Nonprofit Center Launches Equity Academy

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — In more than one survey, Berkshire nonprofit leaders indicated strong demand for training in DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion & belonging). As a result, Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires is partnering with André Lynch and the Berkshire Equity Association to launch a training series that runs from September 2025 through April 2026.

The Agents of Change: Equity Academy includes 6 workshops, individual coaching to assist in achieving organizational goals, and a culminating sharing and "Equity Activator" certificate presentation.

The cost of the series is largely underwritten by The Barr Foundation, Berkshire Bank, Greylock Federal Credit Union, Guardian Life, and Milltown Foundation. The cost per organization (for up to three participating individuals) is $500. Some scholarships may be available based on financial need.

"This type of robust training is normally very expensive," said NPC executive director Liana Toscanini.  "By partnering with a group of local funders, we are able to offer a high-quality program that’s affordable for nonprofit organizations and work alongside the Berkshire Equity Association as they pilot their framework for fostering equitable practices."

The 6 workshops (3 in-person and 3 virtual) address the following topics: DEI Fundamentals, recognizing and addressing microaggressions, unpacking organizational culture, serving diverse communities, measuring and communicating DEIB impact, reflection and presentation. 

Facilitators include André Lynch (DEIB consultant and coach, and Vice Provost of Institutional Equity & Belonging at MCLA), Michael Obasohan (M.Ed, Chief Diversity Officer for City of Pittsfield), and Sharron Frazier-McClain (Director of Community Engagement & DEIA at Barrington Stage Co.).

Berkshire nonprofit organizations are invited to apply through July 15 and will be notified by the end of July. A maximum of 20 organizations will be chosen for this initial cohort. More information about the program and application process can be found online https://npcberkshires.org/workshops/agents-of-change-equity-academy/

Lt. Governor Driscoll Visits Great Barrington Businesses

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
05:50AM / Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, Housing Secretary Ed Augustus and state Rep. Leigh Davis are ready to chop wood out back of Pleasant and Main. 

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll did some holiday shopping on Main Street last week after announcing millions of federal Community Development Block Grant funds. 

She was glad to see an array of small-business owners thriving, and the eclectic items that Great Barrington has to offer. 

"We know that the vibrancy of communities can often be defined by what's happening on Main Street," she said. 

"It's great to be here in Great Barrington and see so many independent entrepreneurs who are running really, not only fun, but businesses that are doing well, and we want to try and find ways to uplift and support that work moving forward." 

State Rep. Leigh Davis coordinated a business tour with Pleasant and Main Cafe and General Store, Robbie's Community Market, and Butternut Ski Mountain. While downtown, Driscoll also stopped at Robin's Candy and Rob's Records and Audio. 

Earlier that day, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced $33.5 million in federal CDBG funds at the Housatonic Community Center. Great Barrington, in conjunction with Egremont and Stockbridge, has been allocated $ 1.25 million to rehabilitate approximately 14 housing units.  A new Rural and Small Town Housing Choice Community designation for its Housing Choice Initiative was also launched. 

Davis emphasized the significance of the state announcing these dollars in the small village of Housatonic.  

Craig Bero, founder of Pleasant and Main, prepared desserts and hors d'oeuvres for the group at his cozy cafe across the street from the Housatonic Community Center. Bero opened more than a decade ago after migrating from New York City, and Pleasant and Main offers sustainable, organic meals for an affordable price while enjoying the museum of antiques that is the restaurant.