HSF staging

Bingo and Brews with the Queens
2025-03-16 12:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
Held Sunday, March 16, from 12 to 3pm, the afternoon festivity will feature rounds of Bingo, quality craft beers, and an opportunity to win great prizes, as well as meeting and interacting with the queer community. The event will be emceed by drag queens of Western Massachusetts Ivanna and Tytannia. Tickets are $25 per person. To buy tickets, visit bit.ly/40NiUid
“Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity has always strived to provide a safe, welcoming environment for all volunteers, partner families, and supporters. Our goal is to represent and include individuals from across a diverse spectrum including all to take part in our programs and help us to advocate for affordable housing,” said GSHFH Executive Director Aimee Giroux. “Our vision is a world where everyone has a decent place to call home. We invite everyone to be a part of helping us to achieve that vision.”
Hors D’oeuvres, co-founder of House of Hors, agreed.
“Drag performers have always been activists around issues impacting the LGBTQ+ communities. We are overjoyed to be a part of this event to raise awareness about the mission of Greater Springfield Habitat and all the work they do to help people from all walks of life,” Hors said. “It’s going to be a fun afternoon for a great cause.”
GSHFH is dedicated to strengthening communities by empowering low-income families to change their lives and the lives of future generations through homeownership and home preservation opportunities. Since 1987, Greater Springfield Habitat has built or repaired 129 homes in Hampden County.

House of Hors (HOH) is a Western Massachusetts-based company focused on curating fun and accessible events that highlight queer entertainers.
For more information, contact Olga Callirgos, Marketing and Communications manager, at
callirgos@habitatspringfield.org or (413) 739-5503 x1003.

Post-Purchase Workshop
2025-03-15 09:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
March 15 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Free

If you’ve already purchased your home, come to our Post-Purchase workshop for a fun-filled time of interactive learning and home care demonstrations from our partnering presenters. Everyone who attends will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a $100 gift card!
Our workshop also includes information on:

Construction rehabilitation loans,
Seasonal home maintenance and home repair,
Being green in and around your home,
Weatherization,
And much more!

This meets the MHP Post-Purchase workshop requirement.

AGO Training: Unauthorized Practice of Immigration Law
2025-03-14 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Join us for a free virtual training by the Office of Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell about the Unauthorized Practice of Immigration Law (UPIL). UPIL is a widespread problem in which dishonest individuals falsely disguise themselves as licensed attorneys and charge immigrants hundreds and thousands of dollars for immigration services, forms, or unlicensed legal advice. The AGO created this training in order to prevent immigrants and their families from becoming a victim of UPIL.

March Credit Success Workshop
2025-03-13 17:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York)
March 13 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
$10

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.

Retention: Rewards and Accountability- Supervisory Skills Certificate Series: Winter 2025- Choose Your Training
2025-03-13 09:00 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | Online via Zoom
March 13 9am-12:30 pm
presented over Zoom
HSF’s most popular workshop series is returning for 2025.
Give new supervisors the skills they need to succeed. If you are planning on promoting, or have just promoted someone to a supervisory position help them hit the ground running with this 8 week course. With HSF’s strong team of seasoned presenters covering a wide range of knowledge from different points of view, we cover theory, soft skills, and hard facts. Conversation topics range from harassment law and insurance liability to finding common purpose in a team and how to show faith in those who work for you, and much much more.

Retention: Rewards and Accountability 3/13/27

People don’t leave jobs; they leave bad supervisors. This session puts a focus on how a supervisor can strengthen and grow those who report to them, creating an environment where employees want to stay. Covering how to multiple the strengths of your team, how to discipline in a way that productive, and how to praise, we will learn how to create a work environment centered on retention.
Presented by Diana Brooks; Diana Brooks Associates

Supervisory Skills Series Sponsor:

HSF Annual Sponsors:

Supervisory Skills Certificate Series: Winter 2025
2025-03-13 09:00 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | Online via Zoom
HSF’s most popular workshop series is returning for 2025.
Give new supervisors the skills they need to succeed. If you are planning on promoting, or have just promoted someone to a supervisory position help them hit the ground running with this 8 week course. With HSF’s strong team of seasoned presenters covering a wide range of knowledge from different points of view, we cover theory, soft skills, and hard facts. Conversation topics range from harassment law and insurance liability to finding common purpose in a team and how to show faith in those who work for you, and much much more.
Register an individual who is eligible for a certificate, or a space for your agency to send someone different to each session depending on who the topic will benefit most.
This series is presented virtually over Zoom. Series runs 8 consecutive weeks starting Thursday January 23rd 9am-12:30pm all session. Full series is $600 for members, $1200 for nonmembers.

