PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The City of Pittsfield has selected the internship program at Berkshire Community College (BCC) as one of the next American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)-funded community partners to be profiled through city social media and other publicity outlets. 

 

Over the past several months, the city has been using its platforms to highlight ARPA-funded work being done in the community. Additionally, the profiles are intended to raise awareness about how these funds are helping city residents and/or small businesses who were negatively impacted by the pandemic.

 

The BCC Internship Program is available for BCC students who are residents of Pittsfield. Interns gain valuable knowledge, skills and professional experience by working outside the classroom with a Pittsfield employer. Interns work 10 to 15 hours per week for one semester and are paid a stipend following the completion of the internship, which is supplemented by an ARPA grant. 

 

"The ARPA funds and support have made a great impact on our students, with strong internships here in Pittsfield," said Dean of Students Celia Norcross. "The connections interns make with local companies looking to fill workforce needs are invaluable. We are

delighted to be selected for ARPA profiles, which will give recognition to the wonderful interns here."  

 

The paid internship program is yet another financial incentive at the College, complementing free tuition for eligible students through the Commonwealth's MassReconnect and MassEducate programs. 

 

ARPA funding was instrumental to BCC students in 2023, when the College was awarded a multi-year Community College Campus Hunger Program Grant. The ARPA grant was designed to increase access to academic opportunities for students of color and students experiencing food insecurity.  

 

ARPA Community Partner Profiles can be viewed on the city's website.