Human Service Forum

Transition Resource Fair
2025-11-05 17:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
The popular Transition Resource Fair is coming to Greenfield High School!

Wednesday, November 5, 2025
5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Greenfield High School
21 Barr Avenue, Greenfield, MA 01301

The Transition Resource Fair focuses on future options for high school students as they and their families plan their transition from DDS children’s services to adult services. The event provides an opportunity to meet with a roomful of specialized transition service providers, and is a free resource event open to the entire community.

Participants in the transition process are typically students 14-22, however, information about services can also be useful for younger children, as well as young adults over 22.

We respectfully request that you register for the fair so we will be prepared for the correct number of attendees; however, registration is not required. Registrations from attendees requesting Spanish interpretation are required and are due by October 21, so we can make arrangements.

Light appetizers will be available during the fair.

If you have additional questions, please email Angie Hawk, at ahawk@servicenet.org.

Harm Reduction in Practice
2025-11-05 12:00 - 13:00
First up in our Lunch & Learn Series will be Tapestry‘s Kyle Harrington sharing on Harm Reduction in Practice: Responding to a Changing Drug Supply on Wednesday, November 5 from 12-1 PM on Zoom! Open to all regional community members and partners – we hope to see you there!

Building Resilience from Within
2025-11-05 11:00 - 12:00
This six-week series was developed to help prevent caregiver burnout but is open to anyone experiencing heightened stress in their lives.
Presenter Reina Goldberg will teach simple techniques to build core resilience including mindfulness, gentle movement, and guided visualization. The ongoing nature of the series strengthens connection, reduces feelings of isolation, and empowers individuals with tools to address their most pressing needs for stress reduction.
October 22nd through November 26th
(10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19 & 11/26)
Wednesdays 11-11:45 on Zoom (Participants will receive a Zoom link prior to the first session)
The program is free, open to all, and no experience is required. To ensure accessibility, all exercises can be done seated or standing and every session is recorded so participants can watch or rewatch at their convenience. Registration is required. For more information and/or to register: scan the QR code in the image, call 413-737-2601 or contact Tammy Morton: t.morton@jfswm.org

Community Benefits Forums
2025-11-05 10:30 - 11:30
Baystate Health and Health New England warmly invite patients, friends, and the wider community to attend their in-person Community Benefits Forums. These forums are an opportunity to learn, share, and connect around the health needs and priorities of our local communities.Register here: https://baystatehealth.jotform.com/252875534671062

MMP Connects Western & Central MA
2025-11-05 10:00 - 12:00 | Holyoke Public Library, 250 Chestnut St, Holyoke, MA, 01040, United States
Join us for this fall’s MMP Connects! Both our Western MA region and Central MA regional partners will meet at the Holyoke Public Library to discuss the theme of Community Assets. Join us for this in-person networking opportunity, where we will map what is strongest about the mentoring movement in our local contexts and lift up the wonderful, hard work you all contribute to. We will discuss promotion of partnerships, and gather insight into desired match activities for 2026.
Agenda:
10 – 10:30 Breakfast Networking
10:30 – 11 Opening Context and our Mentoring Movement
11 – 11:45 Open Discussion
11:45 – 12 Debrief and Close
If you have any questions, email Lauren at lmccabe@massmentors.org.

Cyber Security- Supervisory Skills Certificate Series: Fall 2025- Choose Your Training
2025-11-05 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.
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
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:
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:

Supervisory Skills Certificate Series: Fall 2025
2025-11-05 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:

Drowning in Data: Making Use (and Sense) of What You Already Have
2025-11-03 12:00 - 13:00
Nonprofits juggle a lot: programs to run, communities to serve, boards and funders to keep informed, and somewhere in the mix sits data. You have intake forms, attendance logs, survey responses (paper and online), rogue spreadsheets, CRM exports (oh my!). You’re working hard, you care deeply, and you want data to help, not weigh you down. This workshop is about throwing you a life raft. We’ll cut through the noise of overwhelming data and reframe it as something you already have (and don’t need to reinvent). No new systems or complicated dashboards, just simple tools to spot what’s getting in the way, ask sharper questions, and turn existing data into insights your team, board, and funders can use.

SICS National Honor Society Breast Cancer Walk
2025-11-01 08:00 - 11:00
Springfield International Charter School
Nov 1 8-11 am
We will begin with a couple of survivors sharing their stories. Featured games, raffles and vendor tables.

