United Cerebral Palsy Awarded Assistive Technology Regional Center Contract

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — United Cerebral Palsy of Berkshire County has been awarded the Assistive Technology Regional Center contract through 2027.

The anticipated annual amount for the contract is $100,000 per year. Funding for this program is part of the MassMATCH federal program which is administered by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission and allows UCP to lend assistive technology equipment and offer demonstrations throughout Western Massachusetts.

"At UCP, we believe technology is the key to unlocking human potential, so I am pleased to announce that UCP has been officially awarded the contract to offer Assistive Technology Regional Center services to Western Massachusetts," said Sal Garozzo, executive director of UCP of Berkshire County. "This secures the future of UCP's Assistive Technology Program through 2027. Through the program, UCP offers unique assistive technology services that help fulfill our vision of a life without limits for persons with disabilities."


The funds will be used by UCP to purchase assistive equipment and to educate the community about the benefits and uses of assistive technology through workshops and device demonstrations. Loans of assistive technology devices and durable medical equipment are free of charge, so people can learn about and try out the latest equipment. Device loans are useful for those considering a purchase, wanting to "test drive" a particular product, or needing a "loaner" while their own equipment is out for repair.

"The center can help educators and employers seeking an equipment trial, or people with temporary disabilities who need a device. We also facilitate the necessary assessments and requirements for people needing equipment purchased on a permanent basis," Garozzo said.

For more information about UCP's Assistive Technology Program, contact Amanda at 413-664-9345, ext. 20, or adonahue@ucpberkshire.org.

 


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Pittsfield ZBA Member Recognized for 40 Years of Service

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

Albert Ingegni III tells the council about how his father-in-law, former Mayor Remo Del Gallo who died at age 94 in 2020, enjoyed his many years serving the city and told Ingegni to do the same. 

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — It's not every day that a citizen is recognized for decades of service to a local board — except for Tuesday.

Albert Ingegni III was applauded for four decades of service on the Zoning Board of Appeals during City Council. Mayor Peter Marchetti presented him with a certificate of thanks for his commitment to the community.

"It's not every day that you get to stand before the City Council in honor of a Pittsfield citizen who has dedicated 40 years of his life serving on a board or commission," he said.

"As we say that, I know that there are many people that want to serve on boards and commissions and this office will take any resume that there is and evaluate each person but tonight, we're here to honor Albert Ingegni."

The honoree is currently chair of the ZBA, which handles applicants who are appealing a decision or asking for a variance.

Ingegni said he was thinking on the ride over about his late father-in-law, former Mayor Remo Del Gallo, who told him to "enjoy every moment of it because it goes really quickly."

"He was right," he said. "Thank you all."

The council accepted $18,000 from the state Department of Conservation and Recreation and a  $310,060 from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Safe Streets and Roads for All program.

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