Derry, NH November 11, 2024

The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is offering an after school creative series for teens ages 13-18. Expressions! Is a group that meets Wednesdays from 3 – 4 pm and provides a place for teens to come together, through creative expression thus the name of the group.   Students are involved in artistic activities, and a place to be with other teens who want to connect after school and have a little fun, with a supportive staff facilitator. Students can walk from school and do a little homework or have a snack before the group starts.

“My goal is to help teens find new constructive outlets to express themselves.” shared Camden Tillinghast, former Facilitator and UNH Graduate-Level Occupational Therapy Intern. “We are happy to offer this creative alternative for teens, where students can connect to other teens in a safe environment, “states Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director. This group offers a fun space for teens, and invites teens to help create the next set of projects!   

The program is completely FREE, and all supplies are included. 

To register for the group call 603-437-8477 x 116.   

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service, and help all who come to our center seeking support. For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org 

For other press-related inquiries, please contact Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director 603-437-8477 or bguggisberg@urteachers.org

Derry, NH November 11, 2024

The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center in Derry is offering 2 classes on “Managing Challenging Behaviors” a parenting workshop on child development and understanding children’s behavior. This class is facilitated by Melinda Mackenzie and Maria McKenna.  Parents and caregivers can discuss strategies for challenges in their child’s behavior and look at ideas that may curb conflict, through communication, and when there may be a need for additional support or assessments.    This workshop is FREE and invites anyone caring for children 5 to 12 years old to participate.  

An in person class will be held December 4 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at The Upper Room 36 Tsienneto Road, Derry, and a Virtual Class will be held December 11,2024 6:00 – 8:00 PM virtually.   Call 603-437-8477 x 110 to register for a class.     

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service, and help all who come to our center seeking support. For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org 

For other press-related inquiries, please contact  Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director 603-437-8477 or bguggisberg@urteachers.org

Derry, NH November 11, 2024

The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center in Derry is pleased to share that it’s most recent fundraiser was a successful event, thanks to a list of sponsors and donors who made the event possible.  A packed house , with great silent and live items for guests to bid on, helped the Nashville themed event become a success. Sponsors included: An Angel donor, Tupelo, Concord Nissan, Alexander Eastman Foundation, The Renfrew Family, Enterprise Bank, Rig A Tonys, Eastern Bank, Dunkins, Royal T Car Wash, Derry Village Rotary, Triangle Credit Union, Broadway Chiropractic, Doug Rathburn Photography, xo Custom Cookies, Minuteman press and LED Lighting.    

226 people attended the event, and helped raise money to provide funds to support the 18 programs and services the agency hosts.  

“This event brings our community together, and helps The Upper Room, raise funds which support the agency in it’s efforts.   These dollars may be directed at specific programs or fund an unmet need identified by the staff or community”, states Brenda Guggisberg Executive Director.    “We are beyond excited about the event, and thankful that our Auction Committee, and Board continue to make this a priority.  A special thanks goes to Bill Burke who makes this event a favorite among guests! His energy and enthusiasm is deeply appreciated by us all here at The Upper Room.” Guggisberg shares.

Donations included items for silent bid, trips, parties, and event a 5000$ home improvement item for bid from DeFrancesco.     The Upper Room will host it’s 24th Annual Event November 7, 2025 at Tupelo Music Hall in Derry.

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service, and help all who come to our center seeking support. For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org 

For other press-related inquiries, please contact  Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director 603-437-8477 or bguggisberg@urteachers.org

Derry, NH, August 26, 2024

The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center, is announcing its new Raising Families Series of Workshops and classes for September 2024- through June of 2025.  A full list of parenting classes and workshops is set for the year and parents are encouraged to register for one or many of the offering this coming year with some in person and some virtual, hoping to make this more accessible for some parents and caregivers.   The year will kick off with 2 classes starting in September.  First, Active Parents of Teens is a course designed to look at the development and behaviors of teens, including risk behaviors that cause concern for parents The class will be held September 11, 18 an 25th from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at The Upper Room 36 Tsienneto Road Derry, NH.  The second is a co-parenting class: Crossroads Co-Parenting Course offered September 11 and 18th from 6:00 – 8:30 PM in a virtual class. 

Active Parenting of Teens offers parents a chance to examine what is happening for their teens and how to build communication and boundaries, while creating opportunities for their children to learn from natural consequences. With 6 major components parents will navigate their child’s development, behaviors and risks and come up with ideas to manage challenges in a positive and respectful way. 

Crossroads is a 5 part series  is designed to address concerns and questions that separating and divorcing parents have, and keep the focus on the needs of their children. Using video content and group discussion, parents are encouraged to be aware of how their actions may impact their children. Attendees stay child-focused, and discuss ways to make good choices in an environment of conflict and loss during divorce and separation.  

Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director of The Upper Room, explains that “Families sometimes have challenges, in raising their children and these classes are aimed to create understanding about a child’s development, and build positive ideas to promote respectful relationships between children and adults.”    All families welcome to attend these classes, or any of our parent/caregiver support groups. 

