Day: December 1, 2025

Connecticut Bankers Assoc. Names Brian Canina to Board of Directors

By
Daily News

Brian Canina

HOLYOKE — At its recent annual meeting, the members of the Connecticut Bankers Assoc. (CBA) unanimously elected the association’s officers and board members for the 2025-26 term, including Brian Canina, president and chief operating officer of PeoplesBank, as a director at-large.

The CBA is the voice of Connecticut’s banking industry and represents small, regional, and large banks. Providing its members with advocacy at the state and federal levels, in addition to providing educational programs and cost-effective business solutions, the CBA has worked since 1899 to advance, promote, and protect the banking industry in Connecticut.

Joining PeoplesBank in 2009, Canina has since served in a variety of positions, including controller, executive vice president, chief financial officer, and treasurer before becoming president and COO in 2024. Prior to joining the bank, he served as an audit senior manager at Wolf & Company, P.C. The mutual bank he leads has more than $4 billion in assets and 21 banking centers in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. PeoplesBank is expected to open two additional banking centers in New Britain and Hartford, Conn., as well as an operations center at the Hartford City Place II location, in 2026.

Canina is a graduate of Bryant University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, and CIS. He also attended the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking and holds a certificate in executive leadership and strategic thinking issued by the Wharton School.

Country Bank Announces Leadership Promotions in Commercial Banking Division

By
Daily News

WARE — Country Bank announced several strategic promotions within its Commercial Banking division, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to supporting business growth and expanding its commercial lending presence across Central and Western Mass.

The promoted individuals are Ben Leonard, Pat O’Hara, Ryan Nauman, and Sam Pursey. The announcement was made by Tom Wolcott, first senior vice president and chief lending officer, who oversees its Commercial Banking and Retail Lending divisions.

“At Country Bank, we are committed to recognizing and advancing leaders who demonstrate exceptional expertise, a relationship-focused approach, and a passion for helping businesses thrive,” Wolcott said. “Ben, Pat, Ryan, and Sam are proven professionals who continually deliver for our clients, our bank, and our communities. Their advancement reflects both their individual strengths and the continued momentum of our commercial banking division.”

Leonard was promoted to senior vice president, commercial banking executive. He will lead the Western and Eastern Commercial Banking teams, oversee targeted commercial growth strategies, and drive cross-functional sales alignment. With more than 24 years of experience, he previously served as team leader for the Western Region. He held senior leadership roles at Wells Fargo Bank. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and Wells Fargo’s Credit Management Training Program, he also serves as vice chair on the board of Revitalize CDC.

O’Hara was promoted to first vice president, Commercial Banking team leader – East Region. He will lead the Worcester-based commercial team, manage a portfolio of business clients, and expand Country Bank’s commercial presence in key regional markets. With more than two decades of experience at Citizens Bank, Santander, and Bank of America, he brings deep market knowledge and strong local business relationships, supported by active involvement with the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Corridor 9/495 Chamber of Commerce.

Nauman was promoted to first vice president, Commercial Banking. He has been a key contributor to Country Bank for seven years, building strong relationships and supporting local businesses. With more than 27 years of experience, his deep ties to the Greater Springfield and Connecticut business communities will continue to drive growth and strengthen the bank’s regional presence.

Pursey was promoted to vice president, Commercial Banking. A nine-year member of the Country Bank team, he serves businesses in the Worcester market with a consultative, community-centered lending style. His volunteer work, including Be Like Brit in Haiti and numerous hours spent with nonprofit efforts throughout Massachusetts, exemplifies the mank’s mission to make a difference.

“As our team evolves and our markets continue to grow, these leaders will play a pivotal role in shaping our future,” Wolcott said. “Their collective expertise, integrity, and commitment to service advance both our mission and our momentum. I am incredibly proud to work alongside this talented group as we continue to deliver exceptional value to the businesses and communities we serve.”

Rick’s Place Selected for Community Bank Donation as New Springfield Branch Opens

By
Daily News

WILBRAHAM — Rick’s Place, a nonprofit providing free grief support programs for children, teens, and their caregivers, has been selected for a community donation by Community Bank, N.A. as the bank prepares to open its new branch on Boston Road in Springfield in early December.

During the branch’s soft launch period, Community Bank will donate $25 for every new account or loan opened, with a guaranteed minimum gift of $2,500 to Rick’s Place. Community Bank representatives shared that Rick’s Place was chosen because of the organization’s mission and its long-standing service to local families.

Rick’s Place offers peer-based grief support groups for youth ages 5-18 and their caregivers, training for schools and community partners, and resources that help families navigate life after a significant loss. All programs for youth and caregivers are provided at no cost.