SERIES TOPICS:

Lead with Influence- 1/23/25

Whether they mean to or not, each person exerts influence over others. With this session learn 10 steps a person could take to add intentionality to that and influence people like a leader. Create a sphere of impact that leaves a lasting positing impression on those you work closely with, leading to them influencing others positively as well.
Presented by Will Weche; Willful Change LLC

Employment Law1 1/30/25

Avoid missteps that can lead to expensive and time-consuming litigation. Learn from practicing attorneys on the wording of the law, along with how that wording is actually applied. Covering a wide range of subjects to clear up misconceptions and acknowledging pitfalls, this session is packed with useful information that every organization needs.
Presented by Skoler-Abbott

Leadership Communication 2/6/25

This session looks at the building blocks of communicating clear messages to others. In a core aspect of leadership that is often taken for granted, those who excel at communicating often excel in supervision. Learn to avoid noise and interference, and how to properly process feedback to fine tune your messages for clearer understanding.
Presented by Jeff Tingley; Human Service Forum

Culturally Responsive Supervision 2/13/25

Join us as we take a deep look at the many aspects that make up our identities and how they impact our leadership, our organizations and the people we serve. Improve our skills in having conversations about our differences in a way that encourages learning and growth while building intersectional resilience. We will strengthen our ability to have important dialogues, navigate predictable tensions and avoid pitfalls that lead to disconnection. This session helps supervisors cultivate trusting, creative and connected diverse working relationships.
Presented by Regi Wingo and JAC Patriss; Growing a New Heart

Liability and Benefit 2/20/25

Gain a better understanding of Insurance, and how it affects you, your team and your organizations. Understand what coverage you have, and might need, in a variety of situations from daily operations to special fundraising events. Learn the various forms of benefits available to understand what you have and be able to help explain to your team what their options are.
Presented by Ben Garvey and Val Francis; Hub International

Team Building and Conflict Resolution 2/2 7/25

Through discussions that will include team activities and individual reflection, forge a shared understanding of team-building and the essential skills for conflict resolution and negotiation that facilitate the development of strong, cohesive, effective teams. Make your team stronger than the sum of their parts, drive unity, and be able to address conflict when it does happen.
Presented by Dr. Lucie Lewis and Janine Fondon

Cyber Security 3/6/27

With the threat of cyber attacks continuing to rise, with an increased focus on social engineering, no one can afford to hide their heads in the sand and pretend that everything is ok. With a focus on practical, simple, daily steps that one can take, this session seeks to minimize risk to you, your organization, and your clients.
Presented by Chris Wisneski; Whittlesey

Retention: Rewards and Accountability 3/13/27

People don’t leave jobs; they leave bad supervisors. This session puts a focus on how a supervisor can strengthen and grow those who report to them, creating an environment where employees want to stay. Covering how to multiple the strengths of your team, how to discipline in a way that productive, and how to praise, we will learn how to create a work environment centered on retention.
Presented by Diana Brooks; Diana Brooks Associates
Supervisory Skills Series Sponsor:

HSF Annual Sponsors:

"Women Build" Kickoff
2025-03-12 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
To commemorate International Women’s Day, Women’s History Month, and Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build Week, Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity will host a “Women Build” kickoff on Wednesday, March 12, at White Lion Brewing Company’s Community Boom Room. White Lion is at 1500 Main St, in Springfield. The event kicks off at 6pm, and is free to attend. No registration is required.

Savvy Seniors
2025-03-06 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York)
On Thursday, March 6, Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) will introduce its newest series “Savvy Seniors,” which is designed to empower seniors with the knowledge and tools to navigate technology and financial matters with confidence. Each session will tackle a different topic to help protect against scams and fraud, ensuring our seniors stay informed, secure, and in control.
“Savvy Seniors” will be held at the West Springfield Public Library (200 Park St) at 2pm. Light refreshments will be served. There is no cost to attend, but participants are required to sign up. To register, visit bit.ly/4jSXCIH.
“This is geared only for the senior population or to help parents and grandparents,” said Olga Callirgos, GSHFH Homeowner Programs coordinator. “They are our most vulnerable population and not always up-to-date with technology or aware of the scams out there.”
Classes will be taught by Sue Zielenski, who manages the day-to-day operations at the Bank of America Holyoke Lincoln Financial Center. Spanish speakers are welcome to come and a Spanish-speaking representative will be in attendance to help with language barriers.
GSHFH is dedicated to strengthening communities by empowering low-income families to change their lives and the lives of future generations through homeownership and home preservation opportunities. Since 1987, Greater Springfield Habitat has built or repaired 129 homes in Hampden County.

