| Once again, the staff of Berkshire County Arc have proven that they put their hearts above all else by consistently demonstrating that the individuals we support come first. One example is the completion of one of the very best surveys ever conducted at BCARC by the Department of Mental Retardation’s Survey & Certification Team. The report again points out the crucial role that our staff play in ensuring the best quality of services for those supported by BCARC. Our 500 staff are hardworking, dedicated and extremely caring individuals who go beyond the call of duty each day. They do all of this while receiving far less pay than they deserve.
To highlight their concern, the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers arranged for a Direct Support Worker Awareness Day at the State House in Boston. Over 100 people from Western Massachusetts filled two bus loads and headed for the State House. I am pleased to report that 650 Direct Support Staff |
gathered in Gardner Auditorium at the State House where they had an enthusiastic and stimulating day.
Following many speeches and a training by Al Condeluci of United Cerebral Palsy of Pittsburgh on how to affect change , our staff regrouped in the Great Hall for lunch. I am pleased to share that the Berkshire County legislative delegation was well represented and gave us all a grand welcome. Andrew Schuyler, Aide to Senator Andrea F. Nuciforo, Jr. and Adam Delmolino, Aide to Representative Dan Bosley, spent time with our staff talking about the important issues relative to their needs. Staff had an opportunity to share the challenges they face financially by choosing a field they love.
The highlight of the day was Representative William “Smitty” Pignatelli spending more than an hour and a half with the Berkshire County staff. He not only sat and discussed our concerns, but also took us all on a grand tour of the State House. Following an official State House photo |
on the Grand Staircase, Smitty directed all of the Berkshire staff to the Chambers of the House, where we were seated at the individual representatives’ seats. Smitty gave us an extremely interesting history of the State House and how it operates. He then proceeded to take the whole group to the Senate Chambers where we saw a caucus in session.
Following final words in the Grand Rotunda, Smitty made a commitment to support the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers Salary Equity Bill. This bill, if passed, would allow, over a three-year period, equal pay to both provider and state workers, bringing long-sought equity of salaries.
We were thrilled to have this opportunity to participate in the democratic process and become closer to the decision-making process. We greatly appreciate the work and support of the Berkshire County Legislative Delegation as they continue to show their concern and support of our work. The Berkshire County Arc staff were well represented by 12 hardworking, caring employees who were able to bring our concerns and issues directly to Boston.
Kenneth W. Singer
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