Wellness – BFAIRPortal

BFAIR and UCP Board of Directors Share Plans to Pursue an Intent to Merge

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 21:00:09 GMT

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

Elizabeth Filkins
Director of Development & Communications
UCP of Western Massachusetts
75 South Church Street
Suite 201
Pittsfield, MA 01201
413.442.1562 x.103
efilkins@ucpwma.org
www.ucpwma.org

BFAIR and UCP Board of Directors Share Plans to Pursue an Intent to Merge

Apr., 7, 2026 (Pittsfield, MA & North Adams, MA) – BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts announced today that they are exploring the possibility of a future merger. The organizations emphasize that no final decisions have been made and that this process is in an exploratory phase.

Discussions formally began in June 2025, with a shared goal of determining whether a combined organization could strengthen services, improve long-term sustainability, and enhance impact across the region. Over the past eight months, board members from both organizations have participated in a structured and collaborative process, supported by an external consultant, to guide planning and evaluation.

“Both organizations are deeply committed to the individuals and families we serve,” said Peter Mirante, Board Chairperson of BFAIR. “This exploration is about ensuring we continue to meet community needs in the strongest, most sustainable way possible.”

As part of the process, both organizations conducted a comprehensive due diligence review of operations, governance, compliance, and risk. Financial records and assets were also closely examined to better understand opportunities and challenges. No significant concerns were identified.

Following this work, both Boards of Directors approved and signed a non-binding Resolution of Intent to Merge, reflecting a shared commitment to continue evaluating the opportunity. This document does not represent a final agreement.

Additional steps completed to date include:

Engagement of local legal counsel to guide regulatory and legal considerations
A detailed financial analysis to assess long-term sustainability
Exploring funding opportunities to support and assist with consulting and legal costs
Initial high-level integration planning to explore how a combined organization could operate while ensuring continuity of care

In the coming months, both organizations will begin more active engagement with key stakeholders, including staff, families, and community partners. This outreach will provide opportunities to share information, answer questions, and gather feedback.

Preliminary transition planning is also underway to explore potential organizational structures, leadership alignment, and program integration should a merger move forward. Leaders stress that this planning is preparatory and does not indicate a final decision has been made.

Both organizations also underscored their commitment to workforce stability throughout the process.

“We recognize that news like this can raise questions,” Dan Proskin, UCP’s Board President added. “We are committed to transparent communication and to keeping our focus where it belongs—on delivering high-quality services and support to the people who rely on us every day.”

Further updates will be shared as the exploration continues.

###

About BFAIR
For over thirty years, BFAIR has been providing Adult Family Care (AFC), Residential, Employment and Day Services for adults and children with developmental disabilities and Acquired Brain Injury. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

About UCP of Western MA

UCP of Western Massachusetts — an affiliate of United Cerebral Palsy Association — was established in 1961. UCP offers early intervention and ABA services for children, service navigation, direct programming, assistive technology, remote supports and advocacy for any individual, regardless of disability, to pursue a fulfilling, self-determined, high-quality community life — a life without limits.

BFAIR to Host Annual Meeting

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:45:46 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

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 to Host Annual Meeting

Mar., 30, 2026 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR will hold its Annual Meeting on Wednesday, May 6th at the Berkshire Hills Country Club from 7:30 - 9:00 AM.

Ethel Altiery, Interim CEO, and Peter Mirante, BFAIR Board Chair will lead the meeting. The meeting will include recognition of employees with five or more years of service, and special awards.

Thank you to our premiere sponsor, Greylock Federal Credit Union, for supporting this event.

To register, please use the following URL: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/202annumeet/event/bfair2026annualmeeting/ or visit bfair.org.

###

About BFAIR

For over thirty years, BFAIR has been providing Adult Family Care (AFC), Residential, Employment and Day Services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, Acquired Brain Injury and Autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

BFAIR Appoints Theresa Denette, MBA to Interim Chief Operating Officer

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:25:43 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

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 Appoints Theresa Denette, MBA, as Interim Chief Operating Officer

Wed. Mar. 11, 2026 (North Adams, MA) — BFAIR is pleased to announce the appointment of Theresa Denette, MBA, as Interim Chief Operating Officer (COO). A dedicated leader with more than two decades of service to the organization, Denette brings deep operational knowledge, program expertise, and a longstanding commitment to BFAIR’s mission of supporting individuals with disabilities and their families.

Denette began her career with BFAIR in 2001 as Assistant Program Director for the Day Habilitation Center. Shortly after joining the organization, she was promoted to Program Director, a role she held until 2010. During this time, she led program development, oversaw Individual Support Planning and implementation, and supervised and supported staff—laying the groundwork for a career defined by strong leadership and program growth.

In 2016, Denette was promoted to Director of Day Service Operations, where she oversaw the Day Habilitation Center, Community Based Day Services, Employment Services, and the newly developed ABI–Money Follows the Person (ABI-MFP) service component. Her leadership during this time was instrumental in strengthening program quality and supporting the continued growth and satisfaction of BFAIR’s Day Services.

Following an organizational management restructuring in 2018, Denette was promoted to Senior Vice President of Day Services and assumed oversight of BFAIR’s Quality Assurance department. Under her leadership, the agency advanced its technological capabilities and strengthened quality and compliance systems, helping position BFAIR for continued innovation and accountability.

In 2022, as BFAIR transitioned its Family & Individual Supports and Adult Family Care programs to a Community Service Program model, Denette’s responsibilities expanded to include guidance and oversight of those programs, Clinical Services, and the agency’s Day Service programs. In recognition of her leadership and impact, she was promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations.

“Theresa’s deep institutional knowledge, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering dedication to the individuals and families we serve make her exceptionally well-suited for this role,” said Ethel Altiery, Interim CEO. “Her experience across multiple programs and operational areas will help ensure continuity and continued excellence during this transitional period.”

Denette’s career in human services began in 1998 as a paraprofessional at Adams Memorial Middle School, where she supported students in the Special Education department and gained experience with the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science from Westfield State College and earned her MBA from Southern New Hampshire University in January 2022, where she received the Distinguished Scholar Award. Denette received a Graduate Certificate in Human Resources from Fitchburg State University in 2024.

In addition to her professional work, Denette serves as President on the Board of Directors for the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition and is a member of the McCann Business Technology Advisory Board. She resides in Clarksburg with her husband and children and enjoys spending her free time attending her children’s sporting events and camping with her family.

###

About BFAIR

BFAIR Promotes Safety and Awareness During Brain Injury Awareness Month with Free Helmet Distribution and Community “Stand Out” Events

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 19:14:35 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
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 Promotes Safety and Awareness During Brain Injury Awareness Month with Free Helmet Distribution and Community “Stand Out” Events

Tues. Mar. 3, 2026 (North Adams, MA) — March is recognized nationwide as Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of brain injuries and promoting prevention, safety, and support for individuals and families impacted.

In the United States, more than 5.3 million children and adults are living with a brain injury — approximately 1 in every 60 people. Acquired brain injuries (ABI) occur after birth and may result in physical, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive challenges. Common causes include trauma, stroke, tumors, degenerative diseases, alcohol and other toxins, and lack of oxygen to the brain.

To help promote brain health and injury prevention, BFAIR will host a free bike helmet distribution for children and adults in Berkshire County and the Pioneer Valley.

With generous support from presenting sponsor Greylock Federal Credit Union and supporting sponsor the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts (BIAMA), BFAIR will distribute helmets to encourage safe biking practices and reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries.

Free Helmet Distribution Event

Wednesday, March 18 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Helmets will be distributed free of charge while supplies last.

Available:

150 helmets for youth ages 6–13
100 helmets for ages 14 and older

Locations:

Berkshire County
Greylock Federal Credit Union
Allendale Shopping Center
5 Cheshire Road
Pittsfield, MA

Pioneer Valley
All Out Adventures
297 Pleasant Street
Northampton, MA

In addition to brain injury prevention efforts, BFAIR will also participate in activities recognizing Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, which is observed each March.

Community “Stand Out” for Awareness

On Monday, March 23 at 6:30 PM, BFAIR staff, supporters, and community members will gather at local City Halls for a visible show of support and inclusion. City buildings, along with BFAIR offices and program locations, will be lit orange in recognition of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

Participating City Halls:
Pittsfield City Hall – Pittsfield, MA
North Adams City Hall – North Adams, MA
Westfield City Hall – Westfield, MA

These events highlight BFAIR’s ongoing commitment to safety, inclusion, and community education across the regions it serves.

###

About BFAIR

Greylock Federal Credit Union’s vision is to be the face of financial equity and inclusion in the communities we serve by offering personal and business accounts; mobile, online, and phone access to your finances; free financial education for the community as a whole; unique lending products to suit the specific needs of our Members; investment services through Greylock Investment Group; and insurance products through Greylock Insurance Agency.

Greylock is wholly owned by its Members and offers full-service branches in Pittsfield, Great Barrington, Lee, Adams, North Adams, Williamstown, Lanesborough, and Lenox, Mass., and Greenport/Hudson, N.Y. Greylock has a Low-Income Designation (LID) from the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at www.greylock.org . Insured by NCUA.

About Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts

The Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts (BIA-MA) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that was incorporated in 1982 and is an affiliate of the Brain Injury Association of America. BIA-MA has become a national leader in assuring that persons with brain injury and their families have increased access to services.

Can You Eat the Rainbow?

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 20:23:26 GMT

A Letter from Our Interim CEO, Ethel Altiery

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:36:02 GMT

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

Program Spotlight: Family & Individual Support - Tim’s Spartan Race Journey

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:31:51 GMT

Program Spotlight: Family & Individual Support - Tim's Spartan Race Journey

Meet Tim, a participant in BFAIR’s Family & Individual Support Program whose determination continues to inspire us all.

This photo was taken after Tim crossed the finish line at the Spartan Race in Killington on September 13—marking his 29th Spartan race! Tim went on to complete his 30th race in Newberry on November 15. His drive, perseverance, and commitment are truly remarkable.

4th Annual Pies with Mike

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 17:27:51 GMT

4th Annual Pies with Mike

For the past four years, Mike—an individual in our Family & Individual Support Program—has hosted a beloved New Year tradition at BFAIR’s Pittsfield office: Pies with Mike.

Each year, individuals, staff, and board members come together to celebrate the New Year with homemade pies, great conversation, and community connection. This year’s gathering even featured a fan-favorite hot cocoa bar, making the celebration extra sweet.

Heart of BFAIR Campaign Raises Over $20,000

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:20:03 GMT

Heart of BFAIR Campaign Raises Over $20,000

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, BFAIR raised more than $20,000 through our annual Heart of BFAIR Campaign and Giving Tuesday.

These funds will support the addition of assistive technology in our new state-of-the-art smart home in Adams, MA, which is currently undergoing extensive renovations. This technology will enhance independence, safety, and quality of life for the individuals who will call it home.

BFAIR Receives Grant Towards Can Counter Machine

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 17:16:37 GMT

BFAIR Receives Grant Towards Can Counter Machine

Thank y ou, Beacon Bank (Berkshire Bank) Foundation!

We are thrilled to share that BFAIR has received a generous grant to partially support the purchase of a new can-counting machine for our Bottle & Can Redemption Center. This upgrade will improve efficiency, enhance the customer experience, and support meaningful employment opportunities for the individuals we serve.

We are deeply grateful for the Foundation’s continued investment in strengthening our community.

BFAIR Wins $394 in Cash Cube Grab

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:13:11 GMT

BFAIR Wins $394 in Pittsfield Co-Op Cash Cube Grab

A big thank-you to Pittsfield Cooperative Bank for their generous $500 donation—and for inviting BFAIR to jump into the Cash Cube!

Our Director of IT, Kyle Malloy, rose to the challenge and grabbed $394—bringing the total donation to $894 . A fun and festive way to kick off the holidays while making a real impact.

�� Watch Kyle in the Cash Cube:

BFAIR NIP Program Partnership with City of North Adams

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:09:37 GMT

BFAIR Partners with City of North Adams on NIP Program

Exciting news from BFAIR’s Bottle & Can Redemption Center!

Beginning November 1, 2025, BFAIR partnered with the North Adams to help reduce nip bottle litter—one small bottle at a time.

Instead of pursuing a ban, city leaders worked with BFAIR to fund redemption of nip bottles at 5 cents each. Through $2,275 in private and business contributions, more than 30,000 nip bottles have already been redeemed. We will continue redeeming nip bottles as long as funds remain available.

Every bottle counts—thank you for helping keep our community clean while supporting meaningful work at BFAIR.

BFAIR Purchases Building at 1000 Massachusetts Avenue

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 17:06:51 GMT

BFAIR Purchases Building at 1000 Massachusetts Avenue

BFAIR is proud to announce the purchase of the building at 1000 Massachusetts Avenue in North Adams , home of the BFAIR Bottle & Can Redemption Center, effective January 9, 2026.

After acquiring the Redemption Center business in 2019, this purchase allows BFAIR to plan for long-term growth as redemption volume continues to increase—driven by new customers, expanded pop-up and pickup locations through our service van (sponsored by Adams Community Bank ), and growing community bottle drives.

“This purchase gives us the opportunity to expand the space to better meet growing demand,” said Laura Baran, Senior Director of CBDS & Employment Services.

Planned improvements include additional workspace and a second can-counting machine—made possible with support from the Berkshire Bank Foundation—as well as future lobby reconfiguration to improve workflow and customer experience.

BFAIR is grateful for the opportunity to invest in North Berkshire and continue supporting the environment, the local economy, and meaningful employment for people with disabilities.

Berkshire Museum Festival of Trees

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 16:56:10 GMT

Berkshire Museum's Festival of Trees

We had a fantastic time participating in the Berkshire Museum Festival of Trees with our BFAIR Barnyard tree, themed “Barn to be Wild.”

Participating programs created ornaments sharing why they are WILD about BFAIR—resulting in a colorful, creative display that reflected the heart of our community.

1Berkshire Annual Meeting

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 16:20:32 GMT

1Berkshire Annual Meeting

We were delighted to serve as the dessert sponsor for the 1Berkshire Annual Meeting in December. It was a wonderful evening filled with connection, conversation, and a little photo-booth fun.

Williamstown Holiday Walk

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 16:13:18 GMT

Williamstown Holiday Walk - December 6th

We loved taking part in the Williamstown Community Chest Penny Social once again this year. With festive grab-and-go activities for kids, our team was ready to spread plenty of holiday cheer.

Staff Highlights

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:05:50 GMT

Welcome New Staff & Staff Achievements

Leanne Martin

Promoted to Director of Day Habilitation Services

Kaitlyn Moresi, VP Clinical Services

Kait is being honored with a 40 Under 40 Award!

Murtala Bature

Congratulations to Murtala, a BFAIR House Manager, for furthering his education and being the recipient of Tuition Assistance through BFAIR.

Alicia Davis

Welcome our new Office Manager, Alicia!

Tania Goodermote

Welcome our new DDS Assistant Director, Tania Goodermote.

Save the Date - Helmet Distribution - March 18th

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 15:53:50 GMT

Save the Date - Bike Helmet Distribution - March 18th

With support from presenting sponsor Greylock Federal Credit Union and supporting sponsor BIAMA , BFAIR will distribute free bike helmets to promote brain health and safety across Berkshire County and the Pioneer Valley.

Wednesday, March 18 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
�� Greylock Federal Credit Union
Allendale Shopping Center
5 Cheshire Road, Pittsfield, MA

Helmets available:

150 for youth ages 6–13
100 for ages 14+

Additional distribution location:
All Out Adventures
297 Pleasant Street, Northampton, MA

Save the Date - Polar Plunge for Adventure - March 14th

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:49:22 GMT

Save the Date - Polar Plunge - March 14th

Save the date! BFAIR is celebrating All Out Adventures’ 25th birthday by participating in the Polar Plunge for Adventure.

Join us on Saturday, March 14 | 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
�� DAR State Forest

Our team includes members of BFAIR’s Board of Directors and staff—come cheer them on!

Save the Date - BFAIR's Annual Meeting - May 6th

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:39:15 GMT

BFAIR's Annual Meeting - May 6th

Save the date for BFAIR’s Annual Meeting on
Wednesday, May 6 | 7:30 – 9:00 AM
�� Berkshire Hills Country Club

Registration opens March 16!

Save the Date - BFAIR's Signature Event - June 4th

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 15:24:43 GMT

Join us for BFAIR's Signature Event - BFAIR In Bloom

Thursday, June 4 | 5:00 – 7:00 PM
�� Proprietor’s Lodge

Enjoy a relaxed Garden Party featuring tastings of wine, beer, and spirits.

BFAIR Purchases Building at 1000 Massachusetts Avenue to Support Growth of Bottle & Can Redemption Center

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 14:06:20 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

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 Purchases Building at 1000 Massachusetts Avenue to Support Growth of Bottle & Can Redemption Center

Wed. Jan 21, 2026 (North Adams, MA) — BFAIR is pleased to announce the purchase of the building located at 1000 Massachusetts Avenue in North Adams, home to the BFAIR Bottle & Can Redemption Center effective January 9, 2026. This milestone marks an important step forward in BFAIR’s continued commitment to providing meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities while serving the environmental and economic needs of North Berkshire.

After several years of managing the Bottle & Can Redemption Center, BFAIR officially acquired the business in July 2019. The recent purchase of the building allows BFAIR to plan for long-term growth and expansion in response to a significant increase in the volume of redeemable bottles and cans being processed.

“This purchase gives us the opportunity to expand the space to better meet growing demand,” said Laura Baran, Senior Director of CBDS & Employment Services. “The increase is driven by more customers, additional pop-up and pick-up locations through our service van—sponsored by Adams Community Bank—and a rise in community bottle drives.”

With the ability to expand the building, BFAIR will be able to add workspace and purchase a second bottle and can counting machine, made possible through support from the Berkshire Bank Foundation. These improvements will increase efficiency, enhance workflow, and support continued job creation.

Future renovations may also include reconfiguring the lobby area to improve productivity and customer flow as operations continue to grow.

BFAIR is grateful for the opportunity to invest in this space and remain a strong presence in North Berkshire. The organization looks forward to continuing its role in supporting the local community, protecting the environment through recycling efforts, and providing productive, meaningful work for people with disabilities.

For more information about BFAIR and the Bottle & Can Redemption Center, visit https://www.bfair.org/BFAIR-Bottle-and-Can-Redemption-Center

###

About BFAIR

Financial Wellness Reminders

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:33:44 GMT

BFAIR Announces Promotion of Leanne Martin to Director of Day Habilitation Services

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 13:00:34 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

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 Announces Promotion of Leanne Martin to Director of Day Habilitation Services

Tues. Dec. 16, 2025 (North Adams, MA) — BFAIR is proud to announce the promotion of Leanne Martin to Director of Day Habilitation Services, effective November 5, 2025.

Martin has been a dedicated member of the BFAIR team since 2014, contributing more than a decade of commitment, compassion, and leadership to the agency’s Day Habilitation programs. Since 2023, she has served as Assistant Director, where she excelled in managing daily operations, guiding staff development, and supporting high-quality program delivery.

“Leanne’s promotion reflects her exceptional leadership, strong communication, and deep understanding of both our staff and the individuals we support,” said Erin Shea, VP of Quality Compliance. “Her growth and accomplishments over the past year have prepared her well for this next step.”

In her new role, Martin will oversee the continued development and enhancement of BFAIR’s Day Habilitation Services, ensuring programs remain person-centered, innovative, and aligned with the agency’s mission.

###

About BFAIR

BFAIR Announces End-of-Year Campaign to Build Organization’s First Smart Home for People with Disabilities

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:50:52 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

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 Announces End-of-Year Campaign to Build Organization’s First Smart Home for People with Disabilities

Thur. Dec. 4, 2025 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family and Individual Resources, Inc.) is launching its 2025 End-of-Year Fundraising Campaign with a major announcement: all donations made during this campaign will directly support the organization’s new residential home—and its first-ever smart home designed for people with disabilities — with assistive technology.

For more than 30 years, BFAIR has provided residential programs that promote independence, safety, and community inclusion. With the introduction of its first smart home, the organization is taking a significant step forward in accessible housing innovation.

The new home will be equipped with adaptive smart technology, including voice-activated lighting, smart appliances, remote-access safety features, and customizable environmental controls. These tools will offer residents enhanced independence and greater control over their daily routines—supporting a level of autonomy that traditional residential environments may not fully provide.

“Building this smart home represents an exciting and meaningful advancement for the people we serve,” said Ethel Altiery, Interim CEO “Smart technology has the power to transform daily living. For our residents, this home will provide comfort, safety, and a new sense of independence.”

BFAIR’s goal for the End-of-Year Campaign is to raise funds necessary to equip this home with assistive technology starting in 2026. The organization is inviting community members, businesses, and supporters across the region to contribute and help lay the groundwork for this innovative project.

“This home isn’t just about new technology,” added Ethel. “It’s about empowering people with disabilities to live with dignity, choice, and opportunity. Every dollar donated brings us closer to opening the doors to a brighter future.”

How to Support

Contributions to BFAIR’s End-of-Year Campaign can be made online at www.bfair.org/heart-of-bfair-campaign . All donations are tax-deductible and will be used exclusively to support the development of the new smart home.

###

About BFAIR

A Message from Our CEO - 2025 Volume 3

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 17:18:27 GMT

As we move through the final months of 2025, I am filled with gratitude and pride for all that we’ve accomplished together across BFAIR. Each season brings new opportunities to connect, advocate, and give back — and the past few months have truly shown the heart of our organization in action.

From handing out backpacks at the Downtown North Adams Celebration to supporting our veterans through our CBDS donation drive, our team continues to show what it means to be part of this community — to care, to contribute, and to lift one another up.

