A Farewell Message from our CEO
After nearly 35 remarkable years with Sunshine Village, I find myself reflecting on a journey that has filled my life with profound joy and purpose. It has been my greatest honor to serve this organization and to witness the dedication, passion and generosity of the extraordinary community that surrounds us.
To our clients—the heart of our work—and the families who place their trust in us; to our dedicated employees, who are truly our greatest asset; to our board members, who give so selflessly of their time and heart; to our donors, whose generosity makes our mission possible; and to our business, municipal, and civic partners, who help us create meaningful impact – THANK YOU!
Your trust, commitment, and belief in our mission have made all that we have achieved possible. Together, we have opened doors of opportunity, strengthened communities and improved countless lives.
When I look back, I don’t just see milestones—I see people. I see faces, moments, and memories that will stay with me always. I see challenges we overcame together, celebrations of hard-earned successes and the quiet, everyday acts of dedication – and kindness – that define who Sunshine Village is at its core.
Our new President/CEO will be starting on March 30, 2026 – and as I step away, I do so with deep confidence in the future. Sunshine Village is in capable hands – both new and familiar – and I know the days ahead will be bright. The opportunities before this organization are tremendous and the journey forward is filled with promise.
I leave with a full heart – confident that Sunshine Village will continue to deliver on the promise of a GREAT day – and knowing that that – long after I’m gone – it will remain a place where everyone shines.
Gina Kos
Retiring President/CEO
April 29, 1991 – April 29, 2026
Programs & Services
Life Engagement Services
Sunshine Village offers four MassHealth-funded day programs in Agawam, Chicopee, and Palmer for individuals 18+. These programs focus on building life skills, independence, and social abilities through personalized plans, supported by on-site nursing, master’s level clinicians, and access to therapy services.
Community Based Services
The CBDS career track supports adults 18+ with complex needs build skills for future employment. Through volunteering and community experiences, clients develop professionalism, teamwork, communication, and self-advocacy while engaging in fitness, arts, culture, and technology, both on campus and in the community.
Employment Services
Sunshine Village’s Employment Services Division, including Westover Maintenance Systems – our commercial cleaning company – offers adults 18+ opportunities to earn wages in diverse settings. We provide clients with on-the-job training and additional supports to help each person continually develop and grow their skills.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Sunshine Village offers an innovative curriculum empowering young adults on the autism spectrum to engage in community life, build autonomy, and grow through supportive, multidisciplinary programs. Activities include book clubs, culinary arts, and financial literacy, supported by clinical services like speech and occupational therapy.
What clients and their families are saying
“I love coming to Sunshine Village because I get to meet new people, make friends and I get to go out more in the community.”
Louis
CBDS Client
“I am eternally grateful for the opportunity for my son, Elvin, to belong to the best day habilitation program. The staff at Sunshine Village are very empathetic, professional — they make my son feel valued, loved and above all respected.”
Claribel
Parent
“My daughter, Sarah, has had wonderful fun and learning experiences over the last 12+ years at Sunshine Village! The staff, friendships and activities have helped her SHINE—not just at Sunshine Village, but at home, too!”
Lynn
Parent
See What’s Happening at Sunshine Village
Follow along on social media to see our clients SHINE, celebrate community moments, and stay connected in real time.
Our Agawam Day Habilitation Program gave a warm, Sunshine Village welcome to our newest "Bringing the Community to Us" Inclusion Program partner - Lauren from The Alley 🧘♀️
Lauren led a calming seated yoga class for clients in Agawam this morning. Together, we focused on breathwork, gentle stretching, and relaxation - leaving everyone feeling peaceful, refreshed, and centered.
Our clients (and staff) are already looking forward to her next visit - they can’t wait to welcome Lauren back!
A huge THANK YOU to The Alley | Yoga Collective for joining us as our newest community partner… you SHINE!
#SunshineVillage #Inclusion #CommunityPartnership #YouShine #liveandlearn ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
Enhancing Lives Through Adaptive Sports 🎳
Jordan, a third-year OT doctoral student from Western New England University, is promoting inclusion, meaningful participation, and advocacy for individuals through her work at Sunshine Village. She recently led an adaptive bowling group using modified equipment, encouragement, and support to help our clients build confidence, enhance social participation, and improve coordination in a welcoming environment - while increasing physical activity and supporting overall mental health and well-being.
In addition to adapting sports activities, Jordan integrates education on healthy habits to support overall wellness. Through these efforts, she aims to increase engagement, independence, and quality of life for each person.
These activities create more GREAT days for our clients and align with our mission to help them live and learn, work and earn, and give and grow.
#sunshinevillage #adaptivesports #inclusion #liveandlearn #WorkAndEarn #giveandgrow ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
Learn more about our GREAT days! Stop by our table at the Autism Resource Fair this Saturday from 10am to 2pm at “The Hub” (31 Springfield Street) in Chicopee. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook