Springfield Partners for Community Action Honors Legacy of Paul Bailey

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Partners for Community Action honored Paul Bailey for his 24-year tenure as the organization’s leader at an event on May 3 at the Sheraton in Springfield.

Bailey officially retired on Jan. 31. Under his leadership, Springfield Partners increased revenue and funding by more than $4 million. He oversaw the development and implementation of many new services, including first-time homebuyers and tenant workshops, household budgeting programs, the Multicultural Alzheimer’s Prevention Program, financial literacy education, the Individual Development Account program, veterans’ programs, and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. During the COVID pandemic, Bailey oversaw the agency’s distribution of more than $185,000 to community members in the form of financial assistance to pay utility bills, rent, mortgage, and food cards.

“I’m proud of the incredible work we have accomplished in my more than two decades as executive director,” Bailey said. “I have seen firsthand the improvements that our agency has made in thousands of people’s lives by providing financial assistance around utility bills and housing, and vital education and tools to help them build equity and achieve economic stability. Springfield Partners recently marked its 60th anniversary as the pioneering anti-poverty organization in Western Massachusetts, emphasizing that its daily efforts remain increasingly essential. I have deep gratitude for our dedicated staff, board of directors, and the city of Springfield for their support and commitment to our continued mission in the fight against poverty.”

Following Bailey’s retirement, Mickey Harris, a board member of more than two decades, took over as executive director of the organization. Harris is a well-respected individual in the Springfield community, having served as an attorney for local residents for more than 30 years. In addition, he has held leadership roles on the boards of several prominent nonprofits in the area, including the YMCA of Greater Springfield, the NAACP Springfield branch, and the Hampden County Bar Assoc.

“Under Mr. Bailey’s leadership, Springfield Partners has evolved and adapted to the ever-changing needs of our community,” Harris said. “We thank him for his support and contributions to the community over the years. I am excited to take on this new role and to give back to my neighbors in Springfield who need — and deserve — the critical support that Springfield Partners provides.”

Prior to Bailey becoming executive director, Harold Langford held the position for more than a decade.

In 2024, Springfield Partners celebrated 60 years of serving more than 7,000 community members each year through its various programs. The organization continues to offer its long-running Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), which helps residents keep heating and cooling costs down while increasing property values at no cost to tenants or homeowners.

It also provides credit, housing, and eviction counseling services. This year, the organization distributed more than $100,000 in fuel assistance to middle-income households. It hosts bi-monthly veteran luncheons and provides food, clothing, support services, and financial assistance programs to current and former military members.

Over the years, Springfield Partners has won various awards for its service to the community. In 2024, the organization was honored as the New England Clean Energy Council’s Partnership of the Year, alongside the state, for its commitment to WAP. Springfield Partners was also honored by the Springfield Regional Chamber’s Super 60 program in the nonprofit category.