nbCC December Newsletter: Coalition News

Dear Northern Berkshire,

Please enjoy a sampling of articles from our December 2022 newsletter. To read the entire issue and see lots of photos of what the Coalition was up to last month, download the PDF here.

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November Forum Discusses Growth in New Residents and What More Can Be Done to Engage Them

For the first time in decades the Berkshires is experiencing a significant influx of new residents, combined with a drop in the number of residents leaving the Berkshires. This combination still resulted in a net loss of residents between 2017-2019, but the loss slowed substantially in comparison to previous years, according to Berkshire Regional Planning Data. The data showed that our immigrant population was the only group showing double digit growth between 2017 and 2019, and there was a slight decrease in the median age of residents.

Ben Lamb, Economic Development Director for 1Berkshire, noted that while not all the data has been compiled yet, we can expect it to show population growth in the Berkshires from 2020 to present. So, now that we have new, younger, and more diverse residents joining our communities, what can we be doing to keep them here? This was the central question at November’s forum discussion.

Coalition Board President, Jennifer Civello, engaged the group in a round of “get to know you” questions about how long everyone had lived in the Berkshires, what brought them here, and why they stay. Each attendee had a handful of colored index cards. Each color corresponded to a specific answer for each of the questions. By show of cards, the collective turned out to be a diverse mix of residents. Some having lived here their whole lives, some for a decade or two, and many who had only just arrived here in the past few years.

The next presenter, Stephen Warley, was one of those newer residents, who had only recently discovered North Adams and the Berkshires while playing “Air BnB roulette” during the pandemic. Warley discovered North Adams by random chance in 2020 and he enjoyed his visit so much he has since purchased property in the area, beginning to set roots here. Despite diving headlong into the community with numerous volunteer efforts and work with the local chamber of commerce, Stephen shared with the group that he has faced his share of challenges as a newcomer to the area. Small communities like ours can be very tight knit, which can feel unwelcoming or exclusive at times, even if that is not the intention. There are also idiosyncrasies and quirks in our region that are well known to locals, but are surprises to newcomers and can be difficult to navigate without that “insider” knowledge.

On the other hand, newcomers experience our area with “fresh eyes” and aren’t carrying the community trauma of what the region has struggled through. A few attendees pointed out that many generational residents have a nostalgic longing for the “hey day” of the region and that skews their ability to see the present progress and future potential of their community in a positive light.

The impact that poverty has had on so many residents has taken a deep psychological toll beyond the obvious barriers and hardships it has created. In turn, that attitude has tainted many of the younger generational residents that grow up immersed in that mentality. They have trouble seeing and appreciating the assets surrounding themselves, while those same assets are drawing new residents to the area.

At this point the focus of the discussion moved onto indentifying what currently exists in the northern Berkshire area that can be utilized by new residents to become more connected to their community, meet friends, and get involved. The weekly e-blasts by both the Williamstown and North Adams Chambers of Commerce were well known among the group as digital resources, as well as the Coalition’s weekly e-zine. Community Calendars like destinationwilliamstown.com , exploreadams.com, and the City of North Adams website were also mentioned as useful online resources, though many wished there was one central location to find all the information.

Social media platforms and the local groups within them are also a great resource for people who use social media, but it was acknowledged that a large number of residents, old and new, did not use social media. For in-person interactions, the weekly summer NAMAzing Coffee Dates held for the past few years on Eagle Street in North Adams, and more recently, the Coffee in the Courtyard gatherings in Adams, were both recognized as very welcoming places for newcomers to meet and network with active members of the community, and learn about events and opportunities. One new resident said she found that joining a local gardening club introduced her to many events and local resources she had not previously been aware of and made her feel more welcome and connected in the community.

In the final segment of the forum the group was asked to identify what they think could help more residents feel welcome and engaged. What do we need that we don’t already have? Many of the suggestions brought up by the group have existed in some form, at some point, to varying degrees of success and access, but the following list represents the suggestions from the group for improving existing resources or filling a gap in resources: a centralized digital location for accessing the existing e-blasts and calendars that exist; more public community kiosks/message boards located in areas of heavy foot traffic; a more centrally located visitors center in North Adams; welcome packets given to all new residents/businesses that include useful information like local resources, businesses, and annual event calendars.