Our advocacy efforts reached new heights this fall as I joined hundreds of leaders in Washington, D.C. for the ANCOR Policy Summit, ensuring the voices of people with disabilities — and the dedicated professionals who support them — remain heard and valued in national policy discussions. Back home, we celebrated our incredible Direct Support Professionals, whose compassion and commitment inspire us every day.

We’ve also seen innovation and growth take center stage: the launch of our Bottle & Can Redemption Center’s new van, sponsored by Adams Community Bank, has expanded our reach, while North Adams’ pilot nip bottle redemption program is creating a cleaner, more sustainable community — and meaningful work opportunities for those we serve.

As we look ahead to the end of the year, I invite you to join us in our Heart of BFAIR Campaign , launching December 1. This year’s focus — equipping BFAIR’s first-ever SMART home — represents a powerful step toward independence and possibility for the people we support. With your help, we’ll bring assistive technology to life in ways that empower choice, safety, and dignity.

Thank you for being part of the BFAIR family — for celebrating with us, standing beside us in advocacy, and believing in the potential of every person we serve. Together, we’re not just building programs — we’re building a community where everyone belongs.

With gratitude,
Ethel Altiery
Interim CEO, BFAIR

Downtown North Adams Celebration

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 17:16:50 GMT

Downtown North Adams Celebration - August 13th

BFAIR participated in the Downtown North Adams Celebration. For the past several years, we have handed out backpacks full of school supplies to our North Berkshire community. To a community that gives so much to us, we’re happy to give back where we live, work, and play!

Ancor Summit

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:12:02 GMT

Ancor Policy Summit - September 8-9

On September 8–9, Ethel Altiery, Interim BFAIR CEO and nearly 300 advocates from 42 states gathered in Washington, DC to advance disability policy.

Day 1 Highlights:

Keynotes stressed the urgent need to protect Medicaid and ensure services for people with I/DD.
Excellence in Public Policy Awards honored leaders making a difference.
Advocates prepared for Hill visits with a deep dive into What’s Next for Disability Policy in the 119th Congress.

Day 2 Highlights:

Kicked off at the Rayburn House Office Building, where Congressman John Mannion shared a personal success story about his son with autism.

Our Massachusetts delegation met with:

Senator Ed Markey

Representative Lori Trahan

Representative James McGovern

Representative Richard Neal

(Plus, a virtual meeting with Senator Elizabeth Warren on 9/15!)

Advocacy focused on:

Investing in Medicaid to protect HCBS for people with I/DD.
Supporting the HCBS Relief Act for critical funding extensions.
Strengthening the DSP workforce through better federal data collection.

Together, we’re raising our voices to ensure services and supports for people with disabilities remain strong for years to come.

#ANCORPolicySummit #DisabilityAdvocacy #HCBS #MedicaidMatters

Direct Support Professionals Week

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 17:02:18 GMT

Direct Support Professionals Week - September 7-13

What an amazing week we had celebrating Direct Support Professionals Week!

North Adams and Pittsfield City Halls, BFAIR’s Pittsfield and North Adams offices, and our Community Based Day Services Program all lit up in bright yellow to honor the incredible DSPs who make a difference every single day.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate with us—including our friends at UCP of Western Massachusetts , 18 Degrees Family Services for Western MA and Berkshire County Arc . What a powerful show of support for these everyday heroes!

#DSPWeek #ThankYouDSPs #BFAIR #DSPRW2025

BFAIR's Community Based Day Services Program Hosts Veteran's Drive

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 16:42:49 GMT

Community Spotlight: BFAIR Gives Back to North Adams Veterans

We’re proud to share that throughout August, BFAIR’s Community-Based Day Support (CBDS) program rallied clients and staff to participate in a heartfelt donation drive. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, we filled the back of a van with hygiene items, non-perishable foods, towels, and more—and personally delivered them to the Veterans Services Office at City Hall in North Adams!

Tina Samson, the office’s administrative assistant, shared, “I am totally overwhelmed… BFAIR... this is always needed. 100 percent.” Kris Neep, CBDS director, rallied the whole BFAIR community by responding to a call for help she saw on Facebook. The result was an outpouring of kindness that speaks volumes about our community spirit.

Western MA Caring Force Rally

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 16:39:40 GMT

Western MA Caring Force Rally - September 19th

The Western MA Caring Force Rally was held on Friday, September 19th at Westfield State University. BFAIR was one of seven agencies to help organize the event. BFAIR had over 30 staff and people served participate in the rally, and we’re already looking forward to next year!

Thank you to the Provider’s Council for a lovely recap of the event, which you can read here.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 16:35:12 GMT

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) - October 2025

This year’s theme was “Celebrating Value and Talent”

At BFAIR, we believe meaningful employment changes lives. Throughout the month, we’ll be sharing stories and quotes from individuals in our Employment Program who are breaking barriers, achieving goals, and showing the power of inclusion in the workplace.

BFAIR interviewed several people in our Employment Program about what their jobs in the community mean to them, how it helps them with their independence, and the amazing connections they make every day.

#NDEAM #DisabilityInclusion #EmploymentForAll #BFAIR

1Berkshire BFAIR Sponsored Social (October 8th)

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 16:28:37 GMT

1Berkshire Social - Sponsored by BFAIR - October 8th

What a night!

BFAIR was proud to sponsor 1Berkshire’s last Social Networking Event of the year at our main office! Guests enjoyed tours of our building—including our Day Habilitation Program—and got a closer look at the impactful work we do each day.

We also shared a taste of the Berkshires with a Berkshire Swag Bag giveaway and delicious bites from Common Table Food & Drink . Thank you to everyone who joined us for an evening of great conversations, community connections, and local pride!

#BFAIR #1Berkshire #CommunityConnections #BerkshireCounty #Inclusion #Networking #SupportLocal

Fall In Love with BFAIR - One Sip at a Time

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:24:37 GMT

Fall In Love with BFAIR – One Sip At A Time (October 22nd)

What an incredible evening! Thank you to everyone who joined us at Balderdash Cellars (what a PERFECT venue) for our Fall In Love with BFAIR event — your energy, generosity, and spirit made the night one to remember.

A special thank-you to our event sponsor Sourcepass , for helping make this event possible, and to Fat Frog’s Catering for serving up a great spread.

We’re also so grateful to Brian Benlien for providing the perfect musical backdrop for the evening and to all of the generous organizations who donated to our silent auction and the BFAIR Pumpkin Patch Raffle — your contributions truly made a difference.

Finally, a huge shoutout to our Fundraising Committee for their time, creativity, and dedication in planning such a memorable celebration.

From everyone at BFAIR — thank you for your continued support of our mission and the people we serve.

#BFAIR #FallInLoveWithBFAIR #Community #BalderdashCellars #FatFrogsCatering #Sourcepass #ThankYou #Gratitude #NonprofitEvent

Welcome our New IT Director and Director of Learning & Employee Development

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 16:10:26 GMT

Kyle Malloy

Welcome our new Director of IT, Kyle Malloy

Macayla Flanigan

Macayla Flanigan has been promoted to Director of Learning and Employee Development and also was named Employee of the Quarter for Q2, 2025!

Program Spotlight: BFAIR’s Bottle & Can Redemption Pop Up Service

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 16:01:26 GMT

Program Spotlight: BFAIR’s Bottle & Can Redemption Pop Up Service

Hitting the road!

Our brand-new van — proudly sponsored by Adams Community Bank — made its first South County pick-up in October!

In this photo, Andy, who works in BFAIR’s Employment Program at the Bottle & Can Redemption Center, loads up the van with a community member’s redeemables.

We’re thrilled to expand our reach and make it even easier to support BFAIR’s mission through your bottle and can donations!

Want to schedule a pick-up? Visit our website to request one here: https://www.bfair.org/BFAIR-Bottle-and-Can-Redemption-Center

#BFAIR #CommunitySupport #AdamsCommunityBank #SouthCounty #Recycling #EmploymentForAll #Inclusion #Sustainability

North Adams Launches Pilot Nip Bottle Redemption Program in Partnership with BFAIR’s Bottle & Can Redemption Center

Sat, 08 Nov 2025 15:52:49 GMT

The City of North Adams has introduced a pilot program aimed at reducing litter from single-serve “nip” bottles.

In partnership with BFAIR and City Councilor Keith Bona, the initiative allows community members to return clean nip bottles to BFAIR’s redemption center for 5 cents each.

The program is funded through local donations, with contributions now totaling enough to pay out for 23,600 nip bottles as of October 27. The pilot will continue as long as funds remain available and will help evaluate how a small financial incentive can make a big impact on reducing bottle litter throughout the city.

BFAIR’s redemption center, in operation since 2009, provides employment and vocational training opportunities for adults with disabilities while supporting regional recycling and sustainability efforts.

Save the Date for Giving Tuesday & Our Heart of BFAIR Campaign

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 15:47:27 GMT

Our campaign kicks off NOW!

This year’s campaign is a special one as all donations will be allocated to equip BFAIR’s first ever SMART home!

As 2025 comes to a close, we are reflecting with gratitude on the incredible impact you’ve helped us achieve this year. Together, we’ve provided opportunities, independence, and support for people with disabilities throughout our community.

Now, we’re looking ahead to the future—and we need your help to make it possible.

This year, your gift to the Heart of BFAIR Campaign will help bring assistive technology to life in our new residential home—our first-ever smart home.

This home will be more than just a roof over someone’s head. With cutting-edge accessibility technology—such as voice-activated lighting, smart appliances, and adaptive devices—residents will gain greater independence, safety, and dignity in their everyday lives. For individuals who have long been told what they cannot do, this home will represent possibility, empowerment, and a future filled with choice.

Giving Tuesday is on December 2nd this year. If you’re interested in giving to our campaign, please consider a donation on Giving Tuesday.

November Right of the Month

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 15:47:25 GMT

BFAIR Promotes Macayla Flanigan to Director of Learning and Employee Development

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:03:28 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

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 Promotes Macayla Flanigan to Director of Learning and Employee Development

Tues. Sept. 23, 2025 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family and Individual Resources) is proud to announce the promotion of Macayla Flanigan to the position of Director of Learning and Employee Development, effective September 7, 2025.

Flanigan began her journey with BFAIR as a part-time administrative assistant and has since demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and a strong commitment to excellence. Most recently serving as Lead Administrative Assistant, she played a key role in advancing several agency initiatives, including chairing the Wellness Committee, co-chairing the IT Development Committee, and actively serving on the Employee Engagement and Entertainment Committees.

“Macayla’s passion for supporting others’ growth and her ability to lead with both creativity and collaboration have made a lasting impact on our organization,” said Michelle Baity, SVP of Human Resources. “We are excited to see her step into this new role and continue to strengthen BFAIR’s culture of learning and development.”

Before joining BFAIR, Flanigan worked as a Business Support Specialist, where she guided clients in areas such as social media and podcast production, CRM management, e-marketing operations, and administrative support. Her time at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) also sharpened her leadership and training skills. As Co-Editor-in-Chief of The Beacon student newspaper, she mentored emerging journalists and was recognized with a Certificate of Excellence in Feature Writing (2023). She also facilitated a public workshop at Mass MoCA, earning a Certificate of Excellence in Creative Immersion (2022).

In her new role as Director of Learning and Employee Development, Flanigan will lead BFAIR’s initiatives to enhance staff training, foster professional growth, and strengthen employee engagement across the agency.

This promotion underscores BFAIR’s commitment to investing in its workforce and ensuring employees are equipped with the tools, training, and support they need to succeed.

###

About BFAIR

BFAIR Networking Tips

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:44:12 GMT

If you haven't represented BFAIR at a networking event before, these tips and tricks are for you!

CARING FORCE COALITION RALLIES FOR WESTERN MA HUMAN SERVICES WORKERS

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 20:17:59 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information, contact:

Caroline O’Neill, Manager of Public Policy and Communications

caroline@providers.org

508.598.9686

***MEDIA ADVISORY***

CARING FORCE COALITION RALLIES FOR WESTERN MA HUMAN SERVICES WORKERS

Westfield, MA - September 19, 2025 – The Caring Force is proud to host its second Western MA Rally to recognize and uplift the essential work of human services workers in the region.

This event, sponsored by 18 Degrees, Berkshire Family & Individual Resources, Inc. (BFAIR), Gándara Center, Justice Resource Institute (JRI), Key Program, Mental Health Association, Inc., and Viability, will spotlight stories from the field and call for continued funding and support for this critical workforce.

Highlights of the rally include:

· Personal stories from sector professionals, including Robert Wild (Viability) and Yamila Sycz (Gándara Center)

· A Legislator Q&A Session allowing direct engagement with policymakers

· Remarks from public officials and university leaders

Confirmed Speakers:

· Linda Thompson, President, Westfield State University

· Senator John Velis, Hampden and Hampshire District

· Representative Carlos González, Hampden County

· Robert Wild, Viability (Human services provider and recipient)

· Yamila Sycz, Gándara Center (Human services provider)

What: Western MA Caring Force Rally
When: Friday, September 19, 2025

· 9:00 a.m. – Networking and light breakfast

· 10:00 a.m. – Speaking program begins

Where: Westfield State University, Scanlon Hall 715 Western Ave, Westfield, MA 01085

Media representatives are encouraged to attend. To RSVP, please visit https://tinyurl.com/WesternMARally .

The Caring Force is the grassroots advocacy initiative of the Providers' Council. The Caring Force seeks to empower those who care about the human services sector to advance an agenda that creates an environment in Massachusetts that protects our most vulnerable neighbors and creates a stronger economy with the pay, recognition, and respect our workers deserve.

Happy Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Week!

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 16:19:44 GMT

New Paragraph

9/11 Survivor and Inspirational Speaker Michael Hingson to Visit MCLA on September 11, 2025

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 15:35:35 GMT

New Paragraph

Follow BFAIR

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 14:31:44 GMT

Follow BFAIR on all things social!

Facebook - BFAIR

Facebook - Redemption Center

Instagram

YouTube

Private Groups:

BFAIR Buzz

BFAIR Team Talk - Staff only

BFAIR to host "Fall In Love with BFAIR – One Sip at a Time” Fundraiser at Balderdash Cellars

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 19:51:26 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Katrina Cardillo
Senior Director of Marketing & Public Relations
BFAIR
771 South Church Street
North Adams, MA 01247
413.664.9382
kcardillo@bfair.org
www.bfair.org

Wed. Aug. 20, 2025 (North Adams, MA) – Berkshire Family & Individual Resources (BFAIR) invites the community to an evening of fine wine, food, and music at its upcoming fundraiser, Fall in Love with BFAIR – One Sip At A Time, on Wednesday, October 22, from 5:00–8:00 PM at Balderdash Cellars, 81 State Road, Richmond, MA.

The event, generously sponsored by Sourcepass, will feature delicious wines paired with appetizers, charcuterie, and desserts by Pizza Trails, along with a lively program including a silent auction, raffles, and live music performed by Brian Benlien.

Proceeds from the evening will support BFAIR’s mission of providing quality, individualized services to people with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injury.

“This event is a wonderful way for the community to come together, enjoy a beautiful setting, and support BFAIR’s mission,” said Ethel Altiery, Interim CEO. “Every ticket sold directly supports the people we serve and helps us continue building inclusive opportunities for individuals of all abilities.”

Tickets are $100 per person and must be reserved by October 8 at http://bit.ly/452LPRn .

###

About BFAIR

BFAIR Welcomes Kyle Malloy as Director of Information Technology

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 12:00:07 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Katrina Cardillo
Senior Director of Marketing & Public Relations
BFAIR
771 South Church Street
North Adams, MA 01247
413.664.9382
kcardillo@bfair.org
www.bfair.org

Tues. Aug. 12, 2025 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) is pleased to announce Kyle Malloy as the agency's new Director of Information Technology.

With over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Kyle brings a deep understanding of IT leadership and strategy, having previously served in key technology roles at a regional community service organization. His expertise spans technology infrastructure, systems management, and user-centered solutions—skills that will play a crucial role in supporting BFAIR’s mission and continued growth.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kyle to the BFAIR leadership team,” said Ethel Altiery, Interim CEO. “As our programs expand, the need for strong and responsive IT systems has never been greater. Kyle’s experience and collaborative approach will be instrumental in driving innovation and supporting staff across all departments.”

Based out of the agency’s North Adams administrative office, Kyle will work closely with program leaders to assess ongoing technology needs and implement strategies to strengthen operations and service delivery.

###

About BFAIR

Hydration Challenge

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 13:08:20 GMT

Drink your recommended daily amount of water each day in August and win a BFAIR tumbler cup!

Download the calendar and submit it to Macayla Flanigan (mflanigan@bfair.org) by September 3, 2025, to receive your prize!

A Message from Our CEO - 2025 Volume 2

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 19:47:17 GMT

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

BFAIR Champions Brain Injury Awareness Month

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 21:43:06 GMT

March was Brain Injury Awareness Month, and BFAIR proudly joined the national movement to amplify advocacy, raise awareness, and support individuals impacted by brain injury.

As part of this year’s theme— “My Brain Injury Journey” —BFAIR participated alongside more than 400 advocates from across the country to push for the reauthorization of the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Act. While last year’s efforts stalled, our determination never wavered. Advocates called on Congress to increase funding for key programs, including:

TBI models of care
The CDC’s TBI research and support programs
ACL’s State Partnership and Protection & Advocacy Program

These vital programs aim to recognize brain injury as a chronic condition, advocating for lifelong services and support. We also pushed for renewed leadership and participation in the Congressional Brain Injury Taskforce, urging new champions to carry this important work forward.

In addition, BFAIR attended the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts (BIAMA) Annual Conference , where we hosted an exhibitor table to connect with professionals, advocates, and families. It was a valuable opportunity to share our services and strengthen our commitment to supporting people with brain injuries across the Commonwealth.

At BFAIR, we know that brain injury doesn’t stop—and neither do we. Thank you to everyone who joined us in this critical work.

BFAIR Annual Meeting: A Celebration of Dedication and Community

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 21:21:01 GMT

This year, BFAIR’s Annual Meeting took place in a more intimate setting—but our mission to honor and recognize those who make our work possible remained front and center.

While the format may have been different, the heart of the event stayed the same. We proudly celebrated our dedicated staff, the individuals we serve, and our valued community partners for their ongoing contributions and impact. Their commitment continues to drive our success and strengthen the BFAIR community.

We understand how meaningful it is to come together as a full organization, and we’re already looking ahead with excitement to 2026 when we plan to return to our traditional Annual Meeting format.

A special thank you to Ryan Cowdrey of Clayson Creative for audio/visual support, Greg Nesbit Photography for capturing the event, and our talented Community Based Day Services (CBDS) participants for creating the beautiful floral centerpieces.

Thank you for your continued support—we look forward to seeing you next year!

BFAIR Joins the Caring Force

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 21:15:51 GMT

Four people served by BFAIR, along with five staff, made the long trek to the Boston State House for the 13th Annual Caring Force Rally on May 8, 2025. After listening to personalized stories from family members, staff, and people who received services in the past, the group walked through the halls of the State House to meet with legislators. When meeting with these legislators, the focus was on student loan forgiveness for direct care workers and getting direct care workers up to a livable wage. It was a beautiful and successful day in Boston and the group got to enjoy their lunch in the Boston Common Park afterwards!

Former CEO Rich Weisenflue Honored with Al Nelson Spirit of Caring Award

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 21:10:09 GMT

We are proud to share that Rich Weisenflue, former CEO of BFAIR, was honored with the Al Nelson Spirit of Caring Award by the Northern Berkshire United Way at their annual celebration on May 22.

This prestigious award recognizes individuals who exemplify exceptional leadership, compassion, and dedication to community service—qualities Rich embodied throughout his tenure at BFAIR and continues to demonstrate in all that he does.

Rich’s unwavering commitment to improving lives and strengthening the Northern Berkshire community has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire us every day. His vision and heart helped shape BFAIR into the organization it is today.

Please join us in congratulating Rich on this well-deserved recognition and in celebrating his ongoing impact on our region and beyond.

BFAIR Athletes Shine at the 2025 Special Olympics

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 21:05:55 GMT

This year, 26 individuals supported by BFAIR proudly represented our community at the 2025 Special Olympics held in Great Barrington. Under sunny skies and perfect weather, our athletes gave it their all in events including the 50- and 100-meter walk, softball throw, standing long jump, and javelin throw.

Every participant earned a medal—bronze, silver, or gold—and the pride on their faces was truly inspiring. The atmosphere was filled with excitement, camaraderie, and celebration.

Fundraising Highlights: A Strong Quarter of Community Support

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 20:50:49 GMT

BFAIR is proud to share some exciting fundraising highlights from this past quarter! Thanks to the incredible support of our community, we’ve made great strides in advancing our mission and building a brighter future for the people we serve.

Dine to Donate – A Night to Remember
What an amazing evening! On Wednesday, February 20th, we hosted our Dine to Donate event at Common Table Food & Drink—and it was a fantastic success. We had a great turnout, and the energy and generosity of our guests made the night truly special. A heartfelt thank you to Common Table for their warm hospitality and to everyone who came out to support us. We’re so grateful to be part of such a generous and caring community!

Community Bag Program – Simple Shopping, Big Impact
This April, BFAIR was selected as the beneficiary of the Community Bag Programs at Stop & Shop and Big Y in North Adams. For every reusable bag purchased at these locations, $1 was donated directly to BFAIR. Thanks to community participation, we raised over $350—proof that small acts can make a big difference. Thank you for shopping with purpose and supporting inclusive opportunities for people of all abilities.

Introducing the BFAIR Way Fund – A Legacy of Giving
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of The BFAIR Way Fund, our new Planned Giving program. Supporters now have the opportunity to make a lasting impact by including BFAIR in their wills, trusts, or estate plans. Your legacy gift will help ensure that BFAIR can continue providing quality services to individuals with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injuries for years to come.

To learn more about how you can make a long-term difference, visit: bfair.org/planned-giving

Thank you to everyone who has supported our mission this quarter. Whether you dined with us, shopped with purpose, or are planning a legacy gift, your generosity is changing lives!

