SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Coming together to support the next generation, leaders from business, government, media and the nonprofit community will gather in Springfield to benefit Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) and its work preparing young people for economic success. The gathering takes place as part of JAWM’s annual Celebrity Bartending Fundraiser on Thursday, February 26, at 5 p.m. at Nathan Bill’s Bar and Restaurant, 110 Island Pond Road in Springfield, with all tips raised supporting Junior Achievement programs serving students across the region.
Now entering its ninth year, the event has become a well-known community tradition that pairs an engaging, social atmosphere with a meaningful purpose. While participants take on a fun, unconventional role for the evening, the focus remains on advancing Junior Achievement’s mission of financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship education for young people throughout Western Massachusetts.
“This event captures the spirit of our community in the best way,” said Amie Miarecki, president of JAWM. “When leaders from our business, government and other important industries show their support of JA, they remind students and all of us that success comes with a responsibility to give back. The funds raised that night help open doors for young people who are building their futures.”
Guests can enjoy food, raffles, live entertainment and a full cash bar while connecting with community leaders and supporting Junior Achievement’s impact on local students. Adding to the evening, State Senator Jacob Oliveira will make a special appearance as a bonus bartender during the first shift, underscoring the broad-based support for JA’s mission.
Community leaders participating in the event include:
Matt Bannister, PeoplesBank
Janna Brown, Western Mass News and TJO Foundation
Kristin Carlson, Peerless Precision
Nate Costa, Springfield Thunderbirds
Xiomara Alban DeLobato, Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council
Dave Ference, PeoplesBank
Jeff Goulet, Loophole Brewing
Ryan Hess, Florence Bank
DJ Onyx, Vision Entertainment
Rob Jones, USI Insurance
Danielle Langevin, Lock and Key Realty
Siobhan Matty, St. Germain Investment Management
Mary McGovern, Country Bank
Jorge Morgado, Allied Paint and Flooring and Budget Cabinet Sales
Dan Moriarty, Monson Savings Bank
Jeff Sattler, Liberty Bank
John “Sully” Sullivan, Nathan Bill’s Bar and Restaurant
Nate Tassinari, TD Bank
Attorney Chris Todd, President, Hampden County Lawyers for Justice, Inc.
Joe Williams, bankESB
Heather Zielenski, Westfield Bank
Proceeds from the event help Junior Achievement deliver hands-on learning experiences that connect classroom lessons to real-world careers and essential personal finance skills.
More information about the event and advance tipping opportunities is available at westernmass.ja.org/events/ja-s-celebrity-bartender-event-2026 or by calling 413-747-7670.
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