Hwei-Ling Greeney

Founder and Executive Director of Amherst Community Connections

Hwei-Ling started her long-term commitment to serving community members at local soup kitchen Not Bread Alone where she worked for over twelve years. Her commitment to serving people there, (driven by her love for cooking and her passion for sharing the delicious meals she prepares to the people who need it most), ended up being a pivotal moment in her life. She recalled fondly how one particular patron whom she served for over ten years, was “very bright” and would always stay after they were done serving the meal to help her clean up. She elaborated how he inspired her to look for more ways to fulfill the variety of unmet needs of the community that she was serving, “I was serving people delicious hot meals, but I thought to myself, ‘That’s just not enough!’... I wanted to do more.” And do more she did when she founded Amherst Community Connections in September of 2009 where she has been helping to connect the local homeless and at-risk-of-homelessness populations to the organizations and resources that they need. This includes helping them access much needed emergency housing, funding, and resources as well as working with them to find permanent solutions to their homelessness and the many other challenges they face.

When she is not too busy lending her compassion, knowledge, and expertise to those in need, however, you might be able to catch her taking long walks around the area listening to her favorite podcasts such as This American Life, On the Media, and TED Talk. Although keeping up with her will probably come as a challenge to many since Mrs. Greeney can boast an impressive average of 8-10 miles of walking every day, (or about 20-28,000 steps daily), according to her Fitbit, which lends itself to her family’s competition to see who can be the most active. Although competition is only a small element in her active lifestyle. She confided in me with a warm smile that her motivation is better found in what she does while out walking, “Sometimes when I get listening to a podcast and it’s really good I just keep walking, and walking, and walking… I just don’t stop!” As far as anyone here at ACC can tell that seems to hold true for everything that she does, including her work!

Erin Deffely

Role in ACC: Caseworker

My name is Erin Deffely. I am a rising senior at Mount Holyoke College majoring in Anthropology with a minor in Political Science and a NEXUS in Law, Public Policy, and Human Rights. I am also on the Pre-Law track. I am interested in public interest law, civil rights, and human rights.

I was drawn to Amherst Community Connections because I am passionate about social justice and public service work. I also believe in supporting my local community and giving back. Since starting at Mount Holyoke I have really fallen in love with the pioneer valley.

This past summer I interned in the Public Defender’s Office of Rockville Superior Court in Vernon, Connecticut. Along with shadowing attorneys and assisting in going over evidence my main responsibility was conducting intake applications which gave me a lot of hands-on experience working with clients. I saw firsthand the kind of barriers that low-income, disabled, mentally ill, unhoused, formerly incarcerated and other marginalized people face. This experience created a deep commitment to working with disadvantaged populations. Representing people on the legal side is important and it does a lot of good but there is a lot you can not do in that position, especially with limited resources.

I also previously interned in the special litigation department of the Connecticut Attorney General’s office where I shadowed attorneys and assisted with research.

At Mount Holyoke, I also work as an Orientation Leader which is an intense and demanding job that requires a lot of thinking on your feet and creative problem-solving, and as a research assistant for the Department of Sociology and Anthropology.

I have taken college courses on American Politics, International Relations, Latin American Politics, and Constitutional Law. I have done a lot of research and writing for politics classes. As an Anthropology major, I have also studied human rights, intercultural relations, and ethnographic methods of engagement. Last semester I completed research methods for Anthropology and conducted a semester-long research project on Land Acknowledgement practices at Mount Holyoke College. I have also done extensive research for numerous papers and two policy reports.

I am currently studying Spanish and can communicate at an intermediate level. I am preparing to do a semester abroad in the fall!

In my free time I like to crochet and read fantasy books. I am part of a fiber arts club on campus. I also love animals and have a cat and a dog at home.

Lilly Barnett

Role in ACC: Caseworker

I'm Lilly Barnett, and I'm thrilled to join Amherst Community Connections as an intern working directly with the Rental Subsidy Program. My journey to this role has been shaped by personal experiences that have deepened my commitment to serving community members facing housing insecurities. In the fall of 2025 I will be entering my senior year at the University of Massachusetts Amherst pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Journalism with a minor in Political Science. My studies have built a foundation in communication, ethics, and public policy that informs my approach to working with program participants.

My passion for community service grew significantly through my involvement with UMass's Community Scholars Program, where I worked with the CESL (Civic Engagement and Service Learning) Department. Through this program, I've contributed to mutual aid projects and helped develop platforms for time banking and resource sharing. This experience has reinforced my belief that even the smallest acts of change can make the biggest difference. My dedication to supporting others extends beyond my own classes though. As a Classroom Access Assistant for UMass Disability Services, I work to create inclusive environments and ensure accommodations are properly implemented. This role has strengthened my ability to listen attentively, identify needs, and advocate effectively—skills I bring directly to my casework with rental subsidy program participants.

