Our Mission
The mission of The Cambridge Program Friends (CPF) is to assist in funding the activities and programming of the Cambridge Recreation Program for Individuals with Special Needs.
About Us
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Cambridge Program Friends started several years ago with a small group of devoted parents with individuals attending the program. We formalized the group two years ago getting 501C3 status and becoming a charitable non-profit. We create inclusive fundraisers with a mission to provide greater opportunities to the eighty plus active participants of the Cambridge Program. We welcome new ideas and invite volunteerism!
If you'd like to learn more about us, please watch our YouTube video on the home page!
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Meet the Board
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Co-President: Nancy Grabowski
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Nancy is a lifelong Cantabridgian, who learned first hand from her parents the late Mayors Leonard and Sheila Russell the value of civic involvement. Nancy has been an advocate for individuals with special needs for the last 27 years. She lives with her husband Ed, and their sons Patrick and Timothy. Patrick has been attending the Cambridge Program for the last twelve years and has made many friends and enjoys every aspect of the program!
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Co-President: Judy Medeiros
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Retired MIT Administrator after 35 years. Long time and strong special needs advocate for Kristina (daughter) and Roseanne Medeiros (sister). Kristina has been part of the Cambridge Program Community for 20+ years and has made life long friendships. The importance of the Cambridge Program cannot be overstated. Community support is key in enriching the lives of the people the Cambridge Program serves.
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Treasurer: Philip Brzezinski
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Philip is a Zumba Instructor whose passion for movement and community shines just as brightly as his 18+ years of dedication to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. His journey into adaptive fitness began through a cherished friendship with Diane Ravin and her son, Mikey. Their warmth and connection opened the door to a new purpose: bringing the joy of Zumba to individuals with special needs.
After earning his Zumba Gold license, Philip began teaching for the Cambridge Program—and everything changed. He fell deeply in love with the experience of dancing alongside these incredible individuals whose spirit, enthusiasm, and authenticity touched him in a profound way. Each class became more than exercise; it became a source of joy, inspiration, and genuine human connection. Feeling called to give back even more, Philip sought greater involvement in the program. That passion ultimately led him to serve as Treasurer of the Cambridge Program Friends 503(c), where he continues to support a community that has truly captured his heart. |
Secretaries: Laura and Miguel Chavez
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We are Laura and Miguel Chavez, originally from México, living in Cambridge for over 20 years with our 2 kids and dog. Our son has attended The Cambridge Program since 2021 and especially enjoys the Special Olympics and Polar Plunge. We love to actively support and cheer at program events as a family.
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Board Members at Large
Diane Ravin
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Diane Ravin has worked in the medical field for the last 35 years. She lives in Melrose with her son Michael, who has been a Cambridge Program participant since 1999. Diane is invested in supporting the needs of this wonderful program. She is inspired by their enthusiasm along with the love & kindness they show one another. Community support enriches all of us as we grow together.
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Susan Nadworny
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Susan Nadworny is a lifelong advocate for individuals with disabilities and their families, helping to pass laws to advance support. She lives in Melrose with her husband John, and son James. James has been attending the Cambridge Program for the last ten years and loves every minute!
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Not pictured: AnnMarie Ryan, Gloretta Baynes Cook