spotlight

JUNE IS PRIDE MONTH!

Lower Cape Pride is an intergenerational, grassroots, organization that seeks to unite, celebrate with, and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.

Join us in co-creating the first regional Pride event centered around the Lower Cape community!

PRIDE WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS

Friday, June 13th

• Intergenerational Pride BBQ I Council on Aging, Orleans I 5:30-7:30pm
• Pride Social featuring Hello! Mackenzie! I The Alley, Orleans I 8:00-1 0:00pm

Saturday, June 14th

Pride Parade I Town Center, Orleans I 9:00-12:00pm

• Gathering with Family-Friendly Activities I Village Green
• Parade I Main Street
• Closing Ceremonies I Artist Cottages

Entertainment & Inspiration I Cape Rep Theater, Brewster I 1 :30-6:00pm

• The Power of Personal Narratives produced by Kristin Knowles
• Musical Performance by Katie Castagna - Our Queer Elders
• Avenues of Action - Panel Moderated by PFLAG's Rick Koonce
• Celebratory Drag Finale with Mackenzie's Angels
• Crosby Barn: Poetry, Photography, Art, Education and More!

Sunday, June 15th

Inclusive Worship Services I Throughout the Lower Cape

Additional programs are in the works. Does your group want to plan an event or participate? Let us know! Contact us! Learn more! lowercapepride.org

NATIONAL SOGIE CENTER: JOIN US IN COMMUNITY

Drop in throughout the day for a powerful, day-long Pride Zoomathon lifting up LGBTQIA2S+ youth and families and making clear continued community through story, solidarity, and connection. This national event, hosted by Unicorn Solutions and partners across the country, will feature public messages of love, resistance, and visibility. Bring your voice, your story, your energy. Learn more here >>>.

• Thursday, June 26th, 2025
• 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM ET | Online via Zoom
• Free and Open to All | Captioning Provided

Sign up to be a presenter here >>>

Sign up to attend here >>>

aging well & healthy living

CAPE COD HEALTHCARE'S COMMUNITY HEALTH NEEDS ASSESSMENT

Cape Cod Healthcare is conducting a Community Health Needs Assessment to learn about the health of people living in Barnstable County. As part of the assessment project, this Community Health Survey is being given to people who live in Barnstable County to identify if people's healthcare needs are currently being met. Information collected through this survey will also be helpful to evaluate which programs or services may be needed in the future. Needs that emerge in this data collection will direct where CCHC will invest Community Benefits dollars over the next three years. This survey is anonymous and should take about 15 minutes to complete. We ask that you complete this survey by Thursday, June 12, 2025.

The survey is open now and is available in English, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, and Spanish.

FALMOUTH SENIOR CENTER HEALTH & RESOURCE FAIR

Please join us for a Health & Resource Fair on Monday June 9th from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM. Come and learn all about what our community health agencies and organizations have to offer. Vendors include home health care agencies, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, veteran agencies, medical providers, hospice and more!

Location:

Falmouth Senior Center

780 Main St.

Falmouth, MA 02540

behavioral health

SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION: NEW FROM 988

New in the 988 Partner Toolkit!

988 Branded Photography

The 988-branded photography files in the Partner Toolkit have been updated to include both high- and low-resolution photographs and new vertical dimensions for use on social media.

988 Print Materials

We’ve updated the designs on most of our print materials to reflect the refreshed 988 branding and adjusted language based on audience testing. 

988 Judgment-Free Bus Stop Banner

Thanks to a request from partners in Miami, we’ve added the 988 Judgment-Free Bus Stop Banner to the 988 Partner Toolkit. This bold and colorful 48” x 69” banner is designed to be placed at bus stops, schools, community centers, and other public settings with high foot traffic to share life-saving information on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

What is 988 and How Does it Work?

We’ve recently updated the branding and music in the “What is 988 and How Does it Work?” video. This video is a comprehensive compilation featuring crisis counselors, professors, and peer specialists.

988 & 911 Social Media Content

The newly released guide, Advising People on Using 988 Versus 911: Practical Approaches for Healthcare Providers, serves as a valuable resource that clarifies the differences between 988 and 911. It offers healthcare providers effective strategies to help people determine when to use the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and when to call 911. Additionally, we’ve also updated the 988 FAQ webpage to reflect key takeaways from the guide. To help educate people on the key differences between 988 and 911, you can share the social media content that was recently added to the Partner Toolkit.

SAMHSA has also posted some new social media about 988 and 911 on its social media channels. We encourage you to share these with your networks. We will be adding several 988/911 social media posts to the Partner Toolkit soon.

