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| Monson Savings Bank’s President & CEO Dan Moriarty (far left) and AVP Community Lending Officer Wil Morales, who also serves on the board for Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services (far right), proudly presented the Bank’s donation to Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services’ CEO Shannon M. Rudder (center left) and Chief Development Officer Claudia Pazmany (center right).
Monson, MA – Monson Savings Bank proudly announced a $10,000 donation to the Emergency Food Pantry operated by Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to supporting local families and individuals facing food insecurity. The donation was presented by Monson Savings Bank’s President & CEO Dan Moriarty and AVP Community Lending Officer Wil Morales, who also serves on the board of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services (MLKFS), to MLKFS CEO Shannon M. Rudder and Chief Development Officer Claudia Pazmany. The MLKFS Emergency Food Pantry provides essential nourishment to individuals and families facing food insecurity in the Greater Springfield area. With rising demand, the contribution from Monson Savings Bank will help ensure the pantry remains stocked and accessible to those who rely on its services. “This donation reflects our deep commitment to the communities we serve,” said Dan Moriarty, President & CEO of Monson Savings Bank. “We are honored to support the vital work of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services and help provide food security to our neighbors.” Wil Morales, AVP Community Lending Officer and board member of MLK Family Services, added, “As someone who sees firsthand the impact of MLKFS, I am proud to be part of a Bank that steps up when our community needs us most. This gift will make a real difference.” The Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services Food Pantry, located at the Community Center on 3 Rutland Street in Springfield’s Mason Square neighborhood, provides critical emergency food services to individuals and families facing food insecurity throughout Hampden County. Operating every Thursday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the Pantry offers a variety of food items, including meats, dairy, baked goods, and fresh or canned produce, based on availability. As a “Choice” program, shoppers select their own items rather than receiving pre-packed bags, and while proof of residency is requested, no one is turned away. The Pantry is staffed by a dedicated program director and supported by over twenty weekly volunteers, with food donations supplied by the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and other grocery partners. Additionally, MLK Family Services hosts a Mobile Food Bank in partnership with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the same location. All shoppers are encouraged to bring their own bags, and SNAP eligibility screenings are available onsite. To learn more, please visit: https://www.mlkjrfamilyservices.org/families/ Receiving the donation, Shannon M. Rudder, CEO of MLKFS, expressed heartfelt gratitude, “At a time when funding cuts threaten the very safety nets our communities rely on, this investment in our emergency food pantry is more than just financial support, it’s a statement of belief in our mission and those who we are honored to serve. Our pantry team is powered by the heart and hands of devoted volunteers who show up every day with one goal: to ensure no one in our community goes hungry. Our partnership with Monson truly bolsters our ability to meet the growing need and reaffirms that compassion and commitment still win, even in the hardest of times.” “We are incredibly grateful to Monson Savings Bank for their continued generosity,” said Claudia Pazmany, MLKFS Chief Development Officer. “Their support feeds our mission to lead with hope and drive action, shaping futures with dignity and compassion across cultures and generations. ” To learn more about Monson Savings Bank’s commitment to our communities, please visit: https://www.monsonsavings.bank/connect/our-community/our-community-commitment.html About Monson Savings Bank Incorporated as a mutually chartered community bank in 1872, Monson Savings Bank has one of the longest tenures of service and stability in its market. Civic leaders chartered the bank with the intent to give working men and women the opportunity to save, which – incredibly, they could not do prior to the bank’s inception. Today, Monson Savings Bank retains its legacy of empowerment through savings, but has expanded to serve its customers with a variety of innovative financial services, including digital banking, online mortgage applications and business banking, and commercial lending. The bank has expanded on its promise of “where people save, businesses prosper, and communities benefit” by opening offices in Hampden, Wilbraham, Ware, and most recently East Longmeadow, Massachusetts. The bank also opened a retail and business loan operations center in Wilbraham in 2020. Member FDIC, Member DIF, Equal Housing Lender. NMLS ID #613363.
