Thank YOU for helping us achieve our success! | |
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Sunshine Village
ANNUAL REPORT
Calendar Year 2024 / Fiscal Year 2025
If you would like to make a donation to Sunshine Village’s ANNUAL APPEAL, please click the DONATE BUTTON below.
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A Message from Gina Kos, our Executive Director | |
“Tis the season” – YES – at Sunshine Village, it is the season to SHINE EVEN BRIGHTER! As you look through this quarterly newsletter, you will see and - we hope, feel - the joy that comes from our GREAT days!
As we look to the new year, we are filled with optimism and enthusiasm. We are an Employer of Choice – paying our employees very competitive wages (we start all DSPs at $21 an hour!) and offering generous benefits. In the next 12 months, we will continue investing in our workforce – developing all of our employees professionally and personally. We have also engaged the expertise from an Assistive Technology Consultant – to help us enhance the technology, equipment and furniture we use in our programs to increase the accessibility and comfort for our clients. Next year, all of our programs will also be assessed by a local security firm – and will help us continue to provide safe, secure environments for our clients, employees and visitors. All of this – and much more (look at our Bringing the Community to Us Inclusion Program, all of our celebrations and the opportunities we offer clients for paid work and volunteer opportunities) truly makes us a Provider of Choice.
You can help us too! If you know a young adult who will be graduating from a local special education department and is looking for a fun, innovative and high-quality day program, refer them to us! If you would like to make a charitable donation to us during this season of giving – click here! You can also mail your gift to our main campus at 75 Litwin Lane, Chicopee, MA 01020.
We do THANK YOU for your support. Please know that we work hard each day to achieve our mission – of helping people with developmental disabilities to live and learn, work and earn and give and grow.
From everyone at Sunshine Village, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Merry Yuletide (for the Winter Solstice), Happy Kwanzaa and best wishes for all the holidays and days that you celebrate! May your 2025 – like Sunshine Village – also be filled with GREAT days!
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Gina Kos
Executive Director
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One of Sunshine Village’s Organizational Goals is to “ensure the financial stability of SSV with sound governance and strong leadership that strives for excellence while adhering to thoughtful policies, transparent practices, proactive planning and continuous improvement.” In November of 2024, the firm of Meyers Brothers Kalicka performed the annual CPA audit and issued a report to the Board of Directors with an unmodified opinion on financial statements. There were no deficiencies or material weaknesses noted nor were there any recommendations. Sunshine Village is achieving its goals of remaining financially strong – and is both accountable and responsible with the federal, state and private funds it uses each day to achieve our mission. | |
Sunshine Village is incredibly fortunate to have the support of eight experienced and talented professionals – who volunteer their time on our governing Board of Directors. This group – led by long term Chair Ernest N. Laflamme, Jr. - provides guidance in directing the operations and programs of the agency – and each brings a unique perspective that aids Sunshine Village in ensuring the continued deliverance of high-quality supports in safe, warm and welcoming environments. | |
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CHAIR
ERNEST N. LAFLAMME, JR.
serving Sunshine Village since 1982
VICE CHAIR
STEPHEN C. MELNYCK, JR.
serving Sunshine Village since 1982
TREASURER
PETER S. BENTON, CPA
serving Sunshine Village since 2012
CLERK
MICHAEL R. SIDDALL, ESQ.
serving Sunshine Village since 2004
DIRECTOR
MARIE LAFLAMME
serving Sunshine Village since 2002
DIRECTOR
TERI SZLOSEK
serving Sunshine Village since 2011
DIRECTOR
DEBRA A. SCHNEEWEIS
serving Sunshine Village since 2013
DIRECTOR
FRANK STELLATO
serving Sunshine Village since 2015
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WE LOVE TO SHARE OUR GREAT DAYS!
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“Sunshine Village helped me find
a stable workplace.” - Jimmy
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A Glimpse at Our GREAT Days -- The 2025 Sunshine Village Calendar
This holiday season, we were excited to unveil our first-ever Sunshine Village Calendar, celebrating the joy, creativity and accomplishments of our clients! These calendars were gifted to clients and staff and sent to our community supporters, legislators and donors—just in time for Thanksgiving.