• LinkedIn Post
• Facebook Post

Subscribe to Email Updates

Want to share this information with a friend? Sign up for 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline email updates and follow the instructions below:

• Enter your email address.
• Scroll to “Behavioral Health Topic Areas.” 
• Select “Suicide Prevention.” 
• Click “Subscribe.”

PUTTING PEOPLE FIRST IN MENTAL HEALTH: MENTAL HEALTH VS. MENTAL ILLNESS

Yes, There Is a Big Difference Between Mental Health and Mental Illness!

Mental health and mental illness are not the same thing. Mental illness refers to specific conditions like depression or anxiety that impact mood, thinking, or behavior, while mental health encompasses overall emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and interact with the world.

Not understanding the basics of mental health can lead to stigma, isolation, and missed opportunities for support. By increasing awareness, we can break down barriers, encourage connection, and promote lasting mental wellness.

NATIONAL SOGIE CENTER: CHECK OUT OUR NEW BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE WORK & RESOURCES PAGE!

We've been making some updates and changes on our website, and recently we've added a new Behavioral Health Care Work & Resources page! Take a look at the great resources there—there's more to come!

ASU REACH INSTITUTES WEBINAR: FATHERHOOD REIMAGINED

We invite you to join us on Thursday, June 12, 2025 for our next parent resource exchange webinar, sponsored by ASU REACH Institute's Center for Resilient Families and Mental Health America. June is Men's Health Month, and with Father's Day just around the corner, it's a timely reminder that fathers' mental health matters.

REAL EYES TRUTH INC.

Real Eyes Truth Inc. provides therapeutic spaces for people to heal and integrate their mental health experiences through individual therapy, group therapy, and special events. Our intention is to support people healing the mind-body connection at the root. Visit our website www.realeyestruth.org or follow us on Instagram @real_eyes_truth_inc or Facebook @Real Eyes Truth Inc. for more information. Here is our free group schedule to ensure people have access to mental health counselors for any of the group sessions.

housing & homelessness

HOUSING ASSISTANCE OFFERS SUPPORTIVE SERVICES TO YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

Housing Assistance offers supportive services to youth and young adults, ages 16 – 24. Services include personalized case management tailored to each individual's situation; responsive intervention for those experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity; and assistance navigating resources such as housing, employment, education, and health care.

SHINE

COMMONWEALTH CARE ALLIANCE (CCA) & MEDICARE SAVINGS PROGRAM 2025 INCOME LIMITS

Commonwealth Care Alliance (CCA)

CareSource completed acquisition of Commonwealth Care Alliance to strengthen care for Massachusetts residents with significant needs. CCA will continue to operate its Senior Care Options (SCO) and One Care plans along with its clinical delivery programs under the CareSource Family of Brands. CCA’s members and patients will continue to receive disability-competent care and coordination from their same care teams and providers – enhanced and strengthened by the capabilities of CareSource. Attached is a brochure.

Medicare Savings Program 2025 Income Limits

The Medicare Savings Program (MSP) helps pay some of the out-of-pocket costs of Medicare. They are not insurance plans. MSP programs can also help get Medicare Part B for members who only have Medicare Part A. If members qualify for an MSP program, they will also be automatically enrolled in the Medicare Part D Extra Help program, which can help with pharmacy costs. MSPs are always combined with Medicare and do not offer any additional coverage or services that Medicare does not provide. See attached chart.

SHINE'S JUNE 2ND EVENT: RECOGNIZING DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS

On Monday, June 2, 2025, the Cape Cod & Islands SHINE Program proudly recognized more than 70 dedicated volunteers from across the region who successfully completed the annual SHINE recertification exam. During the event, volunteer counselors heard from Mandi Speakman, Deputy Director for Barnstable County Department of Human Services who discussed the Healthy Aging Cape Cod initiative and its signature program, Age and Dementia Friendly Cape Cod. SHINE is an active participant in this group and supporting the volunteer workgroup.

The SHINE Program—Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone—offers free, unbiased health insurance information, counseling, and assistance to Massachusetts residents on Medicare and their caregivers.

SHINE Counselors play a vital role in helping Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers navigate the often complex world of health insurance. They break down complicated information into everyday language, compare costs and benefits of available options, and guide individuals and couples in choosing the health insurance plan that best suits their needs. Additionally, SHINE Counselors support those with limited resources by screening and enrolling them in programs designed to help cover health insurance costs.

