Ad Club of Western Mass Presents: The Creative Unconference
2025-10-04 09:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Holyoke Community College, MA, United States
Join the Ad Club of Western Mass for the Creative Unconference on Saturday, October 4th at Holyoke Community College!
This one-of-a-kind event is designed to inspire, energize, and connect the vibrant creative community of Western Massachusetts and beyond.
Unlike traditional conferences, the Creative Unconference puts attendees in the driver’s seat. You’ll help shape the agenda, choose the topics, and even lead the sessions. It’s a day built on collaboration, peer learning, and open dialogue—not passive listening.
Whether you’re a student just getting started or a seasoned pro, this unique experience is crafted to educate, elevate, and spark new ideas.
When: Saturday, October 4, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Holyoke Community College, Holyoke, MA
Tickets and more info at https://www.adclubwm.org/creative-unconference/
To become a sponsor, email info@adclubwm.org

2025 Buddy Walk!
2025-10-04 10:00 - 14:00
Join us on Saturday, October 4, 2025 for the DSRG Buddy Walk® at Stanley Park , 400 Western Ave in Westfield, MA. Registration opens at 10:00 am with the walk beginning at 11:00am.
‍
DSRG of Western Mass Buddy Walk®
The DSRG Buddy Walk® gives our community, family, friends and business sponsors an opportunity to come together to celebrate our loved ones with Down syndrome and raise funds for the programming which supports them. Our offerings include: a First Call program for newborns, playgroups for toddlers and school aged children, social groups for teens and adults, scholarships, educational presentations and more. All of these programs directly better the lives of people living with Down syndrome in our community.
NDSS National Buddy Walk® Program
The Buddy Walk® is an advocacy initiative launched in 1995 by The National Down Syndrome Society. It serves as a vehicle to generate significant awareness and understanding of Down syndrome nationally, while simultaneously raising critical funds to support local programs and services offered by The DSRG. As a proud affiliate of The NDSS, a portion of all proceeds from DSRG Buddy Walk® goes to the NDSS to support national advocacy initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of individuals with Down syndrome.

Celebrating 75 Years
2025-10-04 11:00 - 13:00

Habitat Family Fun Fest
2025-10-05 12:00 - 16:00 | Morgan Street Pavilion, West Springfield, 429 Morgan Road, West Springfield, MA, 01089, United States
Fun for the whole family! Enjoy free kids’ activities, raffles, food trucks, craft vendors, and community resources all in one lively, all-ages celebration. Don’t miss a day of fun, food, and community spirit!

Board & Brush
2025-10-05 14:00 - 17:00
Kick off breast cancer awareness month by joining us for a joyful, uplifting afternoon bursting with Zesta-style energy—where creativity, confidence, and community shine, all in support of cancer survivors.

This special fundraiser features DIY fun with Board & Brush: visit their gallery online, pick your favorite design, and get a stained wood board, stencil, and all the supplies you need. With options for all ages, you can craft from the comfort of home or join us on-site during the event—either way, you’ll be creating for a cause.

Craft Your Own Wood Sign from hundreds of designs—no experience needed!
Enjoy Tasty Bites & Specialty Cocktails
Kids welcome – fun for all ages!

Experience the latest Zesta-Style vibes from Girlfriend in Your Closet. Jen has been crafting stunning Zesta521 necklace/bracelet sets that pair perfectly with patterned cotton tops and our Zesta ponchos in a range of gorgeous colors. With Anita and Jen’s expert touch, you’ll discover a personal style that’s effortlessly fabulous.

27th Annual Wellness Classic
2025-10-06 08:00 - 16:00
Monday, October 6, 2025

We are thrilled to announce that our 27th Annual Wellness Classic will be held at the new location of The Ranch Golf Course & Country Club in Southwick, Massachusetts on October 6th, 2025. Check out our new Sponsorship Opportunities below!

Providers Council 50th Annual Convention & Expo
2025-10-06 08:00 - 17:00

Building Resilience from Within
2025-10-07 08:00 - 17:00 | Zoom
October 22nd through November 26th
(10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19 & 11/26)
Wednesdays 11-11:45 on Zoom
Our popular six-week virtual self-care series for caregivers and anyone experiencing heightened stress in their lives. Reina Goldberg teaches simple techniques to build core resilience and balance the nervous system.
The free program takes place on Zoom, is open to all, and no experience is required. All exercises can be done seated or standing and every session is recorded so participants can watch or rewatch at their convenience. Registration is required.

