Berkshire County showed once again its closeness and sense of community.  Following a recent article in “The Berkshire Eagle” which told the story of the way the fundraiser for our annual Valentine’s Dance turned into a disaster, the kindness and generosity of the community became apparent.  When people heard we had lost over $1,400 to a bogus pretzel company  many kind people reached out to us to make sure that we had a successful party. 

   We received generous donations from The Rotary Club of Pittsfield, CIAO of the Berkshires, Pittsfield Firefighters, Elks Lodge of Pittsfield, Wahconah Regional High School National Honor Society, Student Council and Student Body, DJ James James, Diane Albano,

Elizabeth Chaffee, and several BCARC members and staff.  This great generosity ensured that Valentine’s Day was a very special time for those at Berkshire County Arc.  We had a fantastic event attended by more than 175 people at the G.E.A.A.  Following dinner and dancing raffle prizes,  many of which were supplied by friends of the agency, were awarded.

   Over the years we have worked very hard to be both good neighbors in all of our residential programs, as well as productive workers and volunteers in the local community.  This strong partnership that we have throughout the Berkshires was so evident. 

   We are extremely grateful to all

those who reached out to us in a time of need, proving once more  that we have many friends and supporters and people who truly care about those that we support.  This is not only heartwarming, but also extremely reassuring to all of us at Berkshire County Arc.  We thank you for your support, your generosity, and your friendship.

Kenneth W. Singer

Executive Director

The following BCARC employees received commendations for a job well done:

Melissa Riddel– Hab Specialist                                              Kristie Clark– Hab Specialist

Theresa May– Program Director                                          Sandra Madden– Awake Night/

Jane Hason– Awake Night                                                                 Residential Support

Laurie Lillie– Awake Night                                                   Jessica Moreau– Sleep In/

Meaghan Powell– Awake Night                                                         Residential Support

Kelley Gardner– Residential Support Relief                           Brigid Ahearn– Sleep In/

Beth Gray– Program Director                                                           Residential Support

Mary Wright– Developmental Specialist                 

Mark Brodeur– Acting Developmental Specialist

Francine Nichols– Director

Kate Hood– RN

Employee Commendations

In Loving Memory of Ben Ricci

Berkshire County Arc remembers Benjamin Ricci; a man who was most influential in the lives of people with disabilities,

particularly those supported by BCARC.

3