BHN was a proud sponsor of the Hampden County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Shuffle held today at the Ashley Reservoir in Holyoke. Funds raised by the 5k run and walk support the YWCA of Western Massachusetts efforts to provide essential services to individuals and families impacted by domestic violence. Congrats to the race organizers on a successful family friendly event, and thank you to the community members and BHN staff who came out to support a great cause!

BHN Recovery Coaches joined over a thousand advocates, public officials, and individuals in recovery at MOAR’s 34th Annual Recovery Day Celebration in Boston. Marching from Boston Common to the Shubert Theatre, they helped amplify the message: “Recovery is the way to go!”—a powerful day of unity, inspiration, and hope.

BHN was proud to sponsor the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing, where our team enjoyed a day of networking, golfing, and community engagement. Special thanks to Marcie Lyons, Director of Nursing, for sharing BHN’s mission during the luncheon, and to Ashley Bellio for representing BHN at our resource table.

BHN was proud to sponsor the BABAT Annual Conference in Worcester, hosted by Massachusetts Professionals in Behavior Analysis. Our team had a fantastic time connecting with fellow professionals, learning from industry leaders, and exploring innovative tools and strategies in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Events like this strengthen our commitment to delivering high-quality care and expanding our impact.

BHN was honored to participate in the Springfield International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day event, a gathering dedicated to offering hope, healing, and connection to those affected by suicide loss. The event was made possible through collaboration with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – Massachusetts Chapter, and hosted at the Hampden County Sheriff's Office. Attendees found comfort through facilitated support groups and the presence of therapy dog Tess, who provided emotional relief during a deeply meaningful day.

BHN was proud to join the Together for Hope Conference hosted by Boston Medical Center’s Grayken Center for Addiction. Staff contributed to key sessions, including Dr. Ruth Potee on reimagining methadone treatment, Calla Harrington on brain injury and addiction, and a CORI-related employment panel featuring Desiree Pelletier and Claudia Muradian-Brubach. Anthony English also presented a poster on BHN’s methadone dosing innovations. The event reflected BHN’s commitment to inclusive, forward-thinking care and the power of collaboration in the fight against addiction.

BHN staff participated in the DCF Mental Health and Substance Use Provider Fair, engaging with fellow providers and sharing information about BHN’s programs and services. The event offered a valuable opportunity to strengthen partnerships, promote access to care, and support families across the region through collaborative efforts.

BHN staff were honored to attend the Black Men of Greater Springfield Thanksgiving Community Luncheon, a gathering that celebrates unity, gratitude, and service. The event brought together local leaders, providers, and residents to strengthen relationships and share resources that support the well-being of our community.

BHN staff and community partners came together this holiday season to support families across our programs. From wish lists and toy drives to generous donations, their efforts brought joy to hundreds of children and families. Special thanks to Kiley Russell, Ashley Brooks, Kelly Brown, and our partners at St. Jude’s, Baystate Noble, Baystate Wing, and Lia Auto Group for making it all possible.

BHN proudly celebrated Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month by honoring the individuals we serve and the meaningful connections they build. From community gatherings to personal milestones, these moments reflect the joy, belonging, and inclusion that everyone deserves.

BHN was proud to attend the 24th Annual Massachusetts Suicide Prevention Conference. It was an inspiring time of learning, connection, and collaboration with professionals across the state, all committed to suicide prevention as a public health priority.

BHN was proud to sponsor and participate in Pride celebrations in Springfield, Hampshire, Holyoke, Boston, and Greenfield. Staff, leadership, and clients marched in parades and hosted resource tables to share information about BHN’s services, programs, and career opportunities—celebrating and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community with pride and purpose.

Staff across BHN, including the Developmental Services team, proudly wore green in May in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month—demonstrating their commitment to reducing stigma and promoting mental wellness throughout our communities.

In one incredible weekend of engagement this May, BHN staff hosted resource tables at five community events across Springfield and Westfield—including the World’s Largest Pancake Breakfast, Community Baby Shower, Life March, Youth Matters March, and NAMI Walkathon. These events offered meaningful opportunities to connect with residents, share resources, and stand in support of community wellness.

BHN’s Therapeutic Mentors led a Healthy Relationships Workshop at Tower Square in Springfield, hosted by the youth-led Beat the Odds (BTO) program. In collaboration with our In-Home Therapy team, staff supported BTO youth in exploring mental health topics that matter most to them. Through peer mentoring and advocacy, BTO empowers young people in Springfield’s BIPOC communities to promote healing and drive change.

BHN Self-Advocacy Club members traveled to Boston for the 47th Annual Legislative Reception, joining peers from across the state to champion disability rights. They met with legislators and advocated for bills supporting respectful medical care and accessibility, continuing their proud tradition of driving meaningful change through advocacy.

We were proud to participate in the Equity in the 413 Summit, hosted by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts. It was a powerful day of learning, connection, and dialogue centered on advancing racial equity in the workplace. A special thank you to our BHN team members who led two impactful sessions—and to everyone who engaged in this meaningful experience with us.