nbCC March 2026 Newsletter: Coalition News

Greetings!

Please enjoy a sampling of articles from our March 2026 newsletter. To read the entire issue and see lots of photos of the Coalition's activities last month, download the PDF here.

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Sustaining Volunteerism

While there is no method that can guarantee complete success in sustaining volunteerism, there are several ways in which organizations and volunteers can mitigate potential issues in this area.

Whether you are a site or a volunteer, transparency is key. For the volunteer, you must share your availability and if there are jobs or tasks you are not willing to do. For the site, you must share your needs, in regard to both time and roles. A failure to do so will result in expectations not being met on both sides and the potential for burnout on the volunteers’ end. Do not take someone on as a volunteer if they do not match your needs. Likewise, do not cause yourself to burn out because you failed to communicate your time constraints.

Oftentimes, volunteers can become disillusioned with volunteering because their role or the jobs assigned aren’t what they want to do or envision themselves doing. Ask yourself though: am I helping this organization achieve its mission? Is achieving the organization’s mission the reason I am volunteering? If the answer is yes, then you’ve done exactly what was needed of you as a volunteer. However, that doesn’t mean that sites should ignore unfulfilled or unhappy volunteers. Are there opportunities to utilize their skills beyond the ways you have been? If so, then use them that way! It is okay to think outside the box when utilizing volunteers. While sites cannot always carry the burden of their volunteers’ emotions, they should be aware and responsive to continual disappointment on that end. And, sometimes, a site and a volunteer do not match. The site’s needs are not in alignment with the volunteer’s offerings, and that’s okay. However, that should be an exception and not the rule.

Lastly, saying thank you is paramount. Sites, say thank you to your volunteers often. This can be done individually by pulling someone aside, taking note of their work for the day, and letting them know they are seen and appreciated. You could also consider an annual volunteer luncheon or a volunteer-of-the-month award. Be creative and make it fun! Volunteers, say thank you, too. Yes, sites are benefiting from your time and efforts, but are you not benefiting as well? Let them know you appreciate being able to serve with their organization or how you’re thankful their organization exists. Everyone lights up a little brighter when they are recognized by another.

Sustaining volunteers can be tricky, however, we are fortunate to live in a community where folks readily give of their time and talents, and many of our organizations have endured thanks to longtime volunteers.

~ Annie Rodgers

February Forum Centers on Volunteerism: Attracting Volunteers, Utilizing Volunteers Effectively, and Sustaining Volunteers

Volunteerism was the focus of last month’s community forum. Attendance was light, but the conversation was filled with useful insights. The topic was co-presented by Annie Rodgers and Matt Alcombright. Annie has been involved with nbCC for many years and currently co-facilitates the annual Community Outreach Volunteer Program. Matt is the executive director of Berkshire Food Project.

The conversation began, asking what motivates people to volunteer and how that can help organizations attract the volunteers they need. There were many answers. Often people are drawn into volunteer opportunities through their friends; personal connection matters. Many volunteers give their time because the tasks they are doing bring them joy and feel meaningful. Some volunteers want to offer a specific skill that an organization is lacking, or use the opportunity to learn new skills. Volunteers want to respond to a need they see and they can help fill. People want to feel like what they are doing matters and makes a difference.

If those are reasons that motivate people to volunteer, what are the best ways for organizations to attract potential volunteers to their specific needs? A compelling story can “sell” an organization’s mission by clearly communicating its needs and why the work is impactful. Marketing should be intentional and thoughtful, providing clear “buy-in” and creating a positive, welcoming environment for volunteers, both new and established.

From here, the discussion moved on to utilizing volunteers effectively, a goal that both the organization and the volunteers have responsibilities to ensure success. Volunteering is a generous act. Still, most of us are expecting to feel some sort of satisfaction from the experience. Be mindful that, as a volunteer, you are showing up to support the mission of the organization you are working with. If you are feeling underutilized or unfulfilled, you might not have found the right fit.

Organizations can help volunteers figure out if they are a good fit early on by being honest about their needs. Communicating clear and realistic expectations and organizational capacity is important. It builds trust and ensures that every volunteer’s time is being utilized effectively. Is this going to be a one-time task or an ongoing role with the organization? What are the skills and time commitment required? Organizations should keep in mind that not every volunteer is going to be a good fit.

On the other hand, sometimes a great volunteer comes along, and their skills might not be an obvious match. By being open to listening to ideas from volunteers, organizations sometimes gain fresh perspectives that can reveal helpful, less obvious solutions.

Once an organization has found great volunteers, how do they keep them coming back? To sustain a thriving volunteer program, prioritize consistent appreciation. Personalized “thank yous” through verbal recognition, public acknowledgments on social media, and formal celebrations help ensure volunteers feel their work is meaningful.

Beyond gratitude, long-term retention requires flexibility and a focus on the individual fit. Organizations should regularly assess whether a volunteer’s role aligns with their skills and, if not, be willing to refer them elsewhere to ensure they remain engaged in work that suits them. Finally, preventing burnout is essential; leaders must avoid over-relying on a single individual by spreading responsibilities across a broader team, thereby protecting the well-being of their most dedicated supporters.

Teen Writing Workshop Winter Showcase

The newest cohort of Teen Writing Workshop(TWW) teens presented their first showcase of the year in February. This year’s winter showcase featured a new venue, the Milne Public Library in Williamstown. The space was cozy on the cold winter evening and worked out perfectly for the gathering of friends and family.