Growing up in a low-income, single-parent household in Texas, I experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating complex support systems. These personal experiences have given me unique insight into the barriers faced by those seeking assistance and have fueled my passion for creating more accessible support networks.

I've developed strong organizational abilities through my leadership as Band Manager for the UMass Minuteman Marching Band, where I oversee a team of 43 students handling logistics for all band performances. Previously, as Travel Manager, I coordinated food, housing, and transportation accommodations for more than 400 band members, including planning for our appearance in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Outside of my academic and professional pursuits, I'm an accomplished baton twirler, competing since 2010 and now representing UMass Amherst at various events. I'm also a member of Tau Beta Sigma, a service-oriented sorority for women in music, through which I contribute to community fundraisers and events. With my combination of personal experience, empathy, problem-solving skills, and commitment to service, I'm excited to bring my perspective to Amherst Community Connections. I look forward to working with rental subsidy program participants and contributing to building a more equitable community.

Dani Freixas-Pavez

Role in ACC: Caseworker

Since arriving to Amherst from Maryland, much of my time has been spent thinking about and understanding how people can lead such different lives within just a few square feet of each other. The issue of inequality has always been perplexing and infuriating to me. As a kid I didn’t understand why my mom had to go into so much debt to afford hearing aids, why my friend’s undocumented dad couldn’t get legal help when his boss didn’t pay him, and why my school had worse infrastructure than other schools in my county. Why does this happen and, more importantly, what can we do to fix it? Being in Amherst, I’ve been able to reflect on how I owe so so so much to the people in my largely immigrant community back home who have shown so much kindness and empathy toward me when they themselves have been struggling to get by. This support from my community has led to my belief that the only way we can make it through the hard times is by relying on those connections. Now, I consider myself to be a part of the Amherst community, and I feel strongly compelled to support it in the way that it’s supported me to the best of my ability. 

This curiosity has motivated my interest in how environmental factors play a role in reinforcing inequality. Things I wouldn’t have even imagined such as: where roads are built which can lead to carbon pollution, the construction of houses using lead paint, and proximity to wastewater discharge as only a few topics I’ve learned about in my classes. Even before coming to Amherst, I was involved in student government on projects that aimed to eliminate the incredibly prevalent segregation within my school district. Currently, I’m working to establish a space where students can advocate for immigrant rights at my college and have hosted events for first-generation/low-income students to come together this past semester. All of these experiences have been incredibly rewarding and I hope that I can keep working to address social issues through a career in law or nonprofit work.

When I’m not participating in these activities I like playing rugby, spending time in the practice rooms either singing and/or playing the piano, writing poems, crafting with my friends, going on long walks, and doing the daily Wordle.

Aimee Sinsel

Role in ACC: Caseworker

Growing up in a small town in rural Kansas, the importance of a tight-knit community has always been apparent to me. Out here, we rely on each other in ways that make every connection meaningful. At age 15, I got my first job at the local Dairy Queen drive-thru, where I learned to greet our regulars by name and witnessed the stories that hold our community together. Whether we were checking in on the husband who recently moved his wife into a nursing home, sneaking free milkshakes to a regular customer battling cancer, or making ice cream cakes to celebrate first-generation college students, I saw firsthand how little acts of kindness sustained and connected us all.

When I began attending high school at a large, underfunded public school in Wichita, in the same district where my mother worked, I was exposed to a community with additional challenges. I saw the harsh realities of systemic inequity—classmates who struggled to access basic necessities including food, medical care, and stable housing. At the same time, COVID-19 began exacerbating inequities both at school and at home. Friends’ parents were laid off, and access to emergency healthcare became a large issue in my rural hometown. These disparity challenges faced by those in my community stayed with me, and inspiring me to use my privilege to advocate for those in need.

After my freshman year of college, I returned to Wichita, KS, and worked full-time as a medical assistant at a primary care clinic catered to underserved and uninsured patients. Many of the patients I saw were navigating challenges with pre-existing conditions, mental health, and affording necessary medications. I saw how complex and overwhelming these cases could be, but I also witnessed the transformative impact of connecting them to the resources they needed.

Whether we were fighting with state insurance to get coverage, arranging transportation for patients to see specialists, or simply listening to someone’s story, I began to understand how important it is to bridge the gap between vulnerable populations and the systems made to support them.

