Building a better Berkshire County
Berkshire United Way was founded in 1924 as the local Community Fund organization. Until 2008, we were structured as a federated fundraiser with member agencies. Funds were invested in local health and human service organizations because of their Berkshire United Way membership.
In 2009, Berkshire United Way shifted to the Community Impact Investment Model, which represents our commitment to promoting real and sustainable change in Berkshire County. This model uses the community-defined aspiration as the basis for determining how and where Berkshire United Way makes its investments.
Prior to this shift, Berkshire United Way devoted countless hours to meaningful conversations with over 400 representatives from more than 75 community organizations. It was through this process that the aforementioned community aspiration was defined and the three priority community issues were identified: early childhood literacy, positive youth development and economic prosperity. With your support, we strategically invest in these community priorities, then monitor and measure the results of these investments over time.
Together, we’re making Berkshire County a healthier, more stable dynamic, engaged community with opportunities for all.