April 2026

April 9, 2026
Virtual Networking Meeting
Holyoke Safe Neighborhood Initiative Meeting Notes

Date: April 9, 2026
Time: 1:00pm to 2:00pm
Place: Zoom Meeting

Mission Statement: The Holyoke Safe Neighborhood Initiative is a partnership between local, state & federal law enforcement; city & state government; civic & human service organizations; faith based organizations; the business community; education providers; property managers; and residents coming together with a goal to create safe, healthy & economically viable neighborhoods through information sharing, identifying at-risk youth, referrals and community efforts in specific Holyoke neighborhoods.


Guest Speakers: 1:05pm to 1:20pm
Gabriela Alicea introduced herself as the Community Engagement Coordinator for Wayfinders in Holyoke. She was joined by Sheryl Maldonado, Community Engagement Associate.

Gabriela shared that Wayfinders’ community building and engagement team believes residents are the experts of their own neighborhoods. Their role is to help residents amplify their voices, build connections, and open doors to opportunities.
She explained that Wayfinders believes communities build communities, and that residents reflect the true strength and capabilities of any community. Their focus is on providing resources and opportunities to help community members reach their full potential.

Gabriela discussed the Chestnut Community Alliance, also known as CCA. CCA is a resident-led coalition made up of neighbors, local organizations, and community partners who have worked together for the past 10 years to improve quality of life.

The work originally focused more on the Churchill/downtown area, but it has slowly expanded to include residents from other areas. CCA serves as a hub where residents can express concerns, propose ideas, seek collaboration, and work toward real change.
CCA brings together residents, nonprofits, city departments, and local leaders so they can collaborate and problem-solve together instead of working separately.
Gabriela shared that Wayfinders’ work with CCA has deepened its connection with residents and created a vital forum for learning about the real challenges neighbors face and how residents believe those challenges should be addressed.
Gabriela highlighted one of CCA’s current projects, Holyoke Blooms, created by active member Kavana Cruz.
At the beginning of the year, residents shared that they felt disconnected from local resources and local government and wanted more community unity. Kavana took on the task of creating Holyoke Blooms. Holyoke Blooms will take place on April 21, 2026, before the Earth Day Citywide Cleanup. It will be a free community event focused on health, wellness, community resources, businesses, and local vendors. The event is free for community members and vendors.


CCA will also volunteer for the Earth Day Citywide Cleanup on April 22, 2026, organized with Ed. Gabriela noted that CCA does a lot of volunteer work in the community.

Gabriela emphasized that one of CCA’s most important roles is gathering community feedback on safety, housing, infrastructure, and everyday quality-of-life concerns.
Residents share their experiences through CCA, and CCA brings that information directly to city officials or the appropriate resources.

Gabriela also discussed Wayfinders’ Resident Advocate Program, which is a major part of their engagement work in Holyoke.
The program supports residents who want to take a more active role in shaping city ordinances and advocating for resident rights. Wayfinders currently has three dedicated resident advocates: Eileen, Delia, and Sonia.
These advocates commit significant time to organizing, advocacy, and leadership development. Recently, they traveled to the State House and spoke directly with legislators. They also advocated for Alianza around domestic violence issues and learned about related topics.

Wayfinders has also worked closely with the Holyoke City Council on reforms such as the winter parking ban and policies that reflect the realities of dense neighborhoods.

The Resident Advocate Program helps residents understand local systems, build confidence, and learn how to make change through civic engagement, community organizing, and serving on boards and committees.

Gabriela shared that many graduates of Wayfinders’ leadership programs go on to take leadership roles throughout the neighborhood. Some also participate in regional and out-of-state trainings, giving them opportunities to meet leaders from other communities.

Sheryl Maldonado – Community Engagement Associate, Wayfinders
Sheryl Maldonado introduced herself as a Community Engagement Associate with Wayfinders in Holyoke and part of the Community Building and Neighborhood Engagement team.

Sheryl shared information about Holyoke Works, a free 9-month program made up of 18 classes.
The program is designed to help participants grow, make changes, and improve their lives. It supports people who are looking to build confidence, find employment, or start their own business.
Holyoke Works includes group classes and one-on-one sessions. Participants receive support with employment resources, computer classes, online job searches, resume writing, and interview skills.