For more information, contact Olga Callirgos, Homeowner Programs coordinator, at callirgos@habitatspringfield.org or (413) 739-5503 x1003.

Dine to Donate at Common Table Food & Drink
2025-03-05 16:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
Join Bfair on Wednesday, March 5th from 4-9 PM at Common Table in Cheshire, MA to benefit BFAIR’s programs and services for people with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury.
Diners will make a positive impact just by visiting Common Table to enjoy a favorite meal or even try a new restaurant!
Common Table has chosen to donate 10% (excluding sales of alcohol) to BFAIR.
Use the ticket link below to make your reservation online through Common Table!
**Please note when you arrive that you are participating in Dine to Donate!
Questions: Katrina Cardillo, Director of Marketing/PR kcardillo@bfair.org
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HSF Signature Breakfast- The Future of Funding
2025-03-05 07:30 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | Mount Holyoke College Willits-Hallowell Center, 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA, United States
Meet with representatives from organizations that fund projects from non-profits. Here what they look for in applications and what their priorities are when choosing where to allocate their resources. A question and answer session follows.
Breakfast included.
$45 HSF Members $65 Not Yet Members

Confirmed Panel Speakers:
Megan Burke- Community Foundation of Western Mass
Ward Caswell- The Beveridge Family Foundation
Megan Moynihan- United Way Pioneer Valley
Kiley O’Meara- The Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation
Vanessa Pabón-Hernandez- Women’s Fund
Margaret Tantillo- O’Dell Women’s Center

HSF Breakfast Sponsors:

Kyle.K.Sullivan@bbrown.com

HSF Annual Sponsors:

HR Virtual Roundtable
2025-03-04 09:00 - 10:30 UTC | Online via Zoom
HSF is pleased to host roundtable forums around topics important to non-profit HR and fiscal management. Roundtables are led by senior leaders from HSF member organizations.
HSF Roundtable Benefits include:

Facilitated discussions with colleagues across the human service industry on up to date trending topics.
Presentations from industry experts
Networking and sharing of best practices

For more information on attending the HR roundtable contact Rebecca Coolong at rcoolong@humanserviceforum.org
Thank you to our Annual Sponsors

94.7 WMAS Radiothon for Baystate Children's Hospital
2025-03-04 06:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)
Change kids’ health. Change the future. Join us for the 24th annual 94.7 WMAS Radiothon for Baystate Children’s Hospital, broadcasting live from the 94.7 WMAS studios at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Mass.
On Tuesday, March 4, and Wednesday, March 5, 2025, the Kellogg Krew will broadcast from 6 am to 6 pm, filling the airwaves with inspirational stories from Baystate Children’s Hospital patients, families, providers, and supporters.
All donations made during the Radiothon stay local, supporting care for children in our community. As the only full-service, accredited children’s hospital in our region, Baystate Children’s Hospital (BCH) is a critical resource in our community, with more than 3,270 inpatient admissions, 3,220 surgeries, and 1,950 procedures performed annually. BCH is also home to the region’s only pediatric emergency department, which sees nearly 32,000 visits each year, and also the region’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Pediatric Intensive/Intermediate Care Unit (PICU).

12th Annual Martin Luther King Jr Lecture
2025-03-03 16:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)
SPRINGFIELD COLLEGE, DIVISION OF CAMPUS LIFE & INCLUSION PRESENT:
Honoring the history of inclusion and diversity at Springfield College
Monday, March 3, 2025 at 4 p.m.
Cleveland E. and Phyllis B. Dodge Room (C-F), Flynn Campus Union
June 14, 1964, was one of the greatest days in Springfield College history.

That was the day when Martin Luther King Jr. delivered the College’s commencement address. Taking place at the height of his fame and the height of the Civil Rights Movement, it also happened in a remarkable context. That included both pressure from the FBI on the College to cancel the speech, and King’s arrest and imprisonment three days before he was scheduled to appear.

2025 marks the 61st anniversary of these events. March 3 will mark the 12th annual MLK Lecture.

This year’s event is not really a lecture at all. It is a thought-provoking conversation rooted in King’s own political and prophetic thought and advocacy in both historical and contemporary contexts. The discussion will assist us in understanding how racial, ethnic, gender, and/or class issues have influenced the current political landscape in the United States.