Raising Awareness in PINK October
2025-10-08 11:00 - 12:00
About the event

Each Moment We’re Alive (EMWA) will raise the flag at Holyoke City Hal for the 3rd year in support of Breast Cancer Awareness. This event serves as a powerful visual reminder of the ongoing fight against breast cancer and EMWA’s commitment to supporting survivors and their families.

October 2025 First-Time Homebuyer's Webinar Series
2025-10-08 18:00 - 21:00 | Zoom
Our live First-Time Homebuyers Webinar series is a fantastic way to prepare for buying a home in Massachusetts and learn about the home-buying process.
In this Zoom webinar presented by Valley Community Development:
Get the facts from real estate professionals including attorneys, loan officers, realtors, home inspectors & housing counselors.
Learn tips about how to improve your credit.
Ask questions to help you proceed & protect your own interests as you approach this life decision.
A certified course recognized by MHP & MassHousing, this workshop helps you qualify for special mortgage products.
$75 for two adults in the same household. Registration is nonrefundable & attendance is required at all three sessions.
October sessions are scheduled:
Wednesday, October 8
Thursday, October 9
Thursday, October 16
Each session will be hosted via a unique Zoom Webinar link 6-9 p.m. You will receive the Zoom links on the day of each session.

Rise Up: A Pathway to Resilience
2025-10-09 07:30 - 17:00
The Rise Up Conference is back with a new theme: A Pathway to Resilience.
Helix Human Services invites professionals, caregivers, and advocates to explore innovative and compassionate approaches to trauma-informed care, healing from adversity, and overcoming life’s stressors – all while becoming more resilient.
Insightful perspectives and practical tools will empower individuals to support resilience in themselves and the communities they work with. Attendees will engage with thought leaders and experts in the fields of mental health, wellness, and trauma-informed care, gaining deeper understanding of the lasting impact of trauma and the transformative power of healing.
Through keynotes, breakouts, and workshops, we will delve into strategies that foster emotional and psychological resilience, helping individuals build stronger, more supportive environments for healing and growth. Together, we will create a supportive space for reflection, learning, and collaboration in pursuit of creating healthier, more resilient children and families.

Foster Parent Info Session
2025-10-09 09:00 - 09:45
Join us for an online info session to learn more about becoming a foster parent with 18 Degrees. We will review the process and state requirements, answer questions, and share how we can support you on your journey to opening your heart and home to a child experiencing foster care.

You do not need to have a Microsoft Teams account to join this meeting. Please use the registration button to enter your name and email. We will send you a link to join the meeting. Please note that if you will be joining from a mobile device, you will need to download the Microsoft Teams app. Have questions or need help? Email us at info@18degreesma.org

Sneaker Soirée
2025-10-09 17:30 - 20:00
Lace up your sneakers and join us for our 3rd annual Sneaker Soiree this October! The Sneaker Soiree is our signature fundraising event supporting our financial assistance program so more girls can participate in Girls on the Run. We look forward to celebrating an evening of fun, connection, and inspiration.

Date

Thursday, October 9, 2025

Time

5:30 – 8:00 PM

Location

Springfield Country Club
1375 Elm St.
West Springfield, MA 01089

Pricing

Early Bird Pricing available until September 9!
$40 Standard Ticket | $320 Table of 8
Prices increase on September 10!
$50 Standard Ticket | $400 Table of 8
Current GOTR coaches receive $10 off their ticket!

Understanding Breast Cancer Recurrence: Risks, Realities, and Research
2025-10-09 18:00 - 19:00
Breast cancer recurrence is a concern for many survivors and family members. Join Dr. Sakr to learn the risk factors for recurrence, the latest research advancements, and how individuals can navigate this part of the cancer journey with knowledge, preparedness, and support.

