Open Sky is new name for merger of The Bridge and Alternatives

WORCESTER – There’s a new name for the organization born from the merger of two established human services agencies in the region: Open Sky Community Services.

Open Sky’s name and logo grew out of a branding task force made up of staff, board members and community members from both legacy organizations, Alternatives Unlimited Inc. and The Bridge of Central Massachusetts, organization representatives announced Wednesday. The group worked with Sturbridge-based Ideas Agency to develop the new brand.

The Bridge and Alternatives joined forces in July as one organization designed to offer an innovative and welcoming approach to supporting the community’s behavioral health and human service needs.

The Bridge, founded in Westboro in 1973, is known for providing clinical best-practice, evidence-based treatments and services to children, families and adults with a range of developmental and mental health challenges, autism, brain injury, substance use disorders and homelessness.

Alternatives, founded in 1976, serves adults with psychiatric or developmental disabilities. It has been in the forefront of connecting people its serves with the community and for promoting arts and culture as a means of bringing people and communities together.

“The dedicated and mission-driven staff of Open Sky Community Services are committed to helping people see beyond and live beyond the expectations that society and individuals place upon themselves,” Ken Bates, President and CEO of Open Sky Community Services, said in a news release.

“Our new brand exemplifies the passion and creativity of our employees and our dedication to do whatever it takes to support individuals and families as they strive toward growth, ultimately strengthening our communities.”

Open Sky Community Services has more than 100 programs throughout Central Massachusetts and is headquartered in Worcester. The former Alternatives headquarters in Whitinsville will remain a strong and vibrant hub for arts and culture and community integration, Mr. Bates said.

Open Sky Community Services celebrated the new organization and new brand with a day of food, fun, music and friendship at Wachusett Mountain on Wednesday.