Our President & CEO, Shannon M. Rudder, MBA, joins other esteemed panelists: State Sen. Adam Gomez and Mount Holyoke College President Danielle R. Holley. Moderating the talk will be Terry Powe ’96, Board of Trustees member and co-chair of the Academic and Student Affairs Committee. JOIN THE CONVERSATION

UCLA Memory Training
2025-02-27 08:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
For people with mild age-related memory challenges, Memory Training teaches memory-enhancing techniques and practical strategies to boost memory functioning.
Thurs., Feb. 6–27,
2–4 p.m.

Black History Month Film Screenings
2025-02-26 14:30 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Northampton Recovery Center, 25 Armory Street, Northampton, MA, 01060, United States
Join us in celebrating Black History Month this February at the Northampton Recovery Center. We will be screening three films: Slavery by Another Name (2/5) Freedom Riders (2/12) and Dark Girls (2/26). These events are open to the public and free.

Ethical Uses of A.I.: Asking the Hard Questions
2025-02-26 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Online via Zoom
Wednesday February 26th @9am
Presented over Zoom
HSF is happy to welcome Ankit Virimani, international expert in the field of ethical uses of generative AI. Ankit will be giving a brief keynote discussing advances in AI technology for use in the non-profit field and on the issues and challenges being discussed on a broad scale. You are being invited to join in a conversation to presenting him with the hard challenging questions that are your personal hesitations/stumbling blocks/fears to see if we can address them together.
(This workshop is a reschedule of HSF’s November Breakfast speaker. All registrants of that Breakfast are auto-registered for this workshop.)

HSF Members: $25
Not Yet Members: $50

HSF Annual Sponsors:

Could It Be Lung Cancer and How Do I Check?
2025-02-25 18:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York)
A cough can be normal, but when is it something more? Am I breathing something into my lungs that puts me at risk for lung cancer? Join Dr. Eduardo Núñez, Baystate Pulmonary, for a discussion on the signs of lung cancer and the importance of early screening. Learn about the risks from tobacco, vaping, marijuana, radon, pollution, and family history—and how you can protect your lungs.

Cancer Drug Therapy and Heart Health
2025-02-22 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Discover the life-saving collaboration between oncology and cardiology. As cancer drug therapies can put added strain on the heart, a multidisciplinary approach is essential to help patients manage the cardiovascular effects of their treatments. Join Dr. Anusha Ganapati Bhat, Cardio-Oncology, Cardiology, to learn how cardiologists work alongside oncologists to minimize heart risks, allowing patients to continue receiving vital cancer therapies safely and effectively.

Habitat Open House
2025-02-19 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | East Forest Park Library, 136 Surrey Road, Springfield MA, MA, 01109, United States
Join us for an inspiring and interactive Open House hosted by Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity! Whether you’re curious about our mission, eager to get involved, or just want to learn more about how we build stronger communities, this is the perfect opportunity. There is no fee but an RSVP is appreciated. Reserve your spot today: bit.ly/4jwNo0i

Revolutionizing AFib Treatment: Discover the New Farapulse Technology
2025-02-16 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Learn about a breakthrough in treating Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) with Farapulse, the innovative new FDA-approved technology that offers a unique approach compared to traditional ablation procedures. Join Dr. Kyle M. Gobeil, Electrophysiology, Cardiology, for in-depth information on how Farapulse is transforming AFib care and what this cutting-edge treatment could mean for your health.

Big Love Little Performances 3.0
2025-02-13 18:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York)
Big Love Little Performances 3.0. The hottest ticket for 2025! Hire the babysitter! It’s a Date Night! It’s a Galentine’s Day! It’s a Broentine’s hang. Thursday, February 13th The Iron Horse
Get your tix or sign-up to perform at: [http://getmeregistered.com/4BLLP2025](http://getmeregistered.com/4BLLP2025)
This 21+ event is a Lip-sync & Karaoke fundraising event benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampshire County.
Expect surprise guests and entertainers as we ride to the Pink Pony Club.
Along with all the amazing performances, the famous savory food, libation cheer, desserts to fall in love with, a curated auction and sweet activities, will make this simply the best way to celebrate the upcoming Valentine’s Day full of love and community connection benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampshire County.

