Enhancing the Quality of Life in the Region
From art shows to healthcare services, CCGS institutions are committed to enhancing the quality of life in the Pioneer Valley. Come explore how these CCGS resources can make a difference in your life.
A Call to Action Summit
Bay Path College
Presidential Ambassadors, a group of student leaders chosen by Bay Path’s President and Vice President for Planning and Student Development, plan and organize the day-long summit on community service for college students. A Call To Action brings together college students and nonprofit executives. It’s an opportunity for college students to take a short course in the difference they can make in community organizations in terms of fundraising, sweat equity, and grassroots activity, while executives have the chance to come away with fresh perspectives to challenges they are facing. Telephone: 413-565-1333
Adult Basic Education/GED Testing and Preparations
Holyoke Community College
Holyoke and Ludlow Area Adult Learning Centers provide free ESL, GED, and other adult basic education services. Ludlow: 413-583-0320; Holyoke: 413-532-4900 ext. 116; GED Testing: 413-552-2292
Alternative Spring Break
Bay Path College
A five-day program held during spring break organized by Bay Path students, Alternative Spring Break pairs participants with local nonprofit organizations. Students volunteer in the agencies and in doing so, they learn about the administration and functions of the organizations. Telephone: 413-565-1467
America Reads & America Counts
Elms College
Elms College students participate in the America Reads and America Counts tutoring programs in reading and math for children from kindergarten to third grade. Early intervention by committed tutors with children who have difficulty reading or doing math has been shown to make a profound impact on the children’s future academic success. Telephone: 413-594-2761
The America Reads program promotes literacy support for children, with the premise that reading is essential to academic success. The goal of Elms College America Reads is to help children read better by fostering their love of literature.
The goal of the America Counts program is to help children develop their math skills, and as a result, their academic confidence.
Annual “Are You A Bookie?” Book Club Event
Bay Path College
Book clubs share their booklists and favorite reads, authors, and themes, while area residents discover what books others are reading, how clubs select books, and the history of specific book clubs. “Are You A Bookie?” is sponsored by the Community Outreach Committee of the Bay Path College Advisory Council. Telephone: 413-565-1066
Armory Square Child Care
Springfield Technical Community College
This NAEYC-accredited child care center at STCC serves the children of students, staff, and the general public. The center is licensed to accommodate up to 40 children from two years and nine months to six years of age. Telephone: 413-737-3455
Arno Maris Gallery
Westfield State College
Open during the academic year, the gallery features exceptional exhibits by noted artists. Telephone: 413-572-5236
Arts at AIC
American International College
There is music, dance, lectures, plays and art exhibits at American International College all open to the public free of charge. “The Arts at AIC” series includes a variety of entertainment and educational events all held in the Esther Griswold Theatre and Karen Sprague Cultural Arts Center. This yearlong series of events is designed to serve three purposes – to enhance the educational experience for students by linking in-class learning with out-of-class experiences, to strengthen the AIC community by providing more opportunities for involvement and interaction, and to contribute to the greater Springfield community by offering additional cultural events as part of our commitment to be Springfield’s best neighbor. 413-205-3231
The Arts Are Alive
Western New England College
The public is invited to enjoy free performances by the Campus Chorus, Jazz Choir, Concert Band, Jazz Band, or visiting artists. Theatrical productions feature the Stageless Players and comedy performances by our outrageous Improv on the Rocks troupe. Telephone: 413-796-2270
AVANZA to College
Holyoke Community College
Holyoke Community College’s AVANZA program has helped transition hundreds of students to a college education. This program offers support and assistance with the college and financial aid application process. For further information please contact Harold Santiago at 413-552-2579, or hsantiago@hcc.mass.edu.
