Arc-A-Palooza 3
2026-02-28 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
If you or anyone you know are interested in performing, message us! or email Stevie at stephaniecormier@theunitedarc.org

Dementia Journey Group at The Shelburne Senior Center
2026-03-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Senior Center Shelburne Falls, 7 Main Street, Shelburne Falls, MA, 01370, United States
Join us for an 8-session group for people living with early stage dementia and their care partners to equip themselves with resources and peer connections to help navigate the journey ahead.
The group will center around Ariadne Labs’ Living Well with Dementia Toolkit, providing concrete strategies for enhancing quality of life.
Sessions cover essential topics such as relationships, daily living, future planning, health, and dementia supports.
A light meal will be provided!
Meeting at The Shelburne Senior Center
Limited Space. Registration Required. Call or email to learn more:
Contact LifePath’s Information & Caregiver Resource Center (ICRC) at 413-773-5555 X1230, or email info@lifepathma.org
This group is funded through a grant from the Executive Office of Aging and Independence

Dementia Journey
2026-03-02 10:00 - 12:00

Whole Children Spring Session Registration open
2026-03-04 08:00 - 17:00, 2026-03-04 13:30 - 17:00
Social and fun afternoon and Saturday classes for people ages 3-100 with disabilities and/or autism in Northampton. Open to all! Learn more and sign up for classes.

Each class costs $95 for the session with the exception of Cooking Classes, which cost $120 to cover the cost of food. If you register for four or more classes you will receive a 20% discount off the total cost. Discount will show in cart.
Events are free for anyone enrolled in classes. For those not currently taking a class, event admission is $10.
Class sizes are limited; register early to secure a spot in a desired class.
Please note that all age ranges are suggestions only. Please contact us at info@wholechildren.org or (413) 585-8010 if you’re interested in signing up for a class outside of the posted age range.

Northampton DHHS Community Forum
2026-03-05 17:30 - 19:00
The City of Northampton Department of Health and Human Services and the Northampton Board of Health will host a community forum on Thursday, March 5, providing an opportunity for open dialogue and public discussion about a proposed Nicotine-Free Generation (NFG) policy. Community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about the proposal, ask questions, and share perspectives. No deliberations or votes will occur at this forum. The Nicotine-Free Generation policy is a forward-looking public health approach that would gradually phase out the sale of nicotine products to future generations by establishing a birth-year cutoff for legal sales.

AI for Nonprofits
2026-03-10 10:00 - 11:00
COSA is pleased to invite you to our upcoming session, Intro to AI for Businesses and Nonprofits, where we will explore how to transition artificial intelligence from a tech concept into a practical tool for our daily work. This session is designed to demystify how AI can support our missions – specifically by streamlining outreach, enhancing data analysis, and simplifying administrative tasks – while keeping our professional standards front and center. We will also prioritize a meaningful discussion on the ethical side of tech, covering essential topics like data privacy, bias, and responsible implementation. Whether you’re looking to boost productivity or simply want a clearer understanding of these emerging tools, we hope you’ll join us to learn how we can adopt AI thoughtfully and strategically to amplify our impact.

Tuesday, March 10th at 10am-11am on Zoom.

Credit Success Workshop
2026-03-10 17:30 - 20:30
Whether you want to buy a house or a car, pay off your student loan debt, or understand how to build your credit, Way Finders is here to help.
Our Credit Success Workshop provides the tools you need to reach your financial goals. Learn directly from a Way Finders’ certified counselor through interactive and engaging activities. After you complete your workshop, you will have the opportunity to meet with a HUD-certified housing counselor to discuss your individual goals.
There is a $10 fee to reserve your seat for the workshop. This fee will be refunded upon workshop completion.
Way Finders is dedicated to assisting low-to-moderate income clients achieve financial stability and success. You will not be turned away for inability to pay.
To request a one-time time waiver please contact our support department at homeownership@wayfinders.org or 413-233-1621.

