Marianne LaBarge City Councilor | Ward 6 | Northampton, MA

WARD 6

         CITY COUNCILOR

MARIANNE LABARGE
Text Box: For Immediate Release - February 11, 2025 City of Northampton Appoints Donaven Gibbs as the New Director of the Division of Community Care NORTHAMPTON – The City of Northampton is pleased to announce the appointment of Donaven “Don” Gibbs as the new Director of the Division of Community Care within the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). Don brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and dedication to the role. Throughout his tenure, he has played a critical role in expanding the DCC’s efforts to provide compassionate and community-centered care, and we are thrilled to see him apply empathy and commitment in his new role as Director.  The Division of Community Care (DCC) is a pioneering, public health-led initiative designed to provide an alternative first response for community members in need of immediate support during personal challenges. The division focuses on non-police crisis response and community-based support services to enhance public health and safety in Northampton. Donaven Gibbs has worked in the human services field for over 12 years and provides both knowledge and a skill set that is crucial to the success of the Division of Community Care. After graduating from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Don started his career with Behavioral Health Network where he served as Program Director. After six years he transitioned into a role at the Center for Human Development as an Outreach Supervisor until 2023. Don joined the DCC in June 2023 as a member of the inaugural cohort of Community Responders. His leadership skills and commitment to community well-being quickly set him apart, leading to his promotion to Lead Community Responder and later to Supervisor of Operations on September 30, 2024. Following his promotion to Supervision of Operations, Don quickly excelled in a leadership role and emerged as a clear candidate for the vacant Director position.  "We are thrilled to have Donaven step into this leadership role," said Health Commissioner Merridith O’Leary. "His experience, dedication, and deep understanding of community needs make him the ideal person to lead the Division of Community Care forward." As Director of the DCC, Don will oversee the division’s strategic direction, strengthen crisis response services, enhance collaboration with local organizations, and ensure Northampton remains at the forefront of innovative, equity-driven public health and safety initiatives. "I'm truly honored to step into this role," said Gibbs. "Our mission is to build a healthier, more supportive community by ensuring residents have access to immediate care and critical resources, especially during times of crisis. I look forward to working alongside my team, DHHS, the City of Northampton, and community members to strengthen and expand our impact." How to Reach the Division of Community Care (DCC) Community members are encouraged to connect with the DCC for support and services: Visit the DCC Community Space: 1 Roundhouse Plaza, 1st Floor, Northampton, MA – Drop in for in-person support, resources, and assistance. Call: (877) 322-0413 for immediate assistance, support, or to speak with a Community Responder. Text: (877) 322-0413 for quick outreach and assistance. Email: dcc@northamptonma.gov for questions, referrals, or additional service information. Social Media: Follow on Facebook (@dccnorthampton) and Instagram (@northamptondcc). Website: Visit www.northamptondcc.org for service details, training opportunities, and news updates. For further information or media inquiries, please contact Merridith O’Leary, DHHS Commissioner at moleary@northamptonma.gov.