Globetrotter’s Corner

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 20:33:26 GMT

Up, up, and away! This past May, Shawn immersed himself in the rich history and culture of Berlin and Dresden, Germany. In Berlin, the capital city, Shawn explored iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, a neoclassical monument that once stood at the heart of a divided city and now symbolizes unity and peace. During his time there, he visited the Berlin Wall, or what remains of it, which serves as a powerful reminder of the Cold War, with the East Side Gallery transforming a section into an open-air art installation that tells stories of resistance and hope.

Just a two-hour train ride away, Shawn ventured to enchanting Dresden, well known for its exquisite architecture. Among the places he visited was the Zwinger Palace, adorned with ornate pavilions and lush courtyards, a true royal experience. Together, these attractions in Berlin and Dresden marked a memorable trip and an unforgettable journey through German history.

Celebrating Staff Achievements at BFAIR

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 20:17:07 GMT

At BFAIR, we are proud to recognize the dedication and professional growth of our outstanding team members. Their commitment to continued learning not only strengthens their own leadership but also enhances the quality of care and services we provide every day.

Laura Baran, Senior Director of CBDS and Employment Services, recently earned her Certificate in Nonprofit Human Services Management as part of the Class of 2025. This accomplishment reflects her strong leadership and continued passion for supporting individuals in community-based programs.

Michelle Baity, MBA, SPHR, Senior Vice President of Human Resources, earned her master's in business administration from Fitchburg State University. With her SPHR certification and now an MBA, Michelle continues to bring strategic expertise and a people-first approach to our agency’s HR leadership.

Tami Minck, Director of Quality Assurance, achieved a Graduate Certificate in Leadership of Nonprofit Organizations from Southern New Hampshire University. This certification builds on her experience and reinforces her commitment to innovation, quality, and person-centered care in our programs.

We congratulate Laura, Michelle, and Tami on these incredible accomplishments. Your dedication to professional growth is an inspiration to all of us and a testament to the strength of the BFAIR team!

Employees of the Quarter

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 20:10:41 GMT

Q4 2024 – Miranda Stracuzzi

Since joining BFAIR in February 2024, Miranda (right) has demonstrated incredible growth, positivity, and dedication. She consistently goes above and beyond — from volunteering at events like our 30th celebration and the Self-Advocacy Group’s wreath fundraiser to taking on additional hours to support program members. Miranda’s calm demeanor, positive attitude, and leadership have a lasting impact on those around her. Thank you, Miranda, for being a role model and making a difference every day!

Q1 2025 – Sue Darling (left) & Dawn Karo (right)

Sue Darling is a trusted leader and team player who brings creativity, dedication, and heart to the Employment Program. With two nominations, her impact speaks volumes!

Dawn Karo shines as a Behavior Specialist, going above and beyond to support individuals with compassion and expertise. Her commitment to growth and person-centered care is truly inspiring. Thank you both for embodying the BFAIR mission every day!

BFAIR Earns Three-Year CARF Accreditation

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 20:06:08 GMT

BFAIR is proud to have received a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) for our Day Habilitation and Adult Family Care (AFC) services, effective through 2028.

CARF surveyors commended BFAIR for its “dedication and commitment to improving the quality of the lives of the persons served,” noting strong services, personnel, and documentation.

This recognition reflects the outstanding work of our staff and their continued commitment to quality care.

Annual Satisfaction Survey Results Highlight Strong Support Services

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 20:01:36 GMT

BFAIR remains committed to providing high-quality services across Residential, Employment, Day Habilitation, CBDS, Individual and Family Support, Community Living, and Adult Family Care/Shared Living programs.

This year, 160 family/guardian surveys were mailed to ensure confidentiality, with 35 returned—a 22% response rate. Feedback is also gathered through ISP meetings, team discussions, and informal communication.

For individuals served, 164 out of 177 participated in the satisfaction survey, yielding a strong 93% response rate. All data was entered confidentially by Quality Assurance staff using SurveyMonkey.

Survey topics included human rights, communication, health and safety, assistive technology, and overall satisfaction. Results are analyzed for trends and shared with Department Directors for any necessary follow-up.

Overall, satisfaction ratings were high across both groups. However, the low family response rate may limit how representative those results are. BFAIR is recognized for staff consistency, responsiveness, excellent care, and service access. The Quality Assurance team will use the results to guide ongoing improvement efforts.

Program Spotlight: Employment Services

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Sat, 05 Jul 2025 19:58:11 GMT

BFAIR’s Group Employment Services has expanded their work sites to offer more opportunities for the individuals we serve to gain meaningful employment skills. We currently have 10 worksites including our very own Redemption Center. We have individuals working at:

BFAIR’s Bottle and Can Redemption Center

AJ’s Trailside Pub

Christodora/Manice Education Center

Elder Services Kitchen

Greylock Glen

Ioka Farm

Shaker Hill Pet Resort

Stienerfilm

Valley Park Lanes

Waubeeka Golf Links

We are also excited to announce that thanks to the support of Adams Community Bank, we will be expanding our redemption services to include bottle and can pick-ups and additional Pop-Up Redemption Events, where people who cannot get to our Redemption Center can redeem their cans and bottles.

Join Our Team – Amazing Careers at BFAIR!

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 19:54:53 GMT

Looking for a rewarding career where you can make a difference every day? BFAIR is hiring for a variety of fulfilling roles across all shifts! We offer competitive benefits including medical, dental, vision insurance, life insurance, paid time off, a 403(b)-retirement plan, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, and educational assistance.

Come grow with us—join a team that’s passionate about supporting people and building inclusive communities!

Annual Staff Appreciation Picnic

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 14:16:02 GMT

Kids Eat Free This Summer

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 14:12:56 GMT

BFAIR Earns Three-Year CARF Accreditation

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 11:00:24 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:

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 Earns Three-Year CARF Accreditation

Tues. June 3, 2025 (North Adams, MA) – 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.

During the accreditation process, the CARF surveyors noted that “this achievement is an indication of [BFAIR’s], dedication and commitment to improving the quality of the lives of the persons served. Services, personnel, and documentation clearly indicate an established pattern of conformance to standards.”

“Once again, the dedication and commitment of BFAIR’s staff and leadership team has shown through. To receive a three-year accreditation is outstanding and a true testament to the quality of services BFAIR provides”, said Ethel Altiery, Interim CEO of BFAIR.

About BFAIR

About CARF

CARF International, a group of companies that includes CARF Canada and CARF Europe, is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services. Through accreditation, CARF assists service providers in improving the quality of their services, demonstrating value, and meeting internationally recognized organizational and program standards. The accreditation process applies sets of standards to service areas and business practices during an on-site survey. Accreditation, however, is an ongoing process, signaling to the public that a service provider is committed to continuously improving services, encouraging feedback, and serving the community. Accreditation also demonstrates a provider's commitment to enhance its performance, manage its risk, and distinguished in its service delivery. (www.carf.org)

###

Full Well Farm CSA

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 13 May 2025 14:32:24 GMT

The Wellness Committee is excited to share Full Well Farm’s Community Shared Agriculture (CSA) program, running from May 15th through October 18th. The CSA comes with assorted farm-fresh vegetables and herbs with the opportunity to add fruit, eggs, and flowers at an additional cost, delivered weekly or bi-weekly to the North Adams office. Pick up will be Thursdays, and boxes must be claimed by 4pm – unclaimed CSA boxes will not be stored. Full Well Farm offers pricing based on a sliding scale system, allowing employees to pick a payment level that best aligns with their income.

Full CSA

23 shares delivered weekly

Lower Income: $667 / $29 per share

Middle Income: $793.50 / $34.50 per share

Upper Income: $897.00 / $39 per share

Bi-Weekly CSA

12 shares delivered bi-weekly

Lower Income: $348.00 / $29 per share

Middle Income: $414.00 / $34.50 per share

Upper Income: $468.00 / $39 per share

We hope you’ll take advantage of this exciting program!

For more information, please refer to the flyer below or contact Macayla Flanigan (mflanigan@bfair.org) with any questions.

The Caring Force

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:15:28 GMT

Did you know that BFAIR participates in the Providers' Council's The Caring Force rallies at both the State House and at the Western Mass at Westfield State University? Here's a great introduction to the Caring Force if you're not familiar with their advocacy efforts:

Join BFAIR's Staff-Only Facebook Group

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 13:11:34 GMT

We’re excited to announce the launch of our staff-only Facebook group; BFAIR Team Talk — a dedicated space just for you to connect, celebrate, and stay in the loop with everything happening across our team. This group replaces Facebook Groups BFAIR Workplace Wellness, and BFAIR Diversity Group; and will be all rolled into one!

This group is all about:

✅ Shouting out great work and celebrating promotions

✅ Sharing team updates and exciting news

✅ Spreading positive vibes and support

✅ Posting helpful tips, resources, or anything that helps us grow together

It’s a fun, informal space to build our community and cheer each other on — because you all deserve to be celebrated!

A group admin will have to approve your request to join, so it may take a day or two for you to be able to access the group.

Let’s make this group something special. Looking forward to seeing you there!

If you have questions, please reach out to Katrina Cardillo, Senior Director of Marketing & PR at kcardillo@bfair.org.

Noticing Nature Walking Challenge

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:14:29 GMT

The sun is shining, the breeze is cool - and nature is waking up from winter!

Once a week in April, take an electronic and distraction free walk, checking off

objectives as you go.

Complete this card and return to Macayla Flanigan by May 5th for the coveted prize of bragging rights!

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

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 13:00:09 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Katrina Cardillo
Senior Director of Marketing & Public Relations
BFAIR
771 South Church Street
North Adams, MA 01247
413.664.9382
kcardillo@bfair.org
www.bfair.org

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

Thu. March. 13, 2025 - (North Adams, MA) 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.

Katrina Cardillo brings a wealth of experience in marketing, management, and community engagement to her expanded responsibilities. Since joining BFAIR, Cardillo has been instrumental in amplifying the organization’s mission to support individuals with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injuries, and autism. Her innovative strategies and leadership have significantly contributed to brand awareness and community outreach.

“Katrina’s exceptional dedication, creativity, and strategic vision have made a profound impact on our organization,” said Rich Weisenflue, CEO at BFAIR. “Her expanded role will enhance our fundraising efforts, enabling us to support even more individuals and families in need.”

Cardillo’s career began with @utoRevenue, where she quickly ascended to the management team and contributed to the company’s marketing and operational strategies. Following the acquisition by Dominion Enterprises, she transitioned to the corporate marketing team within the Dominion Dealer Solutions automotive division, overseeing marketing initiatives for multiple business units.

After her tenure in the corporate world, Cardillo shifted her focus to the human service sector. Over the past 12 years, she has been dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations in Berkshire County.

Cardillo holds an MBA and a BS in Business Administration from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. She resides in Otis, MA, with her husband, Ricky.

About BFAIR

###

About BFAIR

Ethel Altiery Appointed Interim CEO of BFAIR

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 12:00:08 GMT

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.

About BFAIR

BFAIR Raises Over $140,000 in Celebration of 30 Years of Service

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 19:43:47 GMT

Thur. Feb. 13, 2025 - (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR proudly celebrates 30 years of service with a milestone year of fundraising, raising over $140,000 through its 30th Anniversary Celebration, Giving Tuesday, and the annual Heart of BFAIR Campaign.

The 30th Anniversary Celebration, held on October 25th at The Williams Inn, was a resounding success, raising over $70,000. More than 125 guests, sponsors, and community members gathered for a night of nostalgia, donning 90s-inspired attire and enjoying an evening filled with music, dancing, and interactive experiences. DJ MusiChris kept the dance floor lively, while guests participated in a photo booth, raffle, and silent auction. Special thanks to SourcePass and Adams Community Bank for their generous support in making the event possible.

On December 3, 2024, BFAIR took part in Giving Tuesday, raising over $8,000 thanks to the generosity of staff, families, and community partners. A heartfelt thank you to Adams Community Bank for their incredible support as our matching sponsor.

Rounding out the year, the Heart of BFAIR Campaign ran from November 1st to December 31st, generating more than $33,000 to promote accessibility, independence, and enhanced program resources for the 400+ individuals served by BFAIR.

Rich Weisenflue, CEO of BFAIR, shared his gratitude, stating, “As we reflect on the past several months, I am incredibly proud of the achievements, milestones, and unwavering dedication demonstrated by our staff, supporters, and community partners. From celebrating 30 years of impact to raising over $140,000 through our fundraising initiatives, 2024 has been a year of remarkable progress.”

BFAIR extends its deepest appreciation to everyone who contributed to this extraordinary year. With continued support, the organization looks forward to expanding its mission of providing quality services for individuals with disabilities.

About BFAIR

BFAIR Promotes Kayla Brown-Wood to Director of Community Services

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 16:20:10 GMT

Wed. Feb. 12, 2025 - (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR is pleased to announce the promotion of Kayla Brown-Wood to Director of Community Services in recognition of her dedication, expertise, and leadership within the organization.

Kayla has been an invaluable member of the BFAIR team, consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to the agency’s mission. Her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for learning have significantly impacted both her colleagues and the individuals she serves.

In her new role, Kayla will oversee the Adult Family Care (AFC) and Shared Living programs while continuing to lead the Community Living program. Her leadership will be instrumental in strengthening these essential services and ensuring they continue to meet the needs of the community.

A 2021 graduate of the Berkshire Leadership Program, Kayla remains actively engaged in professional development. She serves on the Berkshire Leadership Program Steering Committee and the McCann Advisory Committee for Business Technology, where her insights are highly valued. Additionally, she plans to further her education with graduate studies in Healthcare Administration.

"Kayla continues to demonstrate strong leadership, a forward-thinking approach, and an unwavering passion for human services," said Kristen Wampler, VP of Community Services. "She is deeply committed to BFAIR’s mission, and we are thrilled to have her in this role."

BFAIR congratulates Kayla on this well-earned promotion and looks forward to the continued impact of her leadership in the community.

About BFAIR

Join Our Team!

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 17:28:00 GMT

A re You Looking for Your Next Big Move?

BFAIR is always looking for passionate, dedicated staff to join our team. Check out open opportunities!

Advocacy: Western Mass Regional Caring Force Rally

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 17:28:04 GMT

On September 17th , BFAIR helped to plan and attended the Western MA Caring Force Rally which was the first of its kind in conjuction with other regional rallies. The rally was held at Westfield State University , celebrating DSP Week and advocating for continued funding and support for the human services sector. The event was sponsored by 18 Degrees, BFAIR, Gándara Center, MHA, and Viability .

Program Spotlight: Employment Services

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 17:28:06 GMT

BFAIR Bottle & Can Redemption Center

BFAIR’s Redemption Center provides meaningful work opportunities for individuals with disabilities while serving Northern Berkshire County. Individuals gain experience in customer service, sorting, processing, and cash transactions under the guidance of an Employment Coach.

How does it work?
Customers bring their redeemable containers, and our team assists in sorting and counting.
A can counting machine , acquired in 2021, with a grant from the Williamstown Community Chest, ensures accurate processing.
Large drop-offs can be left, and we notify customers when their funds are ready.

We also support processing bottle drive fundraisers for organizations like No Paws Left Behind and Cheshire Lions Club . Thank you to all organizations who utilize our services so that we can continue to provide individuals with disabilities with meaningful employment opportunities. If you would like to partner with us, please give us a call at 413-663-5056.

Redemption Center Contact Information:

Address: 1000 Massachusetts Avenue, North Adams, MA 01247 | 413-663-5056

Mon/Wed/Fri/Sat: 9 AM – 2 PM
Tue/Thu: 9 AM – 3 PM
Sunday: Closed

Group Employment Expansion

BFAIR now partners with six businesses and an additional seasonal location to provide employment opportunities. Current business partners include:

Pittsfield Veterinary Hospital
Steinerfilm
AJ’s Trailside Pub
Valley Park Lanes
Greylock Glen Outdoor Center
Elder Services Kitchen

Interested in hiring a reliable workforce through our Employment Services? Contact Debora Harpin, Director of Employment Services at 413-664-9382 ext. 117 .

Events

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 17:28:12 GMT

Berkshire REALTORS Battle of the Bartenders

On May 30 , the Berkshire Realtor’s community and BFAIR supporters gathered at 413 Bistro & Tap Room for the Battle of the Bartenders-North event, raising an impressive $8,524 for BFAIR. Jake Dabrowski , BFAIR Board Member, and his team from Adams Community Bank raised $1,063 , securing fifth place! Thank you to Berkshire REALTORS for selecting BFAIR as their Northern Berkshire charity of choice for this fantastic event.

Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Week – September 8-14

We celebrated our DSPs and their incredible contributions with gift bags as a token of appreciation.

2024 Heart of BFAIR Campaign

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 17:29:44 GMT

From November 1st – December 31st , our Heart of BFAIR Campaign raised over $33,000 to promote accessibility, independence, and enhance program resources for over 400 people served by BFAIR.

Between BFAIR’s 30th anniversary celebration, Giving Tuesday, and the Heart of BFAIR Campaign, we raised over $141,000! Thank you to our incredible community and BFAIR staff for your continued generosity and support.

Giving Tuesday

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 17:28:17 GMT

BFAIR participated in Giving Tuesday on December 3, 2024, raising over $8,000 with the support of staff, families, and community partners. A big thank you to Adams Community Bank for their generous contribution as our matching sponsor!

BFAIR’s 90s-Themed Fundraiser Raises Over $70,000 to Support People with Disabilities

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 17:28:22 GMT

Held on October 25th at The Williams Inn, the event held to celebrate BFAIR’s 30th Anniversary, the event brought together over 125 guests, sponsors, and community members who embraced the nostalgic atmosphere with 90s-inspired attire, music, and activities. DJ MusiChris kept the dance floor alive, and guests enjoyed interactive experiences including a photo booth, raffle, and silent auction.

CEO Rich Weisenflue shared, “We’re humbled by the generosity of our supporters. The funds raised will enhance our programs, from residential and employment services to community living and self-advocacy initiatives.”

A special live auction, hosted by former board member Alex Kastrinakis , highlighted BFAIR’s mission. Kim Baker , Board Member and Event Chair, emphasized, “The community’s generosity ensures BFAIR continues providing meaningful services.”

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our attendees, sponsors, and volunteers, with special recognition to SourcePass and Adams Community Bank .

Staff Highlights

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 17:28:24 GMT

Employees of the Quarter - Q2 2024

Tracie Gregorie
House Manager

Kristine Charbonneau
CBDS Specialist

Staff Educational Accomplishments

Michelle Baity, SVP of Human Resources

Michelle completed her MBA in December 2024 from Fitchburg State University.

Kristen Wampler, VP of Community Services

Kristen completed her graduate level Certificate in Nonprofit Human Services Management, which the Providers Council offers at a discount in partnership with Suffolk University.

Tami Minck, Director of Quality Compliance

Tami completed her Leadership of Nonprofit Organizations Graduate Certificate through Southern New Hampshire University.

Educational Assistance - As part of our robust employee benefits, and due to a generous contribution from Sally Hart Peterson, the Hart Family Fund, supports staff who through their professional development further BFAIR’s mission to provide quality, individualized care to people of all abilities. The Hart Family Fund provides financial assistance and support for education assistance, staff training and appreciation of the work of dedicated and quality staff.

New Staff & Internal Promotions

Noelle Crawford

Director of Learning and Development

Deborah Harpin
Promoted to Director of Employment Services

Laura Baran

Promoted to Senior Director of Employment Services

Georgia Napolitano
Promoted to Director of Finance

Kayla Brown-Wood
Promoted to Director of Community Services

Christine Meiklejohn
Promoted to Senior Director of Residential Services

Kaitlyn Moresi
Promoted to Vice President of Clinical Services

A Message from the CEO

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:28:27 GMT

As we reflect on the past several months, I am incredibly proud of the achievements, milestones, and unwavering dedication demonstrated by our staff, supporters, and community partners. From celebrating 30 years of impact to raising over $141,000 , 2024 has been a year of remarkable progress.

This newsletter highlights the exceptional contributions of our employees , the success of our recent events , and the exciting expansions in our programs and services . Whether it’s our dedicated Direct Support Professionals , those furthering their training through our Pathways initiative, education, or our recently promoted leaders, the people we support and our staff are at the heart of everything we do.

None of this would be possible without you—our generous donors, community members, and staff who believe in our mission to empower individuals with disabilities to live independent and fulfilling lives. Your support fuels our work and we are deeply grateful.

Lastly, after many rewarding years at BFAIR, I will be retiring at the end of March. As this approaches, I am drawn to reflect upon the privilege I’ve been given and BFAIR has been afforded to provide services to members of our community with disabilities. Undoubtedly, I will miss my interactions with the people we serve which fueled my passion to work in the field of human services. Through my work at BFAIR, I’ve learned invaluable lessons from the people we serve and our staff providing care — patience, perseverance, trust in others, and the importance of finding joy in everyday moments.

I am confident that the agency’s Senior leadership and management team, Direct Support Professionals and Board of Directors, are committed to a smooth and thoughtful transition. I believe this is an exciting time for the agency, which operates with a deep commitment to service quality, positive organizational culture, community engagement and to our mission to inspire abilities and create limitless possibilities for the people we serve.

Thank you to so many who have contributed in one way or another to the agency’s success. The memories I’ll carry with me from my rewarding years at BFAIR will always be a source of pride and hold a special place in my heart.

Warm regards,

Rich Weisenflue
Chief Executive Officer, BFAIR

BFAIR Announces Promotions of Kaitlyn Moresi & Christine Meiklejohn

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:00:03 GMT

Tues. Jan. 14, 2025 - (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR is proud to announce the promotions of Kaitlyn Moresi to Vice President of Clinical Services and Christine Meiklejohn to Senior Director of Residential Services. Both have demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to the agency’s mission of enhancing the lives of those they serve.