Undoing Racism Community Organizing Training
2026-03-10 18:00 - 20:00

Woven Together: Intergenerational Village Quilt Project
2026-03-11 16:00 - 18:00

Leaders Lounge
2026-03-12 08:30 - 10:00 | United Way of Pioneer Valley, 1441 Main Street, Suite 137, Springfield, MA, 01103, United States
Join us for Leaders Lounge—a free, informal monthly meetup on the second Thursday of every month for nonprofit leaders and community builders.
Hosted by United Way of Pioneer Valley’s Community Leadership Connect, it’s a space to share ideas, test solutions, and learn of best practices. All are welcome to join the conversation!
Come as you are to connect, grow, and recharge in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. We can’t wait to see you there!

Strengths and Vulnerabilities of the Young Adult Brain
2026-03-12 17:00
Dr. Frances Jensen ’78, acclaimed author of The Teenage Brain, will speak at a Presidential Colloquium on Thursday, March 12 at 5 p.m. in Sage Hall.
Jensen is the Arthur Knight Asbury, MD, Professor of Neurology and Chair of Neurology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, and co-director of the Penn Translational Neuroscience Center. An internationally recognized neuroscientist, her research focuses on the mechanisms of epilepsy and its interaction with other neurological conditions, including autism and dementia. She has authored more than 175 scientific publications in these fields.
A recipient of the Smith Medal in 2020, Jensen is also a leading expert in adolescent brain development—its unique strengths and vulnerabilities—and the implications for medical care, education, and social policy affecting teenagers and young adults. Jensen’s New York Times bestselling book The Teenage Brain has been translated into more than 30 languages worldwide.
During her talk, Jensen will share the latest research on the adolescent and young adult brain, exploring how emerging societal forces—including artificial intelligence, the proliferation of social media, cannabis legalization, and the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic—are shaping brain development and behavior.
Jensen graduated from Smith in 1978 before attending Cornell Medical College and obtaining her neurology residency training at the Harvard Longwood Neurology Residency Program.
Dr. Jensen’s presentation will be open to the public. It will not be recorded or livestreamed.

Let's Talk Risk
2026-03-12 17:30 - 19:00
Join Us for the “Let’s Talk Risk!” For A Parent/Guardian Workshop Series!

Beat the Odds invites all parents and guardians to participate in our engaging Problem Gambling Awareness Workshops this March.

This series is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools to protect and support your youth while fostering a stronger, informed community.

Workshop Series Details:
March 12, 2026 – 5:30 – 7:30 PM 65 Lincoln St., Springfield
March 16, 2026 – 5:30 – 7:00 PM 136 Surrey Rd., Springfield
March 19, 2026 – 5:30 – 7:00 PM Location TBD

Why Attend?
These workshops will provide valuable insights into understanding gambling risks, how to identify signs of problem gambling, and ways to foster open conversations with your children.

We are proud to partner with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the Massachusetts Office of Problem Gambling Services, and our partner organizations New North Citizen’s Council and South End Community Center, dedicated to youth well-being.

We can Beat The Odds for our youth!!!

Register today by scanning the QR code on the graphic or visiting: https://rcgd.org/8esMWG or link in bio.

First Time Homebuyer Workshop
2026-03-14 09:00 - 14:00
Become a certified first-time homebuyer with Way Finders! Learn from local real estate professionals about the homebuying process.
The course covers finding, financing, purchasing, and maintaining a home. Participants receive a certificate of completion that is necessary to access several down payment assistance programs and special mortgage products.
This is a two-part IN PERSON workshop:
Saturdays, 9am-2pm
March 14 and 21
Cost of the workshop is $75 per household, nonrefundable.

BFAIR Bike Helmet Distribution
2026-03-18 10:00 - 14:00
With support from Greylock Federal Credit Union, and supporting sponsor, BIAMA, BFAIR will be distributing bike helmets for children and adults to promote brain health and safety in Berkshire County and the Pioneer Valley.
150 helmets for youth ages 6-13 and 100 helmets for 14+ will be distributed free-of-charge.