Sheryl also discussed the Community Leadership Institute, known as CLI.
Residents who complete the leadership program can join CLI, an inclusive annual training event. Participants have opportunities to travel to places such as Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico, take courses, meet leaders from other communities, and create action plans for positive neighborhood change.

Wayfinders is also launching the Walk Audit again. Members of the Holyoke Bike/Ped Committee are working on monthly bicycling and walking events.
Wayfinders is looking for volunteers who are passionate about walkability, biking, and neighborhood safety.

Sheryl also mentioned work with the Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations. This group meets quarterly and discusses how communities are affected by lead, poor sanitation, housing conditions, and unsafe buildings.
Most meetings are held by Zoom, with one in-person meeting expected later in the year.

Gabriela closed by sharing that she loves Wayfinders and its commitment to the community. She stated that the common thread across Wayfinders’ programs is resident leadership. When residents have the tools, support, and platform to lead, the entire city becomes stronger.

Gabriela and Sheryl invited attendees to reach out with questions or resource needs.
Sheryl announced that the next CCA meeting would be held on April 16, 2026, at 210 Maple Street, in the community room.

Questions and Discussion
Diana Biagioli – Federation for Children with Special Needs
Diana asked what cities and towns Wayfinders covers and what the eligibility requirements are for programs.

Gabriela and Sheryl shared that Wayfinders serves Holyoke, Springfield, Northampton, and Adams, with some services extending to other communities depending on the program.
Adlyn Colon added that even though Wayfinders does not have a physical office in Chicopee, they do serve people from that community. People may access services through the Holyoke or Springfield office.

Adlyn Colon explained that many services are geared toward low-income families, but some services are open to anyone.

Barbara McCoubrey – Holyoke Pediatrics
Barbara shared that she often refers families to Wayfinders for rent, utilities, and housing support, but the presentation showed that Wayfinders offers much more.
She asked whether Wayfinders has a directory of services and contacts that could be shared with families before they are in crisis.

Gabriela explained that Wayfinders has begun uploading more community services online. CCA has a Facebook page and regular emails where programs and events are shared. She offered to send links and add people to the email list.

Agency Updates: 1:20pm to 2:00pm

Yamaris Rivera – Families First
Yamaris Rivera, Program Manager for Families First, invited everyone to the upcoming Families First Fest.
The event will take place on May 2, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM at the War Memorial Building in Holyoke.
The event will include performances, children’s activities, community resources, face painting, and more. Volunteers and resource tables are needed.

Verónica Garcia – Cruzando Puentes
Verónica Garcia from Cruzando Puentes invited attendees to the Bridge Builder Awards Celebration on May 30, 2026.
She shared that the event supports women working to rebuild their lives. Funds raised support workshops, programs, counseling, legal help, family resources, confidence-building, financial skills, and domestic violence support.
She encouraged organizations working with domestic violence initiatives to connect with Cruzando Puentes for partnership opportunities.
Timothy Powis – Hampden Superior Probation
Timothy Powis from Hampden Superior Probation checked in and had no updates to share.

Tenille Rhiney – Arise for Social Justice
Tenille Rhiney from Arise for Social Justice in Springfield checked in and had no updates to share.

Sydney Strauss – Eagle Eye Institute
Sydney Strauss, Program Manager for Eagle Eye Institute, shared upcoming April events during school spring break called Great Holyoke Outdoors.
The events are family-friendly and open to all experience levels. Transportation is available for participants who register.

Austin Beechler – Springfield Rescue Mission
Austin Beechler, Workforce Development Coordinator at Springfield Rescue Mission, thanked the group and shared that partnerships formed through community meetings have helped connect participants with career opportunities.
He invited attendees to tour the Springfield Rescue Mission and learn more about its programs.

Shannon Burke – Holyoke Pediatrics
Shannon Burke, Care Coordinator at Holyoke Pediatrics, thanked everyone for the resources shared during the meetings. She stated that Holyoke Pediatrics uses these resources for families and appreciates the work being done.