Now, as a student at Amherst College, I am excited by the opportunity to bring the same skills and commitment to supporting the Amherst community. I want to be part of a solution that rebuilds the same sense of community I grew up cherishing, ensuring no one feels invisible or disconnected from the care and opportunities they deserve.

In my free time, I try to stay active and relieve stress by doing yoga with friends or swimming. I am also trying to get back into reading outside of classes and am working my way through Jeannette Walls’ novels. You will also find me at the local plant nursery, probably adopting another houseplant to add to the collection overtaking my dorm room!

Justin Vasquez

Role in ACC: Caseworker

I want to serve members of low income, homeless, disenfranchised, formerly incarcerated, and/or disabled communities because I want them to know that they have me at their disposal for whatever needs they have while I work there. Their comfort is my main priority. I will bring my positive attitude and open mind to this establishment to ensure that all the people I work with understand that I am in no position to be judging their circumstances. I am there to help and create new relationships with them. Although the life I have lived does not compare to some of the people I serve, my goal will be to make the people I interact with feel at ease and be aware that they can trust me with providing them all the resources they are looking for. Lending a helping hand is essential. Coming from a low income background myself, I know how difficult it is having to gather the courage to ask for help. This as a result makes me want to serve these people because I empathize with their experiences and as a result have no negative perceptions developed towards the experiences they have gone through.

I will sit by the people I work with and make sure that all their needs are fulfilled and their questions are answered. I do not want anybody I work with to leave with no solutions to the problems they entered with. I also want to see the people I work with be able to achieve a victory in fields such as finding a job opportunity or successfully applying for subsidized housing because it helps them be able to move forward and get closer to being able to live a comfortable life with no struggle. I want to see these people be happy. I want to see them succeed. I know they can do it. And I hope to help this happen.

I come from a low income Ecuadorian family living in Newark, New Jersey. I was not able to indulge in privileges that I witnessed others engage in. The schools I attended were also extremely low income which meant that opportunities for education beyond the bare minimum were inaccessible. So coming to Amherst College provided me with a big culture shock. I found out that schools provided students with education in law and education in math in areas beyond Calculus BC. Despite the idea of growing up on a low income giving the impression of vulnerability and struggle, I feel that this experience has made me grow stronger. Witnessing my parents work late nights and get up early in the morning to make extra money to provide my sister and I with anything we needed has helped me understand the strength they have in order to continue to push forward in life to provide for not only themselves but for me and my sister as well. Their strength has been internalized by me as I understand that I need to continue my path to success even if I am faced with various challenges such as academic roadblocks or my low income background. My parents' experiences have helped me develop empathy towards other people's situations because I know first hand what it is like to struggle. As a result, this position is something I am extremely drawn to.

 My Spanish fluency will also help me connect with more people because I will be able to communicate more due to this language that I have adopted due to being surrounded by it my whole life. Connecting with people from a Latino background helps establish another layer of similarity as well. Shared language helps create a closer nature between people which allows for honesty and comfort to be created. This is because language is very sacred so finding someone else that speaks the same language causes an inherent spark that is difficult to take out. I look forward to interacting with my fellow Latinos.  

In my free time, I love going out and exploring new areas that I do not know about. Walking is one of my favorite things to do. It helps clear the mind and decompress from the day that was just had or from an event that just took place. Running on my school's treadmill is something I enjoy doing as well because it helps me clear my mind from whatever school related things are going on since I am just focused on my pace and not tripping. I love spending time with my friends because I am an extremely social person that enjoys being surrounded by other people. I collect albums and like thrifting because I am always looking forward to expanding my clothing selection. Soon I will begin to engage in volunteering activities and I know I am going to love that because I just love helping people. Basically, I am a big people person!

Justin Pham

Role in ACC: Caseworker

I am passionate about serving members of the community who are low-income, homeless, disenfranchised, formerly incarcerated, and/or disabled because these individuals often face systemic barriers that limit their opportunities and well-being. Growing up in an immigrant family, I witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by marginalized communities and felt a deep sense of responsibility to advocate for equity and fairness. I believe that everyone deserves access to resources and opportunities that allow them to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.Working with these communities aligns with my desire to address societal inequalities through tangible actions. By engaging with individuals who face unique challenges, I can contribute to initiatives that not only alleviate immediate hardships, but also promote long-term solutions. Serving these communities allows me to help empower individuals and work toward more inclusive policies that improve their quality of life.

