United Bank Makes $5,000 Grant to MHA to Support Young Adult Transition Program

WEST SPRINGFIELD — United Bank recently presented a $5,000 grant to MHA to support the Springfield-based nonprofit’s Young Adult Transition program, which provides residential and support services to young adults aged 18 to 26 who are transitioning from child/adolescent mental-health services into adult mental-health services.

“We are thrilled that United Bank is continuing its partnership with MHA through this generous grant,” said Kimberley Lee, vice president, Resource Development & Branding for MHA. “Funding will be used to provide program participants with sensory materials to enhance their therapeutic environment, field trips to broaden their life experiences, and upgraded furnishings for more comfortable day-to-day living in MHA residences. These items and experiences are not paid for under MHA’s contract with the state, but United Bank’s grant means MHA can help participants make more social connections and live better lives while improving and managing their mental wellness. United Bank also stepped up to be a sponsor for MHA’s 22nd annual golf tournament, which took place on June 3. It is gratifying to have the bank’s continuing support to help MHA help our participants live their best life.”

MHA’s Young Adult Transition program focuses on increasing distress tolerance, mindfulness, and emotion regulation for young adults aged 18 to 26. A positive peer culture is supported in the program, with staff teaching a wide variety of skills such as coping, conflict resolution, recovery and relapse prevention, and money management. Residents of this program participate for anywhere from six months to two years and use this time to learn the skills they need to transition successfully into independent living.