Berkshire United Way Names Annual Donor Car Winner

By Andy McKeeveriBerkshires Staff
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United Way CEO Kristine Hazzard, winner Darlene Pshenishny, Gary Johnson, owner of The Johnson Dealership, and Greylock Federal Credit Union CEO Marilyn Sperling on Monday morning.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Two city businesses teamed up to give away a car (or cash) to a Berkshire United Way donor.

Darlene Pshenishny, employed at Berkshire Health Systems, opted to take $10,000 instead of a new car to put toward bills on the new house she and her husband recently built.

 Pshenishny was one of thousands across the county to donate to the United Way and was the lucky winner of the drawing. She was presented her winnings Monday morning.

The annual giveaway — now in its 13th year — is intended to help encourage donations for the service organization. Greylock Federal Credit Union and The Johnson Dealership teamed up to provide in the winnings.

The car has driven more than 1,300 miles across the county to events and workplaces since July.



"Anyone who fills out a pledge card has a chance," Berkshire United Way CEO Kristine Hazzard said.

This year, the organization has raised about $2 million of its $2.7 million goal with five months to go. An important part of its annual fundraising is through employee donations made directly from their paychecks through their employers.

United Way provides funding to nearly 50 agencies and programs throughout the county, from the Lee Youth Association to the Railroad Street Youth Project to Barrington Stage Company to the Berkshire Immigrant Center to United Cerebral Palsy of the Berkshires.

Hazzard joined Greylock President Marilyn Sperling and Johnson Dealership owner Gary Johnson to award Pshenishny her winnings.


Tags: Berkshire United Way,   fundraiser,   giveaway,   

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Celebrity Chef Feed Our Neighbors Event

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Christian Center in Pittsfield is set to host a gastronomic extravaganza like no other on May 6 from 3pm to 7pm. 
 
The "Feed Our Neighbors" event promises an afternoon filled with delectable delights, lively music, and a spirit of community coming together to support a noble cause.
 
Renowned Celebrity Chef Chris Bonnivier, known for his culinary prowess and philanthropic spirit, spearheads this initiative to aid the local food pantry. With a heart as big as his flavors, Chef Bonnivier has rallied an impressive lineup of local eateries to join forces in the fight against hunger.
 
Guests can expect to indulge in a diverse array of culinary creations from beloved establishments such as Zuchini's, Fully Belly, Mazzeo's, Firehouse Cafe, KJ Nosh, Common Table, 413 Bistro, Uptown Smoke, Austin Riggs, Berkshire Catering Group, Porta Via, and more! From savory to sweet, there will be something to tantalize every palate. Haddad Subaru, will be providing a donation of their own as well as being onsite to volunteer, and raise money through some fun cornhole challenges! Subaru will also be collecting food at their East St location from now until May 5. Please stop in with your canned or dry goods.
 
Adding to the festive ambiance, Pittsfield's own musical sensation, Whiskey City, will provide the perfect backdrop of toe-tapping tunes, ensuring a lively atmosphere throughout the event.
 
But it's not just about food and music - "Feed Our Neighbors" will also feature exciting raffles, offering attendees the chance to win!
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