My personal lived experiences, strengths, and skills make me well-suited to serve as a caseworker, allowing me to empathize with and advocate for diverse communities effectively. My upbringing forced me to experience the challenges faced by marginalized groups, including navigating systemic barriers in education, healthcare, and employment. These experiences have shaped my commitment to equity and social justice, as I understand the importance of providing accessible resources and support to those who may not have a strong voice within the system. One of my key strengths is being highly detail-oriented and diligent, traits I honed during my time as a Shift Leader at TeaDo and through my academic experiences. I have developed strong organizational and problem-solving skills, which will allow me to manage multiple casework responsibilities effectively and ensure that individuals receive timely, accurate support. Additionally, my leadership experience with the Asian American Pacific Islander Collective taught me how to advocate for underrepresented communities, organize initiatives that foster cultural appreciation, and create spaces where marginalized voices are heard. This background equips me to listen deeply, build trust, and engage meaningfully with people who often feel overlooked. Furthermore, my skills in communication and adaptability will be crucial in working with diverse populations. I am fluent in both English and Vietnamese, which enhances my ability to connect with non-English-speaking individuals. My ability to communicate clearly and empathetically ensures that I can manage casework efficiently while maintaining a compassionate and human-centered approach.

In my free time, I enjoy staying active and exploring a range of hobbies that keep me energized and creative. Basketball is one of my favorite ways to stay fit and have fun. Additionally, I make it a point to exercise regularly, as it helps me stay focused and balanced, both physically and mentally. Music is another big passion of mine—I love discovering new artists and genres. Cooking is something I’ve grown to love as well, experimenting with different cuisines and recipes in the kitchen. It’s a creative outlet that allows me to unwind after a busy day. Traveling is another activity I enjoy, but wish I could do more of. A couple of my favorite places I have traveled to so far are Vietnam and Japan. Exploring new places, learning about different cultures, and trying local foods always inspire me and give me a fresh perspective.

AnneKatherine Johnson

Role in ACC: Caseworker

My name is AnneKatherine Johnson and I am from South Carolina. Over the past few years, I have spent a lot of time working with the Palmetto Community Land Trust (PCLT), a nonprofit whose mission is to develop affordable housing and secure funding for their local community. At PCLT, I worked closely with private organizations and community members, to address systemic housing inequities. By working with this organization, I have gained invaluable experience in community development and advocacy, but I have still felt like something is missing. I feel like there are better ways to engage and help my community.

Having grown up experiencing the challenges of low-income communities, I understand firsthand how difficult it can be to access essential resources like stable housing and financial assistance. Organizations like Amherst Community Connections play a crucial role in providing support, guidance, and opportunities for individuals and families facing these struggles. Their work not only helps meet immediate needs but also empowers people to build more stable and self-sufficient futures.

As a Political Science and Spanish double major, I am passionate about advocating for others and addressing systemic challenges and hope to do so through policy work. I am drawn to ACC’s mission of providing individualized support to those experiencing housing insecurity and poverty. This focus on holistic solutions resonates with my belief that true advocacy requires addressing the interconnected challenges faced by vulnerable individuals. I am excited about contributing to programs that empower people to achieve stability and independence while also gaining hands-on experience in case management and community outreach.

Nevertheless, in my free time, I enjoy activities that spur creativity, like crocheting and sketching. I also love painting, writing, and exploring different DIY projects that allow me to express myself. Whether experimenting with new artistic techniques or creating handmade gifts, I find joy in being able to bring my ideas to life through artistic expression. I also will take any opportunity to travel and learn about new communities and how they interact with the world. Above all I really enjoy learning new things and being able to grow my mind.

Fawwaz Chowhan

Role in ACC: Intern case manager

I am excited to apply for the Amherst Community Connections internship program, as it aligns with my passion for serving vulnerable communities and my long-term goal of practicing medicine. The opportunity to support low-income, homeless, disenfranchised, formerly incarcerated, and disabled individuals is particularly meaningful to me, as I believe in the importance of providing equitable access to resources and care for all members of society.

Growing up in Pakistan, I witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by marginalized communities. These experiences instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to advocating for those who are often overlooked. My volunteer work as a Red Cross Blood Donor Ambassador has further solidified my dedication to community service. Through this role, I have interacted with diverse individuals, listened to their stories, and provided support during critical moments. This has not only enhanced my communication and interpersonal skills but has also deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by underserved populations.

As a biology student at UMass Amherst, I have developed a strong foundation in scientific knowledge and analytical thinking. These skills are complemented by my practical experience in research, where I have honed my ability to assess complex situations, gather relevant information, and develop evidence-based solutions. Additionally, my work experience in various administrative roles has equipped me with organizational and problem-solving skills that are essential for effective case management. I am proficient in using tools such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, which will aid in maintaining accurate records and developing comprehensive case plans.