Each page of the calendar shines a spotlight on the incredible talents of clients from our Chicopee, Agawam, and Three Rivers Programs, sharing the GREAT days that make Sunshine Village so special.
| If, in the future you would like to be included in one of our holiday mailings, please click the button below to add/update your address. | | |
“A GREAT day is getting up and going
to Sunshine Village.” - Chelsea
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At Sunshine Village, everyone SHINES! Discover why we are considered a “Provider of Choice” and “Employer of Choice” -- Schedule a tour today or explore our newly updated virtual tours at www.sunshine.us | | | |
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SUCCESS STORY: Lourdes (Agawam Day Hab)
is truly "standing taller"! After undergoing back surgery earlier this year, Lourdes returned to Sunshine Village determined to rebuild her confidence. Her progress has been remarkable — as her confidence grows, so does her willingness to embrace new activities she once hesitated to try. Each day, Lourdes SHINES a little brighter, inspiring everyone around her!
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SUCCESS STORY: Meet Adam, a loyal member of our Westover Maintenance Systems team for six years. Starting as a part-time employee, Adam’s hard work and dedication earned him a full-time position. A valued asset to his crew, Adam is well-liked in the buildings he cleans and SHINES in his role at WMS. | | |
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SUCCESS STORY: Danny (Casey CBDS) has been a dedicated manufacturer at Norpin in Wilbraham for a year. “I power coat, sandblast, cut metal, ship, box — mostly everything,” says Danny. He advocated for himself and now works five days a week, a total of 20 hours and is "slowly working on going full-time."
When asked what makes him a GREAT employee, Danny said, “I stay motivated.” His secret? “One cup of coffee, and I make sure I get the job done.”
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SUCCESS STORY: Joe (Agawam CBDS) is making GREAT strides! By employing self-advocacy and confidently asking for help, Joe is building skills that empower him to thrive. His progress showcases how SSV programs help clients SHINE brighter every day. | | |
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SUCCESS STORY: Sara (Three Rivers) is a part of Sunshine Village's "Fruit Artist in Training" program -- developed by Heather Emerson (a Case Manager). Heather says, "When Sara first started, she was shy and reserved. But throughout the training process, I’ve seen her truly blossom -- building new friendships and developing a strong sense of accomplishment."
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Sunshine Village offers opportunities for clients to live and learn which inspires personal growth, skill-building and self-confidence, making every day a GREAT day to SHINE! | |
An Orchard of Opportunity: Learning and Growing Through Generosity
This October, participants from the Casey CBDS program enjoyed an educational and fun-filled day at UMass Cold Spring Orchard in Amherst. Thanks to the incredible generosity of the orchard, four groups were able to experience apple picking at no cost.
Beyond the apples, the visit provided a chance to learn about the innovative research conducted at Cold Spring Orchard. UMass scientists are leading the way in developing sustainable methods to grow tree fruit, studying disease-resistant varieties, and minimizing chemical use in agriculture.
This hands-on learning experience allowed our participants to connect with nature and expand their knowledge—all while having another GREAT day!
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Championing Rights Through Observations
Russell and Courtney, members of our Human Rights Committee, are taking action to ensure a supportive and respectful environment for all. As part of their preparation for a Human Rights Observation, they have been visiting sites to confirm that human rights are clearly posted and actively upheld in each program.
Through their efforts, they are also fostering positive relationships that reinforce a culture of dignity and respect. Their dedication to this important work embodies what it means to live and learn—making every day a step toward greater independence and inclusion!
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Expanding Horizons with Inclusive Experiences
Our “Bringing the Community to Us” inclusion program continues to grow -- offering eight engaging activities across all Day Habilitation sites in 2025!
In November, participants in the Davis Building had the opportunity to experience Dance Movement Therapy through a special demonstration by Katelyn Cramer, BC-DMT, LPC, LMHC
Their excitement and enthusiasm for the session were clear, and thanks to their valuable feedback, Davis clients chose to have Dance Movement Therapy added to the program lineup!
Currently, our program features activities from six wonderful partners: Family Jungle Entertainment, Drumming, Stompin’ Boots (adaptive country line dancing), Yoga with Debra Vega, The Ben and Ed Show, and Music Therapy. Starting in January 2025, we’re thrilled to add Pet Therapy!
Our BTCTU partners bring enriching opportunities for our participants to live and learn -- boosting creativity, movement and connection in every session.