If you have questions about Medicare, please call the Barnstable County SHINE office at (508) 375-6762.

scams & fraud

KNOWBE4: IT'S NO SECRET THAT THIS CASH GRAB IS A SCAM

In this week’s scam, someone calls you claiming to be a representative of a big retailer, such as Amazon. They warn you that criminals have taken over your account and are using it for illegal activities. You are told that you will be transferred to a government agent who is investigating the account. The agent claims that the criminals have also compromised your bank account and have access to all your money.

The agent informs you that all your money could be stolen unless you follow their instructions. They tell you they will protect your money if you withdraw cash from your bank and give it to a courier. The agent claims that your mobile device and computer could also be compromised, and that you should avoid telling anyone what you’re doing. However, the representative and government agent are actually both scammers. There was never any illegal activity on your account, and the only way your money will be gone forever is if you give it to them! 

Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to this type of scam:

• Be aware that scammers often use fear and urgency to trick you into making impulsive decisions. Always stop and think before taking action!
• Be suspicious if someone asks you to keep information secret from your family or spouse. Scammers will try to isolate you so that they can trick you more easily. 
• You should always use caution when providing personal or financial information to anyone. And remember, a real government agent or customer service representative will never ask you for cash, especially over the phone. 

KnowBe4 Security Team: Scams are specifically designed to catch us off guard, and they can happen to anyone. There’s nothing to be ashamed of if you think it’s happened to you. Keep important phone numbers handy, including the local police, your bank, and you can also report scams online to the FTC. Sharing your experience can help prevent it from happening to someone else.

upcoming community events

SAVE THE DATE: SUICIDE PREVENTION SUMMIT 2025

Cape Cod Community College and the Cape and Islands Suicide Prevention Coalition will host a Suicide Prevention Summit on Friday, September 12, 2025. This in-person event will be held at Cape Cod Community College and feature presentations that address the issue of suicide in our community and how we can create hope through action through college, school, and community partnerships.

Join our email list: capeandislandsspc@gmail.com to ensure you receive up-to-date information!

WALK TO END ELDER ABUSE ON JUNE 12

Join us on the green: June 12, 2025, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM for the Walk to End Elder Abuse!

Location:

Hyannis Village Green, 367 Main Street, Hyannis

There will be speakers, informational tables, and a food truck!

employment opportunities

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP IS HIRING!

Chief Advancement Officer 

Status: Full-time Exempt Position (37.5 hours/week)

Time Frame: Review begins May 20, 2025, position open until filled

Description:

The Chief Advancement Officer will successfully lead and implement an integrated development, marketing and communications strategy that raises the organization’s visibility and secures a diverse and sustainable revenue portfolio to support the CDP’s program growth and strategic goals. The CAO manages and leads all major gift, direct mail, and event sponsorship functions currently raising $1M+ annually. They also identify and pursue opportunities to build new revenue streams such as principal gifts, planned giving, donor and foundation prospecting and research, and special one- or multi-year fundraising campaigns. 

The Chief Advancement Officer is a member of the organization’s senior management team, and reports to the Chief Executive Officer.  The successful candidate will have the support of a Director of Communications as well as a full-time administrative staff position, grant writing consultant and a Board Development Committee. 

While the organization’s offices, service area and donor base are located on the Lower Cape, we are open to considering candidates from throughout Eastern Massachusetts, including part-time residents of Cape Cod. A hybrid work arrangement—combining remote and in-person work – can be considered for the right candidate. This is a Full-Time Exempt Position (37.5 hours/week). 

Our ideal candidate will be an engaging and high-energy individual with a passion for increasing affordable housing and strengthening small businesses on the Lower and Outer Cape. We seek a collaborative and dependable team player, who executes sound judgment, inspires donors, and can effectively carry out the daily functions of this position. The CAO's top priority is to identify, cultivate, solicit and close major gifts and secure social impact investments to advance the CDP’s mission. The ability to establish and maintain outstanding working relationships with internal colleagues, Board & Advisory Council Members, clients, and donors of the CDP is key. 

A full description of this position can be found here: Chief Advancement Officer.

Compensation: The annual salary range is $105,000 to $115,000. CDP also provides a generous package of benefits including vacation and sick time, health, dental & vision insurance, and retirement benefits that include a 403(b) plan with a 4% company match. This position is exempt, full-time (37.5 hours a week).

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter describing your previous professional experiences in detail and illustrate how those experiences have prepared you for this position. The cover letter must be followed by a resume, combined into a single PDF.  Applications should be submitted to Jay Coburn, Chief Executive Officer, Community Development Partnership, jay@capecdp.org. No phone calls or letters, please. Applications will be reviewed and acknowledged on a rolling basis. 

