Springfield College Celebrates United Way of Pioneer Valley’s 100th Anniversary

Springfield College President Mary-Beth Cooper joined Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and United Way of Pioneer Valley President and CEO Paul Mina, for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate Massachusetts 2-1-1 day and mark the opening of the Mass2-1-1 satellite Call2Talk office here in Springfield.

"Springfield College is so proud to assist with this program, helping people that are dealing with pressure and mental health issues," said Springfield College President Mary-Beth Cooper. "Having a source and opportunity to reach out and talk with somebody is crucial in helping others."

Every year on February 11th, United Ways in Massachusetts and across the country celebrate 2-1-1 Day to raise awareness around this important public service. Mass2-1-1 provides telephone and web information and referral service for residents of the Commonwealth 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call2Talk is the mental health helpline of Mass2-1-1.

The Mass211 Call2Talk Springfield satellite office is located at the United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) at 1441 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103. The office will be staffed by students in the Springfield College master’s degree program.

This year also marks the 100th Anniversary of the United Way of Pioneer Valley. Mayor Sarno issued a proclamation declaring Thursday, February 11, 2021 as “United Way of Pioneer Valley Day” in the City of Springfield to commemorate this milestone.

Mayor Sarno stated, “I am deeply appreciative of our state leaders, including Lt. Governor Karen Polito as well as Mass 2-1-1 VP Eileen Davis and the staff and volunteers who handle these calls, ensuring that our residents have access to this mental health resource, especially in these challenging and surreal times of COVID-19 where support for mental health needs is more crucial than ever. I would also like to thank President Cooper and Springfield College for partnering to provide this service, and a special thank you to Paul Mina and our friends at the United Way of Pioneer Valley for continuing to step up and support our community, as you’ve done for the last century.”