Hampden County Housing Forum
2026-03-18 17:30 - 20:00
Hampden County faces urgent housing challenges — and meaningful opportunities. Join us for the Hampden County Housing Conversation – a regional conversation about where we are, what the data tells us, and how we move forward together.
At this event you will:

Learn about housing in Hampden County
Be among the first to explore key findings from Building Homes. Building Futures., the new four-county regional housing study conducted by the UMass Donahue Institute and join a conversation to help shape future housing strategies for the region. At this event, you’ll gain:

A clear picture of current housing trends and needs in Hampden County
Insights into regional gaps and growth opportunities
New tools communities can use to plan, produce, and preserve housing
A chance to discuss practical strategies you can apply locally
An opportunity to provide input on the next Regional Housing Plan

Help create a regional housing plan
The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) is leading the update of the Pioneer Valley Regional Housing Plan to help communities in Hampden and Hampshire Counties address today’s housing challenges and plan for long term housing needs. This event will serve as the public kickoff of that effort.
Grounded in regional data, local knowledge, and community input, the plan will establish shared priorities and practical strategies to increase housing supply, improve affordability, support a range of housing types, and strengthen coordination across municipalities.
Input gathered at this forum will directly shape the goals, strategies, and implementation actions of the Regional Housing Plan.

LifePath In-Service Training – Building a Trauma-Informed Community
2026-03-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Online via Zoom
Description:
This training supports attendees to better understand the impacts of trauma, and provides strategies for how to account for and address these impacts. The training includes an overview of the research on the effects of trauma and the principles of trauma-informed
care, followed by practical tools for examining one’s practices and making them more trauma-informed. The impact of working with populations exposed to trauma on staff is also discussed.
Presented by: David Kieval, Supervising Psychologist at CSO

HSF Lunch and Learn: Fundraising Support Through Catchafire
2026-03-19 12:30 - 15:00 | MHA, 350 Memorial Drive, Chicopee, MA, 01020, United States
HSF is happy to welcome Sean Rose, Director for Non Profit Success at Catchafire, and Andrea Jones, Manager of Non Profit Success, as we discuss Catchafire’s new fundraising support and tools over a box lunch by Frigo’s Catering. Catchafire is available to HSF Members thanks to the Beveridge Foundation, Community Foundation and the Irene & George Davis Foundation.
All attendees are asked to bring a laptop if possible.
$50 for HSF Members

Need access to Catchafire? HSF Member can request a log in HERE

PRESENTERS:
Sean Rose (he/him)
Director of Nonprofit Success, Catchafire
www.linkedin.com/in/seanvrose/
I am a bridge-builder. My work exists at the intersection between philanthropy, nonprofits, and CSR. With a career that spans continents, time zones, and cause areas, I bring deep experience in the philanthropic sector and a passion to continue building a more just and empathetic world. I am a strategic thinker, a compassionate leader, and a committed ally. I understand the complexity and urgency of solving social issues and help leaders to imagine new possibilities.

Andrea Jones (she/her)
Manager of Nonprofit Success, Catchafire
With nearly 15 years of experience in nonprofits of all shapes and sizes, I’ve had the opportunity to do everything from cold-calling to recruit walk participants to leading national volunteer engagement initiatives. That range of experience has given me a deep appreciation for the many moving parts and dedicated people that make mission-driven work successful. I bring an organized, thoughtful approach to every room I facilitate. I’m a strategic thinker and a committed ally to nonprofits and those working to make the world a better place. I’m passionate about learning and growth, and I believe the best training sessions are both educational and genuinely fun. From the great state of Michigan, I bring Midwestern warmth and an enthusiasm unknown to mankind (and if given the chance, I’ll happily talk about Michigan for hours).
Thank you to our Breakfast Sponsors and Annual Sponsors for sponsoring this event.
Breakfast Sponsors

