Gandara Center

Gandara Center Gándara Center provides bilingual culturally sensitive behavioral health, substance use and prevent

Gándara was established in 1977 by a doctor named Jose Gándara, of Puerto Rican descent who sought to provide mental health services to the growing and largely Hispanic community in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Recently the Gándara Center expanded services to include residential, substance abuse treatment, and preventive services for children and families. We currently serve over 15,000 families from all backgrounds annually at nearly 100 locations throughout the state of Massachusetts.

Happy International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples Today, we recognize International Day of the World's Indigenou...
08/09/2026

Happy International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples

Today, we recognize International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, a United Nations-designated observance honoring the rights, cultures, histories, and invaluable contributions of Indigenous peoples around the world.

We believe that learning from one another strengthens our communities. Today, we celebrate Indigenous voices, honor their histories, and reaffirm our commitment to inclusion, respect, and belonging.

Our Holyoke Commercial Street staff celebrated National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day with a delicious Chocolate Chip Cookie...
08/07/2026

Our Holyoke Commercial Street staff celebrated National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day with a delicious Chocolate Chip Cookie Contest, and the treats did not disappoint!

Congratulations to our 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners with our first-place baker earning the ultimate prize: Tom's parking space until our next All Staff meeting!

Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this event such a fun success.

Join the Stop Access Coalition at Gándara Center for a FREE virtual Town Hall on Thursday, September 10 at 5:00 PM to le...
08/06/2026

Join the Stop Access Coalition at Gándara Center for a FREE virtual Town Hall on Thursday, September 10 at 5:00 PM to learn about youth mental health, substance use prevention, early warning signs, available resources for caregivers, and ways to get involved in making a difference. The session will also share local youth health survey results and insights from community experts.

Register today using the QR code on the flyer. Plus, attendees who complete the post-event survey will be entered to win one of three $30 gift cards!

On August 4th, our CEO Lois Nesci and Uduak Enyiema joined MassAppeal to talk about Gándara Center's upcoming Mindful Mi...
08/05/2026

On August 4th, our CEO Lois Nesci and Uduak Enyiema joined MassAppeal to talk about Gándara Center's upcoming Mindful Miles 5K Run/Walk and how this event helps support our mission of providing hope, healing, and recovery throughout our community.

We invite you to join us on Saturday, August 15, at 8:00 a.m. at Forest Park in Springfield for this meaningful event, with both in-person and virtual participation available.

Every step you take helps turn miles into support for the individuals and families we serve.

Register today at www.gandaracenter.org/5Ksponsorship.

We hope to see you at the starting line!

On Saturday, Jennifer White represented Gándara Center at the Simply the Best 3v3 Basketball Tournament in Springfield, ...
08/04/2026

On Saturday, Jennifer White represented Gándara Center at the Simply the Best 3v3 Basketball Tournament in Springfield, where youth from across the 413 came together for a day of teamwork, competition, and community.

As a proud event sponsor, Gándara was honored to support this incredible tournament, which provided local youth ages 12–16 with a positive space to build confidence, showcase their talents, and connect with mentors and peers. From exciting games and halftime entertainment to food, prizes, and community resources, the event was a true celebration of our young people.

A heartfelt thank you to Sasha Clark and Kissa Owens for representing our agency and sharing the life-changing impact of...
08/03/2026

A heartfelt thank you to Sasha Clark and Kissa Owens for representing our agency and sharing the life-changing impact of foster care. During the interview, they highlighted inspiring success stories and emphasized the ongoing need for compassionate individuals and families to open their hearts and homes to children and youth in need.

August is Black Business Month!Black-owned businesses are essential to building vibrant communities, creating jobs, fost...
08/01/2026

August is Black Business Month!
Black-owned businesses are essential to building vibrant communities, creating jobs, fostering innovation, and expanding economic opportunity.
This month, we celebrate the entrepreneurs whose vision, resilience, and leadership continue to make a lasting impact. Supporting Black-owned businesses isn't just about making a purchase; it's about investing in stronger local economies and more equitable communities.
Join us in recognizing and supporting Black-owned businesses throughout August and beyond.

Today, CEO Lois Nesci, Uduak Enyiema, and Amanda Lesnick were honored to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating ...
07/31/2026

Today, CEO Lois Nesci, Uduak Enyiema, and Amanda Lesnick were honored to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating Friends of the Homeless' new permanent supportive housing units on Worthington Street for adults experiencing homelessness.

Congratulations to Friends of the Homeless on this important milestone. Expanding access to safe, stable housing is a meaningful step toward strengthening our community and supporting individuals on their journey to stability, wellness, and hope.

We are grateful to celebrate this achievement alongside our community partners and look forward to the positive impact these new homes will have for years to come.

Today, the Westfield Family Resource Center had the pleasure of welcoming Gándara Center CEO, Lois Nesci.It was a wonder...
07/30/2026

Today, the Westfield Family Resource Center had the pleasure of welcoming Gándara Center CEO, Lois Nesci.

It was a wonderful opportunity to spend time together, share the important work happening at the Center, and highlight the incredible impact our team is making in the lives of children, families, and our community every day.

Thank you, Lois, for taking the time to visit, listen, and support the meaningful work of our dedicated staff. Your presence and encouragement are truly appreciated.

Address

933 East Columbus Avenue
Springfield, MA
01105

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

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