Sunshine Village originated in Chicopee, Massachusetts when a group of concerned parents and friends of children with mental retardation, and supportive civic groups all pooled their efforts and resources to improve and expand previously inadequate facilities for the recreation, care and training of individuals with mental retardation. The organization was officially established in 1967 as a private, non-profit, charitable corporation.

Over the course of nearly four decades of service provision, the agency has offered a variety of programs designed to exceed customer need and expectations. Residential and shared living services have been offered during two different periods of the agency's history. At present, the organizaton provides a host of day services for over 360 people and also supports the area's only Challenger Little League baseball team.

Over the years, the agency has used many names – including Friends of the Retarded Children, Inc. and FOR Community Services, Inc. – but has always been identified by their community as Sunshine Village. Recently, the Board of Dicectors decided that it was time to embrace this name in the same way that their friends and neighburs have for so many years – and formally be known as Sunshine Village. This name truly reflects who the agency is – and wants to be – warm, welcoming and inclusive.

TRAINING WHERE IT'S NEEDED - SUPPORT WHERE IT COUNTS

Sunshine Village currently serves over 360 adults with varying degrees of developmental disabilities. With a staff of more than 160 professionally trained personnel, Sunshine Village provides a wide range of services - the two major areas being Business Services/Employment and Day Habilitation

CREATING BRIGHTER TOMORROWS

At the present time, Sunshine Village operates satellite facilities in Chicopee Falls, Three Rivers, West Springfield, and Holyoke, Massachusetts. A commercial cleaning company, operated by the agency, is based at Westover Air Reserve Base, where the organization holds a contract for the maintenance of all the buildings and hangars.

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