Teen Writing Workshop facilitators Carrisa Sacherski and Harry Seven welcomed the crowd before introducing the performers. Ten of the TWW participants presented their works that evening. A few even presented a second piece after the intermission period. There were many returning participants, some of whom this is their final year with TWW before graduating. The showcase also introduced us to the writings and visual arts of several new faces, including the program’s first teen presenting in the medium of animation.

The event was concluded with celebratory treats for everyone. The group will present their final showcase on May 20th, at 3 West Events in the Norad Mill. Join us then!

Blast from the Past! In celebration of our 40th year, here’s what the Coalition was up to... (March 2012)

It’s Never Too Early to Submit Your Neighborlies!

While we wait for the weather to warm and dream of putting away our snow shovels, let’s take a moment to reflect on the people who shared their warmth with others this winter.

There are countless stories of neighbors clearing sidewalks and driveways, offering rides during snowstorms, donating warm clothing, and much more!

These acts of kindness are what the Coalition’s annual Neighborlies celebration is all about. We collect submissions year-round to make sure that those who go above and beyond for their neighbors are recognized each November.

If you experienced the warmth of a helping hand this winter, consider saying thank you with a Neighborly! You can give someone a Neighborly by calling us at 413-663-7588, or scanning the QR code below!

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR TO THE COALITION?

Contributions can be made online or mailed to:

Northern Berkshire Community Coalition

61 Main Street, Suite 218

North Adams, MA 01247

nbCC Events and Programming this Month

First Fridays North Adams: Cabin Fever

Friday, March 6, 5:00 - 9:00 PM, Downtown, North Adams

Join in the First Friday Fun! Kick-off the new year with a fresh start. Visit downtown businesses for specials, sales and check out the first gallery exhibitions of 2026.

Monthly Forum: Youth-led Forum

Thursday, March 12, 4:00 - 6:00 PM, at the common room at Hotel Downstreet, 40 Main Street, North Adams

FREE & open to the public. All are welcome! The Youth Health Collaborative want adults to understand social media and see it how the younger generations do - to stay educated and help young people in their life stay safe! Topics we’ll cover during the presentation:

Slang, hidden messages -> substance use

Real Vs. Fake (Catfishing & Scams)

Cyberbullying

The forum will begin with a round of introductions and an opportunity for announcements before the topic discussion begins. Light refreshments served. FREE & open to the public. Forum will be held in the community space at Hotel DownStreet.

More Info: 413-663-7588 or info@nbccoalition.org

Learn Through Play: Color Exploration

Saturday, March 14, 10:00 - 11:00 AM, UNO Community Center, 157 River Street, North Adams

In collaboration with Child Care of the Berkshires. Activities and circle time with sensory activities. Best for ages 0-5 years. No registration required, but we appreciate RSVPs. Contact us at 413-663-7588 or nkennedy@nbccoalition.org

Emergency Preparedness

Wednesday, March 18, 11:30AM - 12:30PM, 367 Mohawk Trail, Drury MA

All are welcome!Start your emergency kit, and discuss how you can be prepared! Initial supplies will be provided by nbCC, and food will also be provided. Hosted with the Florida COA

To RSVP: gglasier@nbccoalition.org or call (413) 663-7588.

nbCC Community Panel Discussions: Education & Employment

Thursday, March 26, 6:00PM - 8:00PM, at UNO Community Center, 157 River Street

All are welcome! Join us for this community panel discussion. This month the topic will be Education and employment. This panel discussion features local representatives from Mass Hire, NAPS Adult Basic Ed., Massability & Goodwil about education and employment resources.

The presentation will be preceded with a round of introductions, and opportunity for everyone to share announcements. Space is limited. Please register. For questions or to register for the event, give us a call at 413-663-7588 / info@nbccoalition.org

WEEKLY EVENTS & PROGRAMS

nbCC Youth Empowerment Program

Mondays, 5:00 - 6:30 PM, 61 Main Street, #218, North Adams

STARTING OCT. 20: 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

Youth Leadership Program

Tuesdays, 5:00 - 7:00PM, 61 Main Street, Rm. 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. Register: call 413-663-7588

FRC Parenting Together Group * NEW TIMES

2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 10AM - 12PM, UNO Community Center, 157 River Street, North Adams

A peer-driven/peer-supported group in a judgment-free, confidential space. Snacks provided. Children welcome.

Teen Writing Workshop

Wednesdays, 5:00 - 7:00 PM, held at nbCC, 61 Main St., Suite 218, 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 with your writing and performance style. Opportunities to perform and be published. Snacks and supplies provided; transportation available. Register: 413-663-7588

Youth Health Collaborative

Thursdays, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, 61 Main Street, Rm. 213, North Adams.

(14-19 Yrs. Old) This program is intended to engage young people in supporting the health of their peers in the region. This program aims to benefit the community by directly engaging young people in the act of bettering their environments. This is the only program with a limit on attendance, as there are only ten spots available!

Participants will receive a stipend for completing this program. Please call or email to apply: 413-663-7588 or info@nbccoalition.org

*NEW LOCATIONS: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Coffee Time

1st Friday, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Adams COA, 3 Hoosac St., Adams

3rd Friday, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. North Adams COA/Spitzer Center, 116 Ashland St., 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. Coffee and snacks provided.

Here are a few other upcoming and recurring events happening at the UNO Center at no, or low cost to participants:

Every Wed: 6:30-10:30 PM | Berkshire Gamers - Board Game Night (No Admission fee. Open to the Public)

Every Sun: 2:00-6:00 pm | RPG Game Night - $2 Admission Fee. A collaborative storytelling game where one person plays the narrator and supporting cast to the ensemble played by the other players. Open to the public to drop in, learn how to play and connect with the community of gamers.