In-Service Training - Substance Use in Older Adults
2025-10-16 10:00 - 11:30 | Online via Zoom
Description: This 90 minute training, Substance Use in Older Adults, will review essential knowledge and skills to address substance use disorder (SUD) in older adults—a population with unique vulnerabilities and often underdiagnosed substance-related issues. Participants will gain insight into the distinct risk factors and prevalence of SUD in aging patients, learn to recognize subtle and atypical signs and symptoms, and explore evidence-based approaches for screening, brief intervention, and treatment. It will review assessment and treatment of withdrawal as well as chronic management of SUD. The session emphasizes clinical best practices for improving outcomes in older adult populations.
Presented by: Nancy Regan-Brooks, MSN, FNP, CNM, CARN-AP, Clinical Nurse Educator for BMC Grayken Center for Addiction Training and Technical Assistance
Learning Outcomes:
In this training, staff will be able to:
Recognize the prevalence of substance use disorder in older adults
Name two risk factors for the development of substance use disorder in older adults
Understand the differences in presentation of withdrawal in older adults
Explore evidence-based approaches for treatment in older adults with substance use disorder

Up Next Summit
2025-10-16 10:00 - 17:30
The Future Belongs to Leaders Like You.

Built for emerging professionals like you who are ready to level up their leadership. The Up Next Summit is a high-energy, one-day experience that delivers fresh tools, lasting connections, and the momentum to shape what’s next in your career. Your growth sparks community impact. Your future development drives what’s up next.

Grand Opening UCP of Western Ma
2025-10-16 12:30 - 16:00

Bingo With Molly
2025-10-16 18:00 - 20:00
October’s bingo is in support of Each Moment We’re Alive (EMWA) cancer support services & programs to assist cancer survivors during & AFTER treatments
No cover charge. Monetary donations encouraged. Flights & tastings end at 5PM.

The Belle of Amherst
2025-10-17 19:00 - 21:00
Step inside the world of Emily Dickinson in the The Belle of Amherst. This award-winning play shares the private life, sharp wit, and lyrical brilliance of Amherst’s most famous poet. Written by William Luce and starring Louise Krieger, this one-woman show will be performed at The Amherst Woman’s Club. It is proudly presented by The Literacy Project andproduced by Instructor, Catherine King.
Every ticket purchased helps The Literacy Project move closer to our mission of expanding access to free education for adults in Western Massachusetts. Your support is truly invaluable. Thank you for making a difference.

LifePath’s 33rd Annual Walkathon
2025-10-18 10:00 - 14:00
This family friendly event is designed to bring everyone together for a day of fun in support of a great cause. So please share with your family, friends and colleagues, gather your walking teams, and come join us on Saturday, October 18 in support of Meals on Wheels and other LifePath programs.

Demystifying Mental Health - A Community Forum
2025-10-18 11:00 - 16:00

2025 MLKFS Social Justice Awards
2025-10-18 12:00 - 15:00
About This Event

It is with great pride and enthusiasm that Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services, Inc. invites YOU to its premier event of the year, our 2025 Social Justice Awards!
Each year, we honor leaders whose work uplifts the legacy of Dr. King—and this year’s theme draws directly from his powerful words: “We are determined to work and fight until justice runs down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Justice thrives when we take action. How will you stand for social change?
JOIN US in honoring and uplifting those who champion social justice. When we work together we are creating a unified voice toward systemic regional change.

Trunk or Treat
2025-10-18 14:00 - 16:00 | st. paul’s episcopal church, 485 Appleton St, Holyoke, MA, 01040, United States
Bring your family and join us for a fun-filled Trunk or Treat event! Children will be able to go from car to car, trick-or-treating while enjoying the creatively decorated trunks.

Rays of Hope
2025-10-19 08:00 - 13:00
Grab your Rays of Hope gear, lace up your shoes, and join us as we take off from Temple Beth El at 979 Dickinson Street in Springfield, MA, and walk and run toward the cure of breast cancer. For the past 32 years, Rays of Hope has been an important resource in the western Massachusetts community, raising funds that stay local to support breast cancer care, research, and education. Our survivors need us more than ever.