Regardless of whether or not these suggestions become real resources for our community, there were some very simple take-aways of how each of us can make new residents feel more welcome and engaged. First, we have a responsibility to model the behavior we want to see in our community. Sometimes it’s not enough to just tell others about what’s happening around town or what volunteer opportunities are available. We need to step out of our comfort zone and attend the events that may not be the ones we’re most comfortable at, or are outside of our regular routine. Try something new! Secondly, it’s easy to overlook the fact that phrases like, “All are welcome!” or, “Free and open to the public.” don’t make everyone feel like they are welcome or that the invitation is intended for them. We can all be more conscious of this. For many folks it is the extra step of being personally invited to attend an event that makes them feel welcome and included. So the next time you are going out to a public event, networking opportunity, or to help a local charity don’t forget to invite a friend to join you, especially a potential new friend.

~Suzy Helme, Communications Coordinator

Become a Community Outreach Volunteer! Classes Start in 2023

The Northern Berkshire Community Coalition is seeking community-minded individuals to take part in the 2023 Community Outreach Volunteer Training. This training is geared towards any northern Berkshire residents interested in exploring or expanding their community leadership skills. The training provides information regarding different social service and community organizations that make up our helping network, as well as multiple leadership skill development workshops. Participants will walk away from this training with hands-on experience and a plan to broaden their scope of community involvement and leadership.

There are three ways to register:

Call our office at 413-663-7588
Email Gabby Glasier at gglasier@nbccoalition.org
Apply online at: https://bit.ly/2023COVapp

Congratulations to the 2022 Neighborly Award Recipients!

On Wednesday, November 16, the Coalition hosted its annual Neighborlies Award Celebration at the MCLA Church Street Center in North Adams. Over 150 friends and neighbors gathered to celebrate those receiving awards. MCLA President, Jamie Birge, greeted the crowd with a heartfelt welcome, before Coalition Director, Amber Besaw and Board President, Jen Civello, took the podium to start the ceremony. Special guest, State Representative John Barrett III, was present to take photos with the awardees and offer final words at the closing of the event.

What are the Neighborlies? Throughout the year, nbCC’s Northern Berkshire Neighbors welcomes residents to consider people of all ages who have performed acts of kindness or made a positive difference in their lives, in their neighborhoods or in their community. Anyone may recognize individuals or groups in one or more of the following categories: neighborly acts, youth taking the lead, family support, businesses and groups pulling together on a project or community health and wellness.

This year, over 100 individuals and groups were recognized for their selfless acts of community stewardship. Over 30 of the awardees were youth, recognized for “Taking the Lead” on projects including a farm stand where proceeds were donated to a local charity, a church youth group who volunteer their time providing meals and gifts for community members, and a group of students who developed a plan and curriculum to help prevent future opioid use and abuse.

In the category of “Neighborly Acts” recipients were recognized for caring for their neighbors in a time of grief and hardship, providing snacks and comforts to through hikers on the Appalachian Trail, being caring and compassionate role models for students, among dozens of other neighborly acts.

Gail Grandchamp was among those recognized in the “Businesses & Groups Pulling Together” for her initiation of the Upbeat Business Group and passionate support of the local business community, particularly on the south corridor of North Adams. The relatively newly formed, Northern Berkshire Events Committee was recognized for their work creating more social and networking opportunities for young professionals in the northern Berkshire area.

Samantha Kendall was recognized in the “community Health & Wellness” category for her work expanding BHS’s syringe program and helping her community on and off the clock, and Ashley Benson and her business, Optimal Healing, were recognized for their volunteer work in the community, particularly free services offered in support of the ROOTS Teen Center.

It’s never too late to recognize someone for a Neighborly Award. Submissions are accepted year round. The next Neighborlies Celebration will take place on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. We look forward to celebrating another year full of community caring. Who will you be submitting for a Neighborly Award next year? We can’t wait to find out!

Youth Health Collaborative Update

This year’s Youth Health Collaborative group is in full swing, and I’d like to take this opportunity to talk about a potential new angle for the group this year. Last year’s group, our second year of the Collaborative and first full-year of the program, met every other week from October to June. The group was able to accomplish some amazing things, but all agreed that the gap between meetings wasn’t exactly conducive to the level of work they all hoped to accomplish. For that reason, this year’s program group is meeting weekly. Because of the more frequent meetings, it has allowed us to be creative in the work of the group.

This program’s purpose is multi-faceted. Of course we hope that the program will be a benefit to the young people who attend and participate, but we also created this program out of a desire to improve our community as well. This mutually-beneficial approach is the foundation of the program. Our hope is that the Collaborative will be a formal network for young people to engage with and impact their community.