Kaitlyn Moresi: Vice President of Clinical Services

Kaitlyn Moresi brings a wealth of expertise to her new role as Vice President of Clinical Services. She holds a bachelor's degree in communication and science Disorders from The College of Saint Rose and a master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with a minor in Autism from Endicott College. Kaitlyn is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a licensed Applied Behavior Analyst in Massachusetts.

Kaitlyn began her career providing in-home ABA therapy with Positive Behavior Supports Corporation and later served as a BCBA for the Hoosac Valley Regional School District. She joined BFAIR in 2022 as the Director of Clinical Services, where she made significant strides in advancing the organization’s clinical programming.

Beyond her professional achievements, Kaitlyn is deeply committed to community engagement. A graduate of The Berkshire Leadership Program in 2024, she serves on the Fundraising Committee for No Paws Left Behind and the board of the Love of T Foundation.

Christine Meiklejohn: Senior Director of Residential Services

Christine Meiklejohn, who has been with BFAIR for nine years, has been promoted to Senior Director of Residential Services. In this role, she will oversee both the ABI and DDS Residential Services departments, continuing her work to expand residential programming and support individuals transitioning from nursing homes to community living.

Christine’s dedication to BFAIR’s mission is evident in her hands-on approach, participating o numerous agency committees and volunteering at community events. She is an active advocate for livable wages and respect of the work of Direct Support Professionals through the Providers Council's Caring Force initiative and works tirelessly to represent the interests of the people BFAIR serves.

Currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Christine plans to further her education by obtaining a master’s degree. Her unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth makes her a key leader in the organization.

About BFAIR

January Right of the Month

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 15:00:02 GMT

2024 Heart of BFAIR Campaign - THANK YOU!

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 15:09:53 GMT

Thank you for being the HEART of BFAIR! Enjoy this thank you video from the BFAIR Board of Directors and Senior staff.

December Right of the Month

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 17:18:53 GMT

BFAIR Launches 2024 Heart of BFAIR Campaign

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 13:00:04 GMT

Tues. Dec. 3, 2024 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR launches the 2024 Heart of BFAIR Campaign as their annual appeal.

With a focus on community inclusion BFAIR is committed to the people served, and this Annual Heart of BFAIR campaign shows a day-in-the-life of a people who participate in BFAIR’s services.

This year, Giving Tuesday falls on Tuesday, December 3rd, which is a perfect match to launch our campaign. In 2023, on Giving Tuesday, a National Day of Giving, with a generous match of $5,000 from Adams Community Bank, BFAIR raised over $11,500 in a single day.

Marissa Kirchner, BFAIR’s Board Development chair stated, "As a board member of BFAIR, I’ve seen firsthand how every contribution can transform lives. I'm choosing to give to BFAIR, and I hope you will, too. Your support helps provide services to individuals with disabilities and empowers them to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. I encourage you to join me in making an impact that lasts well beyond today."

Support our Heart of BFAIR campaign through 12/31 and you will help to promote accessibility, create independence, and enhance program resources for over 400 people served by BFAIR. Donations can be made at www.bfair.org/heart-of-bfair-campaign

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR CEO Rich Weisenflue Announces Retirement Effective March 27, 2025

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 20:13:35 GMT

Thur. Nov. 21, 2024 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR announces that Rich Weisenflue, its long-serving CEO, will retire effective March 27, 2025. Rich’s departure marks the end of a remarkable career spanning over three decades of leadership in human services, including 25 years with BFAIR.

Rich’s tenure at BFAIR has been transformative. Under his leadership, the organization expanded its offerings to include a wide range of Residential, Day, Employment, Community Based, Family, and Individual Support services, as well as a Bottle and Can Redemption Center which offers employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Today, BFAIR serves over 400 clients and employs more than 300 staff members, making it a vital part of the region’s human services landscape.

Originally from Pennsylvania, Rich began his career in the Human Service field as a live-in House Manager with Keystone City Residence and later developed innovative recreation and community inclusion programs for people with disabilities through the Deutsch Institute. After relocating to Berkshire County, Rich dedicated 35 years to nonprofit human services, joining BFAIR in 2000 as Associate Executive Director. He was promoted to Executive Director in 2001 and to CEO in 2018.

Rich earned a B.A. in Psychology and an M.A. in Human Resource Administration from the University of Scranton, complemented by nonprofit management coursework at the Harvard Business School Executive Education. In 2019, he was honored for Executive Leadership by the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires and most recently presented with a Lifetime Achievement award by UCP of Western Massachusetts.

An active member of the community, Rich serves on the Board of Directors of the Provider’s Council, a statewide association of community-based organizations, and previously on the Northern Berkshire United Way. His past board roles include the Employers Association of the Northeast, the Human Service Forum, the Williamstown Chamber of Commerce, and the Rotary Club of North Adams, among others.

Reflecting on his tenure, Rich stated, "It has been an extraordinary privilege to lead BFAIR and work alongside such talented and compassionate colleagues. Committed and caring professionals throughout are to be commended for their work contributing to BFAIR ’s success offering quality services for the past thirty years. I am confident the organization’s mission and positive culture will continue to thrive under new leadership."

Pete Mirante, Board Chair, remarked that “the Board of Directors extends its deepest gratitude to Rich for his dedication and leadership. It was a pleasure working together along with the Senior leadership team focused on service excellence and options, staff recognition and professional development and building community partnerships.”

The search for BFAIR’s next CEO is being managed by the Employers Association of the NorthEast (EANE). This transition will ensure that the organization continues to provide exceptional support and services to individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injuries throughout Berkshire County and the Pioneer Valley.

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR’s 90s-Themed Fundraiser Raises Over $70,000 to Support People with Disabilities

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 19:22:08 GMT

About BFAIR

###

Caring Force Western MA Rally

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 18:56:38 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information, contact:

Caroline O’Neill, Manager of Public Policy and Communications

caroline@providers.org

508.598.9686

***MEDIA ADVISORY***

WESTERN MA CARING FORCE RALLY TO CELEBRATE DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS WEEK AND ADVOCATE FOR HUMAN SERVICES WORKERS

Westfield, MA - September 17, 2024 – The Caring Force is thrilled to announce the first ever Western MA Caring Force Rally, taking place on Tuesday, September 17th, at Westfield State University, Scanlon Hall, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This event, sponsored by 18 Degrees, BFAIR, Gándara Center, MHA, and Viability, will celebrate Direct Support Professionals (DSP) Week and honor the broader human services sector, highlighting the essential work being done by these dedicated professionals and the ongoing need for continued funding and support.

The rally will feature compelling stories from the sector, with speakers from Viability and Gándara Center sharing their personal experiences as both providers and recipients of human services. Additionally, the event will include a legislator Q&A session, providing attendees with an opportunity to engage directly with elected officials on the issues affecting the human services workforce.

Rally speakers:

President Linda Thompson, President of Westfield State University
Mayor Mike McCabe, Mayor of Westfield
Representative Carlos Gonzalez, Hampden County
Senator John Velis, Hampden and Hampshire

Stories from the Sector by Speakers from Viability and Gándara Center

To attend, please RSVP at https://bit.ly/WesternMARally. Media representatives are encouraged to attend. For more information, please contact Caroline O’Neill caroline@providers.org.

HiSET/GED Classes

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 15:43:32 GMT

Are you interested in earning your High School Equivalency Diploma (HSE) via HiSET/GED? We are currently enrolling for the fall 2024 semester, starting the week of September 9, 2024. Contact Program Director at apecor@napsk12.org or 413-412-1118.

Save the Date: BFAIR Celebrates 30 Years with a 90’s Throwback Event

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 10:53:18 GMT

July 22, 2024 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR celebrates 30 years of success with Celebration at the Williams Inn, on Friday, October 25th at 5:30 PM, sponsored by Sourcepass.

The fundraiser will include a VIP Hour, live auction, 90’s theme music, and great food.

"Celebrating 30 years of service is a testament to the dedication and resilience of our team at BFAIR. We've worked tirelessly to support individuals with disabilities and our communities, and this milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. As we look ahead, we remain inspired by our past achievements and are driven to continue building a brighter future for everyone we serve." - Rich Weisenflue, CEO

For more information about the event, to register, or to sponsor, please visit https://www.bfair.org/30th-anniversary-celebration or contact Tara Jacobsen, Director of Development at tjacobsen@bfair.org .

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR Welcomes Noelle Crawford as New Director of Learning and Employee Development

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 12:00:09 GMT

July 17, 2024 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR is happy to announce the appointment of Noelle Crawford as the new Director of Learning and Employee Development. Noelle brings a wealth of experience in Human Resources and Customer Service to the organization, along with a strong educational background.

Noelle holds a BA in Sociology from MCLA and has built a diverse professional portfolio with roles including Customer Service Representative for 403b plans, Marketing Specialist, and Group Benefits Coordinator. She is well-versed in training, licensing, onboarding, leadership, HR coordination, and HRIS systems.

In her new role, Noelle will spearhead the development of comprehensive training programs designed to support employee career growth, foster leadership skills, and align with BFAIR’s strategic objectives. Her proven expertise in operational efficiency, cross-functional leadership, and process improvement solutions positions her as an excellent fit for this vital role.

“Please join us in welcoming Noelle to her new role with BFAIR,” said Michelle Baity, SVP of Human Resources. “We are excited to have her join our team to further enhance our Human Resources department to ensure that we are providing support for our employees through training and development to better assist the individuals and families supported by BFAIR.”

Noelle's appointment underscores BFAIR’s dedication to investing in its employees and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

About BFAIR

###

2024 Flu Clinics

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 17:24:43 GMT

We have set up our 2024 Flu Clinics with East Bay Pharmacy. Please select the appropriate location and time for your flu shot.

Questions: Laura Baran, Senior Director of CBDS & Employment - lbaran@bfair.org

Scholarships for Providers' Council Members

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 19:43:02 GMT

The Providers' Council is pleased to offer three scholarships for Provider member staff pursuing higher education at the graduate level for the 2024-25 academic year.

The available scholarships include:

(1) Graduate Leadership Scholarship ($10,000)
(1) Foreign-Born Leadership Scholarship ($5,000)
(2) Matava and Weekes Scholarships ($5,000)

· Formerly titled the "Master of Public Administration Scholarships".

Applications are available now and are due Friday, August 16th!

Apply for Scholarships Here!

Scholarship Descriptions:

Graduate Leadership Scholarship
Created to support the promotion and development of the human services sector's workforce, the Graduate Leadership Scholarship is a one-time award of $10,000 for a Council member employee who is entering or currently enrolled in a graduate degree program.

Most accredited graduate programs are eligible provided the applicant demonstrates in their personal statement how the program is clearly related to their future contributions to the human services sector.

Learn More Here!

Foreign-Born Leader Scholarship
The Providers' Council is pleased to offer its Foreign-Born Leader Scholarship to support one dedicated human services employee.

This is a one-time, $5,000 award to support a foreign-born Council member employee who is entering or is currently enrolled in a graduate degree program.

Learn More Here!

Matava and Weekes Scholarships

in Partnership with Suffolk University

(Formerly titled the Master of Public Administration Scholarships)

The Providers' Council, in partnership with Suffolk University, will be awarding two Master of Public Administration scholarships. These scholarships are based on leadership, merit and financial need.

These are one-time grants of $5,000 and will be awarded to two Council member employees who are entering or currently enrolled in the MPA program at Suffolk University.

Eligible applicants must have successfully completed the Council's Certificate in Nonprofit Human Services Management Program within the past seven years.

Learn More Here!

Wellness Tips from Wild Oats

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 16:58:54 GMT

Wild Oats is passionate about health and well being and we were honored to share our healthy snack options with you.

Local Battle of the Bartenders Event Raises $8500 in Support of BFAIR

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 13:00:09 GMT

June 11, 2024 (North Adams, MA) – On Thursday, May 30, the Berkshire Realtor’s community along with other industry experts, BFAIR supporters, staff and board members, gathered for the Battle of the Bartenders-North at 413 Bistro & Tap Room in North Adams, MA to raise money for BFAIR.

The competition was fierce with six teams competing every thirty minutes from 5-8 PM. After an intense evening of shaking, stirring and pouring, the event was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of community and generosity. Thanks to the overwhelming support from attendees and participants, the event raised an impressive $8524 for BFAIR. BFAIR’s own Jake Dabrowski (Board member), and his team from Adams Community Bank, took home fifth place raising $1063 for BFAIR.

Battle of the Bartenders-North – Results:
1st Place: Boozy Brokers - $2036

2nd Place: Thirst Things Thirst - $1678

3rd Place: The Cocktail Closers - $1855

4th Place: Shakin’ Things Up - $1502

5th Place: The Fantastic Pour - $1063

6th Place: Rum Slingers - $389

Rich Weisenflue, CEO of BFAIR expressed gratitude for the community’s support. “We are incredibly thankful to BerkshireREALTORS for selecting BFAIR and everyone who participated in and attended the Battle of the Bartenders. Combining an evening of fun with incredible generosity is a win-win in my book. The funds raised will make a difference in our efforts to support people with disabilities by promoting independence, creating accessibility, and enhancing resources for over 400 program participants and residents served by BFAIR in Berkshire, Hampden, and Hampshire County.”

About BFAIR

###

2024 Staff Appreciation Picnic

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 20:43:29 GMT

BFAIR's Annual Meeting Gathered 175 Supporters

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Tue, 28 May 2024 16:51:48 GMT

Tuesday, May 28, 2024 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR held its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, May 14th at the Berkshire Hills Country Club with a gathering of over 175 staff, community partners and supporters.

Rich Weisenflue, CEO, and Peter Mirante, BFAIR Board Chair led the meeting. Mirante welcomed Pittsfield Mayor, Peter Marchetti, and Pittsfield City Council President, Pete White. The meeting included recognition of employees with five or more years of service, Keystone awards, and an inaugural presentation by Sally Petersen of the Hart Family Fund Award.

Guest speaker, Peter Johnson, inspired the room with his presentation, representing the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Advisory Council, recounting his positive life experiences as well as his advocacy work on behalf of people with Down Syndrome and developmental disabilities.

Keystone Award Recipients:

Crosby/Quintal Memorial Award – Casandra Magner, ABI Residential House Manager - The Crosby/Quintal award is named in remembrance of two former employees for their commitment to equality, advocacy and human rights.

Edward Frampton Self-Determination Award - Kaytlyn Stringer, BFAIR supported individual - The Frampton Award is presented to a person served by BFAIR who achieved a personal goal.

Leadership Award - Kris Neep, Director of Community Based Day Services - The Leadership Award is a distinguished honor given to an employee that has accomplished professional leadership qualifications and opportunities.

Community Partners of the Year – Restaurant Partners who participated in BFAIR’s 1 ^st Annual Dine for Disabilities event in Fall 2023 included The Barn, Boston Sea Foods, Brookhouse Pub, Grazie, Hot Harry’s, Olympic Pizza, On A Roll Cafe, Proprietor’s Lodge, and Zucchini’s Restaurant.

Hart Family Fund Award – Christine Meiklejohn, Director of ABI Residential Services. The Hart family has been engaged with BFAIR for over two decades through a family member receiving Day and Residential services. In 2023, they created the Hart Family Fund to support staff education assistance and appreciation to cultivate a more informed, well-trained team of employees committed to providing quality services for people served by BFAIR.

In addition to the Hart Family Fund, Tara Jacobsen, Director of Development, shared how donors and community support further BFAIR’s mission in several ways, including promoting independence, creating accessibility, and enhancing program resources on an individual basis and program wide.

Board members were recognized for their support of BFAIR’s mission and volunteer work. Officers elected for a two-year term include Pete Mirante, Chair, Kim Baker, Vice Chair, Andrew Briggs, Treasurer and Dana Johnson, Clerk.

Also announced was that BFAIR is planning its 30th Anniversary Celebration on October 25th at the Williams Inn.

Thank you to the 2024 BFAIR Annual Meeting Sponsors:

Gold Sponsor – Greylock Federal Credit Union
Silver Sponsor – Laureyns United
Bronze Sponsors – KB Accounting and Shire Wealth Management

For a look at photos of the event, please visit BFAIR’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BFAIR771

About BFAIR

###

2024 Annual Meeting

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 20 May 2024 21:41:41 GMT

Enjoy the photos from our Annual Meeting held on May 14th.

Battle of the Bartenders

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 20 May 2024 21:32:16 GMT

Battle of the Bartenders to Benefit BFAIR on Thursday, May 30th from 5-9 PM.

Wellness Bingo

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 20 May 2024 18:34:20 GMT

2024 Wellness Fair

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Mon, 20 May 2024 18:27:51 GMT

Join us for the Health & Wellness Fair on June 6th from 2-5 PM at the Main Office.

BFAIR Celebrates Selection as a Big Y Community Bag Program Beneficiary

kcardillo@bfair.org (Katrina Cardillo) — Wed, 01 May 2024 19:04:26 GMT

May 1, 2024 (North Adams, MA) BFAIR has been selected as a beneficiary of the Big Y Community Bag Program for May.

The Big Y Community Bag Program makes it easy for shoppers to support their communities and environment by buying durable, reusable shopping bags. Donations from this program support groups focused on education, civic, health & wellness, hunger relief and military/veterans' organizations.

BFAIR was selected as the May beneficiary of the Big Y Program located at 45 Veterans Memorial Drive, North Adams. BFAIR will receive a $1 donation every time the $2.50 reusable Community Bag is purchased at this location during May.

“To be chosen as the recipient for the Big Y Community Bag Program is an honor. The funds that we receive from generous donors and businesses support over 400 people with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury by promoting independence, creating accessibility, and enhancing program resources. This program helps to further the BFAIR mission throughout the Berkshire County community,” shares Tara Jacobsen, Director of Development.

For more information on the Big Y Community Bag Program, visit https://bigy.2givelocal.com/program/community-bag/

About BFAIR

For thirty years, BFAIR has provided Adult Family Care (AFC), Residential, Clinical, Employment and Day Services for adults with developmental disabilities, Acquired Brain Injury and Autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

###

BFAIR to Hold Annual Meeting

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 14:53:29 GMT

April, 10, 2024 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR will hold its Annual Meeting of the corporation on Tuesday, May 14th at the Berkshire Hills Country Club from 7:30 – 9:00 AM.

Rich Weisenflue, CEO, and Peter Mirante, BFAIR Board Chair will lead the meeting. The meeting will include awards for employees with five or more years of service, special awards, and an inaugural presentation of the Hart Family Fund Award for tuition reimbursement, educational assistance, and appreciation for BFAIR employees.

The 2024 BFAIR Annual Meeting Sponsors are:

Gold Sponsor – Greylock Federal Credit Union
Silver Sponsor – Laureyns United
Bronze Sponsors – KB Accounting and Shire Wealth Management

To register, please use the following URL: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/202annumeet/event/bfair2024annualmeeting/ or visit bfair.org.

About BFAIR

###

Three Local Nonprofits Partner Together to Deliver Pet Food to the Elderly

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 19:31:00 GMT

March 1, 2024 (North Adams MA) – In partnership with the Berkshire Humane Society Pet Assistance Program, BFAIR and Elder Services of Berkshire County are helping elders feed their pets in conjunction with their Meals on Wheels program, which provides a hot lunch-time meal for people aged 60 and older .

The Pet Assistance program kicks off on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at the Berkshire Humane Society in Pittsfield, MA at 10:30 AM. BFAIR’s Community Based Day Services Program (CBDS) participants will fill a vehicle at Berkshire Humane Society, before they embark on a journey throughout Pittsfield and Dalton to deliver pet food to over twenty elders in the Berkshire Community. The program will run monthly, where BFAIR program participants will continue to deliver this much-needed item.

BFAIR’s Community Based Day Services program helps adults with disabilities participate in their community and improve their skills by providing access to regular, meaningful social contact and stimulating activities. Community-Based Day Services are designed to maximize a person’s ability to manage everyday life activities in their community.

According to Kayla Brown-Wood at Elder Services of Berkshire County, “For us at Elder Services, we’re excited to be able to offer this to the people receiving Meals on Wheels while also strengthening our community partnerships and helping people with disabilities make an impact through this experience.”

Laura Baran recently appointed Senior Director of CBDS and Employment at BFAIR states, “Our CBDS program adds value to our local community in multiple ways; providing an opportunity for participants to interact in the community, and with that, comes wonderful volunteer service in the Berkshires, to help those in need.”

John Perreault at the Berkshire Humane Society remarks “It’s impressive how three very different non-profit organizations can come together in this way to provide a meaningful service to people, and pets, in our community.”

To be eligible to receive pet assistance through this program, the individual must receive services through Elder Service’s Meals on Wheels program. For more information on how to get started, please visit esbci.org or by calling 413-499-0524.

About Elder Services of Berkshire County

Elder Services of Berkshire County Inc. (ESBCI) is a private, non-profit agency with a mission to provide Berkshire elders, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and self-determination, and to achieve the highest possible quality of life. ESBCI is designated as the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) and Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) for all of Berkshire County and carries out its mission through services including Information and Referral, Home Care, Caregiver Support, Housing Options, Long-Term Care Ombudsman Advocacy, Money Management, and the Senior Nutrition Program (Meals on Wheels).

About Berkshire Humane Society

Berkshire Humane Society is at 501(c)3 nonprofit, open-admission animal support organization. Our mission is to ensure the compassionate care, treatment, and placement of companion animals, while promoting and improving the welfare of all animals through education and outreach.

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR Announces Thrilling Promotion of Laura Baran to Senior Director of Employment and CBDS

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 14:00:00 GMT

North Adams, MA – Feb. 29, 2024 - In a meaningful celebration of achievement, BFAIR proudly unveils the well-earned promotion of Laura Baran to the esteemed position of Senior Director of Employment and Community Based Day Services (CBDS). This exciting development reflects Laura’s exceptional dedication, remarkable skills, and unwavering commitment to excellence, marking a significant milestone in her career journey with BFAIR.

