InterCommunity is proud to welcome Jim Kelly as the new Chair of the Board of Directors. Jim was officially sworn into the role on December 5, 2025, during InterCommunity’s Annual Meeting, marking an important moment of leadership transition for the organization. Jim brings more than two decades of public service experience to InterCommunity. A retired Assistant Attorney General, he spent 25 years representing the Connecticut Department of Children and Families in Juvenile Court, advocating for the safety, stability, and well-being of children and families. His career reflects a deep commitment to justice, accountability, and compassion—values that closely align with InterCommunity’s mission to provide whole-person care for all. Equally important to Jim’s leadership is his personal connection to InterCommunity’s work. He has been in long-term recovery for more than 40 years and remains actively engaged in the recovery community. This lived experience brings a powerful perspective to his role as Board Chair, grounding governance decisions in empathy, understanding, and respect for the recovery journey. “I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as Board Chair at InterCommunity. This organization’s commitment to compassionate, whole-person care is close to my heart, and I’m honored to support its mission alongside such dedicated staff, board members, and community partners,” Jim Kelly shared. Jim and his wife live in Manchester, where he continues to be an advocate for community-based solutions that strengthen individuals and families. As Board Chair, he is committed to supporting InterCommunity’s staff, leadership, and partners as the organization continues to expand access to integrated primary care, mental health, and substance use services across the region. InterCommunity is grateful for Jim’s willingness to serve and looks forward to the leadership, insight, and steady guidance he will bring in the years ahead.

Winter in Connecticut can be beautiful—but extreme cold can also be dangerous, especially for your heart and overall health. When temperatures drop, the body works harder to stay warm. Blood vessels tighten to keep heat in, which can raise blood pressure and heart rate. According to the American Heart Association , cold weather can increase the risk of heart attacks, especially for people with existing heart conditions. Cold weather can also make everyday activities riskier. Simple tasks like shoveling snow or walking through heavy snow can put sudden strain on the heart. Many people are not used to this kind of physical effort, which makes injuries and medical emergencies more likely. Another serious risk is hypothermia, which happens when the body temperature drops below 95°F. Hypothermia can cause confusion, slow reactions, poor coordination, and extreme tiredness. It can be life-threatening. Older adults and children are especially at risk because they may not notice the warning signs or be able to ask for help. Wind, snow, and wet clothing can make the body lose heat even faster. Simple Steps Can Protect Your Health There are ways to stay safer during cold weather: Dress in warm layers to trap heat Wear a hat, gloves, and warm socks Take breaks when shoveling snow Avoid drinking alcohol before or after being outdoors Pay attention to how your body feels Call 911 right away if you feel chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath If you have heart disease or other medical conditions, talk to a healthcare provider before doing strenuous activities in the cold. InterCommunity Is Here for You “Winter can be especially challenging for many in our community,” said Dr. Chad McDonald, Chief Medical Officer at InterCommunity. “No one should feel they have to manage their health alone. At InterCommunity, we’re here to provide accessible, whole-person care—whether that means managing ongoing health needs, addressing new symptoms, or helping patients stay safe and supported throughout the winter season.” Getting care early can prevent serious problems. If you or someone you love has concerns this winter, don’t wait—complete the outpatient self-referral form and connect with expert care close to home.