This was originally published in Visions, Issue IV 2024. Dec. 1, 2024 - An estimated 160,000 people with developmental disabilities live in Massachusetts, according to the Mass. Developmental Disabilities Council. The Commonwealth sees 73,000 cases of traumatic brain injury annually, according to Mas [...]
This was originally published in the Annual Report 2024. September 1, 2024 - We are in full stride, operating at full speed. Our staff numbers are at their highest levels. Our day programs serve its highest numbers – while similar programs around the state closed during or after Covid. We built and o [...]
This was originally published in Visions, Issue II 2024. May 1, 2024 - We have one job to do here at Berkshire County Arc -- support individuals with disabilities. That mission is focused, but to do it right -- provide rich lives with opportunities to feel fulfilled, and gain independence -- can be c [...]
This was originally published in Visions, Issue I 2024. February 1, 2024 - In my first full year as President & CEO of Berkshire County Arc, 17 new individuals moved into our residential programs, the most transition the program has experienced in recent memory. Moving to a new home for anyone i [...]
This was originally published in Visions, Issue III 2023. September 1, 2023 - At BCArc, we feel that the disabilities population should be engaged and visible to the general population. That remains an important part of the BCArc mission. The BuddyWalk serves as our largest effort to rally communit [...]
This was originally published in Visions, Issue II 2023. June 1, 2023 - Rewards come in many forms at BCArc, and it's important we recognize them. But we do not get to rest on our laurels for long. We celebrate, appreciate one another, and get back to work because people depend on our support 24/7, [...]
This was originally published in Visions, Issue I 2023. March 1, 2023 - The staff at BCArc are inspiring. We recently opened a new residential program for individuals with brain injury, and launched a program to support families who need extra time after work. It is the drive and initiative of BCArc [...]
This was originally published in Visions, Issue III 2022. September 1, 2022 - BCArc thrives because it enjoys tremendous support from its community. For more than 60 years organizations, businesses, government agencies, and residents of Western Mass have helped strengthen and grow BCArc. Our program [...]
When Tanya Balsamo was promoted to site manager, placing her in charge of a home, she felt nervous. “I felt a huge responsibility on my shoulders,” she recalled. “BCArc has very high standards—it’s up to me to make sure that the five individuals in my house have a high quality of life.” The transitio [...]
Giana Daley started working for the Berkshire County Arc as a senior in high school, working weekday shifts after school. For six months she served as a relief worker– subbing in for full-time workers at numerous different residences. Now she works full time at one house, calling it her favorite hou [...]