Laura Baran’s association with BFAIR dates to 2015. Having initially served as a B oard member from 2015 to 2018, Laura seamlessly transitioned into the agency as a R ecruiter, where she has spent the past five years playing a crucial role in supporting the agency’s hiring efforts.

Her professional journey includes significant roles such as Day Program Director at another local nonprofit, Program Manager for the American Cancer Society, and Berkshire County Kids Place. Laura’s wealth of experience extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing community involvement, fundraising, and B oard membership. Her philanthropic spirit is further evident through years of volunteering with organizations such as Northern Berkshire United Way, American Cancer Society, and more.

“We are thrilled to share the exciting news of Laura Baran’s promotion to Senior Director of Employment and CBDS,” expressed Theresa Denette, SVP of Operations. “Laura’s extensive experience and unwavering commitment make her an invaluable addition to our leadership team, and we eagerly anticipate the positive impact she will bring to her new role.”

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR Promotes HR Generalist to Onboarding & Employee Relations Specialist

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Feb. 28, 2024 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR promotes Rebecca Ritcher to Onboarding and Employee Relations Specialist.

Rebecca Ritcher, who began with BFAIR in 2018 as a Direct Support Professional, has dedicated her career to providing quality service and support to the individuals BFAIR serves.

In 2023 Rebecca achieved her aPHR (Associate Professional Human Resource certification through the Human Resource Certification Institute HRCI). As part of her new role, Rebecca will oversee the entire staff onboarding process and align her goals to support the agency’s overall strategic plan.

Michelle Baity, SVP of Human Resources, states, “Rebecca has worked hard to further her career and education within the agency, assuming the role of HR Generalist in 2021; she is truly an asset to the agency.”

In addition, she will help the agency hire talented and qualified team members and continue to support all areas of Human Resources. Rebecca is an integral, dedicated, and talented part of the HR team.

About BFAIR

For the past thirty years, B FAIR has provided Adult Family Care (AFC), Residential, Clinical, Employment and Day Services for adults with developmental disabilities, acquired brain Injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

###

BFAIR Promotes Kris Neep to Director of Community Based Day Services

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 14:00:00 GMT

North Adams, MA–Feb. 27, 2024 – BFAIR promotes Kris Neep to Director of Community Based Day Services (CBDS). Serving as Assistant Director for the past three years, Kris’s leadership experience and Day program expertise have proven pivotal in restructuring of the agency’s Day Habilitation programs and management of the expansion of our CBDS program.

Kris has been with BFAIR for twenty-six years, working in various programs, including Day Habilitation, Employment Services, Residential, Family, and Individual Support.

According to Ethel Altiery, Chief Operations Officer, “Due to her length of service, Kris has gained a wealth of knowledge about providing quality services for people with disabilities as well as national and state licensure and accreditation. She has trained countless Direct Support Professionals and is a key role model and advocate for people served by BFAIR. I am excited to work with Kris as Director of CBDS. She has been pivotal in the continued growth of our Community-Based Day Program over the past two years, and I anticipate further professional development in this new position.”

About BFAIR

For the past thirty years, BFAIR has provided Adult Family Care (AFC), Residential, Clinical, Employment and Day Services for adults with developmental disabilities, Acquired Brain Injury and Autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

###

BFAIR Promotes Two to Assistant Director – Harpin & Lysko

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 14:09:00 GMT

January 16, 2024 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR promotes Deb Harpin to Assistant Director of Employment Services, and Savannah Lysko to Assistant Director of DDS (Department of Developmental Services) Residential Services.

Deb Harpin, who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills through her work quality, decision-making abilities, and positive interactions with staff and clients since joining BFAIR. Deb is now taking on an advanced role and has been promoted to Assistant Director of Employment Services.

As part of her new role, Deb will oversee the Employment Services department and manage all programs, including DDS and MRC Employment Services programs. She will also support the department’s Direct Support Professionals and the agency’s social enterprise, the BFAIR Bottle & Can Redemption Center located on Mass Ave. in North Adams, MA.

Savannah Lysko joined BFAIR in 2013 and has gained a wide range of experience in various departments, including Employment, Day Habilitation, and Residential Services. In 2020, Savannah was promoted to the position of Residential House Manager. With ten years of experience exemplifying a solid commitment to the people served, Savannah was the ideal candidate for promotion to Assistant Director of DDS Residential Services.

Andre Wallace, Director of DDS Residential Services, praises Savannah’s work ethic, strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to lead as a positive role model. ”She is an asset to the organization and ready for advancement to the next level in her career.”

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR has provided Adult Family Care (AFC), Residential, Clinical, Employment and Day Services for adults with developmental disabilities, acquired brain Injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

###

Heart of BFAIR Campaign 2023 – THANK YOU

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 18:02:00 GMT

As we come to the final days of this year’s Heart of BFAIR Campaign, I wanted to send a tremendous amount of gratitude to those staff who participated in this year’s campaign.

Also, a special shoutout to the staff who supported our Campaign Spotlight, Corinne – Mike O’Hearn, Maria Gregory, and Kristin Roberts!

Thank you all for truly being the heart of BFAIR!

Tara Jacobsen

Director of Development

Join BFAIR’s Staff Facebook Groups

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 15:28:00 GMT

Join our staff Facebook Groups:

BFAIR Workplace Wellness

BFAIR Workplace Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

BFAIR Day Program Buzz

*Please request access, and the admins will accept your request within 2 business days.

BFAIR Launches 2023 Heart of BFAIR Campaign

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 19:45:00 GMT

Dec. 5, 2023 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR launches the 2023 Heart of BFAIR Campaign as their annual appeal.

With a focus on 24/7, 365 care, BFAIR is committed to the people served, and this year’s Annual Heart of BFAIR campaign shows a day-in-the-life of an individual, Corinne, who lives in a BFAIR residence and attends BFAIR’s Day Habilitation Program.

As a kickoff to the campaign, BFAIR participated in Giving Tuesday, a National Day of Giving, with a generous match of $5,000 from Adams Community Bank, raising over $11,500 in a single day.

Community members can also purchase handmade gifts crafted by BFAIR program participants to support our campaign. Sales of these items will go towards providing quality, individualized care for our programs and residences. Information about BFAIR Holiday Items can be found here .

“This year, we were so fortunate to share a day in the life of Corrine, who has received Residential and Day services from BFAIR for over 16 years. Hearing about her daily life, routines, and interests, seeing the relationships with staff created over the years, and understanding the impact of quality, individualized services is truly impactful. We are so thankful for the community support each Heart of BFAIR campaign, and it is through this generosity that we can enhance program resources for people of all abilities,” stated Tara Jacobsen, Director of Development.

Support our Heart of BFAIR campaign through 1 2/31, and you will help promote accessibility, create independence, and enhance program resources for over 400 people served by BFAIR.

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR has provided Adult Family Care (AFC), Residential, Clinical, Employment and Day Services for adults with developmental disabilities, Acquired Brain Injury and Autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

###

How to Support our Heart of BFAIR Campaign

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 17:00:00 GMT

Free COVID Tests from CDC

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 22:23:00 GMT

Every U.S. household can order 4 more free COVID-19 self-tests.

Self-tests (also called at-home tests and over-the-counter tests) are one of several tools that protect you and others by reducing the chances of spreading COVID-19.

Self-tests can be taken at home or anywhere, are easy to use, and produce rapid results.

You can place an order:

Online at COVIDTests.gov
By calling 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489)
By calling or emailing the Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) at 1-888-677-1199 or DIAL@usaginganddisability.org (for people with disabilities)

MassReconnect: Free Community College for Eligible Residents

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 19:30:00 GMT

Learn more here .

November Right of the Month

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 18:09:00 GMT

BFAIR Hosts Dine for Disabilities Event October 4th

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 21:39:00 GMT

Sept. 21, 2023 (North Adams, MA) BFAIR, and many restaurant partners throughout Berkshire County, will host Dine for Disabilities on Wednesday, October 4 th , 2023, from 8 AM to 9 PM.

Dine for Disabilities is an event to benefit BFAIR’s programs and services for people with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury. On Wednesday, October 4th, restaurants around Berkshire County will generously choose to donate a portion of proceeds to support BFAIR. Diners will make a positive impact just by visiting one of the restaurant partners to enjoy a favorite meal or even try a new restaurant.

“We are excited to collaborate with amazing and generous restaurants around Berkshire County as a way to further the BFAIR mission of providing high quality services to people of all abilities. On October 4 th , when people choose to dine at a partner restaurant, they are making a positive impact for BFAIR clients and services – and they are supporting a local business. What a combo for an incredible dining experience! Proceeds from this event will promote independence, create accessibility, and enhance organizational resources at BFAIR. We are very grateful to all our generous restaurant partners, and we hope the community comes out for Dine for Disabilities to show love to our local businesses and support for people of all abilities”, shares Tara Jacobsen, Director of Development.

Participating in Dine for Disabilities is easy as 1, 2, 3!

For more information about the event, and a full list of the restaurant partners, visit www.bfair.org/donate/dine-for-disabilities .

About BFAIR

###

September Right of the Month

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 13:46:00 GMT

October Right of the Month

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 13:46:00 GMT

BFAIR Positivity Pledge

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 17:09:00 GMT

As we are gaining a new understanding of ourselves and the environment around us, we are reaching out to people, to join in making the culture at BFAIR even better through civility. We may still have a long way to go globally but let us focus on what we can do and start with ourselves, agency, and culture.

How to start changing an unhealthy work environment | Glenn D. Rolfsen | TEDxOslo.

Take the Positivity Pledge

If you choose to participate, please print out, sign, and give to your supervisor.

BFAIR Announces New Board Members and Annual Elections

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 21:40:00 GMT

Sep. 5, 2023 ( North Adams, MA) – BFAIR is excited to welcome five distinct members of the Berkshire community to their Board of Directors: Andrew Briggs, Barbara Chaput, Jacob Dabrowski, Dana Johnson, and Marissa Kirchner.

Andrew Briggs, CPA, CGMA, Chief Financial Officer at Laureyns United, Inc., has over 15 years of experience in financial leadership roles in corporate and public accounting organizations. He earned his master’s in accountancy from Bentley University and his bachelor’s degree from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA). Andrew is an active member of both the AICPA and MSCPA.

Andrew is a proud lifelong Berkshire County resident and currently resides in Pittsfield. He is fiercely passionate about his roles and responsibilities. His favorite activity is spending time with his two boys and their dog, Dixie.

Barbara Chaput has served local Berkshire County organizations in human resources for 25+ years, including in higher education, health care, and manufacturing. Her responsibilities have included human resources, payroll, training, labor relations, and more.

Most recently, Barbara serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA), in North Adams, MA. She represents MCLA on the Berkshire Workforce Board of Directors and has been involved in several workforce development and community initiatives.

Barbara has an MBA from Western New England University and a bachelor’s degree from the College of Our Lady of the Elms. She and her husband, Jeffrey, have two adult children and reside in Cheshire. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and traveling in her free time.

Jake Dabrowski, AVP of Mortgage Originations of Adam Community Bank, has over 18 years of banking experience. He is a Berkshire County Native who loves his community. He serves on the Elder Services of Berkshire County Board and Executive Committee, The Northern Berkshire United Way Events Committee, and the Allocations Committee. Jake is also the President of the North Adams Lions Club.

In his free time, Jake enjoys hiking, fishing, and exploring the Berkshire outdoors in his free time. He lives in Williamstown with his wife, son, and their rescue pup Lola.

Dana Johnson brings over a decade of invaluable IT experience, serving companies in an IT consultant role throughout Berkshire County before joining General Dynamics, where he manages the Program Engineering Solutions team. Dana has a passion for problem-solving and a keen interest in understanding how things work. His career in IT aligns seamlessly with his hobby of building cars. Hailing from Southern Vermont, he completed his education at MCLA and has since made Berkshire County his home, demonstrating a strong commitment to the local community.

Marissa Kirchner has been in the financial services industry for over 18 years and works for Greylock Investment Group as a Financial Advisor in North Adams. She is active in the community and a Northern Berkshire United Way Board Member. She is a lifelong northern Berkshires resident living in Cheshire with her husband and son.

BFAIR’s Annual Elections were held on May 15, 2023, and the new slate of the Board of Directors is as follows:

Officers:

Directors:

Alex Kastrinakis was recognized for his nine years of board service.

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR Celebrates Selection as a Stop & Shop Community Bag Program Beneficiary

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 12:37:00 GMT

Aug. 31, 2023 (North Adams, MA) BFAIR has been selected as a beneficiary of the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program for the month of September.

The Stop & Shop Community Bag Program, which launched in May 2019, is a reusable bag program that facilitates community support with the goal to make a difference in the communities where shoppers live and work.

BFAIR was selected as the September beneficiary of the program by store leadership at the Stop & Shop located at 876 State Road, North Adams. BFAIR will receive a $1 donation every time the $2.50 reusable Community Bag is purchased at this location during September unless otherwise directed by the customer through the Giving Tag attached to the bag.

“We are truly grateful for being chosen as the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program recipient. The funds that we receive from generous donors and business supports over 400 people with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury by promoting independence, creating accessibility, and enhancing program resources,” shares Tara Jacobsen, Director of Development.

For more information on the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program, visit stopandshop.2givelocal.com .

About BFAIR

###

August Right of the Month

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 17:11:00 GMT

Frauds & Scams

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 19:13:00 GMT

21 Fantastic Summer Experiences In The Berkshires

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 17:11:00 GMT

Checkout the link to learn more.

BFAIR Holds Annual Meeting

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 13:55:00 GMT

June 7, 2023 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) held its Annual Meeting of the corporation on May 16th at the Williams Inn. The meeting was led by Pete Mirante, Board Chairperson, who welcomed guests and State Representative John Barrett. Newly elected Board members introduced at the meeting included Barbara Chaput, Jake Dabrowski, Dana Johnson, and Marissa Kirchner.

Rich Weisenflue, CEO, remarked that a dynamic team of agency staff have driven the organization forward through both challenging and exciting times, are critical to providing high quality services and that “our staff’s compassion and human connection placing the person served first is the BFAIR difference.”

The meeting included awards for employees with five or more years of service, with special recognition of Terry Blair, Liz Rolland, Nancy Torres, and Jackie Thomas for twenty-five years of service and their commitment to people with disabilities receiving support from BFAIR.

In addition, Rebecca Ritcher, HR Generalist, received a Leadership award in recognition of her professional accomplishments, Isaac Otchere, Residential House Manager, received the Crosby/Quintal Memorial award, and Bill Hensley and Matt Girard both received the Edward Frampton Award presented to people served in recognition of self-determination and accomplishing personal goals.

Berkshire Scenic Railway was presented with a Community Partner award for hosting a high school intern receiving services through BFAIR’s Pre-Employment Training program. Also, for his prior years of Board work and role as Chairperson, Brittany Dorwin on behalf of ‘We are the People,’ a self-advocacy group, presented Alex Kastrinakis with a copy of a book the group created: Inclusion Is. Brittany noted, “We dedicated this book to Alex for all his support, dedication, and advocacy on behalf of BFAIR.”

Tara Jacobsen, Director of Development, shared how donors and community support furthers the BFAIR mission in several ways, including promoting independence, creating accessibility, and enhancing program resources on an individual basis and program wide. “As we work towards the equity of people of all abilities, your support is essential. Whether you are one of the many staff present tonight who put their heart and soul into this work, or you are a community member who expands BFAIR’s work through providing opportunities or donating – you are making a difference. Each of you in this room is the heart of BFAIR, and we are so thankful.”

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing Adult Family Care (AFC), Residential, Employment and Day Services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, Acquired Brain Injury and Autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

###

BFAIR Launches Bites by BFAIR Concession Stand at Windsor Lake

Tue, 23 May 2023 18:23:00 GMT

May 23, 2023 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR Launches Bites by BFAIR Concession Stand at Windsor Lake.

Since 2016, BFAIR has served the community with quick snacks for their day at the beach. After a brief pause in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is coming back this season with fresh faces and a new menu. Bites by BFAIR will be run by students in the Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) program offering various options, including hot dogs, chili, nachos, sweet treats, and more.

The Pre-ETS program is intended to support students in developing the skills needed to obtain and maintain employment in the community. Work-based learning is vital to the program, allowing students to develop specific job-related skills in a supported environment through a paid internship.

The concession stand hours will increase in June as the academic school year ends. As of Memorial Day weekend (May 27 ^th )

Bites by BFAIR will be open the following:

Kayla Brown-Wood, Director of Day Services, says, “The Pre-ETS program is a great opportunity for students looking to explore job interests and acquire real-life experience in a supportive environment. After a three-year hiatus, we’re excited to return and serve our community by the beautiful lake!”

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR has provided Adult Family Care (AFC), Residential, Employment, and Day Services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, Acquired Brain Injury, and Autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

###

BFAIR Promotes Leanne Martin to Assistant Director of Day Habilitation

Tue, 09 May 2023 18:40:00 GMT

May 9, 2023 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR promotes Leanne Martin to Assistant Director of Day Habilitation.

Leanne began working for BFAIR in 2014 as a Direct Care Professional at the agencies Day Habilitation program located in North Adams. In 2020, Leanne was promoted to Case Manager for the Community Based Day Services (CBDS) program and later to the Day Habilitation program in the same role.

In her new role, Leanne is responsible for the everyday operation of the Day Habilitation program which is designed to support members and their unique needs to increase independence, socialization, and participate as active and fully integrated members of their community.

According to Kayla Brown-Wood, Director of Day Services, “we are eager for Leanne to use her existing experience with the department to further develop programming and services offered for the individuals we support. I am excited to see Leanne flourish in her new position and look forward to working more closely with her”.

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR and Firehouse Café & Bistro Partner to “Brunch for a Cause”

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 12:04:00 GMT

April 13, 2023 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR and the Firehouse Café & Bistro partner together to “Brunch for a Cause” on Sunday, April 23, 2023.

Firehouse Cafe and Bistro is generously donating 30% of the proceeds to support BFAIR’s programs for people with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury. Tickets are $45 per person.

There will be exciting activities to participate in during brunch, such as raffles and the musical offerings of the local Lindsay Anne Acoustic.

“We are incredibly grateful to Warren Dewes, Jr., Chef Xavier Jones, and the entire Firehouse Café team for generously hosting this event to benefit BFAIR. It is a great testament to the community supporting one another and leveraging opportunities for support, growth, and connection. The proceeds that will be donated to BFAIR will go directly towards promoting independence, creating accessibility, and enhancing program resources for all BFAIR participants and residents.”

More information is available on the BFAIR website at www.bfair.org. Reservations can be made by calling the Firehouse Café & Bistro referencing the BFAIR “Brunch for a Cause” at
413-776-7121.

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR and Greylock Federal Credit Union Partner for Brain Health & Safety with Bicycle Helmet Distribution

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 20:12:00 GMT

March 28, 2023 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR and Greylock Federal Credit Union partner together to raise awareness, for the second year in a row, for National Brain Injury Awareness Month.

With support from our presenting sponsor Greylock Federal Credit Union, BFAIR will be distributing bike helmets for children and adults to promote brain health and safety in Berkshire County. On Saturday, April 15 ^th from 10-1 PM 150 helmets for youth ages 6-13 and 100 helmets for 14+ will be distributed free-of-charge at the Ashuwilliticook Trail Head located at US 7/Rte. 8 Connector Rd, at the Berkshire Mall entrance in Lanesborough.
Tara Jacobsen, BFAIR’s Director of Development states “As an agency, we are continuously working to promote disability awareness and destigmatizing what it means to have a developmental disability, autism, or acquired brain injury. Brain Injury Awareness month and our partnership with Greylock Federal Credit Union is such a wonderful opportunity to further this work, uplift stories of survivors, promote community inclusion as well as brain health and safety.

About BFAIR
Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing Adult Family Care (AFC), Residential, Employment and Day Services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, Acquired Brain Injury and Autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

###

BFAIR Director Christine Meiklejohn takes home Provider’s Council Prestigious Award

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 16:44:00 GMT

March 2, 2023 (North Adams, MA) – Christine Meiklejohn, Director of ABI/MFP Residential Services at BFAIR, has been awarded the February 2023 Workforce Hero Award by the Provider’s Council.

The Providers’ Council is a statewide association of primarily nonprofit, community-based organizations that provide human services, health, education, and vocational support to one-in-ten residents of the Commonwealth. ( https://providers.org/about/vision-and-mission/ )

Christine is honored to receive this award and her heart has always been in human services stating, “My desire to work with people goes back as far as I can remember. When I was in school, I volunteered in programs for at-risk youth – this is where I got my first taste of what helping people could do. It did not take long to realize that even a few minutes of attention to someone could change the entire trajectory of their future. I knew back then human services would be for me.”

About BFAIR

###

Tips to Stay Active This Winter

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 20:02:00 GMT

Learn more about the health benefits of physical activity.

Whether indoors or outdoors, be as active as you can—and have fun!

The winter season can be a challenging time to stay active, with colder temperatures, slippery conditions, and fewer daylight hours. But staying physically active is one of the best ways to improve your mental and physical health and keep yourself on track to reach your fitness goals. Physical activity can help you sleep better and reduce anxiety. Regular physical activity also helps you feel better, improve your balance, lower your risk of type 2 diabetes and many kinds of cancer, strengthen bones and muscles, lower blood pressure, maintain or lose weight, and keep your mind sharp as you get older. Emerging research also suggests physical activity may help boost your immune function.

Experts recommend adults get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity physical activity. Many activities count, such as walking, running, or wheelchair rolling. You can break that up into smaller chunks of time or spread your activity out during the week. Try 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. It all counts. Get started today with our 6 tips to stay active all winter long.

1. Take nature walks.

Weather permitting, schedule time during the day to enjoy nature. Take a stroll around a safe neighborhood or park.

