BCC's Paterson Field House Showcases Membership Opportunities

08:19AM / Wednesday, April 15, 2026Print Story | Email Story

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Berkshire Community College is inviting the community to take advantage of a lineup of programs, facilities, and affordable memberships at Paterson Field House this spring and summer.

Open to BCC students, faculty, staff, and the greater Berkshire community, Paterson Field House continues to serve as a regional hub for recreation, wellness, and connection — offering a range of opportunities for individuals and families of all ages.

The facility features a fully equipped fitness center, basketball court, turf field, tennis courts, and outdoor athletic spaces, along with a schedule of programs, events, and recreational activities designed to meet the needs of the community.

Paterson Field House remains one of the most affordable fitness and recreation options in the Berkshires. Membership is free for BCC students and employees, while community memberships are offered at accessible rates, including monthly, seasonal, and annual options.

Day passes are also available, making it easy for anyone to experience the facility without a long-term commitment.

"Paterson Field House is truly a resource for the entire Berkshire community," said Celia Norcross, dean of students at BCC. "Whether you're a student looking to stay active, a family seeking affordable summer recreation, or a community member prioritizing wellness, this is a place where everyone can feel welcome, supported, and connected."

As summer approaches, one of Paterson's most anticipated features returns: its outdoor swimming pool, set to reopen on June 20. The 25-yard pool, complete with lifeguards on duty and accessible amenities, offers a space for recreation, exercise, and family fun.

With affordable daily rates and family-friendly pricing options, the pool provides an accessible way for Berkshire residents to stay active and cool throughout the summer months.

"Summer at Paterson is something special," said Daryl Shreve, director of recreational services. "From the pool to our outdoor spaces and programs, we're proud to offer a place where people of all ages can gather, stay active, and enjoy everything the Berkshires have to offer — without breaking the bank."

Additional summer offerings include swim clinics, recreational leagues, outdoor programming, and opportunities through the Adventure Program, which connects participants to activities across the region.

Looking ahead to the fall, the women's volleyball program returns in the fall as part of the college's return to intercollegiate athletics.

Competing in NJCAA Region 21, the Falcons will host and travel for a full slate of matches throughout the fall 2026 season, welcoming teams from across Massachusetts and the Northeast. The first game of the season will be an away game versus the Northern Essex Community College Knights on Saturday, Sept. 12, at 1 pm. The full schedule is available at berkshirecc.edu/volleyball.

The college will not be continuing its baseball program this year. The decision reflects a strategic focus on sustaining programs that continue to serve student-athletes and the broader campus community.

For more information, including membership options, hours, and upcoming programs, visit berkshirecc.edu/paterson.

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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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