Human Service Forum

Will Bike 4 Food
2025-09-21 07:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Presented by:
Sunday, September 21, 2025
Lion’s Club Pavillion, Hatfield MA

This annual fundraiser for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts returns for it’s 15th year and brings together cyclists of all levels and ages to pedal towards a hunger-free future on scenic routes through the Connecticut River Valley. Ride and fundraise individually or with a team of friends, family, or coworkers!
Participants can choose between a:

100 Mile Century Ride
50 Mile Half Century Ride
25 Mile Quarter Century Ride
12 Mile Family Fun Ride
4 Mile Family Fun Ride
Or ride virtually anytime during Hunger Action Month in September!

When you’re finished with your ride, celebrate with food and drinks at the Will Bike 4 Food After Party
Presented by:

Special Education Forum for Parents
2025-09-24 20:00 - 21:00
The Special Education Forum is an opportunity for parents
and caregivers to share information amongst each other and
gain insight from Nancy Farnsworth, Autism Connections’
Information & Resource Coordinator and Special Education
Consultant.
Join the Zoom meeting for a conversation about experiences,
concerns, problem solving and success stories in a safe and
supportive environment. The group’s concerns determine
the topics of the meetings, while Nancy provides educational
updates for that month.
Important information about the Forum:
• The Forum is for parents/caregivers only and registration
is required.
• The meetings will not be recorded, to respect private
conversations.
• Any handouts discussed during the meeting will be
emailed within a few days to attendees.
* Special dates

Celebrating the Career of Clare Higgins
2025-09-25 18:00 - 21:00
Join us for a special evening honoring Clare Higgins’ extraordinary decades of leadership while launching the Clare Higgins Fund for Community Resilience —a vital initiative to ensure Community Action Pioneer Valley (CAPV) can continue providing essential programs and support for the 28,000+ neighbors we serve each year across Franklin and Hampshire counties.
Honoring Clare’s Legacy
Clare Higgins has dedicated her career to the belief that all people, regardless of income or circumstance, deserve opportunity, voice, and respect. Her decades of service have powerfully shaped CAPV’s work—rooted in dignity, equity, and community-led change. As Clare retires, we celebrate her vision of stronger, more just, and more connected communities.
The Clare Higgins Fund for Community Resilience
Each year, CAPV partners with over 28,000 neighbors across Franklin and Hampshire counties to build paths toward economic stability, resilience, and thriving lives. As federal funding becomes less reliable, the Clare Higgins Fund will provide long-term support to preserve the essential programs, staffing, and infrastructure that serve as lifelines for thousands of families.
This fund reflects Clare’s core belief in opportunity and respect for all, ensuring that CAPV can continue to be a trusted source of stability and hope—even in uncertain times. A gift to the Fund is an investment in the future: a future where communities are stronger, more just, and more connected—just as Clare envisioned.
Our goal is to raise $100,000 at this event to contribute to the Clare Higgins Fund for Community Resilience, with a total goal of $500,000 to honor her leadership while securing the future of vital community services.
Event Goal
Our goal is to raise $100,000 at this event to contribute to the Clare Higgins Fund for Community Resilience, honoring leadership while securing the future of vital community services.

Vaping & Nicotine Pouches: Understanding the New Landscape
2025-09-26 12:00 - 13:00
Join us for an informative webinar as we explore the evolving landscape of tobacco and nicotine use, with a special focus on vaping and nicotine pouches like Zyns. This session will offer a high-level overview of emerging products, usage trends, and potential mitigation strategies—especially relevant for youth, families, community-based organizations (CBOs), and municipalities. Featured Speakers include Heather Warner from Collaborative for Educational Services and Dr. Nicole Porther, from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, with moderation by Jessica Collins from PHIWM.

September Massachusetts Landlord Workshop
2025-09-27 09:00 - 14:00
September 27 @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
$119.95

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.
Registration fee is $119.95 (non-refundable & includes Way Finders’ Property Management Manual, valued at $29.95).

CHD's All In Day
2025-09-27 09:00 - 17:00
Join us for “CHD’s All In Day” at Mike’s Maze at Warner Farm on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Warner Farm in Sunderland, MA. Lots of fun family games and activities including a huge corn maze where anyone who completes it will get a free ‘prize’ pumpkin. Other fun activities include potato cannons, pedal carts, a petting zoo, giant playground, and hayrides. Try their apple cider donuts made fresh daily at their onsite cafe. Bring the whole family for a fun day of #FallFun! Plus, $1 for every ticket will go to All In!

Walk for Every Body!
2025-09-28 11:30 - 15:00
On September 28, 2025, gather with us in downtown Northampton to walk, raise funds, and take action for Tapestry Health. Every step supports reproductive rights, gender-affirming care, and access to healthcare for all. Show up and show your support for your community!

Start a team, walk with friends, and make an impact in your community.

Supervisory Skills Certificate Series: Fall 2025
2025-10-01 09:00 - 12:30
HSF’s most popular workshop series is returning.
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. Select to attend in person at our offices in Easthampton or virtually over Zoom.
This series is presented over Zoom. Series runs 8 consecutive weeks starting October 1st to November 19th 9am-12:30pm all session. Full series is $650 for members, $1300 for nonmembers.

Series Dates and Topics:
Retention: Rewards and Accountability Wed October 1st 2025
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
Team Building and Conflict Resolution Thurs October 9th 2025
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
Culturally Responsive Supervision- Wed October 15th 2025
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- Wed October 22nd 2025
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
Employment Law Wed October 29th 2025
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
Cyber Security Wed November 5th 2025
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
Lead with Influence- Wed November 12th 2025
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
Leadership Communication Wed November 19th 2025
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
Supervisory Skills Series Sponsor:

HSF Annual Sponsors:

Retention: Rewards & Accountability- Supervisory Skills Certificate Series: Fall 2025- Choose Your Training
2025-10-01 09:00 - 12:30
Single sessions of HSF’s Supervisory Skills Series are now available for registration.
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 Wed October 1st 2025
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
This series is presented over Zoom. 9am-12:30pm all session. Each Session is $150 for members, $250 for nonmembers.

Other Series Dates and Topics:
To sign up for more than one topic click HERE
Team Building and Conflict Resolution Thurs October 9th 2025
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
Culturally Responsive Supervision- Wed October 15th 2025
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- Wed October 22nd 2025
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
Employment Law Wed October 29th 2025
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
Cyber Security Wed November 5th 2025
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
Lead with Influence- Wed November 12th 2025
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
Leadership Communication Wed November 19th 2025
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
Supervisory Skills Series Sponsor:

HSF Annual Sponsors:

Celebrity Bartending
2025-10-02 17:30 - 21:00
Celebrity Bartending – In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Oct 02, 2025, 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
West Springfield, 429 Morgan Rd, West Springfield, MA 01089, USA

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month Join WS Park & Recreation Dept & Each Moment We’re Alive cancer survivors as Celebrity Bartenders.

Ad Club of Western Mass Presents: The Creative Unconference
2025-10-04 09:00 - 16:00 | 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.
