HOLYOKE — Homework House has announced Dave Haslam as its new executive director and as someone born and raised in the city, he is eager to continue the nonprofit’s dedication to providing academic support and enrichment to city youth.
Haslam joined Homework House as the volunteer coordinator in June and quickly showed leadership and problem-solving skills through his work helping support families that have now led to his promotion. He said his background is in business management and retail and health services and getting the volunteer coordinator position was an adjustment but was made easier thanks to previous Executive Director Virginia Dillon being there to fill him in with plenty of information and background of the organization.
Haslam said his vision as he takes over the new role is for Homework House to continue its great work with the city’s youth, but also see what partnerships are potentially out there with other city organizations that could lead to a more effective serving of youth.
“We have such great roots here in the city and there’s great businesses and other organizations to partner with,” Haslam said.
As executive director, Haslam aims to enhance the organization’s outreach efforts and develop new partnerships within the community to expand resources for students and their families. He added he is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that encourages the growth and success of every child.
“I am thrilled to take on this new role and continue the important work that Homework House does,” said Haslam. “Together with our dedicated staff, volunteers and community partners, I look forward to creating even more opportunities for our students to thrive.”
Haslam said the work will be exciting as it is also very rewarding to work with the city’s youth and assist them when needed. He added that Homework House also is serving parents, and their work supports everyday life for families in the city as well.
Haslam explained that one time a student’s parent was taking community college courses that aligned with Homework House’s programming that she wanted her child to be in. Instead of rejecting the child, Haslam said Homework House was able to work with the parent so her child could still receive the programs services on alternative days that worked with their schedule.
“We were like, ‘Of course!’ We’re accommodating. We want you to succeed, we want you to continue your education, so if that works for you then that works for us. We’re happy to open our doors for your son to come to our program,” Haslam said. “We are connecting those additional resources not just for the students, but we are sharing it with the parents as we’re discovering what programs are out there and what partnerships we are coming across because at the end of the day we want everyone’s future to be bright.”
The organization noted in a release that Haslam’s dedication to the mission of Homework House has been evident since he first joined the nonprofit earlier this year.
“Dave’s commitment and vision for Homework House is inspiring,” said Nayroby Rosa, Board President of Homework House. “We are confident that under his leadership, we will continue to grow and strengthen our programs, making a lasting difference in the lives of the children we serve.”
For more information about Homework House and its programs visit www.homeworkhouseholyoke.org or call 413-265-1017.