“We’re incredibly grateful for Community Bank’s support and for their recognition of how essential grief support is for families in our region,” Executive Director Therese Ross said. “This partnership helps us continue to provide a welcoming and inclusive space where kids and caregivers can connect with others who understand what they’re going through.”

Jessy’s Fight Donates More Than $38,000 to D’Amour Center for Cancer Care

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Sullivan family presented a donation of $38,820.68 to Baystate Health’s D’Amour Center for Cancer Care in Springfield on Nov. 25. The funds represent the combined proceeds from the sixth annual Jessy’s Fight Golf Tournament, held at the Country Club of Wilbraham, and Cloud 9 Marketing Group’s 10-year anniversary fundraiser.

Since 2017, Jessy’s Fight has raised money to support patients and families affected by cancer throughout Western Mass. What began as a personal battle has grown into a major community effort driven by family, friends, local businesses, and supporters across the region.

Cancer affects every family in some way, and Jessy’s Fight was created by the Sullivan family to uplift those facing the unexpected challenges of treatment, recovery, and support. The family has chosen the week of Thanksgiving each year to present their annual donation. For them, this week represents gratitude, reflection, and the start of a holiday season focused on helping others.

This year’s golf tournament was originally rained out and forced to be rescheduled, yet every golfer, sponsor, and supporter returned on the rain date. According to the Sullivan family, the overwhelming participation demonstrated the strength of the mission and the dedication of the community behind it.

The donation was presented by John and Jessica Sullivan, their daughters, Willow and Autumn, and Dylan Pilon of Cloud 9 Marketing Group.

Jessy’s Fight hopes to bring joy and reassurance to those who feel lost and alone. Jessy has been cancer-free eight years and counting.

Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, UMassFive Partner for Gift Card Match Day

By
Daily News

AMHERST — The Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce announced the fifth annual Holiday Gift Card Match Day on Thursday, Dec. 4. Sponsored by UMassFive College Federal Credit Union with a $5,000 match, this annual event invites the community to double their holiday shopping power and support local businesses.

Starting at 9 a.m. at the Visitors Information Center, 35 South Pleasant St., Amherst, community members can purchase a $25 Amherst Area Gift Card, with a $1 processing fee. For every card purchased, the chamber will provide a gift card with a value of $50, effectively doubling the shopping power. Each individual may purchase up to two matched gift cards while supplies last.

“Gift Card Match Day turns generosity from our match sponsor, UMassFive, into a direct investment in our community,” said Jacob Robinson, executive director of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce. “By participating, shoppers become part of a collective effort to strengthen our local economy and uplift the small, local businesses that make the Amherst area unique. It’s a win for shoppers, local businesses, and the region.”

The program supports a diverse array of local businesses, from boutiques to restaurants to service providers, reinforcing the chamber’s mission to foster economic growth and vitality in the Amherst area.

“Gift Card Match Day is all about coming together as a community,” said Craig Boivin, vice president of Marketing at UMassFive. “By doubling the value of each gift card, we’re helping shoppers give more, support local businesses, and spread a little extra holiday cheer.”

For more information, including a list of participating businesses, visit www.amherstarea.com/giftcard or call the chamber office at (413) 253-0700.

Hogan Technology Helps Business Owners Capitalize on IRS Section 179 Tax Savings

By
Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — Hogan Technology, a managed technology services provider, is encouraging business owners to take advantage of the 2025 IRS Section 179 tax deduction that allows companies to immediately expense qualifying technology and equipment purchases. For 2025, businesses can deduct up to $2,500,000 on eligible purchases such as servers, IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, software licenses, and phone systems that are placed in service before Dec. 31.

“Section 179 remains one of the most effective ways for businesses to invest in growth while simultaneously reducing taxable income,” said Sean Hogan, president of Hogan Technology. “While we’re not tax professionals, we view it as our responsibility to help our clients make smart financial and technological decisions that strengthen their operations.”

Many organizations mistakenly wait until the last quarter to consider capital upgrades, he noted, but Hogan Technology emphasizes that early planning ensures businesses can implement new systems and claim the full deduction. “Each year, we see companies leave money on the table simply because they didn’t act fast enough. This deduction can make a real difference in profitability by freeing up capital for innovation and security investments.”

The Section 179 program allows 100% depreciation on qualifying equipment, provided it’s operational by the end of the calendar year and used more than 50% of the time for business purposes. With the continued rise in cyberthreats and digital transformation, Hogan added, the timing couldn’t be better for companies to modernize their infrastructure.

Hogan Technology advises all businesses to consult with a CPA or qualified tax advisor to determine how much they can deduct under the updated 2025 guidelines.