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PBS Advisory Team Holds Elections
for New Representatives
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Sunshine Village's Employment Services offers a variety of paid work experiences -- including a commercial cleaning company that maintains the buildings and hangars at Westover Air Reserve Base under a federal contract. | |
Celebrating Success: Thriving on the Job and Growing as Entrepreneurs! | |
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On November 7th, Gina hosted a special recognition lunch to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of our clients who are excelling in their careers.
This event highlighted the hard work and dedication of:
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Stephen Green – Round1 Bowling & Arcade
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Austin Coelho – Dunkin’ Donuts
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Jonathan Scytkowski – The Trading Post
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Danny Petersen – Norpin
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Alexis Nunes, Yrkania Rodriguez, Dasha’Nay Cruz – Residence Inn Chicopee
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Abigail Pelkey – Entrepreneur who sells coasters at Soul Shine Consignment
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Alexandria Vivenzio – Entrepreneur who sells bracelets at Daisy Doo's & Dudes
A heartfelt thank you to SSV Board Members, Debbie Schneeweis and Peter Benton, for joining us in honoring these remarkable achievements. We are proud of all that our clients have accomplished as they work and earn—making every day a GREAT day to SHINE!
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Artists with Distinct Abilities SHINE at
Vendor Fairs and in Local Shops!
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Amanda, a client at Casey CBDS, attended Vanished Valley Brewing Co.'s Fall Vendor Fair alongside Chris, her Case Manager, where she showcased her talent for sales! Amanda enthusiastically talked up her friends' artwork to shoppers, helping to boost the visibility of some incredible pieces created by our ‘Artists with Distinct Abilities.’ Way to go, Amanda, you SHINE! | | |
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Lisa, has recently taken her entrepreneurial efforts to the next level. Known for crafting bracelets, Lisa has now ventured into creating hand-painted Alcohol Ink Splattered mugs. These unique mugs are currently for sale at Outside the Box in Tower Square, Springfield.
In just three days, Lisa sold 6 out of 11 mugs and had to restock the shelves! Congratulations Lisa, we’re excited to see you continue to SHINE through your business ventures.
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Volunteering is just one of the many ways our participants give and grow—making every day a GREAT day to SHINE!
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Volunteers in Action -- Growing Stronger Together
Our Look Park Volunteer Group has played a vital role in preserving the beauty of Look Park and its surroundings. Clients Jonathan S., Benjamin B., Luis G., Luis S., and Alex, along with their support staff, Joyce and Wayne, dedicate their time each week -- not only to keeping the grounds looking GREAT but also to care for the animals at the zoo. Their commitment to service is matched by their curiosity and eagerness to explore other parts of the park.
This fall, volunteers were busy tidying up the park, raking leaves and decorating for Halloween. To show appreciation for their year-round efforts, Zookeeper Mike hosted a special Pizza Party in celebration of their ongoing contributions.
We are grateful to everyone at the Christenson Zoo at Look Park -- especially Zookeeper Mike, for supporting our volunteers, who continuously give and grow, making a positive impact in the community.
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Making a Difference, One Box at a Time
Bill, Ben and Carrie from our Three Rivers Program are spreading kindness and giving back to the community! One of their volunteer spots is the Monson Community Outreach Center, where they unpack boxes and sort donated items for those in need.
Through their efforts, they not only supporting a great cause but also strengthening their teamwork skills and sense of purpose.
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Davis Program Supervisor Deemed
Workforce Hero
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Sue Wegrzyn is Recognized as the Caring Force's November 2024 Workforce Hero
"The Caring Force is honored to announce Suzanne (Sue) Wegrzyn as our TCF November 2024 Workforce Hero Spotlight honoree. Sue has worked at Sunshine Village for over 35 years and is a compassionate supervisor, bringing high levels of creativity and commitment to respecting the dignity, independence and rights of the individuals Sunshine Village serves – 'helping them to have GREAT days.'"
Congratulations, Sue!
Click the button below – to read about Sue Wegrzyn!
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Springfield Thunderbirds Name
Brian Mullen, "Game Changer"
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On November 16th, Brian Mullen was honored by the Springfield Thunderbirds for his "unwavering commitment to both our nation and to Sunshine Village. Brian works at Sunshine Village, a thriving, vibrant community where clients...SHINE. Each and every day, Brian is making an impact on his clients and the community -- he is also a Veteran."
Brian Mullen started his career at SSV in 2007 as an Employment Specialist then transitioned to a role as a DSP. He was recently promoted to Case Manager at our Three Rivers' location.
