VISIONS
Board of Directors
Michael Ferry, Chair
Michael Lyon, Vice Chair
Bruce Marzotto, Treasurer
Thomas J. Hamel, Esq.,
Assistant Treasurer
Joanne Spence, Clerk
Moving the Agency Forward through Employee Feedback
The staff at Berkshire County Arc recently offered a snapshot of their feelings about working at this Agency. Collectively, the response has been tremendously positive.
We asked for feedback on workplace culture, benefits, opportunities for advancement, the support they receive, their role in the organization, and more.
An overwhelming number of employees surveyed expressed feeling positive in every area they were asked about – categories widely considered essential to productive and positive work environments.
Board Members
Linda Carnevale
Kathy Clark
Douglas Craighead
Eric Harlow
Anthony Mazzeo
Bob Sinopoli
Dr. Paula Blagg
President & CEO
Maryann Hyatt, MBA, DBA
This survey revealed the success of BCArc as a workplace in every critical category, including our ability to communicate clearly the expectations of a job – a job where vulnerable human beings depend on you to stay safe, healthy, and productive.
We operate in a challenging financial environment. It limits the ways we can reward the great work of staff performance. But despite the financial constraints, the rewards of this work clearly resonate with the staff.
An overwhelming number of employees surveyed expressed feeling positive in every area they were asked about – categories widely considered critical to productive and positive work environments.
There were also dozens of open comments that offered concrete and insightful views about the organization and ways to improve. Their feedback will generate robust discussion at the board and leadership level. Their general feedback and specific comments reflect an accurate assessment of where we are and where we are going.
As the CEO, I now have clear, articulated direction from the staff on their thoughts, attitudes, and ideas for moving BCArc forward. Working together, we will continue to make this the best place to work. Employees who respect and feel good about their work environment leads to strong service and programs.
While the responses were overwhelmingly positive, our goal remains –that 100% of the employees feel positive about every aspect of this Agency. We will continue to strive for that.
Contact
Editor: David Singer
dsinger@bcarc.org
Asst. Editor: Nicole Lemire nlemire@bcarc.org
Maryann Hyatt, MBA, DBA President & CEO
Agree, Strongly Agree: Staff Give BCArc High Marks
BCArc staff responded to a workplace survey with overwhelmingly positive feedback. The survey addressed areas like culture, benefits,
opportunities for advancement, and their role in the organization. The full results, once tallied, will soon be made public.
“I feel satisfied with the benefits offered.” 75% Agree
“I am satisfied with my current role and day-to-day tasks.” 83% Agree
“I feel BCArc values diversity and fosters an inclusive workplace.” 83% Agree
Celtics, Sox, Wrestling: John and Tiquel Like Their Sports
You can call them sports buddies.
John and Tiquel have seen the Red Sox play together, attended wrestling matches, and most recently a Boston Celtics game against the Golden State Warriors in Boston.
“John likes his sports,” says Tiquel. “He follows the Celtics all year. Fortunately they won that night. The game is always more fun when they win.”
Recognizing Brain Injury
March is National BI
Mark’s Lifelong Passion for Caregiving Led Him to BCArc
After an illustrious career in human services spanning over 30 years, Mark Lewis has begun a new chapter at BCArc as a Brain Injury Site Manager. Caregiving has always come naturally to Mark, who can recall early childhood memories of being at the grocery store with his parents and always wanting to assist people with disabilities with their shopping.
“As an
invisible
disability, brain
injuries
involve a lot of internal struggle that people might not realize.”
“I love helping people work towards their goals – developing patience, being open to conversations, doing their laundry –whatever it may be. We are there to support them and witness the moment when things click for them.”
He advises anyone interested in working with this population to ask questions, be patient with the individuals, and to have thick skin. “As an invisible disability, brain injuries involve a lot of internal struggle that people might not realize,” Mark said. “It can be really frustrating for people to struggle with things like memory loss, and it requires patience and understanding.” -NL
BCArc Launches Brain Injury Recreation Program in Pioneer Valley
BCArc is launching a new program to offer recreational services for individuals with brain injuries in the Pioneer Valley. Bolstered by a $30,000 grant from the state office MassAbility, the program will offer outings and small group activities. Community trips might include Cape Cod, Salem, Bronx Zoo, a Red Sox game, and more. Inside activities may include Game Night, Book Clubs, Theater Groups, Cooking Workshops, Meditation and more.
“Social and recreational activities will be a major focus, as well as workshops, trainings, and consultations,” said Cybele Kilby, Vice President of Day & Employment Services. “BCArc has experts in-house to help enhance the program, but we may contract with outside specialists when required.”
Injury Awareness Month
Finding Joy in Life & Giving Back to Others: Michael’s Story Awareness Month.
Jill Shares Her Artistic Vision with the World
Jill’s paintings were recently displayed and made available for purchase at Berkshire Botanical Garden.
Friends Stan and Margarette accompanied Jill to see the exhibit. The three of them attend Nu-Opps, BCArc’s day habilitation program for adults with brain injuries.
These paintