hours of operation are slim, closing at 4pm on the weekends, that being said they have the most flexible hours out of the ones my membership applies to.Between the hours of 2:30-5:30 on weekdays, the weight room is PACKED with young kids, ages 10-14. Although the gym has youth hours available, they aren’t enforced, and nothing about the safety or staffing of the weight room changes during them. They spend a long time sitting on machines they aren’t using on their phones, physically fight each other in the weight room, or even hurt themselves (I’ve had to save a very young kid after a dropping barbell on himself without a spotter). This gym is very unsafe for children who go alone, and the presence of unsupervised kids under the age of 14 is very awkward for the adults trying to get their workout in. It’s a matter of time before a kid severely injures themselves, they shouldn’t be allowed in there without adult supervision.”
“Great place to find gently used furniture and dishes. Also has things like windows, doors, appliances. It's the luck of the draw though. Sort of like an expensive Goodwill”
7AM - 4:30PM
60 Pond Ln, Arlington
Community Services Non Profits
“All I can say is in the 60's, this was the place to go. They had sailboats, row boats, all kinds of stuff to do. I rode my bike there from somerville. I think the guy running the sailing ⛵️ program name was sully? Maybe. You had to pass and get a sailing certificate first. I can't believe that place is still there.”
“This a must visit location. Take your time and attend all the sessions. Edward Kennedy left his legacy in this building. The staff members are so professional and knowledgeable.”
“Great place for a great cause. This non-profit helps children receive all necessary clothing and hygiene products. During the summer time, they prepare school backpacks full of school supplies. Many options to be involved, by donating or volunteering.”
Open 24 hours
246 Walnut St #103, Newton
Community Services Non Profits
“It was a pleasure working with such a wonderful team of dedicated, knowledgeable and caring people as we went through the adoption processes for each of our two sons. Highly recommend this agency!”
“Beautiful gallery and event space that is bright, great audio visual setup and amazing staff to work with. Definitely drop by for a visit or come to their community events.”
“Historic playhouse with a larger theater and smaller black box space. The folding chairs in the latter can be uncomfortable - consider laying down a sweater or bring a cushion for longer plays.”
“What a wonderful place. I raised and collected clothing,hygiene products, diapers, formula and shoes for the children and families on the border unfortunately because of COVID I wasn't allowed to come. I heard about Caties Closet and donated all the children and adult clothing what a wonderful thoughtful charity Caties is. Growing up poor i wish I had a place like this. Thank you all for doing what you do❤❤❤❤”
“I’ve been going to YMCa for over 20 years believe it or not and the staff is getting better as the years go by! They’re very helpful very polite very respectful. Therefore, the energy is positive all the time. The fitness director is amazing. She puts her all into the work, she puts her heart and soul into each member as far as my speculation the director is a gentleman and a scholar assistance Director is extremely polite The cleaning crew is absolutely amazing. The majority of them from our from Brazil all due respect to them! The front desk is always been helpful to me..”
“Rented a row boat for an hour.
Al and Keelan were friendly and helpful! The life jackets were in excellent condition and they had little kids' sizes.”
“TCC is a hidden gem that ought to be replicated throughout. I rarely write reviews but TCC deserves my time. Our original daycare called us 4 weeks prior to our start date telling us that they had to delay our start by a month. At that point, my wife and I had just about used up all of our leave.
In the midst of exhaustively panic-dialing every child care center between Metrowest and Boston, I reached TCC and was greeted by a dedicated admin and one of the directors of the center who, after pleading my case for what felt like the millionth time, was able slot our first born in with no interruption our family’s plan to return to work.
But leaving your child with teachers who initially feel like strangers, is scary. We were glad in no time our child was making friends, exploring new things and developing so well! It’s apparent the teachers care for the children with their entire heart and soul. They know when your child’s having good days or bad days and whether they’re off and probably even why.
Fast forward two years, our first born became a big sister 10 weeks early. Despite all the associated craziness going on at home at the time, TCC was a rock for her and the constant she was able to count on. The teachers were so understanding and made a chaotic time much easier.
When our second child was ready to start school, at this point developmentally earlier, we had no reservations. We knew she was going to be a super star like her big sister.
It’s with my rare recommendation that I say your children can be super stars too. It’s from our observations that the individual classrooms are usually staffed better than the state-mandated ratios. This is important because we think this helps the teachers give your children the attention they deserve and it also keeps them from getting burned out.
Another thing is to take your child’s evaluations to heart. We found that the teacher’s observations were usually in line with what we observed at home. Collaborate, coordinate, and try to reinforce what they are doing at school and you will see quickly see changes in your child. We once got a term-paper of various things we can try for our child’s development after we were promised just a “few notes” during an assessment!
We cannot overemphasis how much it shows that entire center cares and loves the children and wants them to reach their fullest potential.”
“A VFW post that exceeds all expectations of what a post should be and represent. Great staff and members. I highly recommend stopping there if you're ever in the Boston area.”
“The membership Director is amazing and so friendly. She goes out of her way to make everyone feel comfortable and welcomed. Lauren Lundin makes the Y in Charlestown truly a family atmosphere.”
12:30 - 3:30PM
30 Undine Rd, Brighton
Community Services Non Profits
“This was where I adopted my cat 10 years ago! We definitely made the right choice in adopting him.
Assuming the rules have stayed the same, if you want a kitten you have to get 2 so that they keep each other company.
No kill shelter! Staff lovingly care for the cats”
“Can someone please tell me if Peggy Perry still works there. She was so wonderful when I used to be there years ago. Loved this place and seen a picture that reminded me of her is why I ask. Just wanna know if she is ok.”
“This is an amazing foundation for support for us in the footware industry...lost my job due to a tropical storm that made my location closed down and they were quick to assist once my application was submitted...highly recommend giving them a try!”
“Bustling, lots of energy. Tons of enthusiastic people who love to share ideas. My first time here, but it won't be the last. What a fantastic idea. Thanks to all who make it happen!”
“One of the best urban meditation centers in the vipassana tradition. Kind staff, beautiful building, and welcoming community.
Larry, Narayan, and Michael are incredibly knowledgeable, genuine — and human. Larry Rosenberg was one of my favorite teachers — in any spiritual tradition. He’s that rare combination of incredibly funny and blunt — and genuinely caring.
CIMC offers a variety of programming, from drop-in meditation sessions, to Wednesday evening talks, to affinity programs for various communities — to daylong in-center retreats.
The building housing the center is absolutely gorgeous. It’s traditional and stately — while remaining cozy and welcoming. The surrounding wooden fence and gardens give the impression of being in a Japanese monastery.
Beautiful place and great people. I highly recommend it!”
“Most things that are important is when your kids remember the teachers and staff as they grow up and due to their engagement of who they are as individuals allows young people to be inspired in many ways....all my children that went enjoy it and still have memories of great times and great people one thing for sure Bruce is miss, leaving us during pandemic so we say R.I.P never forgotten”
“I can’t recommend BILT enough to families in need of services. Christina and her staff show so much compassion towards the individuals and take the time to come up with a plan specifically geared towards the family and individual’s needs. I’ve been to many fundraising events and the energy, passion, and care they put into everything they do is very inspiring!”
“Gallery with a great range of art from emerging artists! They have a really sweet and passionate staff and a super rich history, worth checking out if you’re into Boston history and art history, really fascinating back story”
“The current Senior Execute Director, Christina Ohlson, cares about the community and ensuring all the residents receive excellent care! I would highly recommend Boylston Place!”