To learn more about Crossroads, please visit URteachers.org/parenting 

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service, and help all who come to our center seeking support.  For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org 

For other press-related inquiries, please contact  Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director 603-437-8477 or bguggisberg@urteachers.org 

Derry, NH, June 13, 2024

The Upper Room is excited to announce the launch of ANCHOR: a 6-week group series tailored for middle schoolers aged 11 to 14. This free group is scheduled every Monday from July 8 to August 12, 2024, 10:00- 11:00 am. Meetings are at The Upper Room, located at 36 Tsienneto Road, Derry, NH which is an ideal place for adolescents to explore, learn and grow.

Led by School Social Worker, Alicia Triplett, ANCHOR aims to equip participants with tools to navigate the complexities of relationships within their peer groups, families, communities, and most importantly, within themselves. Rooted in the symbolism of an anchor - a symbol of stability and resilience – this program fosters a supportive environment for self-reflection and growth.

"Middle school can be an uncertain time, marked by transitions, and newfound challenges in relationships,” stated Executive Director, Brenda Guggisberg adding, “This group provides a vital pause for young individuals to develop assertiveness, empathy, values, stress management techniques, and a growth mindset—essential qualities for building resilience and hope."

To secure a spot in ANCHOR, interested individuals can register by calling 603-437-8477 ext. 110. 

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. The center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive education, information, and support. There are no boundaries on service and welcome all who seek information and support. Learn more at URteachers.org

Derry, NH, June 13, 2024

The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center in Derry, NH is thrilled to announce the graduation of 40 HiSET students this past Friday, June 7, 2024. In partnership with Pinkerton Academy, The Upper Room offers high school equivalency testing and in person test preparation as an alternative pathway to earning a high school equivalency credential.

The Upper Room’s annual HiSET graduation ceremony holds special significance for the graduates and their families, providing a heartfelt and intimate setting to commemorate their accomplishments. Attendees offered a backdrop of cheers, applause, and words of encouragement. Featured speakers included Pinkerton’s Pace Director, Andy Collins; Pinkerton’s Manager of Career Services, Doug Cullen; and Congressman Chris Pappas.

“This years’ graduates worked through some difficult challenges yet stayed focused and worked diligently towards their goals for their greater good – to complete high school and create a better future for themselves.” said Elaina Wheaton, The Upper Room’s Director of Education adding, “We are so amazed and proud of each one of them!”

As The Upper Room continues to fulfill its mission of strengthening individuals and families in the Derry community, it remains committed to providing support, resources, and educational opportunities to all those in need. For more information about The Upper Room Family Resource Center and its programs, please call (603) 437-8477 or visit their website at URteachers.org

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. The center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive education, information, and support. There are no boundaries on service and welcome all who seek information and support. Learn more at URteachers.org

Derry, NH, April 15, 2024

The Upper Room Family Resource Center is excited to announce that it has been awarded a grant from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, in support of a few initiatives the agency is embarking on currently.   A $25,000.00 grant was awarded, with funds going to support homeless youth costs, for it’s Compass Youth Program, to provide a 2 day Motivational Interviewing Training, and a small portion to plan for it’s strategic plan to take place early next year.    These funds will bring unique supports to unhoused youth, will offer the full staff a 2 day immersive training to reinforce and build strong skills, and the assist in planning for it’s next plan which is exciting as it may include some expansion to the current facility.  

“We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to work with New Hampshire Charitable Foundation to continue the work within the communities that most impact our state.” stated Brenda Guggisberg, The Upper Room’s Executive Director.   “This builds strength within our programs, strength within our staff, and strength for our governance all part of the essential components of our agency.”   

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service and help all who come to our center seeking support. For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org

For other press-related inquiries, please contact  Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director 603-437-8477 or bguggisberg@urteachers.org 

Derry, NH, April 15, 2024

The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center in Derry, NH is launching the first of a six-week teen series that will open conversations and discussion around teen relationships. The Mindful Teens Network Series will be facilitated by Valerie Mazzola, LICSW, and will address boundary setting, healthy communications, consent, and personal confidence.

“This series will help adolescents build personal communication skills they can use in many areas of their lives.” stated Executive Director Brenda Guggisberg.

The first six-week series is free to attend, and will be held May 6, 13, 20; and June 3, 10, 24. Meetings will take place after school from 3:00 – 4:00 pm at The Upper Room. The next series of groups will start August 5. To learn more and register contact The Upper Room at (603) 437-8477 x110.

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service and help all who come to our center seeking support. For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org

For other press-related inquiries, please contact 

Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director

603-437-8477 or  bguggisberg@urteachers.org 

Derry, NH, February 22 2024

The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center in Derry, NH has immediate openings for Food Pantry volunteers seeking to make a difference in the community. 

The Upper Room Food Pantry serves over 50 families and individuals per week. Volunteers must be available Mondays, 9:30 am – 1:30 pm, to set up and distribute food to registered community members. Volunteers need to be able to: be on their feet for 4 hours, as well as be able to lift up to 50 lbs. at times.

“Volunteers are our most valuable assets, and their contributions are what make The Upper Room’s programs successful,” stated Executive Director Brenda Guggisberg.

