Co-op Bank Welcomes VP, New Director of Facilities & Real Estate

08:25AM / Tuesday, April 07, 2026Print Story | Email Story

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— Pittsfield Cooperative Bank (Co-op Bank) announced the appointment of Matthew Parise as its new VP, Director of Facilities and Real Estate.

In this role, Parise will oversee all aspects of facilities operations, property management, and long-term real estate planning. He will play a key role in ensuring all locations remain safe, efficient, and aligned with the organization's evolving needs.

"We're excited to welcome Matt to our team," said Gregg Levante, Co-op President. "His expertise in facilities management and real estate strategy will be instrumental as we continue to enhance our branches, workspaces and support our employees and customers across all of our locations."

Parise brings more than 28 years in managing building operations, leading capital improvement projects, and optimizing real estate portfolios at Beacon Bank, formerly Berkshire Bank, and Key Bank.

"I'm thrilled to join Co-op Bank and contribute to an organization that is guided by a strong community foundation," said Parise. "I look forward to working with the team to enhance our facilities, support our employees, and help create spaces that reflect the organization's mission and values."

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Second Streets Second Chances Awarded $85K for Workforce Re-Entry Program

By Brittany Polito03:00PM / Monday, September 28, 2026

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A local program for formerly incarcerated citizens seeking a technical career received $85,000 from the state.

On Thursday, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced $2.25 million in Re-entry Workforce Development Demonstration Program grants to 12 organizations that will provide job training, career support, and employment opportunities to 445 formerly incarcerated individuals returning to their communities.

Second Street Second Chances was allocated $84,712 to partner with the Berkshire County Sheriff's Office to offer a training program to 12 returning citizens with a focus on the advanced manufacturing and engineering industry.

The funds will be used to put 12 returning citizens through a training program with a focus on the advanced manufacturing and engineering industry. Successful program graduates will be placed in manufacturing and welding roles at Onyx Specialty Papers and Hi-Tech Mold and Tool.

The program was one of 12 awardees, a majority on the eastern side of the state; Greenfield also saw funding.

"When people return to their communities, they should have a real opportunity to get a good job, support their families and build a stable future," said Gov. Maura Healey in a press release.

"These grants connect people with the training and experience they need to succeed and with employers that are ready to hire."

Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll said successful reentry means making sure people have the tools and opportunities to move forward, and these programs bring together community organizations, public safety partners, and employers to connect people directly with training and jobs.

Launched in 2022, Second Street Second Chances' mission is to provide a central point of access for medical and mental health, housing, job training, legal services, and more for a successful reentry into the community.

Early this year, the nonprofit saw an $89,000 grant from the program. Executive Director Lindsay Cornwell at the time said this funding allowed 2nd Street to expand its mission of supporting returning citizens in Berkshire County through meaningful workforce opportunities and a pathway toward sustainable employment.

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