My life experiences and strengths make me well-suited to serve as a caseworker. I understand the importance of approaching each individual with empathy, respect, and a non-judgmental attitude. My multilingual abilities in English, French, Urdu/Hindi, and Punjabi will enable me to communicate effectively with diverse clients, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder access to services.

In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer, jogging, and watching funny Bollywood films with my family. These activities provide me with a sense of balance and well-being, which is crucial for maintaining resilience and a positive outlook. Engaging in physical activities like soccer and running helps me stay fit and relieves stress, while watching movies allows me to connect with my cultural roots and unwind.

Janet Lansberry

Role in ACC: Caseworker

Irene Zuniga

Role in ACC: Caseworker

I’ve always been interested in helping out those in need ever since I was a child. It was always apparent to me that my family wasn’t well-off; However, it was never something that let my parents bring us down. My father used to tell me stories of people around him who would be kicked out of their homes and people who got wrongly incarcerated, always reinforcing and encouraging a sense of justice for the public. He would always make sure to inform me of those people who struggled more than we did, making me grateful for what I had. I grew up wanting to give everyone who was undermined an equal opportunity to thrive in a world that is unfair to them because spreading care in the world heals those who were hurt in it.

Being able to take care of others has always been something I’ve loved doing, explaining my active pursuit of working in medicine and public health. To support this interest, I’ve gained real-world experience in fast-paced learning environments that developed my multitasking skills along with enforcing communication and active listening to the customer’s needs. I’m a very observant person who can analyze situations with ease on top of coming up with various solutions to problems. Because of my analytical skills, I’ve learned to be able to communicate my thoughts better through writing.

Along with that, due to my strong sense of justice, I’ve learned to speak up for what I believe in and have an active voice for those who need me to advocate for them. I have taken multiple public health classes, educating me on the social determinants of health and other policies and programs to help those in need. This opportunity would allow me to practice what I’ve been learning as well as experience hands-on what it is like to work in a place that upholds my values and wants from a career.

Outside of academics, arts and crafts and being creative in different ways is an outlet that helps me recharge and reflect. Art has, in a way, forced me to relax and practice my patience with myself, something I struggle with at times. Taking my time when I knit, paint, and even write has become an activity that helps me meditate and ease my thoughts on top of also being fun. Spending time with my close friends and doing something as simple as talking to them always helps me feel better. Nevertheless, being able to sit down and watch a movie or watching an episode of a show I’ve been wanting to watch never fails to make my problems go away. Reading is something I’ve slowly grown to like and pushing myself to read a chapter anight before bed has helped me with settling down after long days of work.

Josh Berins

Role in ACC: Community Volunteer

I moved to Amherst when I was eleven and grew up here. I moved away for several years at a time on different occasions, but I kept coming back to the area because my family lives here and it is a great place to live.

I have known Hwei-Ling for many years as we live in the same neighborhood. After Hwei-Ling got me a job cooking breakfast at Craig's Place, I was looking for other volunteer work, so I joined ACC. I wanted to work for ACC because I could have very easily have ended up in a situation where I could have been homeless if I did not have the support of loving parents who allowed me to live with them.

I have many skills that I put to work at ACC such as bookkeeping, computer and printer help since I at one time I was a computer technician. I also help clients with case work, and I am on The Board of Directors at ACC.

In my free time I like to walk on the bike path or hike up a mountain. I also make Silver and Glass jewelry which I sell just outside of the Amherst Farmer’s Market and at Craft Fairs and Online. You can see my jewelry at www.jdbcreationsbyjoshua.com where I have my online store. I work in three mediums: Precious Metal Clay, dichroic glass, and wire wrapping of Stones. 

I find volunteer work incredibly rewarding because of the meaningful outcomes I witness and the crucial role I can play. For example, one of the most rewarding experiences has been helping ESL students build confidence in their language skills and ultimately pass their citizenship tests after months of dedicated learning. I also found tremendous fulfillment in supporting high school students through the stressful college application process by offering personalized advice and encouragement. When former students reach out to share how my support shaped their journeys, it is especially meaningful and reaffirms my commitment to uplifting others.

Outside my academic and volunteer commitments, I find inspiration and rejuvenation in reading, particularly non-fiction, like autobiographies, sociology, and self-help. These readings continuously expand my perspectives and motivate me toward innovative thinking. Additionally, I am passionate about traveling, camping, and backpacking—activities that cultivate resilience, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for the diverse world we live in. It is my honor to serve as an ACC caseworker in the 2025-26 academic year. I am truly grateful for this opportunity, where my creativity, compassion, multi-language skills, and work ethic will positively impact the greater Pioneer Valley community.