2025 Caring Force Rally Boston

President & CEO Stephanie Steed and members of our Youth Leadership Council gave remarks in Boston earlier this month at the 13th Annual Caring Force Rally at the State House.

“This rally serves as a powerful reminder of our meaningful impact across Massachusetts. We are part of a collective of over 160,000 human services workers . . . providing essential services while adapting to the evolving needs of our communities . . . 

We must champion access, opportunity, and a sense of belonging for all, not just today, but throughout the year.”

-Stephanie Steed, 18 Degrees President & CEO and this year’s Caring Force Committee Chair

The Caring Force, a grassroots initiative of the Providers’ Council, empowers the human services sector in Massachusetts to advocate for vulnerable communities and ensure workers receive fair pay, recognition, and respect.

Jill, A’sharia and Maya, who are members of the Pittsfield Community Connection Youth Advisory Council also spoke at the rally.

These young people courageously shared part of their journey and struggles with the audience, and the impacts of services in their lives. Those personal stories make a huge impact on legislators and other public officials.

“I just want to thank 18 Degrees for helping me be the person I am today because without them by my side I don’t think I’d be standing here today because in a way they honestly saved my life.” 

– A’sharia, PCC Participant and Youth Leader

18 Degrees is a proud member of the Provider’s Council and participant in year-round advocacy efforts for the human services sector.

Your engagement as a donor or volunteer makes you a part of our advocacy efforts as well. We wouldn’t be here without you! Thank you!

Kids 4 Harmony Performances Next Week!

FINAL PITTSFIELD CASUAL CONCERT

 May 27, 5:30pm

Zion Lutheran Church

74 First Street, Pittsfield

This is a free event. We hope to see you!

KIMBALL FARMS

COMMUNITY CONCERT

 May 29, 4pm

Kimball Farms Lifecare

235 Walker Street, Lenox

This event is free and open to the public but with limited seating.

FINAL NORTH ADAMS

CASUAL CONCERT

 May 30, 4pm

Colegrove Park Elementary School

24 Church Street, North Adams

This free event will last about 30 minutes. Parking is at the main entrance off of East Main Street.

RSVP by June 11th

Tickets Now Available!

Visit our website to purchase or contact us at the office:

(413) 448-8281 ext. 236

info@18degreesma.org

General admission includes entrance to our celebratory reception at the Tent Club serving light dinner fare and the performance in Ozawa Hall.

May is National Foster Care Month

Appreciation for our Foster Parents

May is National Foster Care Month—a time to raise awareness and recognize the critical role of foster families and child welfare professionals. In Massachusetts, 8,000–9,000 children are in foster care, but with only 5,500 licensed foster parents, the need is urgent.

At 18 Degrees, our Healing Homes Foster Care program may seem small in the face of such need, but we serve children and families with a deep commitment to thoughtful placements and child-centered support in Western Massachusetts.

To our 20+ amazing foster parents: Thank you for opening your hearts and homes. You make a lasting and important impact in the lives of children.

Here’s How You Can Make a Difference

Children, youth, individuals and families in Western Massachusetts need your time, talent, and treasure to help us achieve our mission.

We champion access, belonging, opportunity, and well-being for all people on their journey, helping to build thriving communities.