Guest Column: Berkshire United Way's Call to Action During National Volunteer Week

"America's volunteers embody the core values that define our Nation: an optimism that is tested yet resolute; a courage that digs deep when we need it most; and an unshakeable faith in one another, our Nation, and the future we can build together."

These words open President Joe Biden's proclamation recognizing National Volunteer Week, which runs from April 21-27. The president's words focus on volunteerism at the national level, and I assure you the spirit of service is alive and well in the Berkshires.

At Berkshire United Way, we mark National Volunteer Week as the centerpiece of our own Here For Good Volunteer Month.

This past weekend, we partnered with Berkshire Bounty to help address the ongoing and growing challenge of food security in our community. Over 90 volunteers gathered at the Boys and Girls Club to package 40,000 servings of healthy, nutritious meals for distribution to local food pantries. We're helping organize volunteers to paint and prepare space for the Focus is Our Children youth program. On Friday, April 25, we're coordinating a spring cleanup at Soldier On. Then, on May 11, we will partner with the National Association of Letter Carriers on their annual Stamp Out Hunger  Food Drive.

These are just a few of the incredible projects happening now and in the coming days. We're grateful to every volunteer who lends their time and talent to serve their friends and neighbors in the Berkshires.

The great thing about volunteer service is that it's egalitarian, multi-generational, and fun! If you're looking for opportunities to give back, visit volunteerberkshireuw.org to learn more.

Tom Bernard is president and CEO Berkshire United Way.

Thanksgiving Angels Show Up for Increased Need

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
05:37AM / Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Cole, 6, and Trey, 3, stock bread for the Thanksgiving Angels in this provided photo.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — As the cost of living continues to rise, so does the need for Thanksgiving Angels.

The meal kit distribution effort has surpassed last year's numbers, serving more than 2,200 local families in need. Around 500 volunteers have helped with the entire process and on Monday, around 100 volunteers packed into the South Congregational Church for drive-through distribution.

Generosity is the engine that has powered Thanksgiving Angels for around 15 years.

"The community is so incredibly generous with financials and their time and helping us to pull this off," co-Chair Gretchen DeBartolo said.

"… it's a lot of hands, an awful lot of hands, and without that, there'd be nothing."

There were about 600 home deliveries over the weekend for the elderly, those with disabilities, and those without a vehicle.

"People have been generous with in-kind donations and with money," co-Chair Hope Amandos said.

"I think we will be able to cover our expenses. I think we did well with donations."