The Transforming Education for Social Justice (TE4SJ) Conference on March 11 is a regional conference that brings together people in Western Massachusetts who are interested in social justice and equity in K-12 schools, early childhood classrooms, and the surrounding communities. More information is HERE.

Last week's favorite click?

Amherst Area Chamber

Creating inclusive business and spaces HERE.

Leadership Changes at Local Nonprofits

After nine years, Cheryl Zoll will be leaving Tapestry at the end of June 2023. Tapestry is poised to meet the future needs of local communities. With the recent completion of a new 3-year strategic plan, it is the ideal moment to bring on new leadership. The Board of Directors is working with DRG, an experienced executive search firm, to conduct a thoughtful process to recruit Tapestry’s next CEO. Once available, information regarding the position will be posted at www.tapestryhealth.org/work-with-us/.

After 33 years with Friends of Children, Executive Director Jane Lyons, is retiring on June 30th, 2023. Those of you who know Jane can understand what a momentous decision this was for her, especially given the level of her dedication and commitment to the children and young people we serve. But to quote Jane, it is time for new leadership to continue the work of being independent advocates for children and their families.

The Friends of Children Board of Directors has been working on a transition plan with her, has contracted with Third Sector New England to assist in the search process for a new Executive Director, and has formed its Search Committee.

Thanks to the Western MA Network to End Homelessness for sharing information about the most recent Point in Time count on homelessness in the US. Info is HERE.

Thank you to new and returning COSA members!

Your generous support makes all of our work possible.

Rep. Mindy Domb

Collaborative for Educational Services

Join online today!

Behavioral Health Network

Cooley Dickinson

Community Action

Central Hampshire Veterans Services

Roger Anderson

Northampton Recovery Center

Samantha Hopper

William Benson

Amherst College Center for Community Engagement

Northwestern District Attorney's Office

In 2022, there were 18 weather/climate disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion each to affect the United States. These events included 1 drought event, 1 flooding event, 11 severe storm events, 3 tropical cyclone events, 1 wildfire event, and 1 winter storm event. Graphics and details are HERE.

Join COSA on Feb 14 at 10am for a special presentation by Amanda Lapierre Jewell, Outreach Coordinator from Safe Passage. The Domestic Violence 101 workshop will include an overview of Safe Passage, an introduction to their mission and services, and an overview of domestic violence. Participants will gain skills to support survivors experiencing domestic violence, respond to disclosures, and learn what action you can take to prevent violence in our community. Details HERE.