Groups ascended onto 15 different locations, including Windsor Lake and Joe Wolfe Field, and Spruces Mobile Home Park in Williamstown, to work on various projects, ranging from painting to cleaning to yard work.

Spencer Moser, coordinator of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts' Center for Service and Citizenship, described the day as "awe-inspiring and gratifying."

He said he was excited to see more high school students involved than in years past.

 

"Service brings the college and the community together," Moser said.

 

He also hoped that the youth involved felt accomplished and will carry on the message and action of community service wherever they go.

 

"Part of the goal is to showcase that we can make a difference," Moser said.

The service day, started as a college initiative, has grown to include the great community and a wide range of activities.

Moser said having fewer projects this year gave each project more attention, and also further helped with the community aspect. He said there was more opportunity for community members of all ages and backgrounds to share the moment. Moser described community service as an "equalizer."

"When you roll up your sleeves and dig, you're equal," Moser said.
 

A handful of local politicians took part in the service as well. Mayor Richard Alcombright drove around in his truck dropping off snacks and water to each location. State Rep. Gailanne Cariddi walked up and down Ashland Street picking up trash with a couple of students and Kate Merrigan, a coordinator at Northern Berkshires Community Coalition for Unity Youth Programs.

Local businesses also chipped in to the cause. Village Pizza and Pizza Works gave away pizzas for the after-party.