On top of this, we would also like to expand the scope of the program this year, and allow for the Collaborative to be utilized as a means of gathering genuine youth input. There are few easily accessible avenues for community members, organizations, and programs to find out directly from young people their views and feelings on a particular topic. The Collaborative will hopefully fill that community gap by being available as a ready-made focus group. It is our hope that anyone from program coordinators to local government and elected officials will utilize the group’s expertise, and take the opportunity to get feedback from them.

Youth input can and should be solicited as often as possible, particularly when what is being discussed will impact young people. Youth voice is unfortunately often overlooked when it comes to decision making, and we hope the Health Collaborative can help to remedy that in the future. With that in mind, we encourage anyone who would be interested in holding a focus group with the Health Collaborative to reach out to Tim at nbCC to request this service, and talk about details. It is important to note that should folks engage in the process of soliciting youth feedback, it is important to honor it and utilize their insights as much as possible.

For more information, or to discuss the possibility of holding a focus group, please contact Tim at 413-663-7588, or email him at tshiebler@nbccoalition.org.

~Tim Shiebler, Youth Development Coordinator

MLK Jr. Day of Service Committee Seeks Nominations for the 2023 Peacemaker Award

The Peacemaker Award is given annually to an individual or group in Northern Berkshire. The award, which originated as part of the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, is made to persons who have contributed substantially to peace in our region. In general, the Peacemaker Award recognizes persons who have a history of working with people and/or neighborhoods and communities to provide for greater tolerance, understanding, and caring. While the award may be made to a person or group well known in the region, those making nominations are particularly urged to consider those who have worked hard and have made contributions without much recognition.

Past Peacemakers include Kenna Waterman, Don Quinn Kelley, Mark Rondeau, Mark Lincourt, Pastor Dave Anderson, Al & Cindi McLain, PopCares, Inc., Dick Alcombright, Bilal Ansari, and Kerri Nicoll.

The MLK Jr. Day of Service Committee is also seeking new members interested in helping to plan the January 2023 event.

To join the committee, please call the Coalition at (413) 663-7588.

To nominate a Peacemaker, pick up a form at the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition office at 61 Main Street, Suite 218, North Adams or nominate online at https://bit.ly/2023peacemaker.

Nominations must be received by December 17, 2022.

nbCC Events and Programming this Month

HOLIDAY OFFICE HOURS:

OUR OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED THE WEEK OF DEC. 26-30. THERE WILL BE NO PROGRAMMING HELD THAT WEEK.

W.o.W. Workshop: Birthing - Chat with the Midwife: Prenatal & Postnatal Care for Mothers

Saturday, Dec. 3, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Terra Nova 2nd floor, 85 Main Street, North Adams

Are you pregnant, a new mom, or just thinking about it?... Come and chat with midwife Jennifer Stevens.

Jen will briefly review the normal childbirth process, how to prepare, and what you can do to help, and then focus on the much-ignored postpartum period.

Our bodies, minds, and hearts go through so many changes after we have a baby- Jen will discuss how that can impact our relationships with our children, others, and ourselves. Come prepared to ask questions and talk about anything. Registration is required. Contact Jessi Byrne at jbyrne@nbccoalition.org

Bike Care 101: Fix a Flat Clinic

Monday, Dec. 5, 3:30-5:30pm, The Armory, 206 Ashland St., North Adams

Fix a Flat Clinic :Flats happen, they are just part of a biker’s life. That’s why it is so important to know how to fix them quickly - and with only a few tools and extra parts. In this workshop, you will learn how to fix your own flat and familiarize yourself with the tools needed for it. Depending on group size, you will be able to practice on your own bike.

For more info or to register, call us at 413-663-7588 or email to jbyrne@nbccoalition.org

Positive Discipline for Toddlers ( 2-4 yrs)

Wednesday, Dec. 7, 3:00pm-4:00pm, 61 Main Street, Rm. 213, North Adams.

Learn about age- appropriate positive discipline techniques that can help any parent be more effective without resorting to shaking, shouting, or spanking.

REG. REQUIRED. Transportation available with at least 24hrs notice. To register: 413-663-7588 or nkennedy@nbccoalition.org

Monthly Forum:Building & Experiencing Your Self Care Tool Kit

Friday, Dec. 9, 10:00 am-12:00 pm, First Congregational Church, Williamstown

All are welcome! Join us for our monthly community conversation. This month’s conversation will be a bit more interactive! Join us as we take care of YOU with some self care strategies and take home products focused on emotional, physical, and mental wellbeing.