We are so proud of Brian for his military service and for providing our clients with GREAT Days.
What’s a Game Changer? Someone who has made a difference in the Pioneer Valley community through their selfless act of kindness. These Game Changers are ordinary people doing extraordinary things to improve the lives of those around us. They are people who all of Springfield and Western Massachusetts can proudly salute!
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Lunch and Learn Sessions Return at WMS! | |
'Lunch and Learn' sessions have made their return at Westover Maintenance Systems (WMS)—and this year’s series promises to be more impactful than ever!
This year’s Professional and Personal Development Plan is built around four key focus areas:
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Shining at SSV – Cultivating the skills and values that help crew members shine at Sunshine Village.
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Professional Development – Enhancing workplace skills to succeed and grow.
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Personal Growth and Development – Building confidence and life skills outside the workplace.
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Recognition Event – Celebrating the hard work and achievements of our incredible crew.
WMS crew members have already explored topics like Payroll and Technology, where they gained a deeper understanding of our new payroll processes and learned how to navigate the Checkwriters' App. They also examined Social Media Safety, focusing on protecting personal and professional information online, with the help of knowledgeable presenters. And, most recently learned how to make an introduction with confidence, plus, dressing and grooming tips to help them stand out professionally.
Upcoming sessions will include:
- Financial Wellness – Tools and strategies to manage personal finances effectively.
- Advocacy – Empowering employees to have a voice and make a difference.
These sessions reflect Sunshine Village’s commitment to helping everyone live and learn, work and earn, and give and grow. With opportunities to develop skills, build confidence and celebrate achievements, this year’s 'Lunch and Learn' series is set to be a GREAT success!
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Client Recognition Celebrations! | | |
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Wranglin’ Success: Agawam Celebrates a Roundup of Achievements!"
On September 30th, clients from Agawam Day Hab and CBDS gathered for an unforgettable Accomplishment Celebration with a lively country hoe-down theme! The day was filled with recognition for achievements ranging from 'being a GREAT friend' to 'improving social skills' and 'demonstrating independence on the job'.
Board members Peter Benton and Teri Szlosek joined Gina in celebrating some truly impressive client accomplishments. The Sunshine Saloon clients served up fancy mocktails, followed by a Western-style feast! The day ended with lively country line dancing for everyone, thanks to the talented Stompin' Boots team.
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Shake, Rattle, and Shine: Casey CBDS Grooves to Greatness!
Casey CBDS clients have been achieving BIG things in 2024! On November 25th, they hosted a 50's - themed Sock Hop and Celebration -- which highlighted their personal accomplishments. Gina proudly congratulated everyone for a job well done, recognizing achievements like 'advocating to transfer from Day Hab to CBDS', 'advancing video production and presentation skills', and 'exploring interests in childcare'.
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The Culinary Team whipped up a delicious drive-in menu, featuring hotdogs and sliders, banana pudding sundaes, milkshakes and other classic favorites from the era. After lunch, the celebration turned into a rockin’ 50's Sock Hop Dance, complete with plenty of moves on the dance floor!
Adding to the fun, the Pink Ladies and T-Birds made a special appearance, bringing extra flair to an already unforgettable day. From accomplishments to jive and jams, it was a day full of pride, progress and plenty of reasons to SHINE!
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Grateful for Growth:
Davis and Knights Celebrate
a Season of Accomplishments
On November 21st, the Davis and Knights Programs came together for a heartwarming Thanksgiving celebration -- honoring client achievements. Colleen Brosnan (Director of Day Service) and Bruce Wood (Program Manager) happily recognized Day Habilitation clients for accomplishments such as 'being a friend to all', 'top-notch crafter', and 'terrific chef' -- to name a few.
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The celebration featured a delicious Thanksgiving feast, with sides prepared by clients honing their kitchen skills. From the kitchen to the community, their progress was evident in every bite and with every smile.
It was a GREAT day to give thanks, celebrate progress and SHINE as a community of achievers!
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DDS - Holyoke/Chicopee Art Show
The 10th Annual DDS Holyoke/Chicopee Art Show took place on Tuesday, November 14th, at the Holyoke Chicopee DDS Office and participants from our Casey Program displayed their artwork, highlighting their creativity.