2. Monitor the weather and plan ahead.

Weather forecasts give several days’ notice to prepare your week. Be sure to monitor the weather, dress appropriately, and plan your winter activity accordingly.

3. Wear layers.

Wear several layers of comfortable clothing so that items can be removed easily as you become warmer. Layers will help you guard against overheating, sweating, and eventually becoming colder.

4. Workout online.

Consider tuning into a TV, online, live Zoom, or Instagram workout class. Find free or low-cost exercise videos online to help you do aerobics, dance, stretch, and build strength.

5. Do some chores.

When bad weather keeps you from going outside, look for ways to be physically active indoors . Housework such as vacuuming, sweeping, and cleaning all count towards your physical activity goals. And you’ll knock out some items on your to-do list while gaining health benefits. Walking or running up and down stairs in your home can be a great workout, too.

6. Volunteer in active ways while maintaining social distance.

Help others while helping yourself. Look for volunteer opportunities that involve physical activity such as walking dogs for elderly neighbors or shoveling snow. When volunteering, remember to follow social distancing recommendations to keep yourself and others safe.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/obesity-and-covid-19.html#steps

BFAIR Promotes Tami Minck to Director of Quality Assurance

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 18:20:00 GMT

Dec. 13, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – Tami Minck has been promoted to Director of Quality Assurance from Quality Facilitator and Human Rights Coordinator. “Tami has been a great asset to the Quality Department over the last 8 months providing us with her knowledge and organizational skills and has been a resourceful member of the organization”, states Erin Shea VP of Quality Compliance.

Tami has over 20 years’ experience in the Human Service field. She holds a Master of Science in Data Analytics from Southern New Hampshire University.

Tami’s primary responsibility is to ensure the delivery of quality support and services, ensuring regulations are met and that all programs are adhering to CARF/DDS standards. She also manages all aspects of the Home and Community Services Information System (HCSIS).

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR Launches Heart of BFAIR Campaign

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 17:37:00 GMT

Dec. 7, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR launches the 2022 Heart of BFAIR Campaign as their annual appeal.

With various Day, Residential, and Community services, BFAIR is home for many while creating community access and advocating for the equality of persons of all abilities.

As a kick-off to the campaign, BFAIR participated in Giving Tuesday, a National Day of Giving, with a generous match of $5,000 from Adams Community Bank, raising over $10,000 in a single day.

To support our campaign, community members can also purchase handmade gifts crafted by BFAIR program participants. Sales of these items will go towards providing quality, individualized care for our programs and residences. Information about BFAIR Holiday Items can be found here .

“24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, BFAIR provides quality and individualized care to nearly 400 people with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury. This type of care is at the foundation of our organization – not providing a one-size-fits-all model but offering programs and services that best fits the needs of each person in BFAIR’s programs and residences”, stated Tara Jacobsen, Director of Development.

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR Welcomes New Clinical Director Kaitlyn Moresi

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 15:46:00 GMT

Sept. 14, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR welcomes new Clinical Director, Kaitlyn Moresi to the organization.

Kaitlyn attended The College of Saint Rose where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Communication and Science Disorders. She furthered her education by attending Endicott College where she obtained her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis with a minor in Autism. She then went on to become a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She also holds her state licensure in Massachusetts as a Behavior Analyst.

While in graduate school, Kaitlyn worked for BFAIR as an In-Home Behavior Specialist. Once certified as a BCBA, she spent time working at Hoosac Valley Regional School district as well as providing In-Home Applied Behavior Analysis services with Positive Behavior Supports Corporation. She has now returned as a member to the BFAIR team.

According to Erin Shea, VP of Quality Compliance “Kaitlyn will be an excellent addition to our team with her experience and we are delighted to welcome her aboard.”

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing AFC (Adult Family Care), Residential, Clinical Services, Employment and Day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. www.bfair.org.

###

BFAIR NAMED A 2022 HEALTH NEW ENGLAND WELL WORTH IT AWARD WINNER FOR WORKSITE HEALTH PROMOTION

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 19:10:00 GMT

North Adams, MA – Aug. 26, 2022 – BFAIR (Berkshire Family And Individual Resources), a human service agency that serves individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury is proud to have been named a 2022 Health New England Well Worth It Award recipient at the GOLD level for successful worksite health promotion and employee health improvement. The award recognizes BFAIR’s commitment to their employees’ overall health and their achievements in implementing health and wellness programs during 2021.

An effective worksite wellness program can improve the well-being and productivity of the workforce while managing employee turnover and the rising cost of health care.

This year’s workplace wellness activities included a variety of workshops to offer our employees such as mindfulness, exercise, healthy eating, and smoking cessation. Also included were a few self-driven challenges such as a “Thinner by Thanksgiving” and hydration challenge. We participated as well in the Berkshire 150 Challenge through Berkshire Health Systems. We also pride ourselves on including individuals served by BFAIR in our wellness program.

“Health New England is proud to recognize BFAIR for their commitment to employee well-being by supporting a culture of health in the workplace,” stated Katie Bruno, Public Health, and Wellness Program Manager for Health New England. “As the pandemic continued in 2021, BFAIR engaged employees in meaningful wellness programs to meet their critical needs and to support their overall health, both physical and mental. The Well Worth It Award is an extension of Health New England’s mission and honors the work being done by our employer groups to improve the health and lives of the people in our communities.”

“Taking care of our team that are working hard taking care of others remains a top priority for us at BFAIR. Our Wellness Committee wants to ensure that they had all the tools they needed to stay well,” said Laura Baran, Wellness Committee Chair at BFAIR. “We are honored to be recognized by Health New England for our efforts.”

About Health New England

Based in Springfield, Massachusetts, Health New England is a not-for-profit health plan serving members in Massachusetts and Connecticut. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Baystate Health, Health New England offers a range of health care plans in the commercial, Medicaid and Medicare markets. For more about Health New England, visit healthnewengland.org .

About BFAIR
Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing AFC (Adult Family Care), Residential, Clinical Services, Employment and Day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. www.bfair.org.

###

BFAIR Promotes Caroline Prew to Director of Family & Individual Services

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 17:46:00 GMT

Aug. 23, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR promotes Caroline Prew to Director of Family & Individual Services. Caroline joined the agency in February of 2017 as the agency’s Receptionist in Pittsfield, until her transition to Outreach Coordinator during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this challenging time, Caroline proved to be an innovative thinker, finding ways to deliver dynamic and seamless services, regardless.

Caroline graduated from Bay Path College in 2012, earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with Child and Adolescent concentration.

According to Kristen Wampler, VP of Community Services, “Since joining our team almost 6 years ago, Caroline has eagerly assumed more responsibilities, and she brings a unique skillset to the job, specifically in the areas of critical thinking and teamwork. Her endless positivity, enthusiasm, and strong advocacy will aid her in handling the everyday operation of our Family and Individual Supports program I am excited to continue to work alongside Caroline in her new role as Director.”

About BFAIR
Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing AFC (Adult Family Care), Residential, Clinical Services, Employment and Day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. www.bfair.org.

###

BFAIR Promotes Nina Benvenuto in Employment Services Department

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 15:13:00 GMT

Aug. 18, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR promotes Nina Benvenuto to Assistant Director, Employment Services. Nina joined the agency in November 2021 as an Employment & Training Coordinator overseeing the Pre-Employment Transition Services (PRE-ETS) program which prepares high school students with disabilities for the workforce. She has eagerly assumed other responsibilities such as providing vocational placement services for individuals served by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission as well as working with individuals attending BFAIR’s supported employment program.

Nina attended SUNY Albany where she received a bachelor’s degree in Social Welfare and will be embarking on her master’s degree in Public Administration through Southern New Hampshire University this fall.

In her new position, Nina will provide oversight to the employment services department and supervision to two managers and several direct care staff.

According to Kayla Brown-Wood, Director of Day Services, “Nina has shown tremendous growth since coming on board last year. Her creativity and leadership skills will be instrumental in her new role, and I am eager to see how she will apply that to the development of new and meaningful opportunities for the individuals served in employment services.”

BFAIR Promotes Tara Jacobsen to Director of Development

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 18:05:00 GMT

Aug. 16, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) is pleased to announce that Tara Jacobsen has been promoted to Director of Development.

Tara joined BFAIR in 2021 and in her new role as Director of Development will be responsible for achieving the agency’s fundraising goals through donor engagement as well as championing BFAIR’s annual campaign, planning fundraising events and grant writing.

According to Rich Weisenflue, BFAIR’s CEO, “In short order Tara has effectively developed a positive case for support of the agency’s Mission and why personal and corporate giving is instrumental in improving the quality of our services and the lives of people with disabilities who live in our community. With Tara taking the lead, grant awards have increased ten-fold and I look forward to working with her developing new partnerships, stewardship of generous gifts and planned giving.”

Tara can be reached at tjacobsen@bfair.org or 413-464-7232 ext. 318

About BFAIR

###

BFAIR Promotes Three Key Staff in Reorganization

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 18:11:00 GMT

Jul. 27, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR promotes three key staff in reorganization, Ethel Altiery, Theresa Denette, and Kristen Wampler.

We are so pleased to announce the following promotions:

Ethel Altiery has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer. Ethel joined BFAIR in 2000 and due to her vast knowledge and experience and contribution to the field of human services has steadily been promoted from her initial position as Director of Residential Services.

Theresa Denette has been promoted to Senior Vice President Operations. Theresa began at BFAIR in 2001 as Assistant Director of Day Habitation Services and considering her experience providing services for people with developmental disabilities, her most recent role included SVP Day Services.

Kristen Wampler was promoted to VP Community Living Services. Kristen began her career at BFAIR in 2003 as Assistant Director Residential services and later took on the roles of Director of Individual and Family Supports, and VP Individual and Family Supports while overseeing BFAIR’s Pittsfield office.

According to Rich Weisenflue, CEO, “Ethel, Theresa and Kristen are dedicated to BFAIR’s mission to provide quality and individualized services and committed to the ongoing success of the agency.”

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing AFC (Adult Family Care), Residential, In-Home Clinical services, Employment and Day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. www.bfair.org.

###

BFAIR Receives over $15k from the Fraternal Order of the Eagles

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 12:00:00 GMT

July 12, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – In June of this year, BFAIR was honored as the state charity for the Massachusetts Fraternal O rder of the Eagles (FOE) Auxiliary.

Sharon Barrett, a BFAIR employee since 2012, chose BFAIR as the state charity during her past year as the MA State Auxiliary President. The motto of the FOE, ‘people helping people’ resonates through chapters state, country, and worldwide. Because of the dedicated and generous work of Sharon alongside Betty Cahill-Corbin, North Adams 310, MA State Auxiliary, MA State Aerie, and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, BFAIR received over $15,000 in grants and donations.

As Tara Jacobsen, Fundraising and Grants Manager shares, “This impactful donation will provide accessibility equipment for BFAIR’s residential and day habilitation services, as well as provide resources to promote independence and offset out-of-pocket costs for participants across programs.”

For anyone who is interested in making an impact at BFAIR, please reach out to Tara Jacobsen, Fundraising & Grants Manager at tjacobsen@bfair.org

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing AFC, Residential, In-Home Clinical services, Employment and Day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. www.bfair.org.

###

BFAIR’s Summer Kick Off Festival Brought the Heat

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 17:39:00 GMT

July 7, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – On June 11th, BFAIR had a successful community event in our First Annual Summer Kick-Off Festival that raised over $31,000. With support from 34 sponsors and 28 in-kind donations from local businesses, we were able to offer a fun-filled day full of the musical stylings of Code Blue Duo, delicious food from Adams Mason Food Truck, two mini-golf courses as part of the BFAIR-Way Mini Golf Tournament, and fifteen games and activities that were enjoyed by all. In total, over $3,000 in prizes and raffles, including those talented winners in the BFAIR-Way Tournament were distributed.

Tara Jacobsen, Fundraising & Grants Manager said of the event “Our first Summer Kick-Off Festival was an amazing way to get back into in-person events and further share the BFAIR mission with the greater community. Support that we receive through events like the Summer Kick-Off Festival and with other fundraising activities, helps us to provide essential and individualized care to persons with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury. We are so grateful to all our generous sponsors for making this event possible, the volunteers who donated their time, and to all the guests who came out to the event. We are already gearing up for next year!”

It was an enjoyable day, and we are humbled by all the guests, volunteers, vendors, donors, and sponsors who supported this event. And an incredibly special thank you to Greylock Federal Credit Union, our Beat the Heat Sponsor.

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing AFC, Residential, In-Home Clinical services, Employment and Day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. www.bfair.org.

###

BFAIR Announces Summer Kick-Off Festival on June 11th

Thu, 19 May 2022 22:54:00 GMT

May 19, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – Mark your calendars for BFAIR’s (Berkshire Family and Individual Resources) Summer Kick-Off Festival on June 11th from 11 AM – 3 PM. Hosted at the beautiful Paterson Field House at Berkshire Community College, this event is fun for all ages.

This event is bringing back a beloved BFAIR event in the mini-golf tournament, the BFAIR-Way, alongside live music, games, activities, raffles, prizes, food trucks and more!

Support the BFAIR mission of providing quality services to individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury while kicking off the summer with some fun.

Events like this would not be possible without generous support from the community and sponsors like BFAIR’s Beat the Heat sponsor Greylock Federal Credit Union and Fun in the Sun sponsor MountainOne Bank.

To register for the event visit: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/2022bfairsummerfest/

If you have any questions, please reach out to Tara Jacobsen, Fundraising and Grants Manager, at tjacobsen@bfair.org.

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing AFC, Residential, In-Home Clinical services, Employment and Day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. www.bfair.org.

###

BFAIR Promotes Kayla Brown-Wood to Director of Day Services

Tue, 17 May 2022 17:58:00 GMT

May 17, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) is pleased to announce that Kayla Brown-Wood has been promoted to Director of Day Services. In addition to her management of the Employment Service department, Kayla will now also be providing oversight to both Day Habilitation and Community Based Day Services (CBDS) programs. Kayla has been with BFAIR since 2016 and has held various roles including Assistant Director of Employment Services and most recently the Director of Employment Services.

Kayla is also a 2021 graduate of the Berkshire Leadership Program, which led to her being asked to be a member of the 2022 Berkshire Leadership Program Steering Committee. Kayla will also be continuing her education in graduate studies in Healthcare Administration.

Theresa Denette, SVP Day Services, reports “Our Employment program has seen exponential growth under Kayla’s leadership which led to her nomination by our Senior Management team for BFAIR’s 2021 Leadership Award. Kayla is a natural leader, has an innovative and progressive style for both human services and business operations which led to her promotion to Director of Employment Services and most recently, to Director of Day Services.”

We are very excited to have Kayla on board in this position and are looking forward to her future with the agency.

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing AFC, Residential, In-Home Clinical services, Employment and Day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. www.bfair.org.

###

BFAIR Announces Two-Year Licensing and Certification Renewal by the Office of Quality of Enhancement

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 19:20:00 GMT

Apr. 6, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) announces a successful review and continued licensing by the Office of Quality Enhancement (OQE) of the Commonwealth’s Department of Developmental Services (DDS). BFAIR earned positive licensing outcomes with the eight critical indicators reviewed met the standards set forth by the Department. These positive outcomes resulted in a two-year licensing and certification for BFAIR’s residential, individual home support, and day and employment services.

“BFAIR’s outcomes on reviews and assessments like these are indicative of the work that we do”, Ethel Altiery, Executive Director. She continued, “Receiving positive survey outcomes and consistent State licensing results speaks to our commitment to consistency in quality services.”

Rich Weisenflue, CEO, agreed, “I am very pleased with findings of the Department of Developmental Services Office of Quality Enhancement Team’s recent survey of BFAIR’s programs and services. I consider OQE’s survey a very important measure of the quality of BFAIR services and therefore a two-year license is an outstanding outcome. Every BFAIR member of our team should be extremely proud as the high quality of our services is directly attributable to the hard work of each one of our employees.”

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR providing AFC, Residential, In-Home Clinical services, Employment and Day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. www.bfair.org

###

BFAIR Earns Three-Year CARF Accreditation

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 17:28:00 GMT

Wed. Mar. 30, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – 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 2025.

During the accreditation process, the CARF surveyors noted that “ BFAIR has a solid reputation with funders and referral agencies that express appreciation for this collaborative, transparent, and respectful approach as a community partner providing quality services and supports. BFAIR often leads the way in the state with its approaches. ” According to Pete Mirante, BFAIR Board Chair, “Our AFC, Day Habilitation staff, Case Managers, Directors and Caregivers are to be congratulated for the outstanding results of the CARF survey.”

“I am proud of our program staff and leadership team for their commitment, and dedication to offering quality, personalized and community-based services. The accreditation outcome is even more impressive if the past two years and the challenges staff faced every day to protect the health and safety of our clients is taken into consideration”, said Rich Weisenflue, CEO of BFAIR.

About BFAIR

About CARF

CARF International, a group of companies that includes CARF Canada and CARF Europe, is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services. Through accreditation, CARF assists service providers in improving the quality of their services, demonstrating value, and meeting internationally recognized organizational and program standards. The accreditation process applies sets of standards to service areas and business practices during an on-site survey. Accreditation, however, is an ongoing process, signaling to the public that a service provider is committed to continuously improving services, encouraging feedback, and serving the community. Accreditation also demonstrates a provider’s commitment to enhance its performance, manage its risk, and distinguish its service delivery. (www.carf.org)

###

BFAIR Welcomes Quality Assurance Facilitator and Human Rights Coordinator, Tami Minck

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Mar. 10, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR welcomes Tami Minck as Quality Assurance Facilitator and Human Rights Coordinator.

Tami started her career as a direct support professional working in a residential program in Rhode Island and has since worked in a variety of roles, including as a Residential Director, Program Coordinator, and most recently as the Director of Data Analytics and Quality Enhancement for Seven Hills Foundation in Worcester MA.

Tami’s professional experiences includes serving on Human Rights Committees (HRC) and volunteering as the Chairperson for the HRC for a provider agency in Rhode Island for many years.

Minck received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island and holds a Master of Science in Data Analytics from Southern New Hampshire University.

Erin Shea, VP of Quality Compliance states the importance of this role, “Tami’s primarily responsible to ensure the delivery of quality supports and services, ensuring regulations are being met and adherence to CARF/QUEST standards. As Quality Assurance Facilitator she will be performing program visits to assess all activities, programs and plans to ensure current services align with BFAIR’s mission and values, reflect national accreditation standards as well as managing all aspects of Home and Community Services Information System (HCSIS).”

About BFAIR
Since 1994, BFAIR providing adult family care (AFC), residential, in-home clinical services, employment and day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

BFAIR and Greylock Federal Credit Union Promote Brain Injury Awareness

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Mar. 3, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR and Greylock Federal Credit Union partner together to raise awareness during the month of March to promote Brain Injury Awareness. March is National Brain Injury Awareness Month.

In the United States, more than 5.3 million children and adults have a brain injury. That is about 1 in 60. Acquired brain injuries (ABI) are those that happen after birth and can result in physical, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive impairments. The primary causes of ABI are trauma, stroke, tumors, degenerative diseases, alcohol and other toxins, and lack of oxygen to the brain. (Brain Injury Association of America)

With support from our presenting sponsor Greylock Federal Credit Union, BFAIR will be distributing bike helmets to promote brain health and safety.

Tara Jacobsen, Fundraising & Grants Manager shares her enthusiasm for the collaborations during the month, “[W]e are excited to have the opportunity to share brain injury awareness and prevention to our communities. We will be sharing brain injury prevention tips during the month of March on our social media. We are also collaborating with the Brain Injury Association of MA on a project called Unmasking Brain Injury. Residents of BFAIR’s ABI homes will have an opportunity to create a mask that shares their own personal story of living with a brain injury. These masks will be on display by the Brain Injury Association of MA.”

About Greylock Federal Credit Union
Greylock membership is open to anyone who lives, works, attends school, worships or regularly conducts business in Berkshire County, the towns of Westfield, Southwick, Granville, Montgomery, and Russell, Massachusetts; Bennington County, Vermont; or Columbia County, New York. Greylock Federal is wholly owned by its more than 94,200 Members and offers full-service branches in Pittsfield, Great Barrington, Lee, Adams, North Adams, Williamstown, Lanesborough, and Lenox, Massachusetts and Greenport/Hudson, New York. Greylock has a Low-Income Designation (LID) from the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and certification by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund allowing the Credit Union to offer expanded services to families of low and moderate incomes. More information is available at www.greylock.org .

Give Back in North Adams: Stop & Shop Community Bag Program Aims to Eliminate Single-Use Plastics While Donating to Local Non-Profits

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 19:34:00 GMT

Mar. 2, 2022 (North Adams, MA) – This year, local community non-profits are more in need of support than in any other time in the recent years’ past. Now shoppers can give back to the local community and help to reduce single-use plastics by purchasing a special reusable bag at Stop & Shop. BFAIR has been selected by local Stop & Shop store leadership as the benefiting non-profit in the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program for the month of March.

The Stop & Shop Community Bag Program is designed to give back to the local community with every reusable bag purchased. Every $2.50 reusable Community Bag sold supports a non-profit local to the store in which it was purchased. This program offers a way for shoppers to give back as part of the regular weekly routine.

Every month, at every Stop & Shop location a different local non-profit is selected to benefit from the sale of these special reusable Community Bags. BFAIR was selected as the March beneficiary by local store leadership at the store located at Stop & Shop located at 876 State Road in North Adams, MA. BFAIR will receive a $1 donation for every $2.50 reusable Community Bag purchased at this location in March.

“Community engagement and support that we receive from businesses, like through the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program, is essential to our work at BFAIR. Through these partnerships, we can reach more community members and share about the important services we provide for individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury. We are so thankful for our partnership with Stop & Shop and the support they provide to our organization,” said Tara Jacobsen, Fundraising & Grants Manager at BFAIR.

