Berkshire Humane Society Looks To The Future
Pittsfield - Following a successful 2007, the board of directors of Berkshire Humane Society has taken steps to maximize further growth and future success.At its January meeting, the board promoted John Perreault to the newly-created position of Executive Director. This promotion recognizes Perreault’s 15 years of progressive and compassionate leadership of Berkshire Humane Society.
As executive director, Perreault will serve as the chief professional and development officer, responsible for developing and implementing all fundraising strategies and programs. In addition, Perreault will lead the organization’s community outreach efforts, serving as its chief spokesperson and addressing all community concerns regarding animal issues while maintaining responsibility for managing the shelter.
Perreault had served as shelter manager of Berkshire Humane Society since the organization’s creation in 1993. Previous to that, he was employed by the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA).
According to D. Mark Loveless, treasurer and chairman of the human resources committee, this change in organization will ensure the sustained and successful operation of the shelter.
“Berkshire Humane Society has grown tremendously over the years through the building of a state-of-the-art facility and expansion of our programs. To meet the corresponding growth in the financial demands of the organization, concentrated effort on development and fundraising is required,” stated Loveless.
Additionally, Robert M. Fuster, the founder of Berkshire Humane Society and who has served as the organization’s president since 1992, has decided it is an appropriate time to step down and to bring on new leadership. As a result, the board of directors has elected Stephen Pavlosky as president.
According to Fuster, “The organization is in a strong financial position. After 16 years, it’s time for a change, and Steve brings strong leadership as president.”
Pavlosky joined the board in 2002. He had previously served as vice-president and chairman of development. Pavlosky, of Lenox, is a retired President of Lockheed Martin Aerospace businesses. “The challenge for Berkshire Humane Society is to build on its solid financial basis for the future. With John Perreault’s new responsibilities and the board’s focus, I am confident we will continue our success in this area,” stated Pavlosky.
In other organizational news, Fred Pomerantz of Sheffield has been elected vice-president of the organization. Pomerantz is also a member of the finance committee.
Also, Dr. Jonathan C. Cluett of Williamstown has been elected to the board of directors. Cluett is an orthopedic surgeon practicing with Orthopedic Associates of Northern Berkshire.
According to Perreault, “the primary mission of Berkshire Humane Society is to provide compassionate care to all animals. But we are much more. We provide education and outreach to the community. We are truly a community resource. The challenge to guarantee the financial viability of the organization is one I look forward to tackling.”
Helping animals and people since 1992, the Berkshire Humane Society offers free educational programs for area school children, a pet-food bank for economically distressed pet owners, and also works with The Elizabeth Freeman Center to provide foster care assistance for the pets of women in crisis. BHS receives no public funding and relies on memberships and donations to continue to help animals and people. In 2007, BHS placed 784 homeless animals into loving forever homes. The shelter is open Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm, Thursday evenings 5-8pm, and Sundays 1-4pm. The shelter closes at noon on the last Wednesday of each month for staff meetings. The phone number is 413-447-7878 and website is www.berkshirehumane.org