HSF Annual Sponsors

Kamp for Kids Golf FUNraiser
2026-03-19 16:00 - 20:00
Coming off the excitement of last year’s 50th anniversary, we launch into our next 50 years, building on five decades of impact, inclusion, and unforgettable memories at Kamp for Kids!
Join us at Max’s Swing Lounge in Springfield for virtual golf, minigolf, good food, and time together—all in support of children and families across our region.
With a focus on FUN and community celebration, we invite all to join the event, regardless of ability to pay. Every dollar we raise via this event, through sponsorships and free will donation, helps ensure campers of all abilities can access meaningful, inclusive summer fun. We invite you to contribute by making a one time or recurring monthly gift at the event.
We also have several sponsorship opportunities available! Reach out to Kelly Brown at kelly.brown@bhninc.org or (413) 654‑0930.

MNN Public Policy Forum
2026-03-20 10:00 - 11:00
Please join MNN to hear from Massachusetts State Senator Cindy Friedman about ongoing efforts around federal issues, and challenges facing the healthcare system.

Cindy F. Friedman was elected to the Massachusetts Senate in 2017 to represent the Fourth Middlesex District, which includes Arlington, Billerica, Burlington, Woburn, and precincts 1-2 and 4-7 in Lexington. Cindy’s legislative agenda is informed by her decades of public activism, dating back to when she first marched to protect women’s reproductive rights in the 1970s and has grown to be a vocal champion for lowering prescription drug prices and expanding access to timely, quality health care, particularly mental and behavioral health care.

Cindy’s legislative priorities are also reflected in her committee, caucus and working group memberships she has held since her election to the Senate. Cindy previously services as the Chairperson of the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery and currently serves as the Chairperson of the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing and the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Steering and Policy. Cindy has received numerous awards and recognitions for her work during her tenure in the Senate. Most recently Cindy received the Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts 2025 Legislator of the Year award, the Massachusetts Health and Hospital 2024 Hero award, and the Mental Health America 2024 Legislator of the Year award. Prior to becoming a state Senator, Cindy worked as a public school teacher, an executive in the high-tech industry, and later served for nearly a decade as chief of staff to the late Senator Ken Donnelly.

Friday, March 20, 2026

10:00-11:00 AM
Online

Cost: FREE to MNN Members, $20 for Nonmembers (learn more about MNN membership here)

You will receive a link to the Zoom meeting before the event. A recording will be shared after the program.

Health Coverage at Risk
2026-03-20 11:00 - 12:00
Up to 300,000 Massachusetts residents could lose health insurance under new federal redetermination and work‑reporting rules. What does this mean for communities in Western Massachusetts?Join us on March 20 from 11:00 AM–12:00 PM for a discussion of the latest regional data, who may be most affected, and how state agencies and community healthcare providers are responding. Speakers will share insights on the potential impacts and what organizations can do to support residents facing coverage loss.Featuring speakers from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation, Volunteers in Medicine, and the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts.

Strive Clinic Open House & Advocacy Day
2026-03-20 13:00 - 15:00
Hear from individuals living with brain injury, meet the clinic’s team of therapists, tour the facility, and see assistive technology demonstrations. 1 to 3 p.m. at 1236 Main Street in Holyoke. For more information, email Strive Clinic Director of Operations Ellen Werner.

Adult Family Care Virtual Info Sessions
2026-03-24 18:30 - 19:30
Zoom and phone details will be sent to your email address after registration.
WHAT WILL BE DISCUSSED?
A few of the topics that will be covered include:

Requirements/Eligibility
Approval/Application Process
What to Expect
The supports Care Givers receive from ServiceNet (This is a team effort!)

Whether you just come to listen or want to ask questions yourself, you will have an opportunity to meet with ServiceNet staff members to learn all there is to know about the Adult Family Care program.
To find out more about ServiceNet’s Adult Family Care program or to apply to be a Care Giver, please visit our webpage.
Can’t make the Info Session? Send your questions to sara.robitaille@servicenet.org or call 413-731-4533.