Manager of Business & Credit Programs

Status: Full-time position (37.5 hours/week)

Time Frame: Review begins May 20, 2025, position open until filled

Description:

The Manager of Business and Credit Programs is responsible for the administration and management of the Community Development Partnership’s (CDP) small business technical assistance and lending programs. The Manager provides program implementation support to the Director of Business & Credit Programs and is also responsible for strategic outreach to business communities. In addition, the Manager is responsible for encouraging and nurturing partnerships with local businesses, community members and other non-profits to further the CDP’s mission. 

This position primarily works one-on-one with entrepreneurs and the candidate should be confident and effective in building rapport quickly with people from many different backgrounds. The candidate should be 1) passionate about the CDP’s mission, 2) have strong counseling and facilitation skills, and 3) is excited to help small businesses succeed. 

Our ideal candidate is:

• knowledgeable of housing and community development issues on the Cape
• experienced with working in small business development
• able to develop leadership skills, particularly with L-Moderate Income communities, communities of color and immigrant communities.
• energetic, collaborative and a dependable team player,
• a problem solver who can adapt in the moment,
• confident in generating new ideas and bringing them to fruition, as well as stepping into existing programs and understanding why they operate the way they do,
• someone with strong writing and speaking skills, both formally and informally.

This is an opportunity to expand and contribute to an already successful, visible, and highly valued program within the CDP and have significant long-term impact on the Lower and Outer Cape.

A full description of this position can be found here: Manager of Business Credit Programs

Compensation: Salary range is $65,000 to $68,000 annually. CDP also provides a generous package of benefits including vacation, sick time, retirement benefits and flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses. Staff enjoy flexibility in their work hours and working location if organizational needs are met.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter summarizing your professional experience at it relates to the job description, followed by resume, combined into a single PDF. Email your PDF to Andrea Aldana, Andrea@capecdp.org . Include "Manager of Business & Credit Programs" in the subject line. References may be requested.

food & community resources

JUNE 12TH IS WOMEN'S VETERANS RECOGNITION DAY

Why is there a Women Veterans Recognition Day?

Women Veterans Recognition Day is not meant to be a separate Veterans Day for women but instead a commemoration of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948. It is not just a day to honor the service of women Veterans but also a day to renew our commitment to supporting and advocating for health equity and inclusion.

Together we can make a difference in the lives of women who have served our country by ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten, and that women receive the care and recognition they have earned.

Today, programs like VA’s Center for Women Veterans and the Women Veterans Health Care program provide critical resources and services to women Veterans while advocating tirelessly to ensure the voices of women Veterans are heard and their needs are met.

­­­To all our women Veterans, we thank you for your service and your sacrifice. We honor your bravery, your dedication and your commitment to our nation, and we pledge to ensure that your contributions are never forgotten.

You have many resources available to you

For those who are struggling with the transition back to civilian life, know that you are not alone. Resources and support are available to help you navigate this challenging time, and we are dedicated to ensuring that you receive the care and assistance you need.

To learn about the health care services you may be eligible for, read Seven things you need to know about VA Women’s Health Reengagement Training on VA News or visit womensheart.info to register for the personalized training. It’s never too late to enroll.

Visit 100 Years of Health Care for Women Veterans for more history, or Women Veterans Health Care to learn more about your health care options.

BUY FRESH BUY LOCAL

Nutrition educators have assisted in coordination of Buy Fresh Buy Local Cape Cod with the mission of connecting people and businesses on the Cape with locally grown farm and sea products. Through Buy Fresh Buy Local Cape Cod, resources are created to assist individuals and families in purchasing, cooking, and storing fresh foods. Below are collections of cooking videos, recipes, cookbooks, and other resources to help families and communities better understand Cape Cod’s local food system and access to fresh, local food.

CAPE COD FOOD ACCESS GUIDE

Service Directory Opportunity

The Barnstable County Department of Human Services’ Network of Care SERVICE DIRECTORY website, is a robust local health and human services directory with resources for individuals, families, and agencies on Cape Cod with public health questions and concerns.

Newsletter Sign-up & Submit

Yes! I'd like to received the Human Services e-newsletter. When you click 'sign me up!' you will have a choice to receive both the Human Services and/or RSAC e-news delivered directly to your inbox.

Submissions will only be accepted using our online submission form. Attachments must be in .PDF FORMAT ONLY please. Posting of articles submitted for this publication is at the discretion of the Department.