BHN 2026 Impact Report

A Letter from Our President & CEO

As I reflect on the past year, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and renewed resolve. This has been another remarkable year of evolution and transformation for BHN, highlighting our resilience and, once again, that we are truly Stronger Together.

As communities across Massachusetts face increasing challenges to overall well-being, BHN remains committed to adapting and responding to changing needs with creativity and collaboration. Working together within BHN and externally with other entities that support our communities, we improve access, enhance services, and ensure people receive the support they need, when and where they need it.

Our theme of Stronger Together, Growing Together is epitomized by our expansion into Worcester. Our executive and administrative teams worked tirelessly to bring about the largest single expansion in BHN history. In collaboration with UMass Memorial Health, leadership of the former Community Healthlink (CHL), elected and state officials, and the general public, BHN assumed operations for Worcester services formerly operated by CHL. This transition brought over 300 employees and thousands of clients into the BHN community, preserving services and maintaining continuity of care. By bringing together resources, expertise, and services, we have increased access to care and strengthened our ability to meet the needs of individuals and families across Massachusetts.

We are grateful for our employees who assisted in this transition and to all the employees who delivered high-quality services across BHN. Every day, BHN staff bring compassion, expertise, and dedication to their work, helping people find hope, stability, recovery, and opportunity. Their commitment drives everything we accomplish, and we remain dedicated to supporting their success through investments in professional growth, leadership development, recognition, and well-being. By strengthening our workforce, we strengthen the communities we serve. 

The stories and outcomes highlighted throughout this report represent more than numbers. They reflect lives changed, families strengthened, and communities supported. They are a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. Thank you to our employees, partners, supporters, and the individuals and families who place their trust in us each day. Together, we are building a stronger future for all.

Sincerely,

Steve Winn

President and CEO

Access to care remains at the heart of BHN's mission. Whether someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, seeking ongoing treatment, or reaching out for help for the first time, BHN provides timely, compassionate support through its Community Behavioral Health Centers (CBHCs), outpatient services, medication management clinics, and crisis response programs. This year, BHN maintained no waitlist for urgent outpatient services, responded in person to more than 80% of crisis calls within 60 minutes, expanded CBHC services in Greater Worcester and offered over 50 different kinds of therapy and support groups.

BHN's Co-Response Program partners clinicians with law enforcement to support individuals experiencing mental health challenges, substance use concerns, and other personal crises. Working alongside first responders, clinicians help assess needs, de-escalate situations, connect individuals to services, and provide follow-up support that can reduce the need for emergency intervention.

In Springfield alone, BHN co-response clinicians responded to approximately 1,400 mental health-related calls last year, helping individuals access care and resources when they need them most. Through Adult Mobile Crisis Intervention (AMCI), Youth Mobile Crisis Intervention (YMCI), and Co-Response services, BHN meets people where they are, in homes, schools, and communities across Massachusetts.

This year, Jessica Morris, BHN's Mental Health Co-Response Clinician with the Westfield Police Department, was awarded the Police Achievement Ribbon in recognition of her outstanding service to the community. The award highlighted her dedication to helping individuals and families navigate mental health challenges, building trusted relationships, reducing reliance on emergency interventions, and connecting people with the support they need. Her recognition reflects the powerful impact of collaboration between behavioral health professionals and public safety partners.

Group of people standing outside the Ability Learning Center entrance, posing for a photo.

Three people stand at a podium, holding a certificate in a lobby with heart decorations.

Colorful indoor playroom with foam mats, toys, books, and a hanging swing.

Group of people posing outdoors at a ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of a brick building.

Group stands outside brick building holding a red ribbon at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

People cutting a red ribbon outdoors beside a brick building, surrounded by a small crowd

People cutting a red ribbon at an outdoor ceremony on a sunny day

Four coworkers pose in a hallway, smiling in business-casual outfits, with purple balloons overhead.

Small group listening to a speaker in a hallway with blue doors and beige walls

Five women in blue shirts standing in a hallway, smiling in front of green and white balloons.

Group of people in blue shirts posing in a hallway with green and blue balloons behind them.

Speaker addresses seated audience beneath green and purple balloon arch in meeting room

Speaker addressing audience at event, with green and purple balloon arch overhead.

Every child has the potential to grow and thrive when supported in ways that meet their unique needs. Through BHN's autism services, children and youth under age 21 build communication, social, behavioral, and daily living skills through individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services. Families can access support where it works best for them: at home, at school, in the community, or at one of BHN's Abilities Learning Centers in Springfield and Fall River.

Since opening in November 2025, the Abilities Learning Centers have provided welcoming spaces where children can learn, connect with peers, and grow. Every day, BHN staff partner with families to celebrate milestones, build confidence, and help children reach their full potential.

