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Hello friends and neighbors,
As we move into the heart of March, I’ve been reflecting on what makes Needham such a special place to live and work. This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending two distinct events that perfectly captured the spirit of our town: connection and shared purpose.
Maureen Callahan, our Director of Development, and I joined the Community Iftar hosted by the Needham Muslim Neighbors. It was a wonderful evening of culture, food, and conversation. Seeing neighbors from all backgrounds share a meal was a powerful reminder of the inclusive community we are building together.
I also stopped by a Mahjong event hosted by Jane Carroll, a dedicated supporter of the Council. With 60 neighbors in attendance, it was a joy to see everyone enjoying each other's company while supporting our mission, with proceeds benefiting the Council.
Gatherings like these make me incredibly proud to live and work in Needham. They remind us that while our interests may vary, our commitment to supporting one another remains our strongest common thread.
Thank you for being part of this community and for your continued support of the Needham Community Council.
Warmly,
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Sandra Robinson
Executive Director
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Grab your tickets TODAY!
Prices increase to $125 tomorrow, March 11th, at 10:00 PM.
Don't wait—let’s stock those shelves together!
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Buy Your Tickets Today!
Prices increase tomorrow at 10:00 pm.
We’re turning up the music to raise critical funds and awareness for the Needham Community Council’s food pantry.
✨ The Vibe: Music, dancing, and a casual atmosphere.
🍷The Goods: Open bar and incredible catering.
📅 When: Saturday, March 28th, 2026 | 7:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Use this link
| Meet Needham Bank - Presenting Sponsor | |
March Community Highlights
We are constantly reminded of the kindness of our Needham neighbors and are grateful for the generosity they show to the Council each month. Some recent kind gestures included:
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Needham High School offered free tickets to our food pantry customers to see Shrek the Musical
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Yoga Instructor Kristen Young taught a donation-based yoga class at Volante Farms, with proceeds given to the Council
- A Mahjong Mixer Party with 60 players raised funds for the Council
- The Carter United Methodist Church organized a food drive, resulting in a donation of 173 lbs. of food to our food pantry
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Food Pantry Update
Did you know that March is National Nutrition Month?
“According to the USDA, households experiencing food insecurity are significantly more likely to report poor physical and mental health outcomes. Research continues to show strong links between food insecurity and higher rates of depression, anxiety, and chronic disease. Not knowing where your next meal comes from results in stress. Increased stress is a risk factor for longer-term health risks.” -Center for Wellness Nutrition, LinkedIN
Fortunately, thanks to the support of our community, the Council’s Food Pantry provides routine and sustainable access to healthy foods, for those who need it most. This not only helps people stay fed, but also provides the security of knowing where their next meal is coming from, thereby reducing stress and contributing to better health overall. In February 2026, the Food Pantry distributed 5,510 pounds of fresh produce to our food pantry families.
| | | Dementia Care Partners Support | | | Click on image to enlarge | |
Memory Cafe
ALL are welcome! Enjoy friendly conversation, light refreshments, and an uplifting “moving to music” session led by Ageless Grace Trainer and Facilitator, Amy Podolsky.
When: Tuesday, March 24th, 10:30 AM -12:00 PM
Where: Needham Public Library
Registration is requested but not required!
To register or learn more, please contact Program Manager Stephanie Knoch.
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Care Partner Consultation
These one-on-one sessions are designed to provide support, guidance, and resources for individuals caring for a loved one living with dementia.
Care Partner Consultations are available Monday through Friday with Stephanie Knoch, MSW, LCSW, CDCP, and can be held in person, virtually, or by phone.
In-person consultations are available every Thursday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Needham Senior Center. To schedule an appointment or learn more, please contact Stephanie at (781) 444-2415 or sknoch@needhamcouncil.org.
| | English Language Learning | | |
New ELL Tutor Training
New training is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25th, April 8th and April 15th from 6:30-8:00 PM. Email ELL Program Manager Sheila Roberts to register.
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ELL Walk & Talks
ELL Walk & Talks will return with the Spring weather! The Walk & Talks are a popular way for ELLs at all levels to practice their English while strolling around Needham. The group meets once a week and is lead by a team of tutors. There is room on the team for one or two more tutors so please reach out to Sheila if you are interested.
