Co-op Supports Berkshire Nonprofits with Cash Cube Events

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Pittsfield Cooperative Bank (Co-op Bank) successfully concluded its year-end community giving initiative, combining direct donations with interactive "Where's the Action Cash Cube" events to benefit local nonprofits across Berkshire County this holiday season.
 
Each participating not-for-profit organization received a $500 contribution from Co-op Bank, along with an on-site Cash Cube visit that gave them the opportunity to catch up to an additional $500. 
 
All events were held at the nonprofits' locations and shared on Co-op Bank's social media channels to spotlight the essential services they provide throughout the region.
 
Through the Cash Cube events, the nonprofits grabbed the following additional amounts:
  • Pittsfield Community Food Pantry: $75
  • UCP of Western Massachusetts: $87
  • Christian Center of Pittsfield: $187
  • BC Arc: $151
  • Girl's Inc of the Berkshires: $219
  • Elder Services: $137
  • BFAIR: $394
  • Berkshire Choral International: $211
  • Hinsdale Food Pantry: $231
 
"These events were more than just moments of enjoyment, they created meaningful opportunities for our members to feel seen, valued, and connected to the broader community, while also shining a light on the important work happening every day," said Randy Kinnas, CEO of UCP of Western Massachusetts. "The support from Co-op Bank, both financial and through visibility, helps strengthen our ability to serve individuals and families throughout the Berkshires."
 
Co-op Bank contributed $4,500 in direct donations, with an additional $1,692 raised through the Cash Cube events, bringing the total combined contribution to $6,192 in support of Berkshire County nonprofits in December.
 
"We are incredibly grateful to Co-op Bank for their Cash Cube initiative and for their generosity in supporting our mission. Watching our staff and students rally behind Abby was a powerful reminder of the community spirit that helps to define the Brigham Center. Congratulations to Abby on raising an additional $219, each dollar raised strengthens our ability to support children and families in our community," said Girls Inc. CEO, Kelly Marion.
 
In total, Co-op Bank's year-end initiative reinforced its commitment to investing in local organizations that strengthen Berkshire County and improve quality of life for residents across the region.
 
"Our nonprofit partners are addressing some of the most critical needs in Berkshire County, from food security and housing stability to arts, early childhood development, education, and human services," said Gregg Levante, President of Co-op Bank. "The Cash Cube events brought a little holiday cheer while highlighting organizations that truly make a difference. Supporting them is core to who we are as a community bank."
 
 
 

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Mother Plans Memorial Bench at Clapp Park

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Parks Commission has OK'd a memorial bench for a young man who had many happy memories at Clapp Park. 

"I hate this. I lost my son in December to a fatal overdose, and so I am looking to have a memorial bench installed for him at Clapp Park. He was 23 when he passed," said Sarah DeJesus, through tears. 

"The first half of his life, we lived in that neighborhood … and so we have so many great memories at Clapp Park." 

DeJesus has worked to mitigate health complications from substance use for years as the program manager of Berkshire Harm Reduction. The bench will be placed above the park's splash pad overlooking the area in honor of Premier Ashton DeJesus.

As for cost, DeJesus said she will fund the bench, installation, and associated expenses. 

"I've always thought that the top of the hill could use some seating opportunities, and I think this is a perfect opportunity to sort of honor a young person who Clapp Park was very meaningful to him and to the family," Parks, Open Space, and Natural Resources Manager James McGrath said. 

She and McGrath have selected a durable bench that can be fixed to the concrete, with a plaque on the back. 

DeJesus said her son went to summer camp at the park, movie nights, sledding, played sports there, met friends, and gained independence as a child. 

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