Grant Application Open
2026-03-25 08:00 - 17:00
We are currently accepting applications for a grant designed to support nonprofit organizations that are making a meaningful impact in Springfield. If you know of any eligible nonprofits doing great work in our community, please encourage them to apply and share this opportunity with them.

Application Link:
https://form.jotform.com/260715177254054

Application Guidelines:
– Applicants must be a registered nonprofit organization (501(c)(3)) or have a fiscal sponsor.
– The organization must serve the Springfield community.
– Please note that organizations awarded a Community Grant in the previous year must wait one full grant cycle before applying again.
-The 2026 grant cycle will award recipients up to a $2,000 grant.
– Grants must be used for capital improvement projects related to one of Rotary International’s causes, such as the purchase of equipment, supplies, construction, or other tangible improvements.
– Grant funds may not be used for salaries, stipends, or general program operating costs.
– Applicants should clearly describe the purpose of the funding and the expected outcomes.
– Grant applications are due April 10, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Applications received after the deadline will be disqualified.

Workforce Training Fund Express Program Info Session
2026-03-25 09:30 - 10:00

3rd Annual Dora D. Robinson Speaker Series in honor of Women’s History Month
2026-03-26 16:00 - 17:30 | Westfield State University, United States
Westfield State University will proudly host the 3rd Annual Dora D. Robinson Speaker Series in Dever Stage, Parenzo Hall, in honor of Women’s History Month. This year’s distinguished guest is Regina Wallace-Jones, a dynamic and mission-driven leader whose career spans technology, entrepreneurship, and public service. Regina Wallace-Jones is the CEO and President of ActBlue, the organization established in 2004 that builds a fundraising platform for Democratic candidates, progressive organizations, and the small-dollar donors that support them.
To register visit 🔗: https://bit.ly/4b5Aswi

35th Annual Spaghetti Supper
2026-03-26 17:00 - 19:00
Mark your calendars! Our 35th Annual Spaghetti Supper is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 5–7pm at the Greek Cultural Center. We hope to see you there!
This event plays a crucial role in helping us serve our community throughout the year and accounts for more than 10% of our annual budget. In 2025, we served over 12,000 unique individuals through our food assistance program, adult education classes, Kids’ Club program and special distributions such as our Christmas wish list

March Concert Series at BHMA
2026-03-26 17:30 - 19:00 | Berkshire Hills Music Academy, 48 Woodbridge St, South Hadley, MA, 01075, United States
Berkshire Hills Music Academy presents an inspiring evening of classical music, community connection, and authentic artistic expression featuring talented BHMA students and instructors. The performers include the BHMA Classical Ensemble and the “Idle Hands” piano duo, which comprises of Tom Slowick, an accomplished pianist and instructor at BHMA, and Franklin Nichols, a multi-talented BHMA musician. Free entry, suggested donation at the door.

Margarita Madness
2026-03-26 17:30 - 19:30
Mix, mingle, and network at our largest signature event of the year, presented by Western Mass Heating, Cooling & Plumbing! Enjoy an evening of tasty margaritas and vote for your favorite. Local restaurants showcase their fare and there are dozens of great raffles prizes donated by our Amherst Area Chamber Members. The premiere networking event in the region. Live Music! Food! Games! Raffle! And, of course, Margaritas!
Our featured nonprofit is Way Finders, an affordable housing organization dedicated to bringing home stability to people across Western Massachusetts since 1972.

Post Purchase Workshop
2026-03-26 17:30 - 20:30
If you’ve already purchased your home, join our Homeowners Workshop and Celebration for fun-filled interactive learning and home care demonstrations from our partnering presenters.
Our workshop includes information on: construction rehabilitation loans, seasonal maintenance and home repair, being green in and around your home, weatherization, and so much more.
Everyone who attends receives a 65-piece tool kit and will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a $100 gift card!
Registration required. FREE! Meets MHP Post-Purchase workshop requirement.