Recovery is more than treatment. It's hope, connection, stability, and the opportunity to build a healthier future. Through substance use, mental health, residential, and community-based services, BHN helps people access the support they need, when they need it.

This year, we took bold steps to redefine options for individuals to safely and comfortably rid the body of toxic substances (aka detox). Leveraging innovations in addiction medicine, we transformed the Carlson Recovery Center into an enhanced clinical stabilization program and launched expanded ambulatory options for individuals to begin their recovery in the setting that best meets their needs. By providing flexible services and expanded choices, we help people find the right path, strengthen natural supports, achieve recovery goals, and create lasting change.

BHN celebrated the opening of Rose’s House on June 5, 2026, a new Clinical Stabilization Services (CSS) program for women in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Boston. Community partners, elected officials, BHN leaders, and staff gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the opening of the trauma-informed, recovery-focused program. Co-located with the BHN Family Center, Rose’s House expands access to substance use treatment in Eastern Massachusetts and strengthens BHN’s continuum of care, helping women build a foundation for lasting recovery, wellness, and stability.

I appreciate all the support you've given me. You are truly amazing, and I feel like you really hear me.

Individual Served through Complex Care Management

I'm only taking my medications because you check in on me and tell me I should, so I do.

I trust your judgment. I know you'll worry about me if I don't. I do feel better. It feels good to have someone that cares about me.

Individual Served through Complex Care Managemen

I appreciate all the support you have been giving to me

You guys are truly amazing and I feel like you really hear me. I don’t know how you guys do what you do every day

Individual Served through Complex Care Management Verified Customer

Finding the right Shared Living match can take time. For Charlie and Denise, it happened almost immediately. When Charlie first came to Denise's home, the plan was simple: spend one night together and see if it felt like the right fit. By the next day, Charlie had made up his mind. He wanted to stay.

Before Shared Living, Charlie lived independently but often struggled to communicate his needs because of a speech impairment. As a result, he was frequently misunderstood and was facing eviction. With Denise's support, he found not only a home, but someone who believed in him.

With Denise's encouragement, Charlie quit smoking, improved his diet, and strengthened his overall health and well-being. Today, they enjoy everyday activities together like shopping, spending time in the community, and connecting with friends and neighbors.

Their story reflects the heart of Shared Living: creating a home where individuals can build relationships, find stability, and thrive.

In 2026, BHN earned Great Place To Work® Certification, a recognition based entirely on employee feedback. The achievement reflects our commitment to creating a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow while making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

By investing in our workforce through professional development, leadership training, financial wellness initiatives, and employee support programs, we help team members thrive both personally and professionally.

Almost 400 employees completed BHN's Foundations of Leadership program, while resources such as the Staff Excellence Fund, SNAP Relief Fund, and zero-interest loan program provided opportunities for growth and support when it mattered most.

Meet Rose Ramos, an Administrative Assistant for BHN’s ACCS program in Westfield and a recipient of the HEART Empowerment Award. Rose embodies empowerment through patience, kindness, and compassion, supporting both her colleagues and the people we serve.

Rose was nominated for helping a new employee feel confident during orientation and creating a space where others feel safe, comfortable, and supported. Rose consistently shows what it means to work with others.

“I understand how transformative it is to be in an environment where empowering is not just a value on paper, but practiced in the hallways, orientations, and in the everyday moments that most people never notice but the people receiving them never forget”.

As a Recovery Coach Supervisor with BHN Peer Support Services, Randy is dedicated to helping others discover their own path to recovery. Drawing from his lived experience, he empowers individuals to build confidence, find hope, and move forward on their journey.

Randy's impact extends beyond the people he serves. He is a trusted mentor to his team, helping recovery coaches develop their skills, strengthen their confidence, and grow in their roles.

Outside of BHN, Randy continues to make a difference by coaching youth sports, where he inspires young people to believe in themselves, work hard, and build strong character.

Laurel started at BHN in 2016 as an Administrative Assistant after attending a job fair by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission.

They are an excellent team player, always eager to support and aid other staff members on an array of projects.

Laurel played a key role in supporting the merger of CHL and BHN policies. They took the time to support other teams during this process while a member was out sick, demonstrating their flexibility and ability to work effortlessly with teams across BHN. Laurel always has a smile on their face and kind words to offer everyone that they meet, making all spaces feel warm and welcoming.

Saribel has been an In-Home Behavioral Health Treatment Clinician with BHN since 2023. Becoming a therapist has been a calling for her from a young age.

“I am Puerto Rican, and being a therapist is one of the most important roles in my life since I have the potential to make life easier for my youth and their families.”

Saribel goes above and beyond to listen to, support, and empower the young people and families she serves. Her dedication has been recognized by her team and the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health.

