2024 Annual Report by BCArc1

Board of Directors

Mike Ferry, Chair

Michael Lyon, Vice Chair

Bruce Marzotto, Treasurer

Thomas J. Hamel, Esq., Assistant Treasurer

Dr. Mark Pettus, Clerk

BCArc: Turning 70, Feeling 25

We are in full stride, operating at full speed Our staff numbers are at their highest levels. Our day programs serve its highest numbers –while similar programs around the state closed during or after Covid.

We built and opened a home in Southampton. We plan to build a program in Lanesborough. We are opening a Recycling Center in Pittsfield, the only one of its kind in the region.

We serve 15 area high schools to evaluate their students’ employment levels. We served only four high schools two years ago.

Board Members

Linda Carnevale

Kathy Clark

Douglas Craighead

Eric Harlow

Anthony Mazzeo

Bob Sinopoli

Joanne Spence

President & CEO

Maryann Hyatt

Contact

Editor: David Singer

dsinger@bcarc.org

Assistant Editor: Nicole Lemire nlemire@bcarc.org

Not bad for an agency turning 70.

I can go on and on about our growth, the energy we’re feeling at the Agency. Growth itself is not a measure of success. But at 70, we are smarter than ever. Our staff, our leadership team, our systems, our trainings, our tools -- we are current and state-of-the-art to best serve an increasingly complex human services world

None of this would matter if we didn’t have the support of our communities. This agency started as a grassroots group – a small number of parents trying to support one another for their children with disabilities. From these seeds BCArc came to be -- through legislative advocacy, lawsuits, and fierce determination for respect and human decency.

Those years of advocacy at the local family level remains in our DNA. We are now a large organization – 800 employees with more than 50 locations from the Berkshires to Pioneer Valley But that feeling of grassroots advocacy hasn’t left us And that’s what makes us young and vibrant and determined to move forward.

This is why we continue to grow. As long as there are unmet needs in the region, we will stay ready to respond to give individuals with disabilities the life they deserve. And the communities that surround us – the families, our supporters, our lawmakers, and our staff – should expect the most from us. Marching through the Pittsfield Parade on July 4 with our staff and individuals, I felt a huge sense of pride and support from the crowds on the side Their cheering for our folks was inspiring Every one of our walkers made it the whole way, likely from the support they were feeling with every step So many people came out from the sidelines to hug a BCArc marcher -- a family member, a former employee, a supporter. I always enjoy the support we have in the community.

President & CEO

Celebrating Our Exceptional Staff Celebrating Our Exceptional Staff Celebrating Our Exceptional Staff

At 23 years old, Bryce is the youngest Brain Injury Site Manager at BCArc and has goals to keep advancing her career further within the agency.

“Working with people with brain injuries requires a unique empathy and understanding since they were not born this way and have to adjust to their new normal.”

“We really are like a family, especially since some of the ladies don’t have a family of their own,” Bryce said. “They trust me, and it is so rewarding.”

“It sounds cliché, but I really believe in the BCArc mission,” DeSean said. “They help fill my cup in life, and I get to fill theirs. Where else do you get to experience that feeling?”

DeSean began pursuing photography after the death of his mother, a passion which he believes helped him through the grieving process. His compassion spills into both his work at BCArc and his photography work. “You see people in new ways. You have to care to get it right. That’s the lesson that applies to any kind of work we do.”

Keysa is a doer. A mom to three kids and a BCArc employee of fifteen years. “I feel I have been put on the planet to care for people and give love.”

Growing up in Puerto Rico, Keysa recalled never encountering the opportunity to interact with people with disabilities.

“I like it all,” Keysa said when discussing her different roles for BCArc. “I have a lot of energy, so I love bringing the individuals on outings.”

Bryce Bryce

DeSean

Keysa

Hired more than 245 people.

113 employees referred friends and family to work at BCArc, a clear endorsement.

Serving BCArc’s highest number of individuals in its Day Programs.

BCArc’s Year BCArc’s Year

BCArc’s Master Special Needs Pooled Trust has risen to more than 165 members, and is now valued at $10.2 million.

Northview, a community-based day service for a mature population, continues to grow.

Brought $51 million into the region, money that stays in Western Mass communities. 11.5% of annual earnings was deposited into retirement accounts of more than 400 eligible employees.

The Adult Family Care program provides more than 100 families with a monthly stipend, nursing, and case management.

Staff were paid more than $6.2 million above regular pay (for bonuses, raises, mileage, and more).