Borgia Gallery
Elms College
The Borgia Gallery at Elms College hosts several exhibits each year by local artists. The gallery is handicap accessible, free, and open to the public. Telephone: 413-265-2425
Camp Massasoit
Springfield College
Camp Massasoit is an experiential day and adventure camp for youth ages 5 to 16 interested in exploring the outdoors. The Day Camp includes a challenge course, archery, swimming, Project Wild, boating, and other activities. Voyager Camp, for youth ages 11 to 13, is a transitional program from day camp without the pressure of an overnight trip. Walk-A-Bout Camp, for youth ages 12 to 14 furthering their outdoor skills, includes a one-night overnight camping trip, lifetime wellness activities, and educational field trips. Adventure Camp, for youth ages 14 to 16, teaches challenging outdoor skills. Telephone: 413-750-5011
Amy H. Carberry Fine Arts Gallery
Springfield Technical Community College
Founded in 1984 the STCC fine arts gallery has featured approximately seven exhibits each academic year, including works by artists of regional and national repute, as well as STCC student work. Renamed in 2003, the Amy H. Carberry Fine Arts Gallery is a multifaceted exhibition space open to the campus community and the general public throughout the academic year. An invaluable teaching tool and community resource, the gallery is dedicated to the promotion and presentation of contemporary art. Telephone: 413-755-5258
Child Development Center
Springfield College
Recognized as one of the foremost child development centers in the region, this Springfield College facility provides a stimulating, caring environment where children 15 months to 5 years of age learn and grow. Open to the community, it is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, a designation that applies to only seven percent of U.S. child care centers. The teaching faculty is supported by Springfield College students of early childhood education. Telephone: 413-788-2451
City Scholarship Programs
American International College
AIC offers the dependents of all Springfield city employees a $10,000 scholarship, $2,500 a year, renewable for four years. In addition to being a dependent of a full-time City of Springfield employee, applicants must meet the admissions requirements of the college, submit a completed Financial Aid Form, be accepted by the College as a full-time undergraduate day student, and achieve satisfactory academic progress toward degree completion. City employees must maintain full-time employment with the City of Springfield during the scholarship award period. The college also offers scholarships to those living in the city, including the Bay Area Neighborhood Scholarship. Telephone: 413-205-3201
College for Kids
Westfield State College
Fun and educational day programs for over 500 area children each summer. Telephone: 413-572-8034
College for Kids
Springfield Technical Community College
Created in 1982, this summer enrichment program for children in grades 2-11 offers two two-week sessions of classes in computers, science, photography, theater, sports, art, and more, in July and August. Telephone: 413-755-4501
Community Clinics
American International College
AIC Nursing students hold blood pressure clinics at various locations, including Martin Luther King Community Center, Vietnamese American Civic Association, Gray House and Edgewater Apartments. 413-205-3519
Community Health Fair
Springfield Technical Community College
Each year, senior Nursing students organize and present a health fair for the college and the general public, providing information on numerous health concerns. Telephone: 413-755-4827
Community Health Fair
Westfield State College
The Health Services Department collaborates with the greater Westfield community on a free annual Health Fair with representation from various community agencies. Telephone: 413-572-5415
Community Service Clearinghouse
Westfield State College
Through a convenient web site, the Clearinghouse links organizations in need of resources with potential student, faculty, or staff volunteers. Telephone: 413-572-8157
Community Thanksgiving Dinner
Springfield College
Springfield College and the Massachusetts Career Development Institute (MCDI) have served a community holiday dinner free of charge in November since 1999. Aramark, the college’s food service, MCDI staff, and about 85 volunteers from the college and the community work together on the event, attended annually by about 650 Springfield residents. Telephone: 413-748-3219
Daniel Pearl World Music Days
Western New England College
Each October, Western New England College hosts a musical performance as part of Daniel Pearl World Music Days, honoring the life and work of slain journalist Daniel Pearl who was not only an intrepid and accomplished writer, but also a gifted musician and dedicated humanitarian. The College joins together each year with Temple Beth El, the Community Music School of Springfield, and the Islamic Society of Western Massachusetts to present this regional event—one of more than 1,000 Music Days celebrations worldwide—where communities come together to speak out for tolerance, humanity and friendship. Telephone:413-782-1420
Dial-A-Lawyer
Western New England College
The Dial-A-Lawyer program has been held for more than two decades. This semiannual program provides a valuable service to residents of western Massachusetts by offering free legal advice from alumni and other local attorneys with a wide range of expertise. Telephone: 413-782-1420
Diversity Performances
Springfield Technical Community College
STCC, in collaboration with other colleges and community organizations, offers performances celebrating diversity throughout the year. The public is invited to attend these events. Past performances have included Alvin Ailey Dance Company, Ibrahim Gonzales Trio with Sandra Maria Esteves, George Faison and The Respect Project, electric violinist Ken Ford, Dr. Ron McCurdy with the Langston Hughes Project, and the Berklee College of Music Bob Marley Ensemble. Telephone: 413-755-4414
ENLACE
Holyoke Community College
ENLACE works with Holyoke youth to increase the high school graduation and college enrollment rates of Latino students. Civic and educational leaders along with parents and students work together to channel resources and align existing resources to assist more students in their educational pursuits. For additional information, please contact Isolda Ortega-Bustamente at 413-552-2857. Email ortega@hcc.mass.edu
Events Schedule
Holyoke Community College
Throughout the year, HCC sponsors theatre and music programs in the Leslie Phillips Forum, art exhibits in the Taber Gallery, and many other cultural and literary events throughout the campus, most of which are open to the public. Telephone: 413-538-7000
Facilities at the Bartley Center
Holyoke Community College
Among the many facilities available for classroom rental is HCC’s Bartley Center for Athletics and Recreation. Telephone: 413-552-2160
Facilities for the Community
American International College