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We are in the second year of a three-year STRATEGIC PLAN – focusing on strategies and measures for FY2025. Our four ORGANIZATIONAL GOALS will continue to drive us:
1. Advance SSV as a “Premier Provider of Choice” by assessing, enhancing and offering innovative services that assist individuals to achieve greater independence.
2. Ensure the financial stability of SSV with sound governance and strong leadership that strives for excellence while adhering to thoughtful policies, transparent practices, proactive planning and continuous improvement.
3. Enhance service provision by investing in technology and infrastructure while ensuring that all environments are safe, welcoming and inclusive for all.
4. Continue to be an “Employer of Choice” investing in our workforce through a competitive and comprehensive total rewards plan and professional development program, while emphasizing wellness and valuing work-life balance.
This year – as part of our strategic planning efforts – we are focusing on ENGAGEMENT and IMPROVEMENT. We will be engaging all of our stakeholder groups more fully – that means we will be communicating and connecting more with our clients and their families, our legislators, our funding/referrals sources, our community and our employees.
And we will continue to improve our services and our operations – and enhancing what we are already doing and enriching our programs in new ways.
Performance outcomes are communicated and analyzed in our Performance Management Systems reports that are accessible on our website – on the Performance Metrics page – and you can see all of our successes each year.
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TOGETHER WE ARE SHINING
EVEN BRIGHTER!
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Strengthening Ties with Springfield College: A Fall Partnership Focused on Skill Development
This fall, CBDS clients from Agawam, Chicopee and Three Rivers had the incredible opportunity to strengthen their independent living skills through a dynamic partnership with Springfield College. The collaboration allowed participants to attend weekly one-hour sessions at the college’s new Occupational Therapy (OT) building, where they worked alongside OT students to develop practical skills in areas such as cooking, housekeeping, financial management, and building healthy relationships. Timothy, a participant, shared, “I learned communication skills, life skills and cleaning skills."
Over 25 clients participated in this enriching experience, with some returning multiple times a week to further explore the college campus and engage in hands-on learning. “I felt good going to the class and I felt welcomed,” said David, who enjoyed the opportunity to expand his communication skills. “I learned different perspectives of people's ideas, which was great.”
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In addition to this program, clients also took part in activities through Springfield College’s Adaptive Physical Education Department These included swimming and physical education classes, where graduate students and assistants offered personalized support for aquatic activities. This collaboration provided invaluable chances for personal growth and skill development in a college environment.
Timothy added, “I felt welcomed and sometimes I did not want to go, but I am glad I did.”
This unique partnership between Sunshine Village and Springfield College allowed clients to learn, grow, and thrive in new and exciting ways, building independence while also enjoying the community and camaraderie that Sunshine Village fosters. As David put it, “I love coming to Sunshine Village because I get to learn skills for life and work, and I get to see my friends.”
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Agawam CBDS Spreads Joy with Make-A-Wish Cards and Valentine's Day Greetings
For the past year, members of Agawam CBDS have been designing and personalizing birthday cards for Make-A-Wish children-- spreading joy and encouragement to those facing critical illnesses.
In 2025, they will continue this meaningful effort and add a new initiative: handmade Valentine's Day cards. Their hope is to bring renewed strength, support and brighter days to children in need.
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The 35th Annual SSV Golf Tournament:
A SHINING Success!
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A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors, golfers and volunteers who made this year’s event at Chicopee Country Club another GREAT day!
Special thanks to our tournament sponsors, Westfield Bank and Peoples Bank, who led a group of generous supporters and ensured the event’s financial success. With a full roster of golf teams, the day was filled with camaraderie, fun and great memories.
Click here to view photos from the event and see the full list of our generous supporters.
And don’t forget to SAVE THE DATE for next year!
36th Annual Sunshine Village Golf Tournament
Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Chicopee Country Club
For more information, or to join us as a sponsor, email Corinne: cdumont@sunshine.us or call 413-592-6142 x1113
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THANK YOU to our sponsors for helping Sunshine Village achieve our mission – AND our promise of delivering on a GREAT day, every day!
Together, we are SHINING EVEN BRIGHTER!
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As Sunshine Village continues to grow and adapt, we hope you'll help us provide brighter days for our clients and their families. Please consider making a contribution to our Annual Appeal, by clicking the button, below.
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“Our son is never happier than when he
is engaged in a new experience. What a
gift Sunshine Village is to our family!”
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