For more information on the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program, visit stopandshop.bags4mycause.com.

BFAIR Launches Heart of BFAIR End of Year Campaign

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 15:01:00 GMT

Dec. 2, 2021 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR launched its Heart of BFAIR end of Year Campaign on December 1, 2021 following a successful Giving Tuesday campaign sponsored by Adams Community Bank.

Giving Tuesday, the Tuesday following Thanksgiving each year, is a Global Day of Giving. Supporters contributed to BFAIR’s mission to provide accessible and individualized services for people with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury.

Our generous matching sponsor, Adams Community Bank, matched any donations made on November 30 up to $5,000 so donations went even further raising over $9,000 in a single day.

Our Heart of BFAIR Campaign highlights all the various aspects of what makes our organization unique as we put individual needs, personal goals, and quality care ahead of all else. Donations to this campaign by our community of supporters helps BFAIR serve people with disabilities by offsetting out-of-pocket expenses they may have, creating accessibility features to their homes and programs, and promoting independence.

One individual, Casey, first moved into a BFAIR Residence and became a Member of our Day Habilitation program in 1997. Throughout the 24 years Casey has been receiving Residential and Day services, his care is specific to his developmental, social, leisure and medical needs. Whether it is dancing, organizing his beloved stackers, or enjoying the outdoors, Casey love to be active is embraced by his staff. Diagnosed with a visual impairment several years ago, Casey’s staff made thoughtful modifications so that he could continue to enjoy being outside and do so safely.

Now through December 31, BFAIR’s End of Year Campaign, the Heart of BFAIR, is accepting donations via cash, check, text-to-give by texting CASEY to 50155, or online at https://bit.ly/heartofbfair .

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR providing adult family care (AFC), residential, in-home clinical services, employment and day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism. BFAIR is a proud member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest.

###

BFAIR Promotes Brown-Wood to Director of Employment Services

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 15:55:00 GMT

Sept. 23, 2021 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR promotes Kayla Brown-Wood to Director of Employment Services after three years as Assistant Director.

Kayla has been with BFAIR since 2016 where she began as the Employment Coordinator and was then promoted to Assistant Director in 2018. Kayla has been pivotal providing support and placements with local employers for people with disabilities which includes the successful operation of the BFAIR’s bottle and can Redemption Center located on Massachusetts Avenue in North Adams. She has a Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies and a minor in Psychology from Fitchburg State University and is pursuing her Master’s in Public Health Administration.

“I am thrilled for the opportunity to step into this role and am thankful for the organization’s continued support of my professional development and aspirations. I look forward to this next chapter and helping serve the needs of those in our community”, said Brown-Wood.

Theresa Gelinas, SVP of Day Services said of the promotion, “We are excited for Kayla and the Employment Services Department. Her enthusiasm and dedication for the agency and the people we serve presents the potential for substantial growth in the future.”

BFAIR Raises $3900 with Wild Oats Market Partnership

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 14:32:00 GMT

Sept. 22, 2021 (North Adams, MA) – Working together with the Wild Oats Round Up for Change Program; their community donation program, BFAIR raised over $3,900 directly supporting individuals with disabilities.

BFAIR was selected as the August charity of choice for the Wild Oats Market Round Up for Change Program. Since June 2020, this wonderful program has generated over $40,000 for local nonprofits.

During the month of August, customers visited Wild Oats Market at 320 Main Street in Williamstown, MA and rounded up the total amount of their purchases to the next whole dollar at checkout. 100% of the money collected went directly to supporting the individuals served and programs and services provided by BFAIR.

Instrumental in the partnership, BFAIR’s Fundraising & Grants Manager, Tara Jacobsen said, “We are humbled by the generosity that we received during the Round Up for Change program by the Wild Oats Co-Op and community members. This support will help BFAIR to meet the unique needs of the people we support such as health & wellness, personal safety, technology tools to support more independent lifestyles and accessibility improvements.”

###

BFAIR Named A 2021 Health New England Well Worth It Award Winner for Worksite Health Promotion

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 20:10:00 GMT

Sep. 2, 2021 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR is proud to have been named a 2021 Health New England Well Worth It Award recipient at the bronze level for successful worksite health promotion and employee health improvement. The award recognizes BFAIR’s commitment to their employees’ overall health and their achievements in implementing health and wellness programs.

An effective worksite wellness program can improve the well-being and productivity of the workforce while managing the rising cost of health care.

This year’s workplace wellness activities included a variety of workshops to offer our employees such as yoga, healthy eating, and smoking cessation. Also included were a few self-driven challenges such as a walking challenge and a hydration challenge. We also pride ourselves on including individuals served by BFAIR in our wellness program.

“Last year impacted everyone, and BFAIR dedicated tools and resources to meet the critical needs of their employees,” said Katie Bruno, Public Health and Wellness Program Manager for Health New England. “Health New England is proud to recognize BFAIR for their commitment to their employees’ overall health and well-being. The Well Worth It Award is an extension of Health New England’s mission and honors the work being done by our employer groups to improve the health and lives of the people in our communities.”

“Wellness, both physical and emotional, remained a top priority for us at BFAIR. Our Wellness Committee recognized that our essential staff came to work, day after day and did their job caring for others regardless of the pandemic, and we wanted to ensure that they had all the tools they needed to stay well,” said Laura Baran, Wellness Committee Chair at BFAIR. “We are honored to be recognized by Health New England for our efforts.”

About Health New England

About BFAIR

###

Top Summer Hikes in the Berkshires

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 15:08:00 GMT

Get out and see the beautiful Berkshires this summer, and don't forget to hydrate for the July Hydration challenge!

Hydration Challenge

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 15:06:00 GMT

BFAIR Partners with Boston College School of Social Work on Redemption Center Expansion Project

Thu, 27 May 2021 09:53:00 GMT

May 27, 2021 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR was excited to partner with the Boston College School of Social Work on a project with graduate students for spring 2021 as part of its Creating and Sustaining Social Enterprises course.

This course focuses on important concepts and stages in considering revenue-producing programs in a nonprofit setting to add financial stability. Students are involved in basic data gathering and analysis and organize their conclusions in a business plan for the enterprise effort.

As such, we conducted a brief survey to provide BFAIR with information to support our community with a valuable service that provides employment for people with disabilities and is beneficial to the environment. BFAIR’s owned and operated Bottle and Can Redemption Center located in North Adams helps our community by providing residents with a way to exchange redeemable bottles and cans for cash while remaining true to our mission.

The culmination of the course resulted in an expansion of BFAIR’s Bottle and Can Redemption Center in the form of a pop-up service working with the North Adams Housing Authority, Berkshire Housing, and the City of North Adams. The pop-up service will give these locations the opportunity to redeem or donate their bottles during certain time frames during the week at six different locations in North County starting in June.

BFAIR Adds Fundraising & Grants Manager

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 20:04:00 GMT

Apr. 20, 2021 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR adds a new position of Fundraising & Grants Manager to the organization and welcomes Tara Jacobsen into the role.

Tara recently relocated to Berkshire County after living in Seattle, Washington for the past few years. In both Tara’s personal and professional life, she works to create systems and relationships that are based in empathy, accessibility, and fairness. Tara has been working in fundraising and community engagement for the past eight years.

What started as volunteering at a local nonprofit in Boston led to her passion of working in partnership with others who were also interested in making a difference in their community. Rich Weisenflue, BFAIR CEO says of Tara’s addition “We are thrilled to welcome Tara to our dynamic team. With her considerable experience in community engagement it will be a pleasure to introduce Tara to businesses and residents who have so generously contributed to support BFAIR’s Mission”.

Tara can be reached at tjacobsen@bfair.org or 413-464-7232 ext. 318

BFAIR Announces New Board Members and Annual Elections

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 19:52:00 GMT

Apr. 8, 2021 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR is excited to welcome three distinct members of the Berkshire community to their Board of Directors: Dr. Gray Ellrodt, Attorney Steve Narey, and Laila Boucher.

Dr. Gray Ellrodt, former Chief of Medicine at Berkshire Medical Center comes to BFAIR with over 30 years plus of experience in the medical field. Gray is a volunteer with the American Heart Association (AHA). He is past president of the AHA Berkshire Board receiving the Chairman’s award in 2009, past-President of the Northeast Affiliate Board of Directors, past Chair of the Get With The Guidelines (GWTGs) steering committee and past Chair of the Mission: Lifeline AWG.

Dr. Ellrodt joined BFAIR’s Board of Directors in 2020, and shortly thereafter he graciously volunteered to co-chair the agency’s Annual Campaign fundraiser. With BFAIR’s focus on service quality and performance measurement, Gray’s work as Chief Quality Officer at Berkshire Medical Center will prove invaluable contributing to the efforts of BFAIR’s Quality Compliance department.

Attorney Steve Narey of Donovan, O’Connor & Dodig LLP, joined BFAIR’s Board of Directors in 2021, and has much experience in the human service field including serving on the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC) Board which he became involved with following the birth of his youngest son Cole. Serving as President from 2014 – 2018 Attorney Narey received the MDSC’s 2020 Leadership Award which recognizes an individual who advocates for disability causes and champions expanded opportunities for individuals with Down’s Syndrome.

Serving on BFAIR Governance and Advocacy Committees, we look forward to Steve lending his expertise both as a practicing attorney and a strong advocate for individuals with disabilities.

Laila Boucher joined BFAIR’s Board of Directors in 2021 serving on the Finance and Development committees.

Laila is a Mississippi transplant who moved to Berkshire County in 2007. Her husband is a North Adams native and introduced her to the area she now calls home. In 2008 she started her banking career as a Teller for Adams Community Bank and currently is their Vice President of Government Banking.

In Laila’s free time she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking and exploring the beautiful scenic trails Berkshire County has to offer. Laila lives in Williamstown with her husband, son, daughter and adorable rescue dog, Max.

BFAIR’s Annual Elections were held on March 15, 2021 and the new slate of Board of Directors is as follows:

Officers:

Directors:

Alex Kastrinakis was recognized for having served two terms as Board Chair.

BFAIR Promotes Two in Clinical Services and Residential Services Departments

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 19:16:00 GMT

Mar. 31, 2021 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR is happy to announce the promotions of two staff members into much-deserved roles in their respective departments: Julia Phykitt, and Christine Meiklejohn.

Julia attended the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Behavior Analysis. She furthered her educational career by attending Westfield State University where she completed a Master’s program in Applied Behavior Analysis. Since that time, Julia has obtained both board certification and state licensure as a Behavior Analyst. She started her career in human services as a Teaching Assistant with students with autism. Julia began her career at BFAIR as a part-time Behavior Specialist. She was promoted to Assistant Director Clinical Services and recently to Director of Clinical Services given her continued outstanding work.

According to Eric Denette, VP of Clinical Services, “Julia is an integral part of BFAIR’s Clinical team. The passion she has for her work positively impacts all aspects of the agency.”

Christine began her career at BFAIR in 2016 as a Manager of our first residence for adults with acquired brain injury (ABI), was promoted to ABI Residential Program Supervisor in November 2017 and most recently to Director of ABI Residential Services. In addition to her primary responsibilities Christine is very active serving on multiple committees and roles including: Incident Review, Medication Administration Program, Fire Safety Officer, strategic planning as well as our Diversity Committee.

Christine embraces the BFAIR Mission and continually advocates for the individuals and staff she oversees. Michelle Carleton, VP of Residential Services states, “Christine is a wonderful fit for this position and has hit the ground running.”

About BFAIR

33 Spring Salads

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 17:33:00 GMT

Use fresh local ingredients to make delicious Spring Salads !

Early Spring Hiking in the Berkshires

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 17:30:00 GMT

Get out there and enjoy the Spring weather with some Early Spring Hikes in your own back yard!

Berkshire 150 – REGISTER TODAY!

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 17:27:00 GMT

To: All Staff

From: Wellness Committee

Date: March 24, 2021

RE: 2021 Wellness Initiatives

This year’s Wellness Committee has been hard at work planning 2021 wellness initiatives, we hope that you have been able to check out the great workshops we have rolled out so far. We have many more available for the upcoming months. Be sure to log into the Employee Portal for a breakdown of all our workshops and register for those you are interested in!

This year we will be kicking off our Wellness events by participating in Berkshire Health System’s Berkshire 150 challenge. This is a 6-week program beginning Sunday April 18 ^th that encourages people to get active. They are encouraging participants to be active for at least 150 minutes per week. You will receive weekly emails from BHS with great ideas on places to go to be active, opportunities to participate in photo engagements, etc. They will also be awarding 10 prizes at random at the end of the challenge to anyone who has entered their weekly minutes.

We are looking to have several teams participating in this challenge. Teams can have anywhere from 2-20 members. We are encouraging both staff and individuals to participate in this challenge!

We are looking for you to join us in this challenge by either forming your own team or joining a team.

Here is how it would work:

If you are looking to be a team captain, contact Laura Baran by Wednesday 3/31/2021 and you will receive a spreadsheet to be able to submit the registration information for the participants on your team.
If you are looking to join a team, please reach out to Laura Baran to be added to the BFAIR Goal Getters team by Monday April 5, 2021 at the latest. You will need to provide your name, email address, age, and zip code.
You will be registered by the Wellness Committee for the challenge.
Each team member will be responsible to enter their weekly minutes directly to the Berkshire Health Systems portal. You will receive a link to your email once you are registered. For any individuals participating, we can track minutes on paper and turn into BHS at the completion of the 6 weeks.
Each team member will also turn in their weekly minutes to their team captain by Monday morning at 9 a.m.
Team Captains will turn in their team trackers to Laura Baran by 3 p.m. each Monday for our internal tracking.

We will announce weekly who is our top 3 team and individuals in the portal and on our BFAIR Facebook Wellness Group as well as our top 3 teams and individuals upon completion of the challenge.

Are you up to the challenge? Or let’s get ready to show Berkshire County what the BFAIR team has got! Let’s win this challenge!

BFAIR Promotes Baity to SVP of Human Resources

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 15:39:00 GMT

Mar. 19, 2021 (North Adams, MA) – We are pleased to announce the promotion of Michelle Baity to the position of Senior Vice President-Human Resources. Michelle joined BFAIR’s Senior management team three years ago and brought with her numerous years of experience in Human Resources as well as the human services field.

Since joining our team, Michelle has formed a strong Human Resource department which has been invaluable with assisting the agency to manage the enormous challenges that we have faced over the past year.

According to Ethel Altiery, BFAIR’s Executive Director, “Michelle has been with BFAIR for 3 years and working closely with her has been a wonderful experience for me. She has brought my level of knowledge and experience in the world of Human Resources to a new level. I look forward to working with Michelle for many more years to come!”

Always focused on a positive, diversified, inclusive and equitable working environment for all staff, Michelle is directly responsible for crafting excellent employee benefit offerings, developing an Educational Assistance policy to support skill development in pursuit of an organization focused on creating opportunities for advancement. With Michelle first and foremost it’s an emphasis that we should always be on the lookout for creative opportunities of all shapes and sizes to recognize BFAIR staff for a job well done.

Exercise in Your Home Workouts

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 20:47:00 GMT

Great workouts to do at home!

Stay Active this Winter

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 16:10:00 GMT

Looking for great things to keep you busy this winter? Look no further than your own back yard here in the beautiful Berkshires!

12 Healthy Holiday Recipes to Keep You On Track

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 16:04:00 GMT

Don't let the holidays throw you off! Here's a list of 12 healthy recipes to keep you on track this season - try them out and let us know how they come out on our Wellness Facebook page!

Fire Cider

Wed, 14 Oct 2020 17:34:00 GMT

Submitted by: Laura Baran

Fire Cider Recipe

An immune-boosting health tonic with fresh horseradish, ginger, garlic, onions, cayenne pepper, apple cider vinegar and honey. Recipe from https://www.eatingbirdfood.com/how-to-make-fire-cider/

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup freshly peeled and grated ginger root
1/2 cup freshly grated horseradish root
1 medium onion, chopped
10 cloves of garlic, crushed or chopped
2 organic jalapeño peppers, chopped
1 lemon, zest and juice
2 Tablespoons dried rosemary leaves
1 Tablespoon turmeric powder or 2 Tablespoons freshly grated turmeric root
1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder
organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup raw honey, or to taste

INSTRUCTIONS :

Add ginger, horseradish, onion, garlic, jalapeño peppers, lemon zest and juice, rosemary, turmeric and cayenne powder into quart-sized glass jar.
Pour apple cider vinegar in the jar until all the ingredients are fully covered and the vinegar reaches the top of the jar. You want to be sure all the ingredients are covered to prevent spoilage.
Use a piece of natural parchment paper under the lid to keep the vinegar from touching the metal, or use a plastic lidif you have one.
Shake jar to combine all the ingredients and store in a dark, cool place for 4-6 weeks, remembering to shake the jar a few seconds every day.
After one month, use a mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain out the solids, pouring the vinegar into a clean jar. Be sure to squeeze out as much of the liquid as you can. This stuff is liquid gold! The solids can be used in a stir-fry or you can compost/discard them.
Add honey to the liquid and stir until incorporated.
Taste your fire cider and add more honey if needed until you reach your desired sweetness.
Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator or in a cold, dark place.
Drink 1-2 Tablespoons when needed.

Feel free to make this recipe your own with optional add-ins like cinnamon, orange and grapefruit.

Siguen la fiesta

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 13:06:00 GMT

As in many cultures, family, respect, religion, language, education and pride of being a Latino are just a few of the many values of being a Puerto Rican I hold dear. One of the most enjoyable things about being a Latina is always having a reason to celebrate; cherishing every moment that we have.

As long as I can remember one of my favorite activities is a Parranda. A Parranda is when a group of people go out or start playing or singing at night. This is done to lift people’s spirits. It can start out with a small group of people and when you turn around many people have joined. It becomes a parade of people singing and playing their instruments, having a good time and celebrating the moment. Even if you do not know the words or even the language you are always welcome to join with open arms. It is an up-lifting time and is a sense of community; you’re part of something magnificent. You see and hear a lot of Parranda’s around the holiday especially for Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) and Los Reyes.

Spring Walk

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 18:27:00 GMT

With the nicer weather rolling in, try to get outside and enjoy it with your loved ones!

Jasmine Rivera-Boucher Promoted to Director of Adult Foster Care at BFAIR

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 17:06:00 GMT

Feb. 26, 2020 (North Adams, MA) – Jasmine Rivera-Boucher has been promoted to the Director of Adult Foster Care (AFC) and Shared Living services. The Director is responsible for the day to day operations of both programs, the development and implementation of the AFC/SL, accreditation, policies and procedures as well as the fiscal administration of the AFC department. The Director ensures all funder’s regulations are met which includes oversight of the referral and intake process in collaboration with DDS, DMH and other funding/referral sources.

According to Michelle Carleton, VP of BFAIR’s Residential Services, “Jasmine’s knowledge, energy, and enthusiasm for BFAIR’s AFC and Shared Living services made her the perfect choice for this well-deserved promotion.”

Prior to her promotion from Assistant Director, Rivera-Boucher worked at the Key Program in Pittsfield and graduated from MCLA with a degree in Psychology with a minor in Behavior Analysis. She also holds a degree in Gerontology from Maria College and certification as Dementia Friend Trainer.

Black History Month Events

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 18:39:00 GMT

Check out some of the events going on for Black History Month:

Wellness Reimbursement Available

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 21:05:00 GMT

Did you know that there is a wellness reimbursement available through Health New England?

Read more about their awesome reimbursement program here .

28 of the most popular hiking spots in Massachusetts

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 20:53:00 GMT

Spring will be upon us before we know it, but there’s still time to snowshoe some of these trails too!

Let’s get out there and visit some of these gems! Read about 28 of the most popular hiking spots in Massachusetts here

Don’t forget to be sharing any of your activity on the BFAIR Wellness page if you try any of these, or any time you are enjoying being active.

BFAIR Celebrates Selection as a Stop & Shop Community Bag Program Beneficiary

Thu, 26 Dec 2019 19:23:00 GMT

Dec. 26, 2019 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR has been selected as a beneficiary of the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program for the month of January. The Stop & Shop Community Bag Program, which launched in May 2019, is a reusable bag program that facilitates community support with the goal to make a difference in the communities where shoppers live and work. BFAIR was selected as the January beneficiary of the program by store leadership at the Stop & Shop located at 876 State Road, North Adams, MA.

BFAIR will receive a $1 donation every time the $2.50 reusable Community Bag is purchased at this location during January, unless otherwise directed by the customer through the Giving Tag attached to the bag. “We are excited to participate in this program. It’s a win-win for BFAIR and the community; supporting BFAIR programs and services and helping the environment by supporting the reusable bag initiative”, said Rich Weisenflue, BFAIR’s CEO.

For more information on the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program, visit stopandshop.bags4mycause.com

Erin Shea Promoted to BFAIR’s Vice President of Quality Compliance

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 19:35:00 GMT

Dec. 11, 2019 (North Adams, MA) – Erin Shea has been promoted to the Vice President of Quality Compliance at BFAIR, a new member to the Senior Management team. Erin holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Our Lady of Elm’s College and is a licensed Social Worker with over 15 years of progressive experience supporting elders and individuals with disabilities and their families. She began her career at United Cerebral Palsy of Western MA and as a Social Worker with Berkshire Health Care Systems. Over the past ten years, Erin has assumed a variety of roles at BFAIR, one as the Assistant Director of the Day Habilitation Center.

In April 2019, Erin was promoted to the Director of Quality Compliance ensuring BFAIR meets internal quality standards, requirements of external funding and regulatory sources, as well as consulting on Human Rights and community inclusion for the agency.

Most recently, Erin was promoted to Vice President of Quality Compliance. Her additional responsibilities are to be an active member of the Senior management team, providing leadership to the development and implementation of the agency’s strategic plan, supporting BFAIR’s Family Advisory and Self-Advocacy committees and oversight of diversity and risk management initiatives.

