COSA is excited to invite you to an upcoming event to learn more about COSA JEDIB initiatives on elevating the role or meaning of justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging at COSA.

JEDIB Committee members will share an update on their process and accomplishments since the committee began and will facilitate a conversation about JEDIB at COSA and in your workplaces (or in COSA member organizations). This event is open to anyone interested in learning more about JEDIB and your feedback and input will be welcomed as the JEDIB Committee sets goals for the coming year. Join us for what promises to be a thought-provoking and engaging discussion to inspire learning and action on a personal level as well as in our workplaces.

This workshop will include breakouts and interactive segments. COSA meets in-person on Tuesday, April 9 from 10 to 11:30am at the Haskell Building, 1 Prince Street, Northampton. This time includes an extra half hour for networking. Please bring copies of any information you would like to share: flyers on upcoming events, outreach materials, etc.

Learn more.

Last week's favorite click.

Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts April Public Health Event Series

Got a minute? Join or renew with COSA online.

Nominations are being sought for the Person of the Year award and the Young Community Leader award. These recognize outstanding individuals who reside in Hampshire or Franklin County. The Person of the Year award will honor a Hampshire County resident for going above and beyond in making the Valley a better place. The Young Community Leader award will recognize a person between the ages of 15 and 22 who resides in Franklin or Hampshire County and has contributed through community involvement and volunteerism. Nominations must be received by Friday, April 26, 2024.

Nomination forms here.

The Food Bank Farm and Kestrel Land Trust will be hosting Family Farm Days throughout the growing season! Families will learn about regenerative farming practices and The Food Bank’s to mission feed our neighbors in need and lead the community to end hunger. Volunteer activities include planting seedlings, maintaining farm beds, harvesting, and taking a nature walk on the 142 acre farm in Hadley.

Dates and registration.

May 7th at the DCU Center in Worcester

Valley's Amherst Community Homes

Valley Community Development reports that Amherst Community Homes, Valley's affordable homeownership development in North Amherst, was approved by the Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals! This project will create 30 homes clustered around shared open spaces. Ground is expected to be broken next year, with all homes to be sold by 2027.

Project details here.

ServiceNet Prospect Meadow Farm Shares

ServiceNet's Prospect Meadow Farm 2024 CSA is here! Get fresh produce, eggs, and pork shares from June 17th to October 21st. Full, half, and residential group home shares are available, with senior and low-income options. By participating in the CSA program, members enjoy farm-fresh produce and contribute to the vocational programming at Prospect Meadow Farm.

Buy a share.

Amherst Survival Center Empty Bowls Event

The 16th annual Empty Bowls is coming this weekend on Saturday April 6th! You can look forward to another vibrant community fundraiser featuring delicious locally-made soups, beautiful handmade bowls (over 700 of them!), live music, and service from fabulous celebrity hosts.

Info and tickets.

Juvenile Justice Resources from The Annie E. Casey Foundation

The Annie E. Casey Foundation has gathered the following resources, developed for the public as well as juvenile justice practitioners. They include a general overview of youth justice terms and concepts. They span subjects from status offenses to effective alternatives to confinement.

See the resources.

DoozyDo Parade Returns in 2024

Northampton Neighbors’ DoozyDo Parade is a joyful, inclusive, unconventional celebration in—and of—the City of Northampton, featuring people of all ages, local organizations, and businesses. The 3rd Annual DoozyDo will be held this fall so don't miss out.

More info here.

Food Policy Council's Spring Network Forum

The Hampshire County Food Policy Council is hosting it's Spring Network Forum on Friday, April 5th from 12pm-2pm on Zoom. Grab your lunch and settle in to hear updates from each of the FPC's 12 circles about their plans and goals for 2024. No registration is required so join in on April 5th!

Zoom link.

The United Arc 5K(eg) Hop on June 8th

Check out the first annual 5K(eg) Hop from Pratt Field and ending at Hitchcock Brewing. The 5K will benefit The United Arc's mission of supporting individuals within our community to achieve the universal goals of inclusion, choice, and independence. Register by May 5th for a free t-shirt!