Strong communities are built through meaningful connections. Through community events, outreach, partnerships, and BHN-hosted gatherings, BHN connects individuals, families, and community partners with resources, support, and pathways to care. By building trust, strengthening partnerships, and increasing awareness of available services, we help ensure people have the support they need- where, when and how they need it. As communities, we are truly Stronger Together. Every conversation, event, and partnership creates an opportunity to build trust, connect people with resources, and strengthen the communities we serve.

On June 13, BHN welcomed community members to Gurdon Bill Park in Springfield for a day of connection, creativity, and wellness. Through music, art, and interactive activities, families and individuals explored simple yet meaningful ways to support mental health and well-being.

Events like these extend our impact beyond clinical settings, creating opportunities for connection, reducing stigma, and promoting wellness throughout the community. One of the day's highlights was a collaborative graffiti mural, where people of all ages contributed their own mark, illustrating a powerful message: every voice matters, every person belongs, and we are stronger together.

Thanks to the dedication of staff, partners, volunteers, and attendees, the event fostered a welcoming space where community members could connect, create, and celebrate well-being together.

Ahead of International Overdose Awareness Day, BHN welcomed staff, individuals served, community partners, and community members to our Liberty Street campus in Springfield for an afternoon of remembrance, reflection, and hope.

Together, attendees honored those lost to overdose, celebrated the achievements of people in recovery, and reaffirmed a shared commitment to reducing stigma and supporting healing. Recovery stories, poetry, and moments of reflection highlighted both the challenges of substance use disorders and the hope that recovery brings. Through a livestream, individuals and staff across Massachusetts were able to join the gathering and participate in the experience.

The event also marked the beginning of National Recovery Month, recognizing the resilience of people in recovery and the vital role families, providers, and communities play in supporting recovery journeys. Remarks from Senator John Velis underscored the importance of advocacy, awareness, and ensuring that those affected by substance use know that help and hope are available.

From honoring healing and recovery to supporting families, connecting people with essential resources, and celebrating new program openings, these moments highlight the power of community. Together, they reflect BHN's commitment to fostering connection, reducing barriers to care, and creating opportunities for individuals and families to thrive. Through partnerships, outreach, and shared experiences, we continue to strengthen the communities we serve and build a greater sense of belonging, hope, and well-being.

A group of BHN staff members marches together in a Pride parade, carrying a BHN banner and celebrating alongside community members and allies.

BHN staff participated in Pride celebrations throughout the region, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to supporting LGBTQIA+ individuals, families, and communities through advocacy, connection, and care.

Jamal connects community members with mental health, substance use, crisis, and wellness resources through weekly outreach at the Worcester Public Library.

The BHN Dragon Roars team participated in the Springfield Dragon Boat Festival, joining colleagues, community partners, and local residents for a day of friendly competition, teamwork, and community spirit.

Community leaders, BHN staff, families, and partners gathered to celebrate the grand opening of BHN's Fall River Abilities Learning Center, expanding access to individualized autism services and support for children and families in Southeastern Massachusetts.

Campers welcomed families and community supporters to the start of the 2026 Kamp for Kids season with a special Welcome Day performance, showcasing the confidence, creativity, and sense of belonging that make camp such a meaningful experience.

BHN facilitators volunteered their time and expertise during International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, helping participants share stories, find support, and connect with others who understand their journey.

BHN staff joined community members at Springfield's Stone SOUL Festival, sharing resources, building connections, and celebrating the culture, families, and relationships that help communities thrive.

BHN staff from Early Intervention and Pregnant & Parenting Women's Programs connected with new and expectant parents at the Springfield Community Baby Shower, sharing resources, building relationships, and celebrating families in our community.

BHN's BH-JI and CSP-JI outreach teams connected with community partners at the Springfield Community Justice Support Center open house, sharing resources and support that help individuals navigate re-entry, build stability, and move toward their goals.

BHN's substance use disorder programs joined advocates, community partners, and people in recovery at MOAR's Recovery Month Celebration Day, honoring the strength of the recovery community and the power of connection, hope, and support.

BHN team members represented our organization at Medford Recovery Fest, connecting with community members, sharing resources, and supporting conversations about recovery, wellness, and hope.

BHN team members joined community partners at Holyoke's International Overdose Awareness Day event to remember lives lost, celebrate recovery, share resources, and stand together in support of individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use.

BHN team members joined community partners at the Faded Barber Lounge back-to-school event in Chicopee, sharing resources and support while helping families prepare for a successful school year.

BHN joined the Mentoring Matters 5K to connect with families, share resources, and support community-based programs that empower young people through mentorship, mental health support, and personal growth opportunities.

BHN staff proudly participated in Franklin County Pride, reinforcing our commitment to fostering belonging and providing compassionate, affirming care for LGBTQIA+ individuals throughout the communities we serve.