RSVP Cindy@eachmomentwerealive.org

Trunk or Treat
2025-10-30 17:30 - 19:30
Gándara Center is partnering with Monte Marie again this year to host a Trunk or Treat Event TOMORROW, Wednesday, October 30th , from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the Mont Marie facility at 36 Lower Westfield Road, Holyoke. We are looking for agencies to decorate the trunks of their cars and provide candy to youth and families. We are asking trunks to arrive between 4:30 pm and 5:00 pm, so we will be ready to begin at 5:30 pm. If you are available, please register using the link below, so we will know how many trunks to expect.

https://forms.gle/BSZjqLM7jvpD1jex7

Special Education Forum for Parents
2025-10-29 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

Benign vs. Cancerous: What Breast Lumps Really Mean
2025-10-28 16:00 - 17:00
Finding a breast lump can be alarming—but not all lumps are cancerous. Join Dr. Billie Borden for a discussion on the different types of breast lumps and signs to watch out for.

Impacts of Medicaid Cuts in Western Massachusetts: The Massachusetts Health Policy Forum
2025-10-28 08:30 - 12:00
Join us Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the UMass Amherst, Fine Arts Center for a forum entitled, “Impacts of Medicaid Cuts on Western Massachusetts.” Seating is limited, so please register as soon as possible.

Medicaid cuts resulting from the passage of H.R. 1, the federal budget reconciliation act known as the “One Big Beautiful Act” will lead to an estimated 141,000 to 203,000 MassHealth members losing health care coverage. The number of uninsured will likely increase significantly and adversely impact safety net providers and others throughout the health care system. Details of this law’s impact on the Commonwealth will be followed by a deep dive panel discussion of the impact on Western Massachusetts.

A presentation of research by Kaitlyn Kenny Walsh, Vice President of Policy and Research, BCBSMA Foundation, will focus on the impact on Massachusetts federal funding regulations and policy changes. The panel on the implications for Western Massachusetts will be moderated by Audrey Shelto, President and CEO, BCBSMA Foundation and include Michael Levine, Undersecretary, MassHealth at EOHHS, Tania Barber, President and CEO, Caring Health Center, Dean Sanpei, COA, Baystate Health, and Iiana Steinhauer, Executive Director, Volunteers in Medicine.

This forum is supported by University of Massachusetts Amherst School of Public Health and Health Sciences, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation and the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts. The Philip W. Johnston Massachusetts Health Policy Forum is also supported by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts and Baystate Health.

HSF Signature Breakfast: Banking in Non Profit Sector & Addressing Current Challenges
2025-10-28 07:30 - 10:00 | Mount Holyoke College Willits-Hallowell Center, 50 College Street, South Hadley, MA, United States
HSF welcomes our community partner, Liberty Bank, to talk about topics related to Banking in Non Profit Sector & Addressing Current Challenges at our next signature breakfast. Join us for networking, conversation, and a thought provoking presentation over coffee and breakfast.
$50 HSF Members $75 Not Yet Members

HSF Breakfast Sponsors:

HSF Annual Sponsors:

Springfield Public Forum: Ketanji Brown Jackson
2025-10-27 18:00 - 20:00
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson will share her life and world, tracing her family’s ascent from segregation to her confirmation on America’s highest court within the span of one generation. Through trials and triumphs, Justice Jackson’s journey will resonate with dreamers everywhere, especially those who nourish outsized ambitions and refuse to be turned aside. Her moving, openhearted tale will spread hope for a more just world, for generations to come.

Fostering Creativity: Youth Art Showcase
2025-10-25 16:00 - 18:00 | New Art Center, 61 Washington Park, Newton, MA, 02460, United States
Join us for an art gallery style event featuring the creative designs, artwork, and messages from youth who are in and who have been in foster care. Through art, these talented young creators will share their perspectives, challenge stereotypes, and spark important conversations about foster care and adoption.
Join us at the New Art Center in Newton for a gallery-style event showcasing their inspiring artwork. In addition to viewing the art, you’ll also have the chance to hear directly from some of the artists during a panel discussion, where they’ll share their personal experiences and insights, offering a deeper understanding of the stories behind their creations.
Why You Can’t Miss This Event:
Experience the Artwork: Discover the unique, powerful stories behind each piece
Hear Their Stories: Listen to compelling talks from the speakers as they share the inspiration for their creations.
Support the Cause: Purchase products featuring the designs created by this year’s featured artists, with proceeds supporting MARE initiatives.
Make a Difference: Learn about the many ways you can raise awareness about adoption from foster care and help change lives.

What’s New in Breast Cancer Radiation: Faster, Safer, Targeted Care
2025-10-23 18:00 - 19:00
Join Radiation Oncologist Dr. Seth Kaufman for an informative talk about the latest breakthroughs in breast cancer treatment including how advanced radiation techniques are making treatment quicker, more precise, and easier on the body. Discover how new data and diagnostic tools are helping to better predict which patients might not need radiation at all.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Belle of Amherst
2025-10-19 01:00 - 15:00
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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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