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Merger will help two local agencies

The merger of the Center for Human Development and Child & Family Service of Pioneer Valley was recently announced during a press conference. Among those making the announcement were Peter Barry, Esq., Bulkley, Richardson and Gelinas, CHD Board President, James Goodwin, CHD President/CEO, Michelle Theroux, CFSPV Executive Director and now Vice President of Clinical Services at CHD, Amy Royal, Skoler Abbott and Presser, CFSPV Board, Ray Gianantoni, Mass Mutual Life Insurance, CFSPV Board, and Deb Boronski, President/CEO, Massachusetts Chamber of Business & Industry, CHD Board. Reminder Publications submitted photo
By Lori Szepelak

Correspondent

SPRINGFIELD Earlier this month, the Center for Human Development Inc. (CHD) and Child & Family Service of Pioneer Valley Inc., (CFSPV) announced a merger that will enhance their ability to deliver professional, community oriented human and social support services across the region.

"Combining our efforts will allow us to provide a broader range of vital human and social services to more children, families and adults throughout Western Massachusetts," James Goodwin, President and CEO of CHD, said during a press conference.

CFS Executive Director Michelle Theroux echoed those sentiments, adding, "I am also very pleased about the potential that this merger will provide our two organizations. CFSPV is a 131-year-old agency with much history, and uniting with CHD will respect our legacy while allowing us to continue to successfully provide and strengthen vital services to more children and families in our communities."

Theroux now assumes the position as Vice President of Clinical Services at CHD.

Both Goodwin and Theroux noted that no job losses will occur as a result of this merger.

Established in 1877, CFSPV offers a full range of services including individual, couples and family counseling, post-adoption counseling, an early intervention program for children with developmental delays, and family support and parenting groups. Additionally, the agency provides adapted activities and support for individuals with physical disabilities and adjustment counseling and information for refugees and immigrants.

Theroux added that CFSPV has 135 staff in seven offices in Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin and Worcester counties.

Founded in 1972, CHD operates 45 programs throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut with a staff of 950. CHD's comprehensive programs all promote, enhance and protect the dignity and well-being of people in need, including foster children, homeless children and their families, the economically disadvantaged, "at-risk" youths, people with psychiatric, mental and developmental disabilities, the elderly and those leaving incarceration.

Both Goodwin and Theroux noted that all of the programs under CHD and CFSPV are aimed at improving the quality of life in our communities.

For more information on specific programs and services, visit www.chd.org or www.cfs.org.