From the executive director

   As we dig out of the winter snow, we are looking forward to many exciting activities in the coming months.  Our Annual Meeting will take place on May 11^th and we hope that many of you will find time to join in as we celebrate the many accomplishments of the individuals we serve and of our dedicated staff.  We also will be participating in Disability Pride Day as well as its new Legislative Breakfast which will be held on March 23^rd and March 24^th.  The Association for Developmental Disability Providers of which I have been proud to serve as the President of for the past three years will have its Annual Conference on March 28^th in Marlboro, Massachusetts.  This is a wonderful opportunity for over 100 pro

vider organizations and their staff to come together, to talk and learn about the best practice in their field.  Lastly, we will have our Annual BCARC Golf Classic come rain or shine on May 24^th.  This year we are all hoping that the sun will shine upon us.  I urge you to participate in some or all of these activities as I am sure that you will find them to be fun, enjoyable and rewarding. 
   I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many people who donated to BCARC in support of the recent mailing of the Arc Mass Calendar.  This was a beautiful calendar that was put together with the support of all of the Arc's in Massachusetts.  We appreciate your help and your generosity to the agency.

- Ken

   As a result of the recent nursing home lawsuit settlements, Berkshire County Arc is happy to be involved with assisting individuals who have been living in nursing homes move to residential placement within the community.  We are pleased that the first individual in Western Massachusetts placed under this nursing home decree was placed in a wonderful home by Berkshire County Arc.  During the coming months other individuals will also have this opportunity.