BHN's Family Partner team came together to recognize Parent Peer Support Provider Appreciation Day and celebrate the caregivers who use their lived experience to help other families navigate challenges, access resources, and build hope.

Through a partnership with UMass Chan Medical School, BHN's New View Program established a new community garden where individuals served can nurture plants, build skills, and experience the therapeutic benefits of tending a shared space. The project highlights how collaboration and hands-on experiences can support recovery, personal growth, and community connection.

BHN's Recovery Coaching team participated in MOAR's public policy forum, engaging with recovery leaders and advocates to deepen their understanding of issues affecting recovery and strengthen their ability to support individuals and families across Massachusetts.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, BHN staff participated in activities that encouraged self-care, connection, and emotional well-being, reflecting our commitment to supporting the health of both our employees and the communities we serve.

From creative costumes to shared laughter, BHN's Greenfield team embraced Halloween as an opportunity to foster connection, celebrate one another, and bring joy to the workplace and the clients they serve.

BHN staff joined community partners for the Annual Domestic Violence Wakl in Ware, helping raise awareness of domestic and sexual violence while demonstrating support for survivors and the ongoing work to create safer communities.

During Hispanic Heritage Month, staff at BHN's Springfield MAT Program came together to honor the cultures, traditions, and lived experiences that make our workforce and communities stronger.

BHN staff proudly participated in the Springfield Puerto Rican Parade, demonstrating our commitment to community engagement and celebrating the culture, heritage, and traditions that enrich our region.

For Dwayne Kelly, owner of DK Construction, supporting BHN is deeply personal. More than three decades ago, he came to BHN seeking help and began a recovery journey that changed the course of his life. Today, he is a successful business owner, recovery advocate, trusted BHN vendor, and dedicated supporter of our mission.

Dwayne often compares recovery to building a strong foundation. He credits BHN with helping him build the life he has today, and over the years that relationship has come full circle. BHN has partnered with DK Construction on facility improvements while supporting the growth of his small business.

At this year's Overdose Awareness & Recovery Day, Dwayne shared his recovery story and a powerful message of hope with individuals served, families, staff, and community members.

As the presenting sponsor of Golf FORE! Kids and an early supporter of next year's event, Dwayne continues to invest in BHN's mission through his advocacy, partnership, and philanthropy. We are grateful for partners like Dwayne, whose generosity helps create brighter futures for others.

Stronger Together. Growing Together.

Fiscal Year 2026 Impact Report: A Year of Growth and Connection

A Letter from Our President & CEO

Board of Directors

Growing Our Reach, Expanding Our Impact

32,595

250+

2,338

103

43

Mental Health Services, CBHC & Crisis Care

16,057

5,114

5,581

50+

No Waitlist

80%+

25

Meeting Community Needs

Responding Together: Care in a Moment of Crisis

They want to feel heard and they have no control.

Helping Children & Families Thrive at Home and in the Community

1,615

66

118

Growing Support for Families in Central Massachusetts

Expanding Access to ABA Services

Growing Together: Lessons from the Abilities Learning Center

Many Paths. One Goal: Recovery.

4,011

1,380

545

1,939

7 of 7

Expanding Access with Rose's House

Stories of Hope and Recovery

Recovery Comes Full Circle

Asking for help isn't a weakness. It's the biggest strength you can have.

Daniel's Recovery Journey

Today I see life from a different perspective. I feel healthy, I feel well, and recovery is possible."

Coordinating Care. Improving Outcomes.

I appreciate all the support you've given me. You are truly amazing, and I feel like you really hear me.

I'm only taking my medications because you check in on me and tell me I should, so I do.

I appreciate all the support you have been giving to me

Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services

Advocacy in Action

205

22

85

4

A Connection from Day One

Empowering Our Workforce

2,338

264

1,000

80

$124, 089

178

398

Building a Great Place To Work®

Celebrating Our Values in Action

Meet a Few of This Year's HEART Award Recipients

Being seen through the HEART Award means so much to me, because empowering others is not something I do at work, it's the foundation of everything I am building in my life.

I’m a person in recovery, working and serving the community I grew up in. I have a passion for helping kids develop character through coaching sports and instilling values through hard work and self belief.

I love being able to help others and know that our work contributes to the betterment of our clients. Having the opportunity to make significant change in the community I live and work in is incredibly gratifying.

Getting the opportunity to help others and teach them they can make their lives better by working on their mental health and learning how to face challenges from new perspectives is very gratifying.

Building Community Connections

127

27

95.4%

40+

Building Connection Through Mental Health Awareness

Honoring Lives Lost. Celebrating Recovery.

Community Connections in Action

Growing Our Impact

Investing in the People Behind Our Mission

Giving Back: Investing in People and Possibility

$128,458

$125,000+

40+