Freedom Credit Union Launches Holiday Giving Initiatives to Support Local Families

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Freedom Credit Union is rallying members, employees, and the public to help support neighbors in need this holiday season. Through two collaborative initiatives with Clinical & Support Options (CSO), Freedom is on a mission to ensure local individuals and families have warm clothing, essential items, and meaningful gifts during the winter months.

“This time of year can be especially difficult for those facing homelessness or financial hardship,” said Glenn Welch, president and CEO of Freedom Credit Union. “Giving back is at the very heart of our mission, and we’re grateful to partner with CSO to make sure our community members feel supported, valued, and included.”

This December, Freedom is collecting new winter coats and clothing to benefit the hundreds of people seeking emergency shelter each night across Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden counties. CSO shelters welcome approximately 300 guests nightly, many of whom are in urgent need of warm layers and basic essentials. Items requested include:

• Winter coats (adult sizes L-3X);
• Hats, mittens, and gloves;
• Adult socks;
• Men’s boxer briefs (adult sizes L-3X);
• Women’s underwear (adult sizes L-3X); and
• Long johns and thermal underlayers.

Donations may be dropped off at any FCU branch through Dec. 18.

In addition, Freedom Credit Union is inviting the community to take part in CSO’s Sponsor a Family gift program, which supports more than 600 local children. Holiday wish tags for each child will be available at FCU branches. Anyone who chooses to sponsor a child can return new, unwrapped gifts to any branch by Dec. 11. CSO will pick up the donations the next day to wrap and deliver them to families in time for the holidays.

“These programs allow anyone who wants to help to do so in a meaningful, personal way,” Welch added. “Together, we can make the season warmer and brighter for our neighbors.”

Donations for both programs may be made at all Freedom Credit Union branch locations.

Giving Guide 2025

By
Giving Guide Special Publications

Regional Philanthropic Opportunities

Leaders of nonprofits across Western Mass. have grappled with a more challenging fiscal climate in the past year — and the need to become more ambitious, creative, and expansive in their fundraising efforts as federal funding shrinks. For the past 15 years, BusinessWest has published its annual Giving Guide to shine a spotlight on local nonprofits, detailing specific community needs and showing you not only how to support them, but exactly what your money and time can accomplish.
 
The profiles of area nonprofit organizations on the following pages — many of them sponsored by businesses that believe in their missions — are just a sampling of the region’s thousands of such organizations. These profiles are intended to educate readers about what these groups are doing to improve quality of life for the people living and working in the 413, but also to inspire them to provide the critical support (which comes in many different forms, from donating to volunteering to advocating) that they and so many others so desperately need.

View the 2025 Giving Guide PDF Flipbook HERE

Amherst Survival Center

Behavioral Health Network Inc.

Berkshire Family & Individual Resources

Community Foundation Of Western Massachusetts

Food Bank Of Western Massachusetts

Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Triad Program

Friends Of Franklin County Regional Dog Shelter

Glenmeadow

HCS Head Start Inc.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services

Rachel’s Table Of Western Massachusetts

RFK Community Alliance

Tom Cosenzi Driving For The Cure Charity Golf Tournament

Women’s Fund Of Western Massachusetts

YWCA Of Western Massachusetts

Presented by:

March for the Food Bank Shatters Record, Raising More Than $830,000

By
Daily News

CHICOPEE — After several months defined by benefit cuts, a government shutdown, delayed SNAP payments, and rising need in every corner of Western Mass., the 16th annual March for the Food Bank on Nov. 24-25 delivered a striking result: more than $830,000 raised after two days and more than 43 miles on foot.

The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts set an ambitious $650,000 goal this year. The community didn’t just meet it; they blew past it. And because every dollar helps create the equivalent of two nutritious meals, this year’s March will provide more than 1.5 million meals to families, elders, and children in all four counties.

“This outpouring of generosity is a testament to the strength and spirit of this region,” said Andrew Morehouse, executive director of the Food Bank. “When the stakes are highest, Western Massachusetts rallies together.”

This year’s march was full of milestones. It welcomed the largest group of marchers in event history, achieved the highest fundraising total ever, and launched the region’s first Berkshire Mini-March in Pittsfield, drawing crowds, energy, and enthusiasm.

The Food Bank’s thanks radio personality and march founder Monte Belmonte, who walked every mile, kept spirits high on the road and on the airwaves, and honored the icons of public broadcasting through his tributes to Bob Ross, Bert and Ernie, and Mr. Rogers. The Food Bank also extends gratitude to U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern and Gov. Maura Healey, whose leadership and commitment to ending hunger continue to strengthen the region’s food assistance network.