COSA Providers Fair
2025-10-21 10:00 - 11:30
Hello human services professionals! You’re invited to the COSA Providers Fair, a wonderful chance to connect with colleagues and learn about the amazing work happening throughout Hampshire County. This is a relaxed tabling event where you can network, share information about your programs, and discover valuable resources from other agencies. Let’s come together to discuss current services and initiatives and strengthen our community partnerships.

We’ll also be holding our COSA Annual Meeting at the event and all COSA members are encouraged to attend. This is your opportunity to participate in the election of Board officers, hear reports on the past year, and get a peek at topics for the coming year. Don’t miss out on this great chance to reconnect with your peers and get a table to showcase your organization.

Register for a table today! Tables are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Non-members pay a $30 fee, but for COSA members, it’s completely free. Light refreshments will be available.

2025 MNN Annual Conference
2025-10-22 08:00 - 17:00
Every year, the MNN Annual Conference convenes one of the largest gatherings of nonprofit professionals in the state. This year’s Conference, titled Stronger Together, will take place on Wednesday, October 22, at the DCU Center in Worcester.
In a time of unprecedented challenges and change, it is important for nonprofits to come together. This year’s event will provide nonprofits with great opportunities to find strength through unity, connectivity, and learning.
The day-long event will include:

A conversation with Attorney General Andrea Campbell
An engaging keynote panel, moderated by Wyona Lynch-McWhite of The Social Innovation Forum
Over 25 workshops and expert roundtable sessions
Networking opportunities
The presentation of Lifetime Achievement Awards

To register for the 2025 Conference, please click here. Early Bird rates are available now through September 18, so be sure to register early to take advantage of the discount and save 25% or more off the regular cost!
For information about sponsorship and program book advertising opportunities, please click here.

Safe Passage Grant a Wish Sign Up Begins
2025-10-22 08:00 - 17:00
It’s never too early to start thinking about holiday cheer! We’re looking for some special magic makers to help make the holiday season special for children experiencing domestic violence. If that’s you you can go to safepass.org/grant-a-wish today to bring a little magic into the world!

Building Resilience from Within
2025-10-22 11:00 - 12:00
This six-week series was developed to help prevent caregiver burnout but is open to anyone experiencing heightened stress in their lives.
Presenter Reina Goldberg will teach simple techniques to build core resilience including mindfulness, gentle movement, and guided visualization. The ongoing nature of the series strengthens connection, reduces feelings of isolation, and empowers individuals with tools to address their most pressing needs for stress reduction.
October 22nd through November 26th
(10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19 & 11/26)
Wednesdays 11-11:45 on Zoom (Participants will receive a Zoom link prior to the first session)
The program is free, open to all, and no experience is required. To ensure accessibility, all exercises can be done seated or standing and every session is recorded so participants can watch or rewatch at their convenience. Registration is required. For more information and/or to register: scan the QR code in the image, call 413-737-2601 or contact Tammy Morton: t.morton@jfswm.org

Community Care Package Drive
2025-10-22 12:00 - 17:00
Each year, our Community Care Package Drive reminds us what kindness looks like in action. Last year, your generosity helped us bring comfort and essentials to hundreds of families across our communities.

We’re doing it again, and we need your help to keep it going.

If you’re able to donate, organize a collection, or spread the word, you’ll help us reach even more families who count on our support.

Please share this with your friends, families, workplaces, and any platforms where it can make a difference. Every box, every share, every small act matters.

Let’s move hope forward. Thank you for your help.

Haunted House Fundraiser
2025-10-23 16:30 - 18:30
The bone-chilling season for ghosts, ghouls, and scary frights is finally here! In celebration, ServiceNet’s Prospect Meadow Farm is hosting its first-ever haunted house fundraiser October 23-25.There will be two public haunted house events during the fundraiser:Kids’ Haunted House – Oct. 23, 4:30- 6:30 p.m. – Family and sensory friendly!Adults’ Haunted House – Oct. 25, 6-8 p.m. Hot beverages and baked goods from Rooster Cafe Facepainting at the Kids’ Haunted House 6 p.m. Goat parade at Kids’ Haunted House Silent Auction, raffle, and pre-orders for gift baskets with a 10 percent discount!Tickets for the haunted houses can be purchased online. https://hubs.la/Q03MMSK70Ticket sales at the door will be limited.
