On Tuesday, September 17th, nearly 200 passionate advocates gathered at Westfield State University for the first-ever Western MA Rally, hosted by 18 Degrees, BFAIR, Gándara Center, MHA, and Viability. The energy was electric as attendees came together, united in the fight for increased funding and wages for human services workers.
Colleen Holmes, President and CEO of Viability, set the tone as MC, energizing the crowd right from the start. Rally host Dr. Linda Thompson, President of Westfield State University, gave a warm and enthusiastic welcome, while Westfield Mayor Mike McCabe fired up the audience with a proclamation celebrating Direct Support Professionals Week and the critical work of direct care staff.
Not even a surprise fire alarm could put a damper on the excitement! With determination and spirit, attendees took the rally outside, continuing to advocate and cheer for human services without missing a beat.
State Representative Carlos González (Hampden) and State Senator John Velis (Hampden and Hampshire) delivered powerful messages of support for the sector, pledging to continue the fight for better wages and resources.
Senator Velis underscored the critical role of human services workers and the need for fair compensation: “There needs to be parity with state employees because at the end of the day, you folks are the boots on the ground and that is really important. There are countless people struggling right now in this Commonwealth, in Western Mass, whose first contact after raising their hand [for help] will be with you folks right here.”
The heart of the event was shaped by the voices of those deeply connected to the human services sector. Three individuals—Neredia Pagan, Jose Rivera-Suarez, and Alberto Santiago—shared their experiences, reminding everyone of the importance of human services and the impact it has on lives every day.
Neredia Pagan, a participant at Viability’s Forum House, emphasized how crucial human services workers have been in her journey toward independence and well-being. She shared, “From the moment I came in, Forum House made me feel welcome, and that motivated me to do more for myself. You provided the resources I needed to get where I wanted to be. Without human services workers, people like me wouldn’t receive the help we need. Your work makes a huge difference, and it’s not easy work—it deserves respect and fair pay.”
Jose Rivera-Suarez, a direct care worker at Gándara Center’s Hairston House, spoke about how he found his calling in human services. “I got into this job unexpectedly. I had a buddy who worked here and thought it would be perfect for me, given what I’ve been through. When I was eleven, my dad passed away as a result from a drug overdose. Working at Hairston House, I realized I could help prevent others from going through what I experienced. Before, I was in a factory. But this work—it’s what I need.”
Alberto Santiago, a current participant at Hairston House, highlighted how a supportive environment can make all the difference. “The positive environment at the Hairston House has helped me focus on wellness, and the words of encouragement from peers—‘You’ve got this!’—have been a source of hope and motivation.”
These stories are powerful reminders that the work of human services professionals is not just a job—it’s a lifeline for many.
Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno joined the chorus of support with his proclamation for Direct Support Professionals Week. We were thrilled to have State Senator Jacob Oliveira (Hampden, Hampshire & Worcester) and State Representative Kelly Pease (Hampden) in attendance, standing with us in solidarity.
And what better way to end the rally than with a dance party! Mark Watkins, aka DJ Mystery, brought the music and The Caring Force brought the moves, celebrating a day of advocacy, unity, and joy!
As we set our sights on the next big event—the Central MA Rally at Tilton Hall, Clark University, on October 11th—the energy and passion from Western MA will continue to inspire us. Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s keep fighting for the future of human services!
