ATW Site Directory
Guidance for Prospective Members, Parents, Guardians, and North Shore Donors
MEMBERSHIP, POLICIES & FILING QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Whether you are a parent or guardian exploring peer social networks for an adult family member, a prospective volunteer, or a donor verifying our 501(c)(3) tax records, this page answers the most common questions about Anchor to Windward, Inc.
For personal assistance, call our office at 781-990-3056 or email info@anchortowindward.org.
Core Safety & Eligibility Policy: As established in our club bylaws and member handbook, all Anchor to Windward facilities, passenger vans, and off-site excursions are 100% smoke-free, alcohol-free, and drug-free at all times.
Membership Eligibility, Age Range & Safety Policies
1. Who is eligible to join the Anchor to Windward Social Club?
Anchor to Windward serves high-functioning adults between the ages of 20 and 60 with developmental or intellectual disabilities who live independently or with family across Marblehead, Salem, Swampscott, Beverly, Lynn, Peabody, Danvers, and neighboring North Shore communities. Applicants must be able to manage personal self-care independently and participate respectfully in group settings.
2. Why does ATW enforce a strict 100% smoke-free, alcohol-free, and drug-free policy?
From our earliest archived schedule in 2011, ATW has stated in bold print: “Reminder: Anchor to Windward is a smoke, alcohol and drug free environment.” This policy ensures a healthy, predictable, and welcoming harbor for every member inside 74 Atlantic Avenue, inside our passenger vans, and during weekend trips.
3. How much do Friday night events and Saturday outings cost?
Annual Social Club membership dues cover most Friday evening programs at 74 Atlantic Avenue, including Friday Movie Night (free for members; $10 for approved guests) and Drop-In Game Night. For Saturday excursions such as Salem Willows, members bring approximately $20 for their own lunch and arcade games, while cinema or museum outings typically require $10 to $20 for tickets and snacks.
4. Are scholarships available if a member or family cannot afford annual dues?
Yes. Through a longstanding partnership with the Marblehead Female Humane Society and individual memorial gifts, ATW offers confidential partial and full membership scholarships. Please note scholarship requests when submitting your application to P.O. Box 813, Marblehead, MA 01945.
Facilities, Addresses, Transportation & Historical Relocation
5. Why do you list both 74 Atlantic Avenue and P.O. Box 813 in Marblehead?
74 Atlantic Avenue, Marblehead, MA 01945 is our physical ground-floor activity center, teaching kitchen, backyard patio, and administrative office (directly across from Star of the Sea Church). P.O. Box 813, Marblehead, MA 01945 is our permanent U.S. Postal Service box used for IRS Form 990-EZ correspondence, tax-deductible donation checks, and mailed membership applications.
6. What happened to the former office at 600 Loring Avenue in Salem (Vinnin Square)?
Prior to November 2011, ATW rented basement office space at 600 Loring Avenue, Salem, MA 01970 (telephone
978-740-0013). In late October 2011, a severe nor'easter flooded that basement with four feet of water, destroying 95% of ATW's supplies. Led by President Judy Jacobi, Executive Director Pam Foye, and volunteer families, ATW relocated in four days to 74 Atlantic Avenue, Marblehead on November 1, 2011.7. How does passenger van transportation work for weekend excursions?
ATW maintains tworeserved parking spaces at 74 Atlantic Avenue for our passenger vans. Members either meet at 74 Atlantic Avenue prior to departure or arrange designated North Shore pickup points verified in advance via telephone (781-990-3056).
8. Do ATW members work at local businesses in Marblehead and the North Shore?
Yes. Many ATW members hold steady part-time or full-time positions with supportive community employers highlighted in our 2012 archival chronicle, including Crosby's Market (led by Paul Crosby), the North Shore YMCA, and National Grand Bank.
IRS 501(c)(3) Governance, Financial Filings & Website Privacy
9. Does Anchor to Windward receive funding from the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS)?
No. Anchor to Windward operates independently of state or federal agency funding. Our annual budget (reported on IRS Form 990-EZ as $77,014 in revenue and $179,872 in net assets for tax year 2025) is sustained by private donations, community grants, and family dues.
10. Do Board Officers or Directors receive any salary or compensation?
No. Every Officer and Director — including President Charles T. Ball, Vice President Andrew Christensen, Treasurer William Miller, and Secretary Carol Marotta — serves on a 100% volunteer basis with $0 compensation verified on Part IV of IRS Form 990-EZ.
Marblehead Landmarks
Across the Street: Our Lady Star of the Sea Church on Atlantic Avenue, landmark neighbor to ATW Headquarters.