According to Theresa Gelinas, SVP of Day Services, “In her first 6 months as the Director of Quality Compliance Erin has developed a variety of new initiatives and has begun to diversify and reinvigorate many of our current strategic practices. I am excited to work with Erin in this role and look forward to what the next year will bring to BFAIR.”

BFAIR Celebrates 25 Years with Success at First Signature Event

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 19:25:00 GMT

Nov. 26, 2019 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR held its first signature event, a masquerade gala, on Friday, October 25 at the Proprietor’s Lodge in Pittsfield, MA to celebrate its milestone 25 ^th anniversary while raising over $110,000.

Adams Community Bank was the underwriter of the event, followed by MountainOne Bank as a Diamond Level Sponsor and Gold Sponsors Greylock Federal Credit Union and Health New England.

A silent auction, raffle, and live auction were among many activities of the night, but the true passion of the evening was shown during the speech given by Brittany Dorwin who receives employment services from BFAIR. Brittany’s pride in all that she accomplished was felt by everyone in the room as they applauded all that she’s achieved in her career with BFAIR supporting her every step of her journey. Unveiled after her moving testimony was the agency’s 25 ^th Anniversary video showcasing people receiving services, their support staff and administration that enrich the programs offered every day by BFAIR.

A.J. Enchill, District Aide to Senator Adams Hinds presented Kim Baker, BFAIR Board member and Gala Committee Chair with a Senate Citation for the great work done by the agency over the last 25 years helping people with intellectual disabilities, autism and acquired brain injuries.

“A huge thank you to the event underwriter, Adams Community Bank, the many sponsors, private donors, community partners, vendors, volunteers, Board, and BFAIR staff for their unwavering support and generosity to help make our celebration and fundraiser a big success,” said Rich Weisenflue, CEO.

About BFAIR

Since 1994, BFAIR providing adult family care (AFC), residential, in-home clinical services, employment, family support and day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury, autism and homecare services for older adults.

Giving Back: BFAIR achieves Premier Blood Partner status for its work with the Red Cross

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 14:49:00 GMT

Aug. 22, 2019 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources, Inc.) has been recognized by the American Red Cross as one of its Premier Blood Partners for 2019, a prestigious honor, for its support of the community and national blood supply. Last year, BFAIR helped the Red Cross collect blood donations as part of its deep-rooted commitment to help save lives of patients facing illnesses and injuries in this community and across the country. Since 2013 BFAIR has held 18 blood drives and collected 511 pints of blood which had the potential to save 1,533 lives.

“BFAIR is proud to be a part of the Red Cross mission that helps ensure lifesaving blood is available for hospital patients in need. Our organization shares that same humanitarian value to help our neighbors, and we are grateful for the opportunity to host blood drives that will do just that here in our community,” said Ethel Altiery, BFAIR’s Executive Director.

Every day, volunteer blood and platelet donors across the country are needed to help save lives. Blood and platelets are needed for accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease, according to the Red Cross.

The next BFAIR Blood Drive scheduled for February 14, 2020 will host a Red Cross blood drive from 12 PM to 5 PM at the BFAIR Administrative Offices at 771 South Church Street, North Adams, MA. Community members are urged to come out and roll up a sleeve. “We encourage the community to join us to give the gift of life. The donation process only takes about an hour and can make an enormous difference for a patient battling illness or injury”, said Altiery.

Appointment scheduling will be available as February nears closer. Donors of all blood types are needed. Blood is a perishable product that can only come from volunteer blood donors.

About BFAIR

BFAIR Celebrates 25th Anniversary with Masquerade Gala

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 19:22:00 GMT

Aug. 15, 2019 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR celebrates 25 years of success with a Masquerade Gala at the Proprietor’s Lodge on Friday, October 25 ^th at 5:30 PM, sponsored by Adams Community Bank.

The fundraiser will include a VIP hour, live auction, music, great food, special guests, and feature handmade masquerade masks crafted by individuals receiving BFAIR services. The event has a business casual dress code with a black and silver theme (masks are optional).

“We have amazing community partners and supporters, and Adams Community Bank is the underwriter for this event. We are excited to share what we’ve accomplished over the last 25 years at BFAIR, and what we see ahead of us for the next 25 years. We hope that folks come to enjoy a great night, to celebrate with us, and continue to support the incredible work that we do every day”, said Rich Weisenflue, CEO.

About BFAIR

About Adams Community Bank

Adams Community Bank is an independent, community savings bank located in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts and headquartered in Adams, MA. Adams Community Bank’s savings bank charter was incorporated in 1869 and has eight branch locations in the region. They are in: Adams, Cheshire, Lanesboro, Lee, Lenox, North Adams and Williamstown. Member FDIC. Member DIF. Equal Housing Lender.

BFAIR Purchases Redemption Center in North Adams

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 17:12:00 GMT

July 9, 2019 (North Adams, MA) – Berkshire Family and Individual Resources, Inc. (BFAIR), purchased the Bottle and Can Redemption Center at 1000 Massachusetts Avenue in North Adams, MA. The Center was acquired from David Moresi of Moresi & Associates. “BFAIR has a great relationship with Mr. Moresi. We have been working together for several years managing the customer service portion of the business, and when the Redemption Center became available for sale, he approached BFAIR. We are grateful for this opportunity to continue to provide employment for individuals with disabilities while also playing an important role in north Berkshire” said Rich Weisenflue, CEO.

According to Theresa Gelinas, Senior VP Day Services, “the employees acquire customer services skills with the support of BFAIR’s Employment program staff, assisting the general public redeeming cans and bottles, as well as playing a positive role in our community with respect to the environment by reducing waste and promoting reuse of containers. Our Redemption Center also serves as a great steppingstone for people with disabilities acquiring work skills moving on to competitive employment.”

If you would like to redeem or donate the proceeds from recycling your bottles and/or cans to BFAIR, please drop them off to the Redemption Center at 1000 Massachusetts Avenue. Contact Becky McAllister, Director of Employment Services at bmcallister@bfair.org or 413.664.9382 for more information about the Redemption Center.

About BFAIR

Staff Stories

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 15:06:00 GMT

This is where staff stories will appear. If you have a story that you would like to share with us, please email your supervisor.

Summer Hikes in the Berkshires

Fri, 31 May 2019 15:46:00 GMT

Did you know that we have TONS of awesome hiking trails right in our own back yard? The Berkshire Natural Resources Council even created a cool mobile app you can download to access all of the maps and hiking trails.

Download here .

They list the top hiking trails in Berkshire County here , but check out their website for even more information about the beauty and wonder right here.

Happy trails!

30-Day Hydration Challenge

Fri, 31 May 2019 15:37:00 GMT

Download your 30-day hydration challenge tracker here .

BFAIR Hires Director of ABI/MFP and Director of Homecare Services

Tue, 21 May 2019 15:27:00 GMT

May 21, 2019 (North Adams, MA) – Berkshire Family and Individual Resources, Inc. (BFAIR), hires for two key agency vacancies; Director of Acquired Brain Injury/Moving Forward Plan (ABI/MFP), and Director of Homecare Services. Both positions are filled by veterans in the human services industry with over 20 years of experience in the field. The first, filled by an internal promotion of Deanna Davila, and the second filled by Tim Brelsford, who came from Berkshire Farm Center and Services for Youth.

Davila holds a bachelor’s degree in human services and joined BFAIR in April 2017 as a House Manager in Northampton in the Acquired Brain Injury program. She assisted in opening a new ABI/MFP home in Northampton and helped four individuals transfer out of nursing homes. She became the Program coordinator of Hampshire/ Hampden counties in April of 2018. “Deana’s promotion is well deserved, and I look forward to working with her in her new role,” said Michelle Carleton, VP of Residential Services.

Brelsford’s experience in non-profit and human services field expands more than 30 years. He started his career at sixteen years old volunteering at the Forest Hills Special School in Paducah, KY. From there he went on to work at Lourdes hospital as an ER technician and a Nurse’s Aide in the Homecare and Hospice Department. In 1996, he moved to the Berkshires where he started working at in the human service field eventually working his way up to management. Most recently, Tim went on to be a Program Director at Berkshire Farm Center and Services for Youth. The move to working with older adults brings Tim back to his youth sitting and listening to so many rich life stories. Tim’s passion for helping the community has always driven his career in Human Services. He looks forward to continuing that path with his new role at BFAIR.

Tim holds a master’s degree in Business, a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and an associate degree in Computer Science.

“Tim has been a great addition to the BFAIR team, his experience with management and supervision will be pivotal in the continued success, quality and growth of our Homecare Services Department,” said Theresa Gelinas, SVP of Day Services at BFAIR.

About BFAIR

Erin Shea Promoted to BFAIR’s Director of Quality Compliance

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 15:24:00 GMT

Apr. 30, 2019 (North Adams, MA) – Erin Shea has been promoted to the Director of Quality Compliance at BFAIR (Berkshire Family And Individual Resources, Inc.). Erin holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Our Lady of Elm’s College and is a licensed Social Worker with over 15 years of progressive experience supporting elders and individuals with disabilities and their families. She began her career at United Cerebral Palsy of the Berkshires and as a Social Worker with Berkshire Health Care Systems. Over the past ten years, Erin has assumed a variety of roles at BFAIR, one as the Assistant Director of the Day Habilitation Center.

In 2014, the BFAIR Homecare program was developed and Erin was promoted to the Director of Homecare Services. As Director she was responsible overseeing the Elder Service of Berkshire County contract and the Acquired Brain Injury/Moving Forward Plan Community Living Waiver services through Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission.

Most recently, Erin has been promoted to the Director of Quality Compliance ensuring BFAIR meets internal quality standards, requirements of external funding and regulatory sources, as well as consulting on Human Rights for the agency.

Theresa Gelinas, SVP of Day Services, says of Erin’s promotion, “Erin is an integral part of the agency with respect to program development. The quality of her programs speaks to her ability to organize, promote and execute systems consistent with what we need with this new position.”

About BFAIR

BFAIR Earns Three-Year CARF Accreditation

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 17:54:00 GMT

Mar. 14, 2019 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) received a three- year Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation for their Community Integration and AFC (Adult Foster Care) services. The accreditation extends through 2022.

During the evaluation process BFAIR was praised on the dedication of the leadership, Board, and staff being strongly invested in the mission of the agency. Consumers, families and stakeholders are highly satisfied with the level of services and communication that BFAIR offers including health and safety. According to Alex Kastrinakis, BFAIR Board Chair, “Our AFC, Day Habilitation and support staff are to be congratulated for the outstanding results of the CARF survey.”

BFAIR is person-centered in service delivery with plans for each person served and ensures that individuals, staff, and leadership are continuously involved in the local community through activities and partnerships with local organizations.

“As we speed into our 25 ^th year this September, I am proud of our program staff and leadership team for consistently supporting our mission as they come to work, truly living and breathing what we do. Their dedication to offering quality services is evident as we see the people we support treated with dignity and accomplishing personal goals everyday”, said Rich Weisenflue, CEO of BFAIR.

About BFAIR

About CARF

CARF International, a group of companies that includes CARF Canada and CARF Europe, is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services.

Through accreditation, CARF assists service providers in improving the quality of their services, demonstrating value, and meeting internationally recognized organizational and program standards.

The accreditation process applies sets of standards to service areas and business practices during an on-site survey. Accreditation, however, is an ongoing process, signaling to the public that a service provider is committed to continuously improving services, encouraging feedback, and serving the community. Accreditation also demonstrates a provider’s commitment to enhance its performance, manage its risk, and distinguish its service delivery. (www.carf.org)

###

Local Service Providers GO BLUE for Autism Awareness this April

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 17:54:00 GMT

PITTSFIELD, MA, MARCH 7, 2019 – April is Autism Awareness month, celebrated globally with various ‘GO BLUE’ campaigns. The goal of the Berkshire County, MA based campaign is to heighten awareness of services available to individuals and families impacted by Autism and to educate, celebrate, and empower those with Autism.

The local GO BLUE campaign is a joint effort of agencies who are part of the Autism Collaborative of Berkshire County. The Autism Collaborative of Berkshire County is a group of local Autism service providers and agencies working together to educate, advocate and raise awareness of the services available in our community to families. These providers include: AdLib, Autism Connections, Berkshire County Arc, Berkshire Family and Individual Resources, College Internship Program, Hillcrest Educational Foundation, Positive Behavior Supports, and United Cerebral Palsy of Western MA. Downtown Pittsfield, Inc. is supporting downtown businesses in their efforts to join the fold and working alongside the Collaborative in this initiative.

Together, these service providers are encouraging local businesses to GO BLUE by decorating their window displays in blue for the month of April. Community members are encouraged to wear blue each Friday of the month in solidarity.

The collaborating service providers are also promoting a calendar of special events for those with Autism and their caretakers which can be found at: http://bit.ly/AutismCollaborative

KICKOFF EVENT: The kickoff event for this month-long campaign is an Autism Resource Fair and Art Show, taking place on Friday, April 5 ^th , 5-7pm at AdLib in downtown Pittsfield, located at 215 North Street. This event, held in tandem with First Fridays Artswalk, will feature artwork from local residents with Autism and a resource fair where representatives from the collaborating service organizations will be in attendance with information about services available to individuals with autism and their families/caretakers.

RALLY: The capstone event will be a rally held on Friday, April 26 ^th , 5-7pm in Pittsfield’s Park Square. This event will be celebratory in nature and promote the accomplishments of individuals with Autism.

For more information contact Katrina Cardillo at BFAIR at 413-464-7232 ext. 17 or kcardillo@bfair.org or visit the Autism Collaborative of Berkshire County website at https://autismconnectionsma.org/berkshire-collaboration/

BFAIR Hires Cardillo as Director of Marketing

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 17:57:00 GMT

Feb. 12, 2019 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) is pleased to announce that Katrina Cardillo, has joined as Director of Marketing.

Her experience spans over a decade from the automotive industry to nonprofits in the local Berkshire community. Katrina joined the marketing team in the automotive division of Dominion Enterprises, Dominion Dealer Solutions, becoming the second member of the corporate marketing team where she was responsible for division marketing and participation in industry events.

After several years at Dominion Dealer Solutions, Katrina changed careers and has worked in human services for the last five years. Most recently, she was the Director of Marketing & Development at Berkshire County Arc.

“Katrina possesses a wealth of professional skill in the marketing field as well as invaluable experience working with not-for-profits marketing services for people with disabilities”, said Rich Weisenflue, CEO of BFAIR. He continued, “Katrina will prove to be a wonderful addition to BFAIR and a terrific resource to all as we continue work within our community, for the people we support, and deliver the quality services we offer”.

Cardillo holds a master’s degree in business from MCLA and a certificate in Marketing Strategy from Cornell University. Firmly rooted in the Berkshires, Cardillo serves on the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts M.B.A. Program Advisory Board and is a member of the 1Berkshire Class of 2014 Berkshire Leadership Program. Cardillo also volunteers as a marketing consultant for the Northern Berkshire United Way.

###

Wheels for Woodcock Annual Campaign Launch

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 20:04:00 GMT

December 3, 2018 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) announces the kick-off of their annual campaign. This year’s campaign, entitled Wheels for Woodcock, will focus on utilizing all donations received for the purchase of a new van for their residence on Woodcock Road in Williamstown. Earlier this year, BFAIR invested the previous campaign’s donations in the Woodcock Road property and it has become the home for four men living with cognitive disabilities.

While many expenses related to supporting those in BFAIR’s residential program are paid for through state and federal contracts and insurance, the expenses related to purchasing a van is not. “Providing a van for our residential staff to utilize increases their ability to support the people that we serve so that they may attend community events, stay connected with their families, access medical care as needed and participate in community-based recreation and leisure activities that many of us take for granted,” said Rich Weisenflue, Executive Director.

Supporting the Wheels for Woodcock 2018 Annual Campaign can be done via credit card or check donation. Visit bfair.org for easy online donation format. Alternatively, checks payable to BFAIR may be mailed or hand-delivered to their main administrative office at 771 South Church Street, North Adams. All donations made to BFAIR are tax-deductible.

BFAIR is a member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. For more information about BFAIR’s programs and services, visit www.bfair.org.

BFAIR receives two-year licensing

Tue, 25 Sep 2018 17:30:00 GMT

September 25, 2018 (North Adams, MA) – Berkshire Family & Individual Resources, Inc. (BFAIR) announces a successful review and continued licensing by the Office of Quality Enhancement of the Commonwealth’s Department of Developmental Services. Through a self-assessment process and a target review, BFAIR earned positive licensing outcomes. The eight critical indicators reviewed met the standards set forth by the Department. These positive outcomes resulted in a two-year licensing and certification for BFAIR’s residential, individual home support, and day and employment services.

“BFAIR’s outcomes on reviews and assessments like these are indicative of the work that we do”, said Theresa Gelinas, Director of Program Operations for Day Services. She continued, “Receiving positive accolades and continued licensing speaks to our commitment to consistency in quality services.”

Rich Weisenflue, Executive Director, concurred, “I am very pleased with findings of the Department of Developmental Services Office of Quality Enhancement Team’s recent survey of BFAIR’s programs and services. I consider OQE’s survey a very important measure of the quality of BFAIR services and therefore a two-year license, the highest level awarded, is an outstanding outcome. The entire BFAIR team should be extremely proud of this accomplishment as the credit for the high quality of our services is directly attributable to the hard work of each and every one of our employees.”

BFAIR is a member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. To learn more about BFAIR, please visit www.bfair.org .

Godfrey Promoted to Director of Day Habilitation

Tue, 02 Aug 2016 16:08:00 GMT

August 1, 2016 (North Adams, MA) – BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) is pleased to announce the promotion of Jason Godfrey to Director of Day Habilitation. Jason joined the BFAIR team in late 2015 to serve as the Assistant Director of Employment Services. During his short tenure with the organization, Jason has exhibited strong leadership qualities, a dedication to enriching the lives of people living with disabilities, and a true commitment to protecting human rights.

Prior to joining BFAIR, Jason was employed for fifteen years at Clinical and Support Options (CSO) in Pittsfield as a case manager/social worker. His work included community outreach to at-risk youth with co-occurring disorders and autism.

In his new role, Jason will be responsible for the day to day operations of the Day Habilitation Program and supervision of twenty staff members. “Jason’s extensive clinical background and experience in the human service field will serve him well” said Theresa Gelinas, Director of Day Services Program Operations. She continued, “He has quickly become a strong member of our team and will continue to set the pace for excellence in our Day Habilitation Program.”

In addition to his work at BFAIR, Jason is a fire fighter and secretary with the Adams Alert Hose Company.

Jason earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the former North Adams State College in 1996, as well as teaching certification for grades 1 – 6. He resides in Adams with his wife, Amy, and two children.

BFAIR is a member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. For more info, please visit www.bfair.org .

###

Gelinas Promoted to Director of Day Services Operations

Tue, 02 Aug 2016 16:06:00 GMT

June 13, 2016 (North Adams, MA) – As BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) continues to follow a strategic growth plan, the organization is pleased to announce the promotion of Theresa Gelinas to Director of Program Operations for Day Services. A member of the BFAIR team since 2001, Theresa most recently served as the Director of Habilitative Services. In her new role, Theresa will be responsible for the supervision of the Day Habilitation Program, Homecare Services, Vocational Services, and other ancillary services.

Her experience within the organization marks a long-standing commitment to serving people living with disabilities. Ethel Altiery, Associate Executive Director, said of Theresa, “[her] skills and experience have grown steadily in conjunction with BFAIR’s expansion and diversity of service offerings.” Theresa’s roles at BFAIR have included directing the Day Habilitation Centers, managing the Acquired Brain Injury Waiver Program and Homecare services. Theresa has successfully completed CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) surveys for the Day Habilitation Program’s accreditation since 2003. She is also considered a trainer of the “Care for People with Alzheimer’s Disease” training from the Alzheimer’s Association. As Theresa prepares to take on her new role, Altiery continued, “I anticipate under Theresa’s supervision that our Day Services programs will flourish and demonstrate our commitment to offering people with disabilities and older adults quality services.”

Theresa earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Westfield State College in 1998. She resides in Clarksburg with her husband and three children.

BFAIR is a member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and the Williamstown Community Chest. For more info, please visit www.bfair.org

###

Annual Campaign 2015 Kicks-Off

Thu, 10 Dec 2015 13:34:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 8, 2015

North Adams, MA – As the season of giving ramps up, Berkshire Family & Individual Resources, Inc. (BFAIR) is kicking-off their fourth Annual Campaign. Chaired by Patti Messina, Clerk of the Board of Directors, this year’s campaign hopes to surpass last year’s campaign total of $17,000. Having completed a year of strategic growth and new initiatives, BFAIR is poised to continue that momentum into 2016.

Rich Weisenflue, Executive Director said, “As we look toward 2016, our initiatives continue to focus on a changing landscape of services and people that we serve. Most notably, we will begin to offer community based day services in our newly acquired space on Roberts Drive in North Adams and grow our residential services programs in Pittsfield and expand to Southern Berkshire County.”

Continuing on the remarks of Weisenflue, Patti Messina, remarked that “BFAIR has typically been known for providing services to individuals living with developmental disabilities. While this is the corner-stone of service provided, BFAIR is responding to the growing need in the community for services to elders in the home, those with acquired brain injury, as well as children and adults living with autism.”

This year’s Annual Campaign will run through February 2016. A “Giving from the Heart” event hosted by BFAIR and the North Adams Chamber of Commerce on February 11, 2016 will give the community an opportunity to visit the administrative office while networking with friends and colleagues.

Those interested in learning more about BFAIR or making a tax-deductible donation to the campaign can visit www.bfair.org .

BFAIR is a member agency of the Northern Berkshire United Way and Williamstown Community Chest. For more information about BFAIR’s programs and services visit www.bfair.org or call 413-664-9382.

###