Community Development Corporation South Berkshire Becomes Impact South County

10:54AM / Thursday, August 13, 2026Print Story | Email Story

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. After more than four decades, Community Development Corporation South Berkshire (CDCSB) has announced a new name: Impact South County.

The new name reflects the organization's evolution while reaffirming the mission that has guided its work since its founding, stated a press release.

While affordable housing remains at the heart of the organization, its work today also includes small business support, community partnerships, and strategic investments that strengthen the region's long-term vitality.

"We have really begun to move the needle on affordability in the Berkshires" said Jim Harwood,

interim executive director. "And not only on housing. Our mission includes much more than building homes- it's about creating opportunities for people to live, work, and thrive."

"As our work has grown, we wanted a name that better reflects the impact we're making across South County while honoring the commitment we've had to this community for more than 40 years," he added.

That impact is reflected in projects across the region, including the recently launched Egremont Duplex Homes workforce homeownership development, the planned 69-unit affordable housing community on West Center Street in Lee, the preservation of Thornewood as workforce housing, and technical assistance that helps local entrepreneurs build stronger businesses.

While the organization's name is changing, its mission, staff, board, and commitment to South Berkshire County remain the same.

During the transition, the organization will use the name Impact South County, formerly Community Development Corporation South Berkshire, to ensure continuity and recognition.

The community is invited to celebrate this next chapter at Impact South County's annual End of Summer Block Party on Sunday, Aug. 30, featuring live music, local food, children's activities, and opportunities to connect with organizations working to build a stronger South

County.

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Victim Identified in Fatal Richmond Crash

Staff ReportsiBerkshires
11:23AM / Friday, October 30, 2026

RICHMOND, Mass. — A 25-year-old South County man died Thursday in the fiery crash on Route 41.

The Berkshire District Attorney's Office on Friday reported that the victim was Christopher Lee Kilmer, 25.

The single-vehicle accident took place on Route 41 in Richmond near 2715 State Road. A Hyundai Sonata driven by Kilmer was travelling northbound when it crossed into the southbound lane and off the road; the car was engulfed in flames when first responders arrived.

According to the DA's Office, West Stockbridge Fire and County Ambulance declared Kilmer dead at 9:53 a.m. when the Fire Department "was able to extinguish the fire."

"It was at this time (when the fire was extinguished) that first responders observed a single occupant in the vehicle and made the declaration of death," according to the press release.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has taken custody of the body.

On Friday morning, several South County fire departments posted tributes on Facebook to Kilmer, who they reported was a member of the West Stockbridge and Alford fire departments.

"Every first responder carries a fear that one day the next emergency call will involve someone they know, a friend, a neighbor, or someone they love. But perhaps the greatest fear of all is when that call involves one of our own," the post read.