HCN News & Notes

MJD Foundation Celebrates 10 Years

SPRINGFIELD — The Michael J. Dias Foundation announced its 10th Anniversary today. The local non-profit, whose mission is to aid and educate individuals and families on substance use disorders and help those battling the disease of addiction, is planning a year-long celebration in honor of this milestone.

The foundation owns and operates three sober-living facilities in the Springfield community and hosts a bi-monthly support group for family and friends of those battling the disease of addiction. It is privately funded via generous donors within the community and as well fundraising efforts.      

The non-profit is supported by an all-volunteer Board of Directors and full-time staff members. The vision from day one has been to offer a clean, structured environment to those seeking sobriety.  Currently, the foundation runs Michael’s House, Christian & Brian’s House, and Sean’s Place. Each house offers staff/peer/alumni support, assistance with job searches, access to mental health providers, attending AA meetings, etc.  

Foundation partners include many area businesses, organizations including the Hampden County Sheriff’s Dept, the City of Springfield, AISS, MASH, the Forest Park Project, and many others.  

To celebrate this event, the Foundation is kicking off its Second Annual ‘Super Raffle’ in March, has set the date of May 22 for its Trailer Trash Concert, and intends to continue its annual golf tournament in the fall. Also being launched are its annual appeal and planned giving and recurring gift campaigns.

Supporters are encouraged to go to the Foundation’s website, www.mdiasfoundation.org, and to “like” their Facebook page to keep informed of upcoming events.