Compass Recovery’s Whoopie Pie Waddle II Raises Over $23,000 to Support Establishing Women’s Sober H

Representatives from Compass Recovery, Joey’s Deli, and the Michael J. Dias Foundation joined together for a photo at the event in Forest Park. (Photo Credit: SScheerportrait)
 

Ludlow, MA – Compass Recovery’s second annual Whoopie Pie Waddle 5K Run/Walk, held in May at Forest Park in Springfield, was a resounding success - raising over $23,000 in support of the Michael J. Dias Foundation’s efforts to open a new sober-living home for women in Western Massachusetts.

This year’s race, organized in partnership with Joey’s Deli, drew hundreds of participants from across the region, united by a shared commitment to recovery, wellness, and community. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities took to the park’s scenic course, followed by a festive finish line celebration complete with delicious whoopie pies generously donated by event sponsor Joey’s Deli. The event blended energy and purpose, helping raise vital funds while also raising awareness for the need for more recovery resources for women in the area.

“$23,000! Together we are making a difference! Thank you to everyone who sponsored, donated, volunteered or laced up. We appreciate you,” shared Joey’s Deli, a major sponsor of the event.

All proceeds from the Whoopie Pie Waddle II were donated to the Michael J. Dias Foundation’s capital campaign for a women’s sober home. The nonprofit foundation currently has two sober homes and one transitional home in Springfield for men and is working to open its first sober-living home for women. These funds will help cover critical start-up costs such as securing housing, staffing, and providing essential day-to-day support for residents. The home will offer a structured, safe, and supportive environment for women rebuilding their lives in early recovery.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the turnout and generosity shown by our community,” said Dino Bedinelli, Chief Operating Officer at Compass Recovery. “Though Compass Recovery is not affiliated with the operation of the sober home, we recognize how urgently resources like this are needed. We’re proud to stand behind the Michael J. Dias Foundation and do our part to help make this home a reality.”

The event’s success was made possible by widespread community involvement, including corporate sponsors, local businesses, volunteer groups, and families. Sponsorship levels ranged from individual team entries to Platinum-level contributors who gave $5,000 or more. Every contribution—large or small—helped push the fundraiser beyond its goal, demonstrating how powerful collective action can be in addressing addiction and supporting recovery.

“The need for sober-living opportunities for women in our region is tremendous,” said Isabel Martins, Vice-President of the Michael J. Dias Foundation Board. “We are so grateful to Compass Recovery for hosting the Whoopie Pie Waddle II and to every single participant, sponsor, and donor who made this event such a success. This support brings us significantly closer to opening a home that will provide women in recovery with stability, dignity, and hope.”

To learn more or donate to the Michael J. Dias Foundation’s capital campaign for a women’s sober home, please visit, https://www.mdiasfoundation.org/capital-campaign, or contact the Foundation directly at 413-304-0715. About the Michael J. Dias Foundation
The Michael J. Dias Foundation is here to offer support. Our dedicated volunteers and staff are passionate about transforming lives, assisting individuals and families, and fostering drug-free communities through addiction recovery and housing support. We aim to educate and aid those grappling with substance use disorders, celebrating sobriety milestones and the power of positive relationships. Our mission is to guide individuals toward independence and success on their recovery journey.
Headquartered in Ludlow and located in Springfield, MA, we extend our services across Western MA. As a nonprofit, we're committed to providing affordable recovery options for those in need. Join us in supporting families and empowering those seeking hope and renewal through our services. Together, we can make a significant impact, leading the way to a brighter, sober future.