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Volunteer Needed to Assist in Beginner Class
Our Beginner English teacher, Reem, is looking for tutor volunteers to join her class on one or two evenings in March so that the beginner ELLs can practice speaking English. This is a fun group of learners who have been working hard since September.
To sign up, or if you have questions, please email ELL Program Manager, Sheila Roberts, at sroberts@needhamcouncil.org.
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The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence
For: Parents, Caregivers & Educators of Kids in Grades 6-12
When: Wednesday, March 18th, 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Where: Powers Hall, Needham Town Hall,
1471 Highland Ave, Needham
Presenter: Jessica Lahey: Educator & Best-Selling Author of The Gift of Failure andThe Addiction Inoculation, Recovery & Prevention Coach.
Register: Please register here.
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Talking to Kids about Healthy Relationships
For: Parents, Caregivers & Educators of young people
When: Tues March 31st 6:00 – 7:00 PM OR
Thu April 2nd 8:45 – 10:00 AM
Where: Rosemary Recreation Complex, Multi-Purpose Room, 178 Rosemary St, Needham, MA or via Zoom
Presenter: Jessica Teperow, CEO and Founder of JT Consulting, and a Needham parent.
Register: Please register here.
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Free Special Presentation
Backing up and Syncing Your Technology with Stephano Migliuolo
When: Friday, March 27th
Time: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Where: Room 207 at the CATH
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March Teen Tech Talks & Support
Come for the Talk and Stay for the Support!
The Tech Talks and support sessions are combined and are offered two days every other week.
Useful Apps – How to Find, Download, and Use
Wed, March 11th AND Friday, March 13th
Internet Basics
Wed, March 25th AND Friday, March 27th
Location: at the CATH, 300 Hillside Avenue, Room 207 3:15 - 4:15 PM.
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CATH Tech Assistance
with Bruce and Greg
Click on the thumbnail for more details.
More information can be found on our website. Contact Program Manager Karen Zarrow at (781) 444-2415 or via email with questions or to schedule a 20 minute one-on-one help session.
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NHA Tech Assistance
with Sarah Dunnagan
Click on the thumbnail for more details.
More information can be found on our website. Contact Program Manager Karen Zarrow at (781) 444-2415 or via email with questions or to schedule a 20 minute one-on-one help session.
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Your Treasure Hunt Awaits this Thursday, Friday & Saturday!
The Antiques & Collectibles Sale starts this Thursday! Staff and volunteers have curated the best pieces from the past year. When you shop with us, you aren't just getting a deal, you're supporting our programs! Hours below:
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
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Fri., March 13th
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Sat., March 14th
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
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Volunteer of the Month
We are proud to recognize Eric Knuth as our Volunteer of the Month! A Needham high school student, Eric has elected to earn his community service hours by coordinating monthly food drives. Each month Eric arrives at our food pantry with full bags of food and household items, which are distributed to our food pantry customers. Although Eric has already earned the number of hours necessary to fulfill the community service requirement, he keeps going! We look forward to seeing him again later this month. Thank you for all you do, Eric!
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Spring is Here
As spring approaches, our wonderful partners at the Needham Community Farm are gearing up for a busy season. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills in a gardening class, participate in community beds, or give back by volunteering, there is something for everyone. Visit needhamfarm.org to explore their full list of spring offerings and get involved today!
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Needham Artists
Needham Artists Flourish, organized by the Needham Council for Arts and Culture, aims to support local artists and businesses by featuring artistic works for sale across nine Needham retailers, with all proceeds benefiting the Council. The program will run from March 14 to March 28. Learn more about the featured artists and participating retailers here.
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Council Thrift & Donation Hours
Monday 10 am - 4 pm
Tuesday & Thursday 10 am - 6 pm
Friday 10 am - 4 pm
Saturday 10 am - 2 pm
Closed Wednesday & Sunday
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Office
Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 4 pm
Closed Saturday & Sunday
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Needham Community Council
570 Hillside Avenue
Needham, MA 02494
781-444-2415
office@needhamcouncil.org
Connect with us:
| | The Needham Community Council is a private 501(C)3 non-profit organization which supports people in Needham who have under-met health, educational or social needs, and promotes volunteerism, community and a sense of shared responsibility. | | | | |