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“Everyone has the power for greatness, not for fame but greatness, because greatness is determined by service.”– Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.SPRINGFIELD, MA – Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services Inc. announces the appointment of Ariana M. Williams, BSPH, MPA, as the organization’s first-ever Chief of Public Health Strategy & Innovation. William’s journey with MLK Family Services began in 2018 as a part-time Community Health Worker, after earning her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from American International College (AIC) as a member of the program’s second graduating class. Within nine months, she was promoted to become the organization’s first Director of Public Health, where she spent three years leading initiatives that strengthened community health, public health programming, and youth development. After a brief period away, she returned in February 2023 as a Grants Consultant, helping to expand and sustain critical programs. In this new role, she steps into a historic leadership role as the organization’s first-ever Chief of Public Health Strategy & Innovation, where she will integrate public health strategies into the organization’s core mission, develop new community-driven initiatives, and strengthen strategic partnerships that advance health equity. “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Ariana back home to MLK Family Services to fill this inaugural role of Chief of Public Health Strategy and Innovation. This role marks a bold step forward in our commitment to advancing community health and well-being, inspired by our strategic planning process. Ariana’s passion for public health and her deep connection to our community make her an exceptional leader to integrate innovative strategies that will help us meet the evolving needs of those we serve. Together, we will continue to work toward Dr. King’s vision of creating a healthier, more equitable future for all.” shares MLKFS President & CEO, Shannon M. Rudder, MBA. A Springfield native, Williams is also the CEO & Founder of Catalyst for Equity Consulting, where she helps nonprofits strengthen their position in the public health ecosystem by aligning with public health funding, developing evidence-based programs, and driving systemic change. She has led community-based initiatives in problem gambling prevention, gun violence prevention, food insecurity and nutrition, and mental health advocacy. In 2019, Williams led a cohort of Junior Community Health Workers, whose advocacy efforts played an instrumental role in raising the tobacco purchase age from 18 to 21 in Springfield, MA. Their work later contributed to the movement to eliminate flavored tobacco products; a tactic used by the tobacco industry to target youth. In 2020, she co-led Springfield’s first-ever Youth Mental Health Advisory Board, “Beat the Odds,” creating a safe space and platform for young people to support one another, share lived experiences and influence mental health policies and resources. Williams earned her Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Westfield State University in 2024. She is also an adjunct professor at American International College, teaching in the same public health program she graduated from. Additionally, she serves on the board of the Rise, L.E.A.P, & Achieve Foundation Inc. and the board of Anti-Racism Community Organizers (ARCO). Williams is committed to ensuring MLK Family Services continues to be a trusted leader in community health, advocacy, and empowerment. “Stepping into this role is not just a career milestone—it is a continuation of my purpose. MLK Family Services has played a pivotal role in my growth, both professionally and personally, and I am honored to now help shape its future. Public health is about community, and I look forward to deepening our impact, expanding critical services, and ensuring that our work remains a trusted resource for those who need it most.” – Ariana M. Williams
For inquiries, please reach out to Claudia Pazmany at cpazmany@mlkjrfs.org. |
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”~Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.SPRINGFIELD, MA – Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services is proud to announce its continued commitment to Black excellence with its 41st Anniversary of the year-long HBCU Experience. To launch this years’ experience, scholars from across our region will be participating in the 26th Annual Malcolm Bernard HBCU College Fair in New York City. This event attracts more than 3,000 high school students and features over 50 HBCUs, many of which provide on-site admissions.
Details are: Date: Saturday, November 16, 2024 Time: 11:00am to 3:30pm (6:00am Departing MLK Jr. Family Services Community Where: Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park Travel Cost: $60 Due at Registration
All interested high school juniors and seniors to join us for this educational and enriching experience are invited to apply. “We are honored to host the longest-running HBCU Experience in the Northeast, led by local dedicated community leaders, many of whom are alumni of our HBCU program and who remain eager to ensure this experience for our scholars today—we are grateful to each of them. Together, we provide financial literacy and college preparation through a multi-generational approach, involving parents and caregivers to enhance the knowledge and cohesion of entire families.” Shares President & CEO, Shannon M. Rudder, MBA “HBCUs are part of a rich history and legacy across our nation and remain a vital program of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services; we are committed to ensuring our youth have ample opportunity to experience being on college campuses to see the change they want to be in the world and to take their place in continuing the rich and lasting HBCU legacy.”
For complete information on attending the fair and signing up for our HBCU season, please visit our website at: https://www.mlkjrfamilyservices.org/hbcu/… If you do not have access to a computer or printer, the HBCU Tour Committee can assist you. Please contact MLKFS at (413) 746-3655 ext. 127, to let committee members know you need assistance, or, visit MLK Community Center located at 3 Rutland Street during our Night Spot hours, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday between 6pm and 8:30pm to use our computers. For inquiries on HBCU Experience sponsorship or any other questions, please reach out to Claudia Pazmany at cpazmany@mlkjrfs.org.
About: Since 1977, the mission of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services, Inc. has been to nurture and develop the skills, opportunities, and spirit of families in Greater Springfield and the surrounding communities.