1 Year, 2 Comprehensive Reviews: BCArc Earns High Marks

Numerous organizations visit Berkshire County Arc regularly to assure quality service and practices. The two most comprehensive reviews into BCArc’s operations both occurred this year, where two separate outside teams spent days at BCArc examining protocols, poring through documents, and interviewing the individuals BCArc serves.

The Mass. Department of Developmental Services, BCArc’s largest funder, awarded BCArc the Highest Level of Licensure for two years.

CARF, an international private organization considered the gold stamp of the field, stated that BCArc “should take pride in achieving this high level of accreditation.”

More than 550 staff averaged 8% raises.

Promoted 69 staff.

in review in review

Opened a new home in Southampton.

Moved 20 individuals into residential programs.

Added staff trainers and nurses in Westfield.

Provided Family Support for 300 families, including: financial support, recreational events, and community connections.

Started an afternoon/evening program for 18+ individuals who need afternoon care while their parents are at work

Health care costs stayed the same for staff for the past five years – the Agency covers the increases.

Transitions, a community-based day program for young adults, has expanded to accommodate a growing need.

BCArc 2024 Revenue and Expenses

Making Memories & Accomplishing Goals

Ahead of the fashion curve, and looking fabulous, the ladies of Onota St enjoyed a night of dancing, good food, and friends at BCArc’s Annual Dinner Dance.

The Outreach crew had a great time at the Red Sox vs Yankees game, their excitement captured on the Jumbotron.

After months of studying and practice tests, Robert received his learner’s permit!

Employees of the Quarter

September 2023

Kelly Akroman - Residential

Ellie Kassekas - Quality Assurance

Steven Wright - Residential

Mercy Cronze - Residential

January 2024

George Gyan - Residential

Rachael McHugh - Residential

Matt Alibozek - Employment

Mavis Mensah - Residential

Darcey Sawtelle - Crossroads

July 2024

March 2024

Keysa Santos-Delgado - CBDS

Nadjimou Geraldo - Residential

Patty Ferrari-Behan - CBDS

Renee Secord- Residential

Tammy Bastow Accounting

Tammy Kupernik Human Resources

Patrick Afari Residential

Lex Carusotto Day Hab Services

Nicole Negri Pre-ETS

Pre-ETS Program Expands to Serve 15 Area High Schools

Helping Communities

Fifteen high schools now turn to BCArc to help assess the vocational skills of their students with disabilities, help them make career choices, and develop career paths.

“The sky is the limit,” said Monique Menard, who oversees BCArc’s program with area high schools. This includes classes taught by museum directors, mayors, artists, bakers, auto racers, and more.

Students worked as assistant teachers, measured suits for tailoring at a clothing store, and applied and received acceptances to college

Other employers include Synagex, Cobble Hill Farm, Wood Brothers Music, and Steepleview Realty.

“This work keeps expanding for us,” said Menard. “Word traveled that we do this work well, and have skilled staff to achieve success for the students and employers. We went from four schools to 15 schools in one year.”

Connect to Human Services

BCArc’s Employment Services team attended the Western Mass Inclusion Summit to help businesses better connect with human service organizations. The effort was part of a statewide Pathways to Friendship initiative.

Melski Receives a Lifetime Achievement Award for Service

Chris Melski, Vice President of Residential Services, received the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires. Chris has enriched the lives of countless individuals at BCArc over the past 35 years.

Nine Employees Take Advantage of Tuition Help from BCArc

Residential Supervisor Kaitlyn Giron, pictured with her son Nico, earned her Bachelor’s degree this year

“I took advantage of the tuition remission program BCArc offers, saving thousands of dollars. I’m proud that I pushed through to the end.”

Kaitlyn was one of nine staff members who benefitted from BCArc’s college support programs. Tuition remission is a statewide program that allows BCArc staff to attend state schools tuition-free. BCArc also provides tuition assistance – this year $10,000 –to eligible staff attending private colleges.

Enriching lives

BCArc’s athletes had a great showing at the Special Olympics this year, taking part in a variety of events including high jump, track, and softball.

Diane, an Elvis Presley fan who canceled her planned trip to Graceland due to health, had Graceland brought to her. “Diane loved the show,” said Supervisor Robin Brown, who put the event together with staff help.

At BCArc’s Golf Tournament, Marc won the auction prize of a 30-minute flight with Lyon Aviation. He had a great time flying with his sister, Hannah, and pilot Yulia.

Above & beyond

Individuals and staff represented BCArc at Pittsfield and Westfield’s LGBTQ+ Pride events. The event is one of many opportunities for promoting diversity throughout the Agency.