The college makes its facilities available to a number of community organizations at little or no cost. Telephone: 413-205-3352
Facilities for Videoconferencing
Springfield Technical Community College
The Joseph J. Deliso Sr. Videoconferencing Center (DVC) in the Scibelli Enterprise Center in the STCC Technology Park, provides videoconferencing, audio conferencing and video-based production facilities and services to Western Massachusetts. The DVC is used by businesses, organizations, and individuals, and also offers video streaming and web casting services. Telephone: 413-755-6100
Facilities Reservations
Springfield Technical Community College
STCC opens its campus conference areas to state and community organizations, events, and forums, at a fee that covers heating and maintenance costs. Telephone: 413-755-4062
Facilities Reservations
Westfield State College
The Office of Conference Services provides one-stop shopping for facilities reservations and event planning, including audiovisual equipment, and satellite/video conferencing capabilities. The campus offers premier banquet, meeting, and sports facilities, with residence halls available in summer. Telephone: 413-572-5580
Facilities at the Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Development
Holyoke Community College
First-class, affordable meeting/conference space rental. Telephone: 413-552-2500
Faculty Reading Group
Springfield Technical Community College
Students and the community are invited to semiannual performances by the STCC Faculty Reading Group, under the direction of Professor Dennison Rice. Faculty and staff present a wide range of readings of poetry, fiction, and drama, some original and some selections from well-known authors. Telephone: 413-755-4254
Financial Aid Information Events
Springfield Technical Community College
Since 1995, STCC has hosted Congressman Richard E. Neal’s annual financial aid information session, which provides vital information on preparing to pay for college, to hundreds of parents and students in the greater Springfield area.
In 2007, the college also began hosting the College Goal Sunday event. Telephone: 413-755-4475
Fit Fest
Springfield College
To foster public health and wellness, Springfield College students and faculty members in various health and education studies and campus clubs present a day of free exhibits and activities. The program varies annually, but usually includes screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and other factors, and also hearing and vision tests. Among other subjects addressed are nutrition, self examination for various health conditions, physical fitness, introduction to various sports, and more. Telephone: 413-748-3421
GED Preparation, Adult Education
Springfield Technical Community College
The STCC Adult Education Center provides class instruction from basic literacy to GED preparation and transition to college support for adult learners. Services are provided free of charge and are open to all members of the community. Telephone: 413-755-4300
STCC is also a testing center for the GED exam, which is offered several times during the year. Telephone: 413-755-4709
Girls & Women in Sports Day
Springfield College
Each year in February, Springfield College coaches, student athletes, and East Campus staff conduct clinics for approximately 160 girls in grades three through eight in sports including softball, soccer, volleyball, field hockey, lacrosse, gymnastics, tennis, yoga, football and rock climbing. Telephone: 413 748-3334
Girls and Women in Sports Day
Western New England College
For more than five years, this annual event, designed for girls from the Greater Springfield area, ages 7 to 12 years old, has been held at Western New England College. The clinic offers instruction by Western New England College coaches and varsity athletes, scrimmages, and recreational time for swimming, racquetball, and squash. Telephone: 413-782-1202
Global Perspectives: Expanding Understanding of Legal Systems
Elms College
The Division of Business and Law offers a series of speakers, events, and activities to expand understanding of American and global legal systems to area high school and college students. Telephone: 413-594-2761.
Groundhog Shadow Day
Elms College
Area middle school students learn about careers through hands-on activities in various career-preparation programs at Elms College. The objective of the job shadow day is to help children see the connection between their studies and the workplace, and also to experience career options in their area of interest.
Telephone: 413-594-2761.
Hampden/Hampshire Tech Prep Consortium
Holyoke Community College
A collaborative effort of HCC, STCC and over 23 area high schools providing students with the opportunity to choose a career path at the High School and through articulation agreements between the High Schools and College receive credit toward an Associate Degree. Internships and work-related experience are encouraged at both levels. For more information please see www.hcc.edu. Telephone: 413-552-2299. Email: toward@hcc.mass.edu
Nora Harrington Lecture Series
Elms College
The Nora Harrington Lecture Series is an annual lecture in chemistry jointly sponsored by the Elms College Chemistry Department and the Connecticut Valley section of the American Chemical Society. The lecture series was inaugurated in 1983 to honor the 32 years of teaching service of Sr. Nora Harrington to Elms College. Telephone: 413-265-2225
Health Clinics
Springfield Technical Community College
- Rehab Clinic
In one of the first multidiscipline clinics in the country, students and faculty in STCC’s Physical Therapist Assistant and Occupational Therapy Assistant programs, along with students and faculty of Springfield College’s master’s-level programs, provide free assistance to members of the general public who have been referred by area clinicians. Clients may have no health insurance, or may have a need for services which extends beyond what their insurance will cover. Telephone: 413-755-4364
- Massage Therapy
Students in the Massage Therapy program, under the supervision of licensed faculty, provide low cost massage therapy services for the general public. Telephone: 413-755-4864
- Cosmetology
Students in the Cosmetology program, under the supervision of licensed faculty, provide services for the general public from hair cutting, coloring, and styling, to manicures, facials, and other services. Telephone: 413-755-4837
- Dental Hygiene
Students in the Dental Hygiene program under the supervision of licensed faculty and participating area dentists provide low cost services to the general public, including teeth cleaning and x-rays, in the fully-equipped dental hygiene lab. Telephone: 413-755-4900
- Dental Assistant
This program offers an x-ray clinic, with services provided by students under the supervision of qualified faculty and staff. Telephone: 413-755-4908
Health Screenings
American International Colege
Physical Therapy students offer backpack, safety and fall-risk screening clinics at several locations.
