About

In 1967, a small group of parents with children with developmental disabilities came together, wanting what all parents want for their children—a great life. Together, these parents created a warm and welcoming organization that would improve the lives of children and people with developmental disabilities, regardless of the level of disability. Fifty years later, Sunshine Village is an award-winning agency, staffed by more nearly 300 caring, creative, steadfast, inventive, passionate and compassionate professionals. Throughout the years, we’ve developed innovative programs and employment partnerships that tap into potential, build confidence and offer everyone a chance to shine. We believe that great lives are made up of great days, and a great day is a collection of small, proud moments. For some, it’s learning to write their name or to use a spoon. For others, it can be going to a job and taking home a paycheck. Whether it’s riding a bike, using a computer mouse, practicing yoga, or learning to shake hands, it all counts. We are dedicated to providing those opportunities, creating possibilities and celebrating victories, every single day. Fifty years after that small group of parents dreamed of something more for their children, our continual goal and our ongoing promise has not changed: Sunshine Village is a place where everyone shines.

Ernest Laflamme, Jr., Chairperson

Stephen Melnyck, Jr., Vice Chairperson

Michael Siddall, Esq., Clerk

Peter Benton

Marie Laflamme

Debra Schneeweis

Frank Stellato

Teri Szlosek

Sunshine Village provides transportation to and from the homes of participants in the Employment Services division. Life Engagement Services’ participants are transported by privately owned, local transportation companies. Please contact us for more information on the various transportation options available.

We are a non-profit organization operating with a budget that exceeds 16 million dollars, comprised of state, federal and private funding. All programs operated by Sunshine Village have received the highest level of accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), a national non-profit accrediting body, since 1986. Sunshine Village has been commended by state licensing as well as the national accreditation agency for our many strengths—most recently in the areas of financial accountability, employee relations, risk management, human rights and innovative service provision.

Over the years, Sunshine Village has been honored by numerous business and human service organizations for its success. Most recently, we were honored with: an “Employer of Choice” Award by the Employers Association of the Northeast, a “Humanitarian Award” by Jericho The Bureau for Exceptional Children and Adults, and “Nonprofit of the Year” Award by Chicopee Chamber of Commerce. Sunshine Village maintains memberships and members of the management team promote the organization and its mission through participation in business, non-profit, civic and trade organizations, including: Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce, Providers’ Council, Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers, Human Service Forum, Employers Association of the Northeast, Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, Human Resource Management Association of Western Massachusetts, Professional Women’s Chamber, MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board, and West of the River Chamber of Commerce.