MLKFS fully embraces the vision of the late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. of the Beloved Community. As a multicultural and multiservice agency dedicated to being “Keepers of the Dream”, MLKFS nurtures and empowers the aspirations of individuals, families and youth to achieve new realities of peace, social and economic justice, self-determination, self-actualization, and self-sufficiency. MLKFS serves as a beacon for the community, offering Out of School Time programming, literacy promotion, college readiness, HBCU Experience, youth mental health, family supports, public health and teen leadership, community engagement initiatives, and cultural experiences through art, dance, and sports. The organization also operates the fourth largest food pantry in Western Massachusetts. |
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“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?” ~Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Springfield, MA – MLK Jr. Family Services (MLKFS) will host its inaugural 2024 Family Reunion Weekend celebration September 7-8, 2024, at its signature Community Center. Dr. Frank D. Robinson, 2024 MLKFS Family Reunion Committee Chair, shares the vision of this weekend event, “The Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services 2024 Family Reunion celebrates the historic deep commitments and investments in the lives and futures of Springfield residents. We also celebrate its new President & CEO, Shannon, and her bold vision for the future of MLKFS. In the spirit of family, she invites us all to join hands in continuing the legacy of service, unity, and empowerment that has defined this organization. Together, we can build on the foundation laid by those who came before us, ensuring a brighter and more equitable future for generations to come.” Here is what you can expect: Family-Fun Day! to be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024, from 11am – 5pm. Attendees will enjoy food from local vendors; invited to take Community Center tours; participate in Spades/Scrabble/Dominoes/Chess Tournaments: and enjoy karaoke, family relay games, face painting and an opportunity to share/archive their MLKFS legacy story. Fellowship & Worship to be held on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 4pm. There is no MLKFS without the vision of Project Mustard Seed and attendees will gather in that spirit and tradition with a special worship service under the leadership The Reverend Dr. Terrlyn L. Curry Avery, Pastor of the MLK Jr. Community Presbyterian Church as we welcome Project Mustard Seed Visionary Leader The Reverend Dr. Ronald E. Peters.This celebration will also feature a MLK Community Choir under the direction of Elder Terrence Haynes, accompanied by Terrence Schider. MLKFS CEO, Shannon M. Rudder shares, “Our fellowship is powerful. Together, we will gather to honor our ancestorial legacy leaders, the many who make up the fabric of MLKFS in our region and the dreamers who are investing in the vision forward.” Volunteer event committee members have made this event come to life and are acknowledged here: Rachelle Lee, Elder, MLK, Jr. Community Presbyterian Church; Dr. Frank Robinson, Principal, FDR Consultants; Dr. Karen Rucks-Walker, Asst. VP Advancement, STCC, Executive Director, STCC Foundation; Tim Sneed, Executive Director, Baystate Academy Charter Public School; and Jeff Sullivan, President & CEO, New Valley Bank & Trust, Board Chair Emeritus. Sponsors who are making this event possible include our Platinum Sponsors: Baystate Health, Monson Savings Bank and PeoplesBank; our Bronze Sponsors Center for Human Development and New Valley Bank & Trust; and our Media Partners: BusinessWest/Healthcare News, STCC/WTCC, and Garvey Communications Associates. With the generous support of our sponsors, we will be able to offer the event at no charge. For event details and to pre-register please follow 2024 Family Reunion – MLKFS (mlkjrfamilyservices.org) and for inquiries, please reach out to Claudia Pazmany at cpazmany@mlkjrfs.org. About:Since 1977, the mission of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services, Inc. has been to nurture and develop the skills, opportunities, and spirit of families in Greater Springfield and the surrounding communities.MLKFS fully embraces the vision of the late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. of the Beloved Community. As a multicultural and multiservice agency dedicated to being “Keepers of the Dream”, MLKFS nurtures and empowers the aspirations of individuals, families and youth to achieve new realities of peace, social and economic justice, self-determination, self-actualization, and self-sufficiency. MLKFS serves as a beacon for the community, offering Out of School Time programming, literacy promotion, college readiness, HBCU Experience, youth mental health, family supports, public health and teen leadership, community engagement initiatives, and cultural experiences through art, dance, and sports. The organization also operates the fourth largest food pantry in Western Massachusetts. |
“I have the audacity to believe that peoples everywhere can have three meals a day for their bodies, education and culture for their minds, and dignity, equality and freedom for their spirits.”~Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Friday, July 18. 2024 – SPRINGFIELD, MA – The Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services is proud to announce the continued investment by, and partnership of, The MassMutual Foundation through a recent grant of $100,000 to support its emergency food pantry. The Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services food pantry provides healthy food options to nearly 250 individuals and families each week. The pantry also serves as a community resource, offering access to medical support through various local health, wellness, and nutrition partners. “The MassMutual Foundation’s investment in MLK Family Services will ensure the continuity of essential services, particularly by supporting personnel and enhancing the resource capacity needed to operate the emergency food pantry,” said Shannon M. Rudder, CEO of MLKFS. “Funding from this initiative will help to ensure these services remain viable and open to any Western Massachusetts resident.” The MassMutual Foundation partners with local community members and organizations to help build financial resilience leading to future opportunities for all. “We are stronger when we come together as a community,” said Dennis Duquette, head of MassMutual Community Responsibility and president of the MassMutual Foundation. “Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services’ food pantry addresses a critical need for families struggling to make ends meet and we are proud to help them expand their impact.” For inquiries, please reach out to Claudia Pazmany at cpazmany@mlkjrfs.org. |
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – MLK Jr. Family Services is partnering with the Springfield City Library and Springfield Cultural Partnership to bring the ‘Be Love’ movement to the 413.
Be Love is a call to action and a growing movement of courageous acts to achieve justice. The city of Springfield is joining in by forming a community puzzle.
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said that “Justice at its best is love correcting everything that stands against love.” On Friday in Atlanta at the King Center and here in Springfield at the MLK Jr Family Service Center, the community is making their pledge to Be Love.