Sandy Ward – Holyoke Public Library Volunteer
Sandy Ward shared information about Mini Golf and Games at the Holyoke Public Library.
The event will take place on May 2, 2026, from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. It is free for families, and participants can play 18 holes of mini golf inside the library.
Volunteers are needed to help with setup on Friday afternoon before the event.
Sandy also mentioned her volunteer work with the Funeral Consumers Alliance of Death Care Education.

Roxanne Cotton – Mont Marie
Roxanne Cotton shared several upcoming events at Mont Marie.
A Father’s Day Car Show is being planned with support from 97.7. They are looking for two or three food trucks to participate. A 50/50 raffle and additional raffle will raise money for an employee who needs a kidney transplant.
Mont Marie is also planning its Senior Prom in June and is seeking donations from bakeries, florists, and others in the community.
Roxanne also mentioned beginning early planning for Trunk or Treat.

Pedro Rodriguez – Providence Ministries
Pedro Rodriguez, Executive Director of Providence Ministries for the Needy, shared information about Margaret’s Pantry, Kate’s Kitchen, and St. Jude’s Clothing Center.
Providence Ministries provides hot meals, pantry items, meat, clothing, and household goods. Services are available to anyone, no questions asked.
Pedro also shared that Providence Ministries is working with men in sober living homes and is looking for resources to help them transition into independent living.

Miguel Rivera – Rewarding Insurance Agency
Miguel Rivera introduced himself as CEO of Rewarding Insurance Agency, located at 284 Maple Street in Holyoke.
He explained that the agency does not provide auto, home, or commercial insurance. Instead, it focuses on retirement transition support, wealth-building strategies, Medicare health plans, retirement plans, and life insurance.
Rewarding Insurance Agency works with major Medicare health plans in Massachusetts and has partnerships with clinics and hospitals. The agency recently opened a second location at Holyoke Health Center.
Miguel shared that the agency will participate in Holyoke Blooms on April 21 and the Baystate Family Advocacy Center Resource Fair on April 29.
He also mentioned that they are looking for people interested in becoming licensed agents.

Marissa Chiapperino – Holyoke Medical Center
Marissa Chiapperino, Registered Dietitian at Holyoke Medical Center, shared several hospital resources.
Holyoke Medical Center is offering two free diabetes class series. One will take place in May at the Chicopee Senior Center, and another will take place in June at the Holyoke Senior Center. A July program is also planned at the Holyoke YMCA.
She also shared information about the hospital’s free oncology/cancer support group and free diabetes support group.
Marissa also shared information about the Western Massachusetts Dietitians Group’s first Women’s Health and Nutrition Summit, held at the Holyoke Culinary Arts Dining Room.

Lourdes Balestier – Women’s Money Matters / Western Mass Care Solutions
Lourdes Balestier shared that she was representing Women’s Money Matters, a nonprofit financial education program for women with low incomes.
A new cohort begins on May 5, 2026, in person in Northampton at Rockridge Retirement Community. The program is seeking volunteer coaches for the 8-week program.
Lourdes also shared updates from Western Mass Care Solutions, including a successful Easter event at Indian Orchard Citizens Council.
She mentioned upcoming notary classes, AI training, and a 10-week workforce development program for women who are transitioning careers, re-entering the workforce, or building independence.

Jason Harvey – RFK YASL
Jason Harvey, Case Manager at RFK YASL, shared that the program houses young adults ages 18 to 22.
Participants must be involved with DCF, as the program is DCF-funded. The program provides fully furnished apartments.
No additional updates were shared.

Elizabeth Rogers – Baystate Family Advocacy Center
Elizabeth Rogers from the Baystate Family Advocacy Center in Springfield shared that the center provides trauma-focused services to young people up to age 24.
The center also has a lifespan program for people who have lost someone to homicide, providing clinical and case management services.
Baystate Family Advocacy Center will hold its Second Annual Family Resource Fair on April 29, 2026. About 25 agencies will attend, along with center programs. Activities will include face painting, crafts, and a therapy dog from the Sheriff’s Department.
Elizabeth also shared that the center will participate in Holyoke Blooms on April 21 and several monthly outdoor events at Mason Square Library in Springfield.