Deciphering Nutrition Labels
2025-02-12 18:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York)
Discover how understanding nutrition labels can aid in making informed food choices with ease and confidence that promote healthy living. Join Dina Dugan, RD, Baystate Noble Hospital, for a discussion about the parts of a nutrition label, why they matter, the historical context and tips for using nutrition labels effectively

Habitat "Home" School
2025-02-12 17:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York)
Habitat Home School is a monthly interactive online class that teaches its participants how to become financially ready to apply for Greater Springfield Habitat’s homeownership program. The inaugural class “Building Strong Credit” will be held in English on Wednesday, Feb. 12, at 5pm; and Tuesday, Feb. 18, at 5pm for Spanish speakers. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. Classes are offered in collaboration with Operation Hope and will be lead by their instructors.

Compassionate Accountable Conversations - February 10, 11, and 12
2025-02-12 09:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Zoom
TRAINING FOR MA BSAS FUNDED PROGRAMS ONLY
If you work with survivors or people who you think may be bullying their partners or others, this training offers practical, effective skills for interrupting and transforming those patterns.
PS: These skills are great if you have a role where you deal with bullies in your life and you want support figuring out how to handle yourself with them.
Register: https://careersofsubstance.org/events/list/intimate-partner-violence-navigating-compassionate-and-accountable-conversations

Thinking about Housing, Part 1
2025-02-11 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
A free webinar with Family Empowerment and Cathy Boyle,
Officer of Autism Housing Pathways, a commissioner of the Winchester Housing Authority, and a member of the Winchester Housing Partnership Board.

Tuesday, February 11, 2025
6 p.m. – 6 p.m.
ZOOM

The discussion will cover the crucial process of combining available public funds with realistic family assets to create the best potential for housing options. Although this is a basic webinar which highlights all of the important steps to any plan in process, it will also be useful even for those already on a Section 8 list.

Topics include:
· public funds available to pay for housing
· level of support needed
· living skills development
· assessment of personal resources
· housing models
· person-centered planning
· state care support options (including non-DDS options)

This webinar is open to all members of the community, including parents, students, caregivers, family members, agency professionals, student team members, and educators!

COSA Meets: Advocacy
2025-02-11 10:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York)
As the new two-year legislative session has just begun in Massachusetts, the February COSA meeting will be focused on legislative advocacy. Many COSA member agencies have an interest in advocating for public policy that affects your programs and the people you serve. At this meeting, we’ll be talking about effective strategies for engaging with legislators, answering your questions about how to get started, and sharing tips for strengthening your advocacy efforts. We are grateful to our guest speakers for joining us:

Pamela Schwartz, Director
Western Massachusetts Network to End Homelessness
Laura Sylvester, Public Policy Manager
Food Bank of Western Massachusetts

We will learn from Pamela and Laura about their organization’s top legislative priorities as well. We can all be powerful advocates by taking action to support legislation, budget items and policies that will impact social services in our region and statewide. Join us on February 11th to learn more!

Boost Your Health With the Power of Nutrition
2025-02-09 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Join Brandy Sarrette, RDN, LDN, Clinical Dietician, to discover how nutrition can be a game-changer for your heart health such as intermittent fasting and the Mediterranean diet. Explore the vital connection between behavioral health and dietary choices and gain practical insights to improve your lifestyle. Embrace heart-healthy habits that can make a lasting impact on your well-being.

A Little Knight Music; LHS Benefit Concert for JFSWM
2025-02-08 18:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | First Church of Christ in Longmeadow, 763 Longmeadow Street, Longmeadow, MA, 01106, United States
A special concert at The First Church of Christ in Longmeadow featuring student-led groups from the Longmeadow High School Music Dept. to benefit Jewish Family Service’s New American Refugee Resettlement Program.
The concert is free and open to the public.
Donations encouraged at the door.

Lights, Community, Action!
2025-02-08 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York)
A Fundraiser For Community Action
Join us for a night of community and live theater! This review show is sure to be a night to remember. We will make our way through Broadway and Pop favorites as we raise money for Community Action. This event will feature many special guests from our beautiful community and is underwritten by Greenfield Savings Bank. Ticket Prices: General Admission (Adult) – $15 Children (12 and under) – $12 Senior Citizen (65 and over) – $12 All Star (General + Donation) – $25 Rated: G Running time: 90 minutes (one intermission) Note: Strobe and Special Lighting Effects will be used throughout the show.

Field Notes
2025-02-08 16:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)
Everyone eats. Food shapes who we are. Come listen to local people share their stories in CISA’s sixth Field Notes live storytelling event. Ranging from humorous to heartwarming, hear about how local food and farming touch our lives and enhance our communities. Tickets are on a sliding scale, from $10-$30
