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.
Volunteering at Friends of the Homeless is one of the many ways we live out our #Give and #Grow mission - creating opportunities to build skills, connect with others, and make an impact…
And Sunshine Village was honored to be invited by Friends of the Homeless to attend their Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, last night!
Agawam CBDS Client Beckie, along with staff Trinity and Program Manager Lisa, proudly represented our team and had a GREAT time celebrating alongside so many dedicated volunteers.
We are especially proud of Kubilay, Mangal, Beckie, Matt, and Jimmy - just a few of our amazing clients who give back each week through their volunteer efforts. Their commitment truly makes a difference in the community.
Here’s to continuing to give back and create more GREAT days together!
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During Autism Appreciation Month, we are proud to recognize a community partner who has always been supportive - thank you to
Monson Free Library and Reading Room Association!
Their team has created a welcoming and inclusive space where our clients from Three Rivers/Palmer can build skills, give back, and truly feel a sense of belonging. It is because of partners like you that our individuals are able to SHINE in the community.
Here’s to many more GREAT days together!
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Making Movement Meaningful and Fun!
As part of an 8-week series, Jordan, a third-year OT doctoral student from Western New England University, has been making indoor sports fun and accessible at Sunshine Village through modified games designed to meet the needs of every client.
Every smile, every celebration, and every success demonstrates the power of participation through meaningful activity.
Because when everyone has the opportunity to participate… everyone SHINES!
#sunshinevillage #AdaptiveSports #liveandlearn #workandearn #giveandgrow ... See MoreSee Less
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