Elizabeth McKinstry – Attorney General’s Office
Elizabeth McKinstry introduced herself as the new Community Engagement Coordinator for Western Massachusetts for the Attorney General’s Office.
She announced that Youth Council applications are open and due May 21, 2026.
The Youth Council is a year-long opportunity for young people to work closely with the Attorney General. She encouraged attendees who work with youth to share the opportunity.

Diana Biagioli – Federation for Children with Special Needs
Diana Biagioli shared that the Federation for Children with Special Needs has launched a new website for newcomer families entering the school system.
The website includes resources related to language access, trainings, and support for families coming from other countries.
She also gave recognition to the Holyoke Hub for its work with families and complex cases.

Charley Brunette – DIAL/SELF AmeriCorps
Charley Brunette introduced himself from DIAL/SELF AmeriCorps, a state and national AmeriCorps program focused on youth development and community building.
The program currently has members serving from downtown Springfield to Turners Falls in schools and education-based nonprofits.
They are seeking site partners and people interested in direct youth and community work for the 2026–2027 service term.
Charley also announced a community cleanup on May 15, 2026, at Holyoke Rows. Music and community activities are planned.

Charlene Rivera – Holyoke Pediatrics
Charlene Rivera, Care Coordinator at Holyoke Pediatrics, shared that she works alongside Shannon and Barbara.
She had no updates but expressed appreciation for the resources shared and stated that families are grateful.

Cesar Cruz – Latino Scholarship Fund of Western Massachusetts
Cesar Cruz, Director of Communications for the Latino Scholarship Fund of Western Massachusetts, announced the organization’s annual banquet.
The banquet will be held on June 12, 2026, at 6:00 PM.
The event will celebrate 12 scholarship recipients, along with the Carlos Vega and Antonia Pantoja award recipients. Ticket sales are open.

Barbara McCoubrey – Holyoke Pediatrics
Barbara McCoubrey shared appreciation for the resources provided through the meeting.
She noted that she was able to use the basketball league resource for a child and that the family would be grateful.

Ashley Stackow – Neighbor to Neighbor
Ashley Stackow introduced herself as a Holyoke resident involved with Neighbor to Neighbor. She had no updates to share.

Adlyn Colon – Holyoke Community College / Wayfinders / Alianza
Adlyn Colon introduced herself as a volunteer with Wayfinders, a member of the advisory board for Alianza, and an employee at Holyoke Community College.
She works with GED/HiSET preparation classes. Classes are offered in Spanish and English, during the day and evening.

Abbie Germain – Viability Inc.
Abbie Germain introduced herself from Viability Inc.
Viability is a nonprofit serving individuals with disabilities and other disadvantages, including people living with mental health challenges, people who are justice-involved, people in recovery, and individuals with multiple barriers.
Most programs serve adults 18 and older, though one program serves youth with special needs ages 16 to 22.
Programs include community-based day programs, clubhouses for people with mental illness, adult foster care, and a partnership with DTA to help people receiving benefits access employment or education.
Abbie shared that she can help determine which program may be the right fit and is available for tours, outreach, and collaboration.

Mike Pratt – Hampden County Sheriff’s Office / HSNI
Mike Pratt from the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office and HSNI shared updates on the Summer Basketball League.
The league is beginning again and serves as a platform to connect youth and families with community resources.
HSNI is still looking for coaches and volunteers. Agencies are welcome to table during the league, especially on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday nights in South Holyoke.
Mike also reminded attendees about the Earth Day Citywide Cleanup on April 22, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Volunteers are still needed, and a cookout will follow.

