HSF staging

Woven Together: Intergenerational Village Quilt Project
2026-03-11 16:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)

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.

Mass Landlord Workshop
2026-03-28 09:00 - 13:00
This virtual workshop includes an overview of basic residential rental property management in Massachusetts that provides an introduction to the Massachusetts laws that govern the rental relationship. Important for all owners of rental properties, including owners of 2-4 family homes.
Topics covered include:

proper tenant screening
relations with tenants
lead paint laws
types of tenancies
State Sanitary Code
fair housing laws
the eviction process
how to deal with drug problems

Certificates of completion are awarded at the end of the session; this workshop satisfies the course requirement for first-time buyers of multi-family homes.

Pickleball Tournament
2026-03-29 08:00 - 18:30

Air Quality & Transportation Showcases
2026-03-31 15:00 - 17:00

Transparency: A Panel on Transgender Care in Western MA
2026-03-31 17:30 - 19:30
Overview

Join us for a real talk panel on transgender healthcare issues in Western MA—let’s get transparent!

Join Safe Passage on Transgender Day of Visibility for an in-person and online panel discussion diving into transgender care in Western Massachusetts. This event brings together experts in healthcare, mental health, and law, as well as and community members, to share experiences, explore challenges, and highlight progress.
Whether you’re directly impacted or want to better support trans folks in your communities, attendees with leave Transparency with a expanded understanding of the needs of trans people today. Don’t miss out on this important conversation about transparency and care in the trans community!
This event will be held in-person and livestreamed to Zoom.

King's Kids Summer Camp Registration Open
2026-04-01 08:00 - 17:00

Spring Break Program 2026 Registration Open
2026-04-01 08:00 - 17:00

A Evening With Spirit
2026-04-02 18:00 - 21:00
Guests will experience the extraordinary as they dine with internationally acclaimed psychic medium and entertainer Gary McKinstry, who will connect with the spirit world and deliver intuitive messages to select guests.
Ticket price: $75 (dinner included).
Please note that all ticket sales are final and non-refundable. By purchasing a ticket, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these terms.
All proceeds benefit the Mental Health Association (MHA).
Guests will be seated at tables of eight. If you are purchasing tickets separately but would like to sit with specific guests, please indicate the full names of those individuals in the “Seating Request” field during registration.
While we will make every effort to accommodate seating requests, they cannot be guaranteed. Final table assignments will be determined by the event organizers to ensure the best overall guest experience.

Big Love Little Performances 4.0
2026-04-02 18:30
Our Electrifying 4th Annual, 21 plus Lip-sync & Karaoke fundraising event benefitting CHD’s Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampshire County, will be held at the revered and beautifully renovated Iron Horse Music Hall, on NEW DATE! Thursday, April 2nd in a wild celebration of BIG LOVE.
If you know, you know – if you don’t, you’ll want experience all the dazzle!
Our signature event is always evolving so expect an all-new spectacular! But of course, all the happenings will once again be emceed by Monte Belmonte, Tara Brewster, and Kelsey Flynn. Featuring celebrity contest judges delivering their verdict for the best crooners. Inspired by love, this celebration will be unlike any other in the Pioneer Valley, as we continue to reimagine the marvel that brings together bank executives, government officials, baristas, schoolteachers, and well… anyone who wants to grab their 15… well 4 minutes of fame!
Last year’s out-of-the-box event was a thrilling vibe – the room was full of magic. The duet between Monte as Elphaba and Tara, in the tallest wig known to humankind, was spellbinding! The crowd gasped as yo-yo professionals rolled through the room on a giant yo-yo and performed amazing yo-yo feats to a George Michael song- you can guess which one right? Not to mention the amazing Karaoke, Lip-sync and all the little performances – from both returning and new performers who surprised and delighted us with their renditions of famous sing-along hits.
The amazing performances, the famous food, libation cheer, desserts to fall in love with, a curated auction and sweet activities, will make this simply the best way to celebrate love and community connection. It’s a VIBE!

16th Annual Cammer Cup
2026-04-04 14:30 - 18:00
