Berkshire Family YMCA Welcomes Interim CEO and Executive Director

02:13PM / Monday, November 27, 2023Print Story | Email Story

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire Family YMCA announced the appointment of Christian Bianchi as its new Interim CEO and Executive Director.

Bianchi, a member of the Berkshire Family YMCA Board and current Director of Development at The Brien Center, will begin his new role on Dec. 11.

According to a press release, Christian Bianchi brings experience and a deep commitment to community service. His expertise in organizational development and fundraising will guide the Berkshire Family YMCA towards its future goals.

"We are thrilled to welcome Christian Bianchi as our new Interim CEO and Executive Director," said Adam Kelpetar, Chair of the Berkshire Family YMCA Board. "His passion for community work and proven leadership expertise makes him the ideal person to lead our organization into its next chapter."

Christian Bianchi will overlap with the outgoing CEO and Executive Director, Jessica Rumlow, to ensure a seamless transition. This collaboration will maintain the continuity of leadership and the strategic direction of the Berkshire Family YMCA.

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New Camp Is Safe Place for Children Suffering Loss to Addiction

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
06:26AM / Saturday, December 27, 2025

Last year's Happy Campers courtesy of Max Tabakin.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A new camp is offering a safe place for children who have lost a parent or guardian to addiction.

Director Gayle Saks founded the nonprofit "Camp Happy Place" last year. The first camp was held in June with 14 children.

Saks is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor who works at the Brien Center. One of her final projects when studying was how to involve youth, and a camp came to mind. Camp had been her "happy place" growing up, and it became her dream to open her own.

"I keep a bucket list in my wallet, and it's right on here on this list, and I cross off things that I've accomplished," she said. "But it is the one thing on here that I knew I had to do."

The overnight co-ed camp is held at a summer camp in Winsted, Conn., where Saks spent her summers as a child. It is four nights and five days and completely free. Transportation is included as are many of the items needed for camping. The camp takes up to 30 children.

"I really don't think there's any place that exists specifically for this population. I think it's important to know, we've said this, but that it is not a therapeutic camp," Saks said.

She said the focus is on fun for the children, though they are able to talk to any of the volunteer and trained staff. The staff all have experience in social work, addiction and counseling, and working with children.

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