September 2023 Newsletter

Valley Bag Toss is Back on October 14th (Rain Date: 10/15)

Feeling competitive? We hope you will join us at the Alternatives' Whitin Mill for this annual cornhole tournament to benefit the health and wellness programs at Open Sky! The competition runs 12-5pm and there is fun for competitors and spectators!

Be an early bird and register by September 4th to be entered in a raffle to win a pair of drink vouchers that can be exchanged for beer and wine (21+), soda or seltzer, plus a snack basket for your team to enjoy! Three teams will be randomly selected.

NEW THIS YEAR! Fundraise for your team!

Invite friends and families to support your team and earn raffle tickets to use day-of! New this year, we invite all participants to set up their own fundraising pages where friends and family can support your team.

Learn more and set up your fundraising page by clicking the link below. You do not need to be competing to participate in fundraising.

Take Down the Wall Presents: Open Mic Nights

The Bridge Training Institute 2023-2024 Calendar - New Trainings!

The Bridge Training Institute has released its 2023-2024 calendar filled with professional development opportunities and CEUs. Register by clicking the button below!

All trainings are free for Open Sky employees.

October Trainings:

VIRTUAL-Thursday, October 12, 2023, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM

An Overview of the Cultural Humility Framework

Jenise Katalina, LICSW

VIRTUAL-Thursday, October 26, 2023, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM

Understanding and Treating the Complex Puzzle of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury

Barent Walsh, Ph.D.



IN-PERSON-Friday, October 27, 2023, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM

Introduction to Motivational Interviewing: Spirit & Skills

Suzy Langevin, LICSW, LADC I

Thank You Shelter Volunteers!

Ellen Walsh, a volunteer and donor to the shelter organized a Benefit Concert for the Seeds of Hope Shelter on May 18th at the JMAC Theatre in Worcester. The concert featured the Turn It Down All-Stars with supporting acts The Big League Collective, Lydia Fortune, Phil Nigro, and Bill Fisher.

Ellen recently stopped by Open Sky's Mann Street office to snap a photo with Open Sky President & CEO Ken Bates and Shelter Operations Manager Nahani Meuse.

Thank you Ellen for volunteering your time last winter to support the homeless community in Worcester!

Open Sky Kickball Tournament Returned to Fitton Field

10 teams competed in this year’s Open Sky kickball tournament on July 31st with "The Average Bravehearts" taking home the trophy! It was a beautiful day of friendly competition, with individuals and staff from across Open Sky coming together to have fun and support each other. Our CEO Ken Bates even got in on the fun! Thanks to all who came out to play, volunteer, or cheer on the teams. As a player on the “Heidi Ho” team said, "This was so much fun; I haven't laughed so much in a long time!”    

Three Ways to Support LGBTQIA+ Youth

Do you know a leader or changemaker who has a strong commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community? Submit a nomination for the People of Courage Awards presented at the Safe Homes Gala on April 12, 2024.

Become part of the Safe Homes Advisory Board. There is no required financial contribution, although board members are encouraged to show support as they are capable through attending the Gala, bidding in the silent auction, donating auction items, or providing event support prior to the Gala. Board members are also expected to share about Safe Homes, upcoming initiatives and events with their networks, and help make community connections as needed.

Support Safe Homes year-round with a monthly contribution by joining the (NEW) Lavender Club monthly giving club! Members will receive benefits and perks such as swag and discounts on tickets to the Safe Homes Gala.