Art Lobdell – Scouting America / Rotary Club of Holyoke
Art Lobdell shared updates from Scouting America and the Rotary Club of Holyoke.
Scouting America has opportunities for youth and families to visit their camp property in Russell. Open camp is held on the third Saturday of each month, with activities available.
Through the Rotary Club of Holyoke, Art mentioned the RYLA youth leadership program and upcoming scholarships. Approximately six Holyoke students will receive scholarships in June.
HSNI Updates – Ed Caisse
Ed shared that the next networking meeting will be in person and is tentatively scheduled for May 29, 2026, at Holyoke Community College Culinary Arts.
The meeting will not be held on the usual second Thursday. Registration will be capped at 90 people due to space limitations.
Agencies will be asked to send one slide. When each slide is shown, the agency will have an opportunity to share information.
Family Resource Guide
Ed shared that the Family Resource Guide is almost complete. Agencies that want to be included and are not yet in the guide should send a PDF file within the next few days.
Summer Basketball League
Ed shared that the winter league and last summer’s league served over 350 kids.
Friday nights are the largest nights, with 3rd/4th graders and 5th/6th graders playing. Around 180 kids play on Fridays, with more than 600 people attending. On cookout nights, attendance may exceed 1,000 people.
Agencies are encouraged to attend and table at Friday Night Basketball to share information with the community.
Earth Day Cleanup
As of the meeting, 163 people had registered for the cleanup. The goal is 200 participants. Registration may close once the limit is reached because 201 T-shirts were ordered.
Back-to-School Event
Ed asked attendees to mark their calendars for the Back-to-School Event on August 15, 2026.
A supply drive will begin in June. Some supplies have already been donated, including color markers. Additional items, such as dry erase markers, will be needed.
Agencies interested in having a resource table should register as soon as the invitation is sent. Space will likely be limited to 45–50 agencies.

Closing
Ed thanked everyone for the work they do to support youth, families, individuals, and the broader community. He emphasized the shared goal of helping people and strengthening the community.

CHAT:

Abbie Germain – Viability Inc.
Business Developer
413-217-0348
agermain@viability.org

Barbara McCoubrey – Holyoke Pediatrics
Care Coordinator
McCoubreyB@holypeds.com
Timothy Powis – Hampden Superior Probation
Probation Officer
617-921-0501

Shannon Burke – Holyoke Pediatrics
Medical Home Care Coordinator
burkes@holypeds.com

Lourdes Balestier – Women’s Money Matters
Lbalestier@womensmoneymatters.org

Jason Harvey – RFK YASL West
Case Manager
413-579-1589
jharvey@rfkcommunity.org

Miguel Rivera – Rewarding Insurance Agency
284 Maple Street, Holyoke, MA
413-317-0043
Miguel@RewardingAgency.com
www.rewardingagency.com⁠�

Gabriela Alicea – Wayfinders
Community Engagement Coordinator
413-523-3826
gabriela.alicea@wayfinders.org

Adlyn Colon – Holyoke Community College GED/HiSET Program
413-552-2927
acolon@hcc.edu

Cesar Cruz – Latino Scholarship Fund of Western MA
Director of Communications
communications@latinoscholarshipwesternma.org

Edward Caisse – Hampden County Sheriff’s Office
ed.caisse@sdh.state.ma.us

Diana Biagioli – Federation for Children with Special Needs
617-399-8359
dbiagioli@fcsn.org

Pedro Rodriguez – Providence Ministries for the Needy
Executive Director
413-533-5909
prodriguez@provministries.org
Marissa Chiapperino – Holyoke Medical Center
Registered Dietitian
chiapperino_marissa@holyokehealth.com

Sydney Strauss – Eagle Eye Institute
Program Manager
Sydney@eagleeyei.org

Charley Brunette – DIAL/SELF AmeriCorps
Program Coordinator
413-774-7054 ext. 141
cbrunette@dialself.net

Sheryl Maldonado – Wayfinders
Community Engagement Associate
413-386-6898
smaldonado@wayfinders.org

Yamaris Rivera – Families First
413-626-3613
yrivera@families-first.org

Sandy Ward
413-250-8079

Verónica Garcia – Cruzando Puentes Inc.
413-657-6271
contact@cruzandopuentes.org

Lourdes Balestier – Western Mass Care Solutions
413-276-6086
Info@westernmasscaresolutions.com
www.westernmasscaresolutions.com⁠�

Old Business / New Business
The next meeting is tentatively set for Friday, May 29th, more information to follow.

Contact Information:
Edward Caisse
Hampden County Sheriff’s Department
(413) 858-0225
ed.caisse@sdh.state.ma.us
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