Gandara Center
Gándara Center provides bilingual culturally sensitive behavioral health, substance use and prevent
Gándara was established in 1977 by a doctor named Jose Gándara, of Puerto Rican descent who sought to provide mental health services to the growing and largely Hispanic community in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Recently the Gándara Center expanded services to include residential, substance abuse treatment, and preventive services for children and families. We currently serve over 15,000 families from all backgrounds annually at nearly 100 locations throughout the state of Massachusetts.
💜 June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month 💜
This month, we honor those living with Alzheimer’s disease, support caregivers, and raise awareness about the importance of brain health and early detection. Together, we can help break the stigma, share resources, and show compassion to individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s.
06/02/2026
We’re hiring at Gándara Center!
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of youth and families? Join a team dedicated to culturally sensitive care and meaningful impact in our communities.
We’re currently looking for:
📌 Residential Counselors
📌 Shift Supervisors
📌 Program Directors
✨ Competitive benefits
✨ Growth opportunities
✨ Purpose-driven work
✨ A team that truly cares
Ready to inspire futures and change lives? Scan the QR code in the flyer to apply today!
06/02/2026
Today, the Caregiver Connection Group enjoyed a wonderful event led by Family Partner Rebecca Sanchez, where participants decorated small cakes using simple and creative techniques. The activity provided a fun opportunity for caregivers to connect, learn, and enjoy time together.
Thank you to Rebecca and the Family Support and Training Program for creating a welcoming space where families can build connections, share experiences, and strengthen their support networks. Events like these help foster community while providing meaningful opportunities for engagement and growth.
06/02/2026
Gándara Center leadership was honored to attend this morning’s Executive Leadership Breakfast at Elms College, featuring inspiring remarks from Dr. Harry E. Dumay, President of Elms College, and keynote speaker Peter D. Banko, President & CEO of Baystate Health, on “The Compassionate Life.”
The event brought together leaders committed to compassionate leadership, community wellbeing, and creating meaningful impact across our region. We were also grateful for the opportunity to connect with our 5K Presenting Premier Sponsor, Westfield Bank, and thank them for their continued partnership and support of our mission.
06/01/2026
After being sworn in as Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, Emily Bailey visited Western Massachusetts and included a stop at Gándara's Impact Center.
During her visit, Commissioner Bailey took the time to tour the Impact Center, engage in meaningful conversations about our programs, and listen closely to the experiences of the youth we serve. Her thoughtful questions demonstrated a genuine interest in understanding both the challenges and successes of our work. Most importantly, she created space for our youth to share their own stories, perspectives, and hopes for the future, allowing their voices to be heard firsthand.
We also discussed the critical need for additional housing resources and support services for young people in our community. We are grateful for Commissioner Bailey's attentiveness, compassion, and willingness to listen. Thank you, Commissioner, for recognizing the importance of this work, for your concern for the well-being of our youth, and for taking the time to learn about the impact we strive to make every day.
06/01/2026
Congratulations to our 2026 Active Parenting Graduates! 🎓
We celebrated the parents who completed the Active Parenting program at our Springfield Family Resource Center. Your dedication, commitment, and willingness to grow and learn for your families is truly inspiring.
Thank you for being part of this journey and for taking steps toward building stronger relationships, positive communication, and brighter futures for your families and our community.
We are so proud of all you have accomplished, congratulations graduates!
06/01/2026
Our Director of Recruitment and Internship Development, April Estis-Clark, and Senior Director of Behavioral Health Services, Rahiza Gallardo-Vazquez, attended the Cruzando Puentes Bridge Builder Award Celebration 2026 on Saturday. An inspiring evening dedicated to honoring leaders and changemakers making a meaningful impact in our communities.
We are grateful to stand alongside organizations and individuals committed to promoting mental, emotional, spiritual, and financial well-being while empowering and strengthening the Latino community.
06/01/2026
Last week, the Outpatient Team celebrated Mental Health Awareness Month with an engaging presentation on Bipolar Disorders. The event also included a session on relaxation techniques, providing valuable tools for stress management and self-care. To conclude the celebration on a sweet note, everyone enjoyed ice cream together.
06/01/2026
Today, on International Children’s Day, we celebrate the joy, resilience, and potential of every child.
At Gándara Center, we are honored to support children, youth, and families through programs that provide guidance, connection, and opportunities to grow. From our Springfield Family Resource Center and youth mentoring programs to behavioral health services and family support initiatives, we are committed to helping young people and their families feel empowered and supported every step of the way.
Every child deserves a safe environment, a strong support system, and the chance to thrive. Thank you to our staff, families, and community partners who continue making that possible every day.
05/30/2026
Today we celebrate the incredible people behind every connection, opportunity, and new beginning.
Happy National Recruiter Day to our amazing Talent Acquisition team. Thank you for the passion, dedication, and heart you bring to your work every single day. Your ability to recognize potential, build meaningful relationships, and help others grow in their careers makes a lasting impact across our organization and community.
A special thank you to Luis Colon and James Kennedy for all that you do. Your hard work does not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for the difference you make every day.
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Contact the organization
Website
Address
933 East Columbus Avenue
Springfield, MA
01105
Opening Hours
| Monday | 9am - 5pm |
| Tuesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 9am - 5pm |
| Friday | 9am - 5pm |