Occupational Therapy students work with Head Start and Springfield Public Schools in different program areas. 413-205-3320
Hoophall Classic
Springfield College
As a result of Springfield College’s long-standing relationship with the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the college cohosts the Hoophall Classic, a nationally televised event that attracts more than 10,000 visitors to Greater Springfield. Local, regional, and national high school men’s and women’s basketball teams compete, including a number of the nation’s best teams. Springfield College student volunteers also support the activities and programs of the Basketball Hall of Fame. Telephone: 413-748-3818
Humanics in Action Day
Springfield College
Each September, Springfield College cancels classes and operates offices on reduced staffing for a day so that approximately 2,000 students and members of the faculty and staff may perform about 100 community projects. College work groups serve schools, shelters, churches, senior citizens’ facilities, city agencies, community organizations, and individual neighbors. They work on educational programs, indoor and outdoor cleaning and repairs, playground improvement, school landscaping, graffiti removal, and more. Telephone: 413-748-3219
Income Tax Assistance
Elms College
Business Administration students, in conjunction with the Valley Opportunity Council volunteer their time during February, March, and April to provide free assistance in tax preparation, especially for low-income and elderly citizens. Telephone: 413-265-2300
Irish Cultural Center
Elms College
The Irish Cultural Center is a forum for Irish cultural events such as lectures, musical presentations, films, and exhibits. Ongoing at the center are: Irish Language Study opportunities, Genealogy Support Group, monthly book club discussion, as well as a bimonthly newsletter. The Center is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. and by appointment. The Irish Cultural Center invites interested people to join our organization and become a "cara" (friend). This organization and its membership (Cairde) are devoted to "keeping the Irish arts alive." The organization is interested in preserving, sharing, and promoting the great heritage of the Irish people, so that future generations of Irish and Irish Americans will have the opportunity to appreciate their rich legacy. Telephone: 413-265-2537
“Intensives” for the Springfield Expeditionary Learning School
American International College
Intensives are one week courses held between trimesters that provide opportunities for remediation or enrichment, depending on students’ academic progress. The program gives the 9th graders a chance to experience college life, as they are paired up with an AIC student. For three days the students sat in on classes, visited the human anatomical laboratory, the college radio station and newspaper, library and admissions office. 413.205.3201
Kaleidoscope Series
Bay Path College
Held each semester, Kaleidoscope is a series of events that foster openness, curiosity and dialogue about issues and topics in our community, country and world. It includes, but is not limited to, lectures, documentaries, entertainment, and presentations and discussions. Most events are free of charge. Telephone: 413.565.1066
Kids Night Out
Westfield State College
Kids Night Out is a campus activity program hosted on select Friday nights for Westfield kids, K-5th grade, who participate in supervised arts and crafts, age-appropriate games, and recreational activities. Telephone: 413-572-5406
Kitchen Sink: A Women Writers’ Workshop
Bay Path College
Bay Path College hosts this writers’ workshop during the summer. The event is for women, and all writing levels are invited to attend. Kitchen Sink features a keynote speaker, and participants attend various writing sessions and learn from popular authors. Visit www.baypath.edu or call 413-565-1066
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Western New England College
Learning Beyond the Classroom is a Western New England College requirement which provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to become involved with activities and programs in the community and connect those experiences to the theories and concepts they learn in the classroom. This encourages students to build relationships with the greater Springfield community and enriches their Western New England College educational experience.
Learning in Later Life
Springfield College
Springfield College faculty and experts in the Springfield community lead informative, interesting, and life-enhancing programs for adults aged 55 and older. Courses focus on current affairs, culture and arts, history and science, and other topics, presented through classes, trips, and social events. Membership fees in the Learning in Later Life program include enrollment in all courses; access to the college’s Babson Library resources; and admission to competitive athletic events, the William Simpson Fine Arts Series events, and other campus events at no charge or at reduced rates.
