November is National Gratitude Month, National Native American Heritage Month, and National Family Caregivers Month. World Kindness Day is November 13, and International Students' Day is November 17.
Nestor's Wellness Spotlight
November
November Recognitions
Nestor's Wellness Spotlight
Welcome to Nestor’s Wellness Spotlight! Each month, Nestor highlights an important wellness topic to support the health and well-being of our Westfield State community. Explore helpful information, practical tips, campus resources, and upcoming events designed to help you care for yourself, support your fellow Owls, and stay connected to resources across campus.
Check back each month for a new wellness topic and Nestor’s Tip of the Month!
November Spotlight
Stronger Connections, Healthier Communities
November is a time to reflect on the people who make a difference in our lives and the connections that help us feel supported, valued, and included. Healthy relationships and gratitude play an important role in our overall well-being, helping us build trust, strengthen our sense of belonging, and create meaningful connections with others.
At Westfield State University, we believe that a strong campus community is built through mutual respect, understanding, and a shared commitment to looking out for one another. From friendships and campus involvement to opportunities for giving back, meaningful connections help create an environment where everyone can thrive.
This month, explore ways to strengthen your relationships, celebrate the people around you, and contribute to a campus culture rooted in connection and appreciation.
Nestor's Tip of the Month
You don't need a grand gesture to make someone's day! Sometimes, the smallest actions have the greatest impact on our relationships and well-being.
Nestor's Tip of the Month: Try the "Three Good Things" practice! At the end of each day, think of three things you're grateful for. They can be as simple as a conversation with a friend, a kind gesture from a classmate, or a moment of relaxation. Taking time to recognize the positives can help boost your mood, shift your perspective, and encourage a more grateful mindset.
Did You Know Westfield State Has a Common Goods Pantry?
Westfield State's Common Goods Pantry provides free non-perishable food and personal care items to students, faculty, and staff experiencing food insecurity or financial challenges. With a welcoming and supportive environment, Common Goods helps members of our campus community access everyday essentials for themselves and their families.
Get Involved This November
Explore the events below to connect with others, give back to the community, and discover meaningful ways to practice kindness, gratitude, and inclusion throughout November.
Campus Food & Personal Care Drive
Donations will be delivered the week of November 16
Collection locations (Scanlon Hall): Registrar’s Main Office and Callie’s Office, Assistant to the Provost
Help support Westfield State students and staff by donating unopened, non-expired nonperishable food and personal care items.
Suggested donations include canned and boxed foods, pasta, rice, cereal, individually packaged snacks, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, and deodorant.
Every contribution helps support members of our campus community.
Campus Safety and Accessibility Walk
Wednesday, November 4 | 5–7 p.m.
Location: Ely Campus Center Lobby
Hosted by: Dean of Students Office
Creating a welcoming and inclusive campus begins with listening to one another and working together to make meaningful improvements.
Join the Student Affairs Committee for a campus walk to identify potential safety concerns, areas that may benefit from improved lighting, and opportunities to enhance accessibility.
Students and staff are encouraged to participate, share their perspectives, and help create a safer, more accessible environment for the entire Westfield State community.
SGA Annual Turkey Drive & Student Feedback Opportunities
November 3, 5, 9, and 10 | Various Campus Locations
Hosted by: Student Government Association (SGA)
Throughout November, the Student Government Association invites students to participate in its Annual Turkey Drive to help support local Westfield families during the holiday season.
Students will also have opportunities to share feedback on potential renovations to the Apartment Complex Courtyard, helping shape a campus environment that reflects the needs and experiences of the student community.
SGA Tabling Schedule
- Tuesday, November 3: 11:30 a.m. | Owl Cafe
- Thursday, November 5: 12:30–2:30 p.m. | Apartment Complex Courtyard
- Thursday, November 5: 5:30 p.m. | Dining Commons
- Thursday, November 5: 8:30 p.m. | Tim & Jeanne's Bistro
- Monday, November 9: 5:30 p.m. | Dining Commons
- Tuesday, November 10: 11:30 a.m. | Dining Commons
Veterans Day Event
Tuesday, November 10 | 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Location: University Hall Multipurpose Room
This year's ceremony will bring together members of the university community, elected officials, military leaders, veterans, students, and guests to pay tribute to all who have worn the uniform in service to our nation.
Featured Campus Resources
Confidential (with the Exception of Safety Concerns)
Reporting Resources
Campus Support Resources
Community Resources: Connect, Support & Give Back
Healthy relationships and gratitude extend beyond our campus. The Westfield community offers opportunities to build meaningful connections, find support, and make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Explore the local resources below to discover ways to strengthen your well-being, support those around you, and put gratitude into action.
Giving Back & Community Connection
Westfield Food Pantry
101 Meadow St #1, Westfield, MA 01085, United States
Supports local individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Community members can volunteer, organize food drives, or donate food to help neighbors in need.
Phone: 413-572-0802
Volunteer and donation opportunities
Our Community Table – Westfield Soup Kitchen
101 Meadow St, Westfield, MA 01085, United States
Provides evening meals and fellowship for community members in need. Volunteers help prepare and serve meals, offering an opportunity to connect with others through kindness and service. Contact the organization before volunteering.
Phone: 413-572-9147
Mobile Meals of Westfield
Helps provide nutritious meals and personal connections to older adults and individuals who need assistance. Volunteer opportunities include delivering meals and supporting the organization's operations.
Healthy Relationships & Emotional Well-Being
Behavioral Health Network (BHN) WellBeing Center
77 Mill St, Westfield, MA 01085, United States
Offers mental health and substance use support, including counseling, peer support, urgent behavioral health services, and care coordination. A resource for individuals navigating stress, emotional challenges, or relationship concerns.
24/7 support: 800-437-5922
River Valley Counseling Center
94 North Elm Street, Westfield, MA
Provides outpatient behavioral health services. Professional counseling can help individuals navigate personal challenges, improve communication, and strengthen emotional well-being.
Phone: 413-437-9294
Visit River Valley Counseling Center
YWCA of Western Massachusetts – New Beginnings
Provides domestic violence support services for individuals experiencing unsafe or abusive relationships. This resource reinforces the importance of safety, respect, and personal boundaries in healthy relationships.
Westfield program hotline: 800-479-6245
Additional Community Connections
- YMCA of Greater Westfield – Offers recreation, wellness, and community programs that encourage connection and belonging.
- Westfield Council On Aging – Provides social activities, wellness programs, and support for older adults.
- Westfield Athenaeum – Offers public library services, educational opportunities, and community programming.