The Lyon Roars
News & Updates
Letter from the Chief Executive Officer: Spring 2026
In this edition of our spring newsletter, we pay homage to the beloved Marion Taylor, who recently passed away. Marion’s vision and passion for the Mary Lyon Foundation continue to inspire us and shape our future. As one former board member shared, “Marion was a beacon of light, and her warmth and love for the…
West County’s Community Resource Fair
This past September, the Mary Lyon Foundation welcomed families, students, and neighbors to the third annual West County Community Resource Fair at Mohawk Trail Regional School. Nearly 40 local organizations joined together to offer resources, guidance, and support in one place. Guests explored a wide range of services—from health, housing, and education to food access and legal…
The Game Goes On: Carrying Forward the Turner Spirit
If you spent time around Mohawk Trail Regional School or on a ball field in West County, chances are you knew a Turner. Doug Turner was the kind of person who showed up when someone needed a hand—raking fields, hauling equipment, or quietly helping a neighbor without being asked. His son, Zack, followed in those footsteps, often…
Celebrating Our Community Partners: A Note of Thanks from Sarah
One of the greatest joys of my job is connecting with the amazing people and businesses in our community who share our passion for our mission. Every time I reach out, I’m moved by how quickly local businesses say “Yes!”—eager to help however they can to support our students, families, and educators. I want to take a moment to celebrate some truly wonderful partners: Lamson’s Outlet…
Reflections on Response & Resilience: A Message from Liza
We received a phone call from Representative Natalie Blais in late October. Her message was clear: SNAP benefits were not going to be paid out in November and we needed to rally the community to help our neighbors who would be negatively impacted by the loss of SNAP. Immediately, Kristen reached out to district leaders and local food pantries,…
Letter from The Chief Executive Officer: Winter 2026
Impact is not just a word; it defines our collective efforts. Boy, did we make an impact on the community during the turbulent fall! We fed hungry people, stood loud and proud to support those who needed our help, spoke to the news, published articles and stories, and advocated for community investment in children, programs,…
Mary Lyon Foundation Celebrates Reaching $5 Million Milestone for Student Success
Shelburne Falls, MA, October 24, 2025 – The Mary Lyon Foundation (MLF) is proud to announce that it has officially met its $5 million Campaign for Student Success goal, marking a transformative moment for education, equity, and community well-being in West County. Launched in 2021, at the height of the pandemic, the Campaign for Student…
Partnership Expands Healthcare Access in Western Franklin County with New Mobile Health Unit
Shelburne Falls, MA, October 20, 2025 – The Community Health Center of Franklin County (CHCFC), in partnership with the Mohawk Trail Regional School District (MTRSD) and the Mary Lyon Foundation (MLF), is proud to announce the launch of a new Mobile Health Unit at Mohawk Trail Regional School, beginning Monday, October 27, 2025. Designed to…
Fall Newsletter: Liza Manchester, Program Director
Late in July, I joined the staff at the Mary Lyon Foundation. The team had just moved into a new office space at Mohawk Trail Regional School the week before, yet they were ready to welcome me with open arms — and put me to work right away! During my first week, I had the…