34th annual Autism Conference set for Thursday
SPRINGFIELD — Autism Connections, a program of ServiceNet, will host its 34th annual Autism Conference on Thursday, April 30, at the Sheraton Hotel in Springfield.
The conference will bring together individuals with autism, families, educators, clinicians and community partners for a day of learning and shared experience, featuring 18 breakout sessions led by experts and individuals with autism exploring practical strategies, new research and real-world insights.
In addition to the conference, Autism Connections provides year-round support for individuals with autism and their families through education, advocacy and its Autism Resource Center.
“Autism Awareness Month is a wonderful opportunity to come together and raise awareness and challenge stigma, but the work doesn’t pause when April ends,” Karen Serra, vice president of family services at ServiceNet, said in a statement. “Autism Connections is there year-round — providing support, building understanding and making sure people never have to navigate this journey alone.”
Autism Connections serves families and individuals in Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin and Berkshire counties, and the North Quabbin area. For more information, visit autismconnections.servicenet.org.
Tech Foundry receives 30 laptops
SPRINGFIELD — Tech Foundry, offering information technology (IT) workforce development and training services, has received 30 laptops through the Massachusetts Broadband Institute’s Connected & Online Program for its Tech Hub programs.
The Connected & Online Program is designed to increase access to education, workforce development and health care services, with a particular focus on Gateway Cities and rural communities. The donated laptops will be used for Tech Hub’s digital literacy community workshops hosted throughout western Massachusetts.
To learn more about Tech Foundry’s Tech Hubs based in Holyoke and Springfield,
visit thetechfoundry.org/tech-hub.
Golf tournament to support Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts
BERNARDSTON — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts will host its 28th annual golf tournament on Friday, June 5, at the Crumpin-Fox Club, located at 87 Parmenter Road.
The event begins with registration at 8 a.m., followed by a 10 a.m. shotgun start, and invites community members and business leaders to enjoy a day of golf while supporting programs that empower youth.
Proceeds from the tournament will directly fund learning experiences provided to students ages 5 to 25 throughout western Massachusetts. These programs focus on financial literacy, career readiness and entrepreneurship.
“This tournament is a great way for our community to come together and make a real impact on the lives of young people,” Amie Miarecki, president of Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts, said in a statement. “Every sponsorship and registration helps ensure students have access to experiences that prepare them for their futures.”
Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals looking to support the organization’s mission while gaining visibility at a well-attended community event. To register or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, email Miarecki at amiarecki@jawm.org.