A Message from Our CEO - 2025 Volume 2

Katrina Cardillo • July 14, 2025
Interim CEO, Ethel Altiery

Dear BFAIR Community, 


As we reflect on another remarkable quarter, I continue to be inspired by the heart, dedication, and impact that define BFAIR. From icy plunges to legislative advocacy, and from professional growth to community celebration, this season has been filled with moments that showcase the strength and spirit of our mission. 


We kicked things off with Team BFAIR plunging into icy waters at the All Out Adventures Polar Plunge, all in support of accessible outdoor recreation. In March, we proudly joined the national movement for Brain Injury Awareness Month, advocating alongside hundreds of others for expanded funding, recognition, and services. 


We’ve also seen incredible energy and generosity through our fundraising efforts—from our successful Dine to Donate night at Common Table, to being selected as the beneficiary of Big Y and Stop & Shop’s Community Bag Programs, raising over $350. In addition, we launched the BFAIR Way Fund, our new planned giving program, inviting supporters to leave a lasting legacy that will support our mission for generations. 


We were honored to attend the 13th Annual Caring Force Rally at the State House, where our staff and the people we serve advocated for livable wages and student loan forgiveness for direct care workers. And of course, we cheered on 26 outstanding athletes at the 2025 Special Olympics in Great Barrington—every one of them earning a medal and making us incredibly proud. 


I’d also like to take a moment to celebrate our exceptional team members who have recently achieved major educational milestones: 


  • Laura Baran, who earned her Certificate in Nonprofit Human Services Management (Class of 2025), 
  • Michelle Baity, MBA, SPHR, who completed her MBA from Fitchburg State University, 
  • and Tami Minck, who received her Graduate Certificate in Leadership of Nonprofit Organizations from Southern New Hampshire University. 


These achievements reflect the deep commitment to excellence and personal growth that defines our staff and, ultimately, the care we provide. 


We were also thrilled to witness a special moment of recognition for our former CEO, Rich Weisenflue, who received the Al Nelson Spirit of Caring Award from the Northern Berkshire United Way. Rich’s leadership, compassion, and continued impact in our community have left a lasting legacy—one we’re proud to honor. 
 
At our Annual Meeting, held in a more intimate format this year, we still found time to celebrate the people and partnerships that make our work possible. Thank you to all who contributed to making the event meaningful, and we look forward to returning to our full gathering in 2026. 


We proudly received a three-year CARF accreditation for our Day Habilitation and Adult Family Care programs—an achievement that speaks volumes about our quality of services. And our annual satisfaction surveys showed strong results from both individuals served and their families, reinforcing the importance of the work we do every day. 


Our Employment Services program continues to expand, offering more worksite opportunities and launching exciting new redemption initiatives with support from Adams Community Bank. 


To anyone considering joining our team—now is the time! We offer fulfilling careers, competitive benefits, and a supportive culture where your impact matters. 


Thank you for your continued support and belief in our mission. It’s your commitment that keeps BFAIR strong—and together, we’re building a more inclusive future. 


Warmly, 
Ethel Altiery 
 Interim CEO, BFAIR 


MAKE AN IMPACT TODAY
CARF seal

BFAIR Earns Three-Year CARF Accreditation

By Katrina Cardillo • June 3, 2025
BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) received a three-year Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation for their Day Habilitation and AFC (Adult Family Care) services. The accreditation extends through 2028.
Katrina Cardillo

BFAIR Promotes Katrina Cardillo to Senior Director of Marketing and Public Relations

By Katrina Cardillo • March 13, 2025
BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) is pleased to announce the promotion of Katrina Cardillo, MBA, to Senior Director of Marketing and Public Relations. In her new role, Cardillo will not only continue to lead marketing and PR initiatives but will also play an important role advancing BFAIR’s fundraising activities.
Ethel Altiery

Ethel Altiery Appointed Interim CEO of BFAIR

By Katrina Cardillo • March 11, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Katrina Cardillo Director of Marketing & Public Relations BFAIR 771 South Church Street North Adams, MA 01247 413.664.9382 kcardillo@bfair.org www.bfair.org Ethel Altiery Appointed Interim CEO of BFAIR Tue. March. 11, 2025 - (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family and Individual Resources) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ethel Altiery as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective March 28th. Altiery, who has served BFAIR for 25 years, brings extensive leadership experience and a deep commitment to the organization’s mission. Ethel Altiery has played a pivotal role in BFAIR’s operations, most recently as Chief Operating Officer. Her longstanding dedication to the organization, along with her comprehensive understanding of BFAIR’s programs and services, makes her an ideal leader to guide the agency through this transition period. “Our Board of Directors is thrilled to appoint Ethel as Interim CEO,” said Pete Mirante, BFAIR Board Chair. “Her unwavering commitment to our mission, staff, and the individuals we serve ensures strong and stable leadership as we continue our search for a permanent CEO.” The Board and Senior Management Team are confident that under Altiery’s direction, BFAIR will continue to excel in delivering high-quality services to individuals and families. For more information or to contact Ethel Altiery directly, you will reach her at (413) 664-9382 ext. 128 or ealtiery@bfair.org.
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