Adams Winter Scavenger Hunt: Find the Yeti!

Saturday, Dec. 10, 11:00am-12:30pm, Downtown Adams

Visit some of the local businesses in Adams and look for the yeti hidden inside! Prizes will be given out to those with fully stamped passports.

For more information, call nbCC at 413.663.7588 or email gglasier@nbccoalition.org

W.o.W. Workshop: Holiday Cookie Swap

Tuesday, Dec. 13, 6:00 - 7:00 pm, UNO Community Center, 157 River Street, North Adams

Back by popular demand, Erika Bailey will be leading this workshop on cookie decorating! Learn tips and tricks of decorating just in time for the Christmas cookie season. Bring your favorite cookie recipe to swap with the group, and feel free to bring a batch of the cookies for the group to sample. Everyone will get a festive box to take home your swapped cookies. (Please note ingredients)

Decorating supplies will be provided so we are asking a cover charge of $15/person. There are 10 spots available so register today to secure your spot! To Register, contact: (413) 663-7588 or jbyrne@nbccoalition.org

Learn Through Play: Color Mixing

Saturday, Dec. 17, 10:00 am - 11:00 am, UNO Community Center, 157 River Street, North Adams

In collaboration with Child Care of the Berkshires. Activities and circle time will focus on art. Best for ages 0-5 years. Registration required. Space is limited. Contact us at 413-663-7588 or nkennedy@nbccoalition.org

WEEKLY EVENTS/PROGRAMS

* Our offices will be CLOSED and there will be no programming from December 26-Dec.30

nbCC Bike Collective Open Hours*

NEW WINTER HOURS

*1st & 2nd Mondays, 3:30-5:30pm, The Armory, 206 Ashland St., North Adams

Bring your own bike or work on a bike at the bike collective. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from other community members on basic bike fixes, or team up with more experienced bike mechanics to rebuild a bike. Tools and stands are provided. All NB residents are welcome! For more info, call us at 413-663-7588.

nbCC Youth Empowerment Program

Mondays, 5:00-6:30 PM, 61 Main Street, Rm. 213, North Adams.

Free and open to youth, 6-8th grade, who live in or attend school in North Berkshire. A weekly group to talk about school, emotions, navigating teen years, making friends and more. Snacks provided; transportation available. Register: call 413-663-7588

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 4:00pm - 6:00pm. nbCC’s FRC living room, 61 Main St., Suite 212, North Adams

This is a group for grandparents who are actively parenting their grandchildren giving them a safe and confidential space to share similar experiences with other grandparents. Free pizza and childcare are provided, but you must register beforehand.663-7588 or email dsenecal@nbccoalition.org.

Youth Leadership Program

Tuesdays, 5:00pm - 7:00pm. nbCC’s Conf. Room, 61 Main St., Suite 213, North Adams

Free and open to youth ages 14-19 who live in or attend school in North Berkshire. Young people are changing the world and you can too. Make a positive change in yourself and the world around you. Develop leadership skills, discuss what drives you, meet other young leaders and plan projects in your community. Snacks provided; transportation available with 24 hrs. notice.

24/7 Dads Parenting Support Group

Wednesdays, 10:00 am -11:00 am, UNO Center, 157 River Street, North Adams.

A support group for dads. Children need their fathers. Fathers need their children. Discuss difficult issues and develop more effective coping techniques.

Teen Writing Workshop

Wednesdays, 5:00pm - 7:00pm, UNO Community Center, 157 River Street, North Adams.

Free and open to youth ages 13-19 who live in or attend school in North Berkshire. Aspiring writers and poets! Join this incredibly supportive group and get 1-on-1 help from a professional with your writing and performance style. Opportunities to perform and be published. Snacks and supplies provided; transportation available.

Family Resource Center Peer Parenting Group

2nd & 4th Thursdays, 9:30 am -10:30 am, UNO Center, 157 River Street, North Adams.

A peer-driven/peer-supported group in a judgement-free, confidential space. Snacks provided. Children welcome. 413-663-7588 or nkennedy@nbccoalition.org

UNO Community Center Coffee Time

Fridays, 1:00pm - 4:00 pm, 157 River St., North Adams

Come on over and join the UNO neighbors for coffee and conversation. All are welcome.

Click here to see what's going on at nbCC in December!