Spectrum Health Systems Awards Over $1M to 136 Local Non-Profits
Spectrum Health Systems Inc., a not-for-profit organization providing a comprehensive continuum of substance use disorder treatment and behavioral health services throughout Massachusetts, has issued a total of $1,270,000 in grants to 136 local organizations across Massachusetts since 2020. “Our mission extends beyond treatment as we are deeply committed to strengthening ...
Black History Month: Addressing Racial Disparities in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
As we commemorate Black History Month this year, it’s crucial to shed light on pressing health disparities affecting Black communities in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. To make a real impact, we must focus on ensuring equitable and accessible care for those seeking help. The Reality of Racial Disparities in ...
Celebrity Recovery Spotlight: Daniel Radcliffe
Most people associate Daniel Radcliffe with the boy wizard Harry Potter, whose adventures captivated a generation. However, most aren’t aware of his addiction recovery journey. Behind the scenes of one of the most successful film franchises in history, the actor faced his own battle with alcohol dependency. His story of ...
Observing Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month
January 2025 marks the inaugural Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month, a critical initiative aimed at raising awareness, reducing stigma, and fostering support for those affected by substance use disorder (SUD). Spectrum Health Systems is proud to participate in this national effort to shine a light on the possibilities of recovery ...
Board Member Spotlight: Brenda Jenkins
With over 30 years of experience in advocacy and community work, Brenda Jenkins brings a unique and invaluable perspective to Spectrum’s mission of supporting individuals affected by substance use disorders and mental health challenges. A Lifelong Commitment to Advocacy Her passion for advocacy began at an early age, inspired by ...
LCTV News Interview | The Recovery Exchange
Lynn Community Television Date: November 15, 2024 The Recovery Exchange joined Lynn Community Television on an episode of the Lynn Lowdown. Kim Patterson (Program Director) and Idris Forde (Recovery Coach Intern / Peer Leader) discuss their significant impact in the community and highlights from the last year, including Family Fun ...
‘We needed to improve access:’ Spectrum Health Systems opens Main South treatment center
Spectrum News 1 Date: November 15, 2024 WORCESTER, Mass. — Access. It's the one word which single-handedly led Spectrum Health Systems to open a new outpatient treatment center in Worcester's Main South. "A lot of our patients are already from this neighborhood," site manager Alexa Burnham said. "They've been having ...
A Letter from Our President: Kurt Isaacson Reflects on 2024
Reflecting on 2024, I'm filled with pride for the incredible individuals and communities that make Spectrum Health Systems the beacon of hope it is today. This past year has brought remarkable achievements, growth, and new opportunities to expand our mission of providing accessible, life-changing treatment. At the core ...
Merrimack Alum Cassandra Long’s Journey From Law School to Human Services
Merrimack College Date: December 2024 Cassandra Long graduated from Merrimack in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in criminology and criminal justice and earned her master’s degree in 2018. Six years later, Cassandra returned to campus for Merrimack’s Professional Development Retreat (PDR), to help students build connections and give career guidance. ...
Overcoming Employment Stigma and Finding Purpose
One of the most complex challenges in addiction recovery is re-entering the workforce. Employment stigma remains a significant barrier, rooted in misconceptions about reliability, trustworthiness, and the perceived risks of hiring someone with a complex past. This stigma affects job seekers and deprives workplaces of dedicated, empathetic, resilient employees. By ...