Telephone: 413- 748-5287
Lectures and Theatrical Productions
Holyoke Community College
The college’s academic divisions encourage discourse. Recently, the college sponsored a well-attended Forest Summit Lecture Series, three forums in which educators from Bolivia, Turkey, and Bosnia shared their views, and at least two theatrical productions that dealt explicitly with race and war. Telephone: 413-538-7000
Ludlow Area Adult Learning Center (LAALC)
Holyoke Community College
Free English for Speakers of Other Languages instruction, academic advising basic computer skills during the day and evening throughout the year. For more information please see www.ludlowcenter.org. Telephone: 413-583-0320
Mathcounts
American International College
Middle school students from throughout Western Massachusetts gather at American International College for the MATHCOUNTS competition. Schools select students to compete individually or as part of a team in one of the more than 500 written and oral competitions held nationwide. Top students advance to the state, and ultimately, national level. The math event is sponsored by the Massachusetts Society of Professional Engineers. 413-205-3231
MCAS Classes
Springfield Technical Community College
STCC provides remediation classes for high school students from Springfield and surrounding communities who did not achieve passing scores on the MCAS tests. There are two 14-week sessions of English, language arts, and math instruction during the academic year and an eight-week session during the summer. The goal is to successfully instruct and guide the students to pass the MCAS and transition into college. Telephone: 413-755-4300
Massage-A-Thon
American International College
Twice a year, Physical Therapy students hold a Massage-a-Thon, which is open to the public. Superficial and deep massages are offered and the money raised is used to enable the students to offer their services to various community organizations and to assist at the Boston Marathon. 413-205-3320
Model Congress
American International College
Since 1940, AIC has hosted an annual Model Congress, where high school students from all over New England spend three days writing, amending, debating and voting on legislation. The students get to hear from legislators from both the state and federal government during the event, as they compete for more than $160,000 in AIC scholarships. 413-205-3264
Money Conference for Women
Western New England College
On an annual basis, the Commonwealth’s State Treasurer and Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) present a free half-day conference that focuses on money management, retirement, and investment strategies for women of all ages and economic backgrounds. The Conference held, at Western New England College, illustrates the avenues women can take in becoming their own “financial guru.” Telephone: 413-782-1574
Newspapers In Education (NIE)
Western New England College
The Springfield Republican’s highly successful NEI program brings daily newspapers to schoolchildren in more than 300 local schools. In 2001, Western New England College began offering NIE professional development workshops for area teachers to help educators integrate news stories into their curriculum. The workshops for educators address such topics as economics, politics, technology, stress, engineering, and communications. Telephone: 413-782-1420
Northampton Adult Learning Center
Holyoke Community College
A collaborative effort with the City of Northampton, ABE and ESOL providers, and other educational institutes to provide ABE, ESOL, GED testing, and transition to college and career services. Telephone: 413-552-2324. Email kwhite@hcc.mass.edu
Picknelly Family and Adult Education Center (Holyoke Adult Learning Center)
Holyoke Community College
Free Adult Basic Education programs and basic literacy during the day and evening throughout the year. Programs are done in conjunction with the Juntos Collaborative, an organization of all of Holyoke’s ABE/ESOL providers. For more information please see www.hcc.edu. Telephone: 413-532-4900, ext 116. Email: aansell@hcc.mass.edu
Oral History Center
American International College
AIC is home to the area’s only Oral History Center, featuring more than 400 recorded stories that have been collected since the early 1970s.
Tapes are organized into a variety of categories and cross-referenced, so they are easily accessible by researchers or the general public. The
center is located in the Shea Library. 413-205-3225
Ovations Series
Springfield Technical Community College
Since 1995, STCC’s cultural and special events series has included lectures to stimulate discussion on social, health, and other issues of concern to the community. Presentations and performances bring to light issues of racial discrimination, sexual discrimination, dating violence, eating disorders, political inequities, child labor, the war on drugs, and understanding of cultural differences. Most events are free of charge. Telephone: 413-755-4254
Partners Program
American International College
Physical Therapy students offer backpack, safety and fall-risk screening clinics at several locations. Occupational Therapy students work with Head Start and Springfield Public Schools in different program areas. 413-205-3320
Passport Holyoke
Holyoke Community College
A collaborative of over 15 Holyoke arts and arts-related venues with the purpose of marketing cultural and community events. Holyoke Community College is member of this organization specifically for its numerous venues, Taber Art Gallery, Holyoke History Room, Leslie Phillips Forum, and the PeoplesBank Conference Room. Visit the Passport website for links to all of its members www.passportholyoke.org.