“This march proves what’s possible when a community refuses to look away from hunger,” said Jillian Morgan, director of Development at the Food Bank. “The community showed up with incredible spirit and resolve to make a difference. They fundraised, marched, matched donations, and cheered us on. That collective power is how change happens.”

With momentum at its peak, the Food Bank has raised its march goal to $1 million and will continue accepting donations through Dec. 31. Donations to the March for the Food Bank can be made by visiting www.marchforthefoodbank.org.

“If this year’s march has shown us anything, it’s that Western Massachusetts never backs down from a challenge,” Morehouse said.

Mayflower Marathon Breaks Record, Raising More Than $260,000 for Open Pantry

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Rock 102 (WAQY-FM) wrapped up its 32nd annual Mayflower Marathon food drive last week, delivering another show of community spirit and generosity. The three-day event, held at MGM Springfield in the days leading up to Thanksgiving, raised $260,000 in food and cash donations — a new record for the long-running tradition.

Morning hosts Bax & Nagle powered through 52 hours of broadcasting, rallying listeners to donate non-perishable food items to benefit Open Pantry Community Services of Springfield. With food insecurity affecting more than 50% of households across Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties, the need for support has never been greater.

The Mayflower Marathon’s success is fueled by unwavering community involvement. Local residents and businesses stepped up in a big way, including major partners like the Springfield Thunderbirds, Capitol Relocation and Logistics, Xfinity, Camping World of West Hatfield, Arment Trucking, and many more. Thanks to their efforts, four tractor trailers were filled with food, helping Open Pantry meet the growing demand for assistance.

“The response this year was nothing short of extraordinary,” Rock 102 Director of Content Alex Byrne said. “The generosity of the people Western Mass. continues to inspire us year after year.”

This year’s drive was dedicated to former Rock 102 morning co-host and Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Famer John O’Brien, who passed away last week after a courageous 14-year battle with cancer. He was, and will always remain, a cornerstone of Rock 102’s history, and will be remembered fondly by numerous friends and colleagues.

Among his many contributions, one of the most enduring is the Mayflower Marathon food drive. O’Brien helped launch this event 32 years ago, and it will continue for many years to come in his honor.

Greylock Insurance Agency Selects Berkshire County Kids’ Place for $20,000 Award

By
Daily News

PITTSFIELD — On Nov. 5, Lori Goodell, senior vice president of Greylock Insurance Agency (GIA), presented a $20,000 check to Berkshire County Kids’ Place at the 20th anniversary celebration of Arbella Insurance Foundation, which funded the grant. GIA, which partners with Arbella Insurance, was one of 20 nonprofit organizations across New England invited to apply for the grant, and one of 10 to be selected to give away $20,000 to a nonprofit of their choice.

“I was so honored to be selected to present this impactful grant to Berkshire County Kids’ Place,” Goodell said. “It was such a wonderful opportunity to support a great organization and represent our agency in such a meaningful way.”

Berkshire County Kids’ Place provides a safe, home-like environment for victims of child abuse and their non-offending family members.

In 2025, regional nonprofits have faced heightened financial pressure, with many experiencing budget shortfalls and rising demand for services. The Arbella Insurance Foundation’s 20th anniversary initiative provides both funding and awareness to help address these challenges and celebrate organizations that are committed to making a lasting difference.

“Berkshire County Kids’ Place helps children and families who are suffering from abuse and trauma. It’s a place of support and healing, close to all necessary support services, but also set apart so that people can feel safe, welcome, and at peace,” Goodell said. “ It’s wonderful to see their efforts recognized with this grant from Arbella, which will help support their vital work.”

Arbella stated that “Greylock Insurance Agency was selected for this grant based on its outstanding impact and proven commitment to the community. The organization consistently delivers meaningful programs and services that improve the lives of those it serves, with results supported by both measurable outcomes and compelling stories from the community.”

Western Massachusetts Council of Scouting America to Hold Holiday Event on Dec. 4

By
Daily News

WESTFIELD — The Western Massachusetts Council of Scouting America will hold a fun and festive Holiday Night Out for Scouting to celebrate the season and sprit of scouting. The event is open to scouters and non-scouters alike, and will include food, fun, and fellowship to support the Western Massachusetts Council.

The event is slated for Thursday, Dec. 4 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Jupiter Club, 116 Pleasant St., Suite 121, Easthampton. The cost is $50 per person and includes one complimentary drink ticket, hors d’oeuvres provided by Graze Craze, as well as access to a large silent auction featuring local favorites and exclusive experiences, as well as a raffle program.

“We’re very excited about this event and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on youth programs that build leadership, character, and community,” said Richard Belford, council commissioner. “It will be a wonderful night with holiday cheer and great company, so please join us if you can.”