A Letter from Our Interim CEO, Ethel Altiery

Katrina Cardillo • February 19, 2026

A Letter from Our Interim CEO, Ethel Altiery

As we reflect on the months behind us, I am filled with gratitude and pride—for the people we support, our dedicated staff, our partners, and the community that continues to show up for BFAIR in so many meaningful ways.

Throughout this newsletter, you’ll see powerful examples of perseverance, connection, and growth. From Tim crossing the finish line of his 30th Spartan Race, to the warmth and joy of traditions like Pies with Mike, these moments remind us that progress is built not only through programs and services, but through relationships and shared experiences.

We are also celebrating important milestones that strengthen our future. Thanks to generous community support, the Heart of BFAIR Campaign raised more than $20,000 to help bring assistive technology into our new smart home—technology that will enhance independence, safety, and opportunity for the individuals who will live there. Grants and partnerships, including support for our Bottle & Can Redemption Center, are helping us expand capacity, improve efficiency, and continue providing meaningful employment.

One of our most exciting achievements is the purchase of the building at 1000 Massachusetts Avenue in North Adams which houses our Bottle & Can Redemption Center. This investment allows us to plan for long-term growth, respond to increasing community demand, and deepen our commitment to environmental stewardship and inclusive employment. It is a powerful example of what’s possible when mission and community align.

None of this happens without people. Our staff continue to go above and beyond, our board leads with vision and care, and our supporters—individuals, businesses, and foundations—make this work possible. Whether you donated, volunteered, attended an event, or simply shared our story, you are part of the impact highlighted in these pages.

Thank you for believing in BFAIR and for being part of a community that values dignity, opportunity, and connection. We look forward to the season ahead and to continuing this work together.

With gratitude,

Ethel Altiery
Interim CEO

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BFAIR Names Theresa Denette, MBA, as Chief Operating Officer

By Katrina Cardillo • August 18, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contacts: Katrina Cardillo Senior Director of Marketing & PR BFAIR 771 South Church Street North Adams, MA 01247 413.664.9382 kcardillo@bfair.org www.bfair.org BFAIR Names Theresa Denette, MBA, as Chief Operating Officer Tues. Aug. 18, 2026 (North Adams, MA) — BFAIR announced today that Theresa Denette, MBA, has been named the organization's permanent Chief Operating Officer (COO), following her tenure in the role on an interim basis since earlier this year. The appointment reflects Denette's proven leadership and the confidence BFAIR's board and executive team have in her ability to guide the organization's operations going forward. Denette has spent nearly 25 years with BFAIR, steadily advancing from Assistant Program Director to a series of senior leadership roles spanning Day Services, Quality Assurance, Clinical Services, and agency-wide Operations. Throughout her career, she has been a driving force behind program growth, operational quality, and organizational innovation. "Theresa has proven, time and again, that she is the right person for this role," said Randall Kinnas, Chief Executive Officer. "Her deep institutional knowledge, steady leadership, and genuine dedication to the individuals and families we serve have already made a real impact across our organization. I'm confident that with Theresa in this position permanently, BFAIR is exceptionally well-positioned for continued growth and excellence in the years ahead." Denette holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from Westfield State College, an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University, and a Graduate Certificate in Human Resources from Fitchburg State University. She serves as President of the Board of Directors for the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition and is a member of the McCann Business Technology Advisory Board. She lives in Clarksburg with her husband and children. ###