PeaceJam
Elms College
PeaceJam, an international education program based on the lives and work of 13 Nobel Peace Laureates who share their wisdom, skills, and spirit with youth worldwide. As the Northeast Affiliate of PeaceJam, Elms College will serve all of New England and the state of New York. Since its launch in 1996, over 400,000 youth worldwide have participated in PeaceJam’s high school and elementary school programs. With a strong focus on service-learning over 300,000 service projects have been implemented by PeaceJam youth. Telephone: 413-265-2294
Performing Arts Musicals
Bay Path College
Each semester, Bay Path’s Performing Arts Department offers a Broadway musical on campus with a cast of Bay Path students and members of the community. Telephone: 413.565.1361
Polish Center of Discovery and Learning
Elms College
The Polish Center of Discovery and Learning at Elms College is a living monument, which celebrates the many contributions, past and present, of the Polish people and their descendants to the economy, the arts, and sciences of our nation. The mission of the Center at Elms College is to provide guidance and support materials to schools and other institutions wishing to introduce Polish topics to their students, to offer a variety of workshops, exhibits, concerts, conferences, seminars, films, plays, lectures, and other events which focus on the history and cultural traditions of the Polish people in Europe and the United States, and preserve objects representative of the folk arts and material culture of the Polish people in America. Telephone: 413-265-2451
Preschool
Bay Path College
Located on the Bay Path campus since 1990, the Preschool serves children ages 2.9 to 5 years from Longmeadow and surrounding communities. Bay Path College education majors receive hands-on experience while conducting their practicums at the Preschool. Telephone: 413-565-1334
Dorothy Jordan Pryor Award and Lecture
Springfield Technical Community College
Named for STCC’s retired English teacher, affirmative action officer and 10-year Trustee, this annual award honors individuals who, like Mrs. Pryor, are considered “living treasures” due to their community involvement. The annual lecture, open to the public, is given on the first Wednesday in April. Telephone: 413-755-4254
radKIDS at Western New England College
Western New England College
In its commitment to community, the college has embraced radKIDS, a personal safety program for children, and has established a three-credit college course for students who want to become radKIDS instructors. The program's comprehensive Personal Empowerment Safety Education curriculum, designed for children 5 through 11 years of age, is based on accelerated learning theory and realistic physical resistance options to escape violence.
Research with Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Springfield College
Springfield College exercise physiology faculty members assess exercise and nutrition needs of patients with kidney disease and provide information on lifestyle changes. This project is conducted in collaboration with Western New England Renal Transplant Associates and is supported in part by Baystate Health Systems. Telephone: 413-748-3340
Rising 9th Graders
American International College
This program is offered in the summer, in conjunction with the Springfield Public Schools. The program features academics, as well as enrichment sessions in a variety of areas, including student activities and career services. In addition, AIC will offer a scholarship in the amount of $5,000 per year for a total of four years to those students who stay fully involved with the program through their years in high school. 413.205.3372
Roadmap to College Day
Bay Path College
Each year, Bay Path partners with The Princeton Review to offer a free SAT preparation course on campus for young women in high school. Telephone: 413.565.1331
Saturday Mornings
Holyoke Community College
Culture, art and fun is the focus of this collaboration between Holyoke Community College and the Holyoke Creative Arts Center on South Street. For more information, www.hcc.edu, Telephone: 413-552-2320. Email: alingham@hcc.mass.edu
Scholastic Press Forum
American International College
For over three decades, the Communication Department of American International College has hosted the annual Scholastic Press Forum, a day of workshops and fun for artists, writers, editors and advisors. Thousands of high school students from hundreds of papers and magazines have competed in New England’s foremost competition. Telephone: 413-205-3231
School to Career
Holyoke Community College
Holyoke Community College works with local school districts to facilitate the connection between area high schools, local businesses, and career programs at HCC. Telephone: 413-552-2299. Email thoward@hcc.mass.edu
Service Day
Elms College
Service Day is held each fall for Elms College students, staff, and faculty to volunteer their time and energy to perform acts of service in the community. The event is designed to promote and celebrate the college’s mission of service, to strengthen connections with surrounding towns and agencies, and to build community within the Elms College family. Telephone: 413-594-2761
Services for the Blind
Springfield College
Springfield College faculty members and students of recreation for persons with disabilities provide year-round socialization, recreation, and sports activities for area children who are legally blind. Activities are designed to increase physical fitness and to help seeing-impaired youth assimilate in their community with nondisabled persons. This project is supported in part with funding from the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind. Telephone: 413-748-3709
William Simpson Fine Arts Series
Springfield College
Each year, Springfield College presents about two dozen visual and performing arts programs. Most of them are free of charge, and others have nominal admission fees. Programs include musical concerts, theater presentations, film festivals, dance concerts, art exhibitions, readings by noted authors, and innovative multimedia arts events. Telephone: 413-748-3187