Interested volunteers are encouraged to fill out an application at www.urteachers.org/volunteering. Contact Elaina Wheaton at (603) 437-8477 x118, 

for more information  

Volunteer Information Sessions are held April 10, August 28 and December 18, 2024 at The Upper Room from 6:00 -7:00 pm. 

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service, and help all who come to our center seeking support.  For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org 

For other press-related inquiries, please contact 

Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director

603-437-8477 or  bguggisberg@urteachers.org 

Derry, NH, January 26, 2024

The Upper Room Family Resource Center has successfully earned its Platinum GuideStar Nonprofit Profile Seal of Transparency, the highest level of recognition offered by GuideStar, the world’s largest source of nonprofit information. Funders look to GuideStar to verify and research nonprofits that are aligned with their priorities. 

“The Upper Room aspires to be transparent with our organization’s metrics, and we are excited to share this meaningful information with donors, grant makers, peers and the media,” stated Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director.

To reach the Platinum level, The Upper Room added comprehensive information to their profile including meaningful qualitative and quantitative data on the organization’s goals, strategies and  progress for each of their programs and services. Visit the GuideStar.org website to access The Upper Room Family Resource Center’s complete profile at www.guidestar.org.

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service, and help all who come to our center seeking support.  For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org 

For other press-related inquiries, please contact  Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director

603-437-8477 or bguggisberg@urteachers.org 

Derry, NH, January 17, 2024

The Upper Room Family Resource Center is thrilled to announce its upcoming Open House event, providing an opportunity for the community to explore their facilities, learn about programs, and engage with their dedicated team. 

The Open House will be held Monday, February 26, 2024, with a plan to have additional open houses throughout the year. Location: The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center, 36 Tsienneto Road, Derry, NH. 

The Upper Room is committed to serving and supporting families, students, and individuals in the Southern NH area. “This will be a great opportunity for program partners, school staff, local organizations, potential collaborators, supporters, and community members to tour The Upper Room building, learn about programs, meet the staff, and ask questions in a casual environment,” stated Brenda Guggisberg, The Upper Room’s Executive Director. 

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service, and help all who come to our center seeking support.  For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org 

For other press-related inquiries, please contact  Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director 603-437-8477 or bguggisberg@urteachers.org 

Derry, NH, December 21, 2023

The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center in Derry will be hosting Is This Crossing The Line ?, a 6 week series for teen women, to discuss boundary setting, healthy relationships, consent, dangers of sexting, personal confidence and more.  These sessions will foster conversations with teen women, to provoke thoughtful and informative ideas around personal boundaries and healthy relationships.  Group will be held Mondays from 3 – 4 PM at The Upper Room 36 Tsienneto Road Derry.  “This opportunity comes as we acknowledge many young people, working their way through adolescence and building their framework for healthy relationships” states Brenda Guggisberg, Upper Room Director.  “It has been a conversation we have been having within our team, and one that we feel warrants investment in our youth, to help them look at how they are forming positive connections with others.”

Facilitator Valerie Mazzola, LICSW, owner and therapist from Clear Balance Counseling, will facilitate conversations, with young women to explore ideas and thoughts on setting boundaries and creating healthy relationships.  Participants must be able to attend all 6 Sessions Starting January 22, 2024 through March 4, 2024.    Interested teen women can register for the group at 603-437-8477 x 110.  

This program is made possible thanks to the support of Alexander Eastman Foundation, and is free of charge to all who register until the group closes.    

Visit www.URTeachers.org to seek more information on services and programs of The Upper Room. 

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service, and help all who come to our center seeking support.  For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org 

For other press-related inquiries, please contact Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director 603-437-8477 or bguggisberg@urteachers.org 

Derry, NH, December 20, 2023

Beginning January 2024, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center in Derry, NH will be bringing back its popular after school creative series for teens ages 14-18. The Expressions! Series will meet Wednesdays from 3:00 – 4:00 PM (excluding the first Wednesday) of each month. Teens will explore a diverse line up of creative outlets including origami, food art, paper mache, painting, and more.

“I am excited to be working with teens in a creative and social way.” shared Tricia Adams, the new Expressions! Facilitator. “We are happy to be able to resume this creative alternative for teens, where they can connect to other teens in a safe environment, “states Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director. This group, which is supported by The Jason R. Flood Memorial Foundation, equips participants with tools to express themselves with a goal of establishing healthy new habits and leisure routines.

The program is completely FREE, and all supplies are included. The registration link can be found at http://bit.ly/TURExpressions or by calling The Upper Room’s Adolescent Wellness Director, Kelsey Mayland at 603-437-8477 x114.

About The Upper Room

Founded in 1986, The Upper Room, a Family Resource Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to strengthening individuals and families by providing them with the education, services and resources needed to lead healthy, self-sufficient lives. Our center is a warm, welcoming place where families receive information and support not only in times of crisis but on a day-to-day basis. We place no boundaries on service, and help all who come to our center seeking support.  For more information, call (603) 437-8477, or visit our website at URteachers.org 

For other press-related inquiries, please contact 

Brenda Guggisberg, Executive Director

603-437-8477 or  bguggisberg@urteachers.org