August 23, 2025

My late uncle Mark was an avid golfer—though “avid” might be an understatement. I still remember, as a school-aged child and later in my teens and twenties, how his mood would lift with the first signs of spring. As soon as the snow began to melt—even if the golf courses weren’t officially open—he was ready, clubs in hand, just waiting to hear that first thwack of the season.

I never knew his handicap, and I couldn’t tell you which course was his favorite. What I do remember vividly is how happy he was to be on the course. And that joy was contagious. My aunt always said golf season was her favorite season, because my uncle was so happy.

Thinking back, I’m not sure it was only the game that made him so joyful. I suspect it was the camaraderie—the easy friendship of his foursome, the peace of being outside, and the mental break from running his business. Golf was his retreat, his therapy, and his joy.

I often think of my uncle as we prepare for our upcoming Envisioning Access Golf Classic on October 2 at Pinehills Golf Club. I do not doubt that if he were still with us, he’d already have his foursome lined up—and they’d probably be the group having the best time out at our tournament.

While our Golf Classic promises a spectacular day of play on one of the area’s most beautiful courses, it’s about more than the game. It’s about gathering a community of supporters who care deeply about innovation, inclusion, and accessibility. Attendees will also get a special inside look at some of the groundbreaking assistive technologies being developed through our collaborations with tech startups and university partners.

These innovations are at the heart of our mission—and our Envisioning Access Golf Classic is one of the key ways we make this work possible. Whether you're an experienced golfer or simply someone who believes in building a world where everyone can thrive, I hope you will join us either as a sponsor or as a golfer on October 2.

Be sure to visit our website for more information.

25 for 25—Honoring Alison Payne for

25 Years of Dedication and Love.

Twenty-five years ago, Alison Payne walked through our doors as a full-time employee—and she’s been the heart and soul of the Monkey Living Center ever since.

Honor Alison Today

Alison’s journey began with a dream: to work with primates. That passion led her to study animal behavior at Boston University and volunteer at our organization. In the spring of 2000, she met her first monkey, Tucker, who—as Alison says—“basically taught me how to be a monkey mom.”

Since then, many monkeys and countless people have been touched by Alison’s deep compassion, quiet leadership, and unwavering dedication. Whether she was giving baths, preparing meals, or simply sitting with one of her beloved companions, Alison gave her heart to every animal in her care.

“As the years went on, I would think my heart could not possibly expand any further—and along would come Lucy, Spike, Vicki, Johnny, and dozens of other precious friends to prove me wrong.”

— Alison Payne, Director of Monkey Care

Alison has given so much to this community. Now, it’s our turn.

To honor her 25 years of service, we’re launching a $25,000 campaign in her name—and proudly renaming the Monkey Living Center the Alison Payne Monkey Living Center.

Join us in celebrating Alison’s incredible legacy and supporting the monkeys she’s loved like family. Make a gift in honor of Alison’s 25 years.

Disability Corner

Enjoy two different articles this month. The first one is about assistive robots that can make you a meal!

The second one features adapting one’s environment to make it accessible for all!

But first, pizza: Team creates assistive robotics that can make you a meal

For the millions of Americans who live with a mobility issue, making a pizza can be a lot more challenging than just choosing between pepperoni or sausage. Now, Virginia Tech researchers have developed a robotic arm with novel assistive grippers that can help those with disabilities accomplish complex everyday tasks, including building a pizza..

Black woman in a wheelchair working on a laptop

Reframing disability

What do you think of when you think of disability? Someone in a wheelchair? Someone who is blind and has a cane? Whatever they look like, their impairment means life can be harder for them.

The fact that they don’t have use of their legs or eyesight is the reason they might struggle to get up and down stairs or read writing on a piece of paper.

But what if we told you that was only one way of thinking about disability, and there’s another reason those people struggle in certain situations — one that has much less to do with the fact they can’t walk or see?

The way many people view disability forces those living with it to work within the limitations of a world not designed for them. Could a shift in mindset help move the dial on inclusion?

Breaking Barriers on the Field and the Fairway: How People with Disabilities Are Shaping the Future of Soccer and Golf

Across the country, adaptive sports programs are redefining what’s possible for athletes with disabilities. Two sports in particular—soccer and golf—are seeing remarkable growth in participation, innovation, and public recognition. Whether it’s a fast-paced match on the pitch or a quiet moment on the green, these sports prove that talent, determination, and love of the game transcend physical limitations.

Why It Matters
Sports build community and confidence. They create belonging, purpose, and joy. When we invest in adaptive soccer and golf, we promote health and inclusion while spotlighting athletes who show what’s possible when barriers come down.

Read More

Hit the Fairway, Fuel the Mission!

The Envisioning Access Golf Classic

Thursday, October 2, 2025 | Pinehills Golf Club, Plymouth, MA

Swing Into Change

Grab your clubs and join us for the Envisioning Access Golf Classic on Thursday, October 2nd at Pinehills Golf Club in Plymouth, MA.

It’s more than just a round of golf—it’s a chance to connect with leaders, innovators, and advocates who are working to make the world more accessible.

What to expect:

18 holes on a championship course
Networking with business and community leaders
Contests, raffles, and prizes
A celebratory dinner & awards program

Details:

October 2, 2025
$250/Individual | $1000/Team
Four-Person Scramble | 18 Holes

Register Your Team Now or explore our Sponsorship Opportunities

Tee off with purpose—and be part of something bigger. Spots are limited—reserve yours today!