Spalding Hoophall Classic
Springfield College
As a result of Springfield College’s longstanding relationship with the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the college cohosts the Spalding Hoophall Classic, a nationally televised event that attracts more than 10,000 visitors to Greater Springfield. Local, regional, and national high school men’s and women’s basketball teams compete, including a number of the nation’s best teams. Springfield College student volunteers also support the activities and programs of the Basketball Hall of Fame. Telephone: 413-748-3818
Springfield City Alcohol Coalition Committee
Western New England College
Established in 2003, the Springfield City Alcohol Coalition Committee is a group of citizens from the Springfield area dedicated to establishing proactive strategies and policies to combat underage drinking and alcohol abuse. The Committee offers training sessions to teach licensees how to educate their staff to recognize fake IDs, keep insurance premiums low, and comply with state and/or federal law, thereby avoiding infractions or possible lawsuits. Telephone: 413-782-1207
Student Volunteer Programs
Springfield College
Springfield College’s Office of Student Volunteer Programs places student volunteers in numerous single event and ongoing service projects throughout the year. This office alone coordinates more than 43,000 hours of community service annually. Telephone: 413-748-3219
Spring Performing Arts Concert
Bay Path College
This is an annual conference of dance, voice, and theatre featuring the Bay Path Chorale, Page Singers, Bay Path Dance Company, and Women of Culture. The concert is a sampling of the different perspectives of the performing arts. Free and open to the public. Telephone: 413-565-1361
Spring Youth Programs
Holyoke Community College
Holyoke Community CollegeWinter and Spring break programs for children aged 6 through 15. For more information, www.hcc.edu. Telephone: 413-552-2320. Email: alingham@hcc.mass.edu.
Springfield City Alcohol Coalition Committee
Western New England College
Established in 2003, the Springfield City Alcohol Coalition Committee is a group of citizens from the Springfield area dedicated to establishing proactive strategies and policies to combat underage drinking and alcohol abuse. The Committee offers training sessions to teach licensees how to educate their staff to recognize fake IDs, keep insurance premiums low, and comply with state and/or federal law, thereby avoiding infractions or possible lawsuits. Telephone: 413-782-1207
STEM Activities
Holyoke Community College
As part of the Pioneer Valley Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Network (PVSTEMNET) Holyoke Community College provides a variety of programs for local school districts and students. Telephone: 413-552-2299. Email: toward@hcc.mass.edu
Step Forward Step Ahead and Quest
Elms College
Step Forward/Step Ahead and Quest are programs designed for girls and boys who show academic potential and a willingness to learn. They are multifaceted, year-round programs which begin working with middle school students and continue to work with them throughout high school. The school year portion consists of a Saturday Success program designed to offer academic enrichment and cultural activities. The summer portion of the program includes a commuter fine arts program followed by a rigorous residential academic program. By providing family orientation nights, family celebration events, and evaluation meetings, the program also works creatively developing parent and family involvement in education. The high school level of the programs, Step Ahead, affords participants the opportunity to take college-level courses during the summer and participate in paid internships. Girls and boys can earn up to 13 college credits before they actually enter college. Telephone: 413-265-2315
Student Community Service
Bay Path College
Individual student clubs at Bay Path hold food and clothing drives to collect donations for local charitable organizations, such as the Gray House and Open Pantry; participate in fundraising events including the annual Rays of Hope Walk and the Heart Walk; volunteer at Shriners Hospital and Habitat for Humanity; and participate in the Early Readers Program of the Springfield School System and Springfield School Volunteers. Students in the Honors Program perform community service activities with the Food Pantry of Western Massachusetts, Loaves and Fishes, Wingate, WGBY and the Berkshire Hills Music Academy. Telephone: 413-565-1711
Student Involvement
American International College
AIC students are deeply committed to the community, logging countless volunteer hours each semester. AIC students participate in the annual CROP Walk in the fight against hunger; the Rays of Hope Walk to fight breast cancer; the Thanksgiving hunger drive; and the National Chemistry Week presentation at the Holyoke Mall. AIC football players work with student at Sabis School in Holyoke each week helping with reading and also volunteer at the Shriners Hospitals for Children. 413-205-3231
Student Volunteer Programs
Springfield College
Springfield College’s Office of Student Volunteer Programs places student volunteers in numerous single event and ongoing service projects throughout the year. This office alone coordinates about 4,330 hours of community service annually. Telephone: 413-748-3219
Summer Recreation Programs
Holyoke Community College
A variety of summer and sports camps are provided at Holyoke Community College. For more information please see www.hcc.edu,. Telephone: 413-552-2320. Email: alingham@hcc.mass.edu
Summer Camps
Springfield College
Springfield College hosts a wide variety of summer camp programs for children ages 4 to 18, including: soccer, basketball, gymnastics and fitness, tennis, football, softball, and athletic training. The sports camps are taught by Springfield College coaches and are designed to teach skills and provide an atmosphere of fun and learning through comradeship. The student athletic trainer workshop is designed for high school students interested in careers in athletic training and sports medicine. Telephone: 413-748-5287
Summer Concert Series
American International College
Mondays in June AIC presents free concerts on the lawn in front of the Shea Library, featuring a variety of musical entertainment including Motown, Blues and Jazz. The concerts are open to the public free of charge. 413-205-3231
Summer Programs
Bay Path College
As part of its mission to educate young women, Bay Path offers innovative summer programs for girls between the ages of 5 and 18. The programs range from learning about business and science to discovery and filmmaking. Telephone: 413-565-1066
Summer Recreation Programs
Holyoke Community College
A variety of summer and sports camps are provided at Holyoke Community College. For more information please see www.hcc.edu,. Telephone: 413-552-2320. Email: alingham@hcc.mass.edu
Summer Sports Camps for Kids
Elms College
Elms College sports camps provide positive, quality instruction to children ages 6 to 18 of all skill levels. Programs are offered in baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Emphasis will be placed on the fundamentals of the game and promoting the athlete's confidence and enjoyment for the sport. Included in the sessions will be demonstrations, drills, practice sessions, and game competition. Telephone: 413-265-2311
Summer Youth Programs and Sports Clinics
Holyoke Community College
HCC’s popular summer youth programs include: art, dance, technology, outdoor adventure, and sports clinics. Telephone: 413-552-2320
Tax Institute
Western New England College
For more than 45 years, this annual Institute has provided high quality print and electronic materials as well as oral presentations from expert speakers on detailed tax structuring and planning techniques and their practical applications. The Tax Institute also addresses timely topics and updates based on changes or developments in tax laws with a focus on the planning opportunities and pitfalls, which may result from those changes. Telephone: 413-782-1249
Western Massachusetts and Connecticut Valley Chess Championship
American International College
AIC hosts the event each year. It is the oldest trophy chess tournament in the
country, began in 1921 as a checkers competition before changing to chess
in 1927. Telephone: 413-205-3231
Western Mass. Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame
Springfield Technical Community College
Founded in 2000, the Hall of Fame annually inducts men and women from the past and present of the four western counties of Massachusetts who have made significant contributions to the region through business success and often, philanthropic efforts. The Hall, located in the Scibelli Enterprise Center at STCC, offers free displays of information and photos of the inductees, forming a museum of entrepreneurship to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs. The Class of 2009 will be inducted on October 8 at the Log Cabin Banquet Hall. This year's inductees include the regional law firm of Bacon Wilson, P.C.; the Cambi family, long-time owners of Springfield Foodservice; Larry Derose, founder of Texcel LLC, a leading anufacturere of edical devices; the Desrosiers faily, owners of Hadley Printing; John Gormally, founder of BusinessWest and the Healthcare News, and owner of ABC40 and FOX6; and the Peters faily, founders of Universal Plastics. Telephone: 413-755-4505
The Western New England College Art Gallery
Western New England College
Western New England College makes its Art Gallery space available at no charge to area artists for art shows. Monthly exhibits showcasing the work of our students or local artists are free and open to the public. Telephone: 413-796-2270
Westfield Adult Learning Center (ABE)
Holyoke Community College
A collaborative effort of the members of the Westfield Education Collaborative offers Basic Literacy, GED prep, ESOL and GED testing. For more information please see www.hcc.edu. Telephone: 413-552-2324. Email kwhite@hcc.mass.edu
William Blizard Gallery
Springfield College
This art exhibition center, open to the public free of charge on weekdays, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., during the academic year, hosts an ongoing schedule of changing exhibitions in painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and other creative media by student artists and also regional, national, and international artists. Telephone: 413-748-3753
William Simpson Fine Arts Series
Springfield College
Each year Springfield College presents about two dozen visual and performing arts programs that are open to the public. Most of them are free of charge, and others have nominal admission fees. Programs include musical concerts, theater presentations, film festivals, dance concerts, art exhibitions, readings by noted authors, and innovative multi-media arts events. Telephone: 413-748-3187
Winterfest
Bay Path College
Annual December performance by Bay Path and community members. The event features music, dance, and selected spiritual readings in keeping with the holiday season. Free of charge. Telephone: 413-565-1361
Women’s Professional Development Conference
Bay Path College
This conference, with an annual attendance of over 800 regional business women and men, focuses on topics of interest to women, such as “Breaking Barriers,” “Courage,” “Developing Dialogues,” “Pathways for Leadership,” and “Soaring.” Event features breakout sessions related to the theme of the conference and prominent keynote speakers such as Maya Angelou, Elizabeth Dole, Cokie Roberts, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Rita Moreno, Andrea Mitchell, Madeleine Albright, and Nora Ephron. Telephone: 413-565-1293
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