Latina314 Grateful for Grants, Collaborative Work

Print Story | Email Story
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Latinas413, an organization dedicated to empowering and representing Latina women, extends heartfelt appreciation to Milltown Capital for supporting the Earth & Fire Initiative, Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation for Arts & Culture programs, & reaching a third year of sponsorship from Lee Bank Foundation for the bilingual Mentoring Program. 
 
"These grants will enable us to continue making a positive difference in the lives of countless Latina individuals, helping them unlock their full potential and pursue their dreams," Board Chair Liliana Atanacio said. 
 
Latinas413 collaborates with a number of local organizations to expand culturally diverse programming in the Berkshires.  In their third year of partnership with Jacob's Pillow, Latinas413 is proud to highlight its dedication to establish standards of Language Justice & inclusive programming. In another innovative collaboration Latinas413 is joining forces with Artist at Work & Luiza Follegati for the project "Immigrant Mothers & Daughters,"  Berkshire Busk for supporting immigrant talent, and WAM Theatre for "Devising Theatre in Spanish."  
 
"These grants & partnerships strengthen our leadership and amplify impact to expand programming, providing courageous spaces and advocacy for Latina individuals striving to achieve their goals and flourish in the community," said Atanacio. 
 
Through initiatives such as Bilingual Mentoring for entrepreneurs, Rest & Reading Circle (Book Club), Earth & Fire (Outdoors), and Arts & Culture, Latinas413 is committed to fostering a community where Latina women are celebrated, empowered, and encouraged. 
 
"With our funding partners supporting our mission, we will continue to build a brighter, more equitable future for all," said Atanacio.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

New Camp Is Safe Place for Children Suffering Loss to Addiction

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

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.
 
View Full Story

More Pittsfield Stories