"One of my favorite resources is the Healing Racism Institute of Pioneer Valley..."

January 19, 2023
Kimberly Robinson is the Executive Director of Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, and she serves on the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts' Board of Directors.

Kimberly Robinson is the Executive Director of Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, and she serves on the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts' Board of Directors.


"One of my favorite resources is the Healing Racism Institute of Pioneer Valley. Since 2021, PVPC has worked with them to ensure that every one of our team members participates in their training, and we are working together on a project for our Commission. It is so helpful having this resource in our region; having an organization that centers racism and normalizes useful dialogue and healing is vital to the well-being of our communities. I have also found The Conversation: Tips on Having Conversations about Race to be very helpful when engaging in dialogue regarding race and racial equity. Being open to suggestions about how to effectively discuss these issues is just as important as having the conversations themselves."


Visit the Race and Health Equity Guide to see additional resources and learn about other organizations in the region working on advancing race and health equity.


share this

Related Articles

September 14, 2026
Jessica Collins was named a 2026 Healthcare Hero , accepting the honor on behalf of the full PHIWM team. Congratulations to the other honorees!
September 14, 2026
Fall brings the return of respiratory viruses such as influenza (flu), COVID-19, and RSV. While these illnesses can affect anyone, older adults, infants, pregnant individuals, people with underlying medical conditions, and those who are immunocompromised are at greater risk for severe illness and complications. Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools available to help reduce the risk of serious disease, hospitalization, and death. Vaccine recommendations vary based on age, health status, pregnancy, and other individual factors. Check out the latest recommendations from the American Medical Association . Talk with your healthcare provider about what is right for you and your family. For additional information, visit the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's recommended vaccines page .
Poster promoting public health information kiosks and kiosk locations.
September 10, 2026
Healthy messages are rolling through our communities! We are excited to share that we are sponsoring three Valley Bike kiosks and one pedestal sign, featuring the Healthy Air Network , 413Cares , and tobacco cessation resources in Springfield, Chicopee, and Holyoke. Whether you're commuting, exercising, or exploring downtown, keep an eye out for these public health resources that connect residents with support for healthier living. If you see one at the following locations, take a picture and tag us @publichealthma! 📍 Chicopee City Hall, 274 Front Street, Chicopee 📍 Downtown Holyoke, 201 Maple Street, Holyoke 📍 Springfield Court Square, 35 Court Street, Springfield 📍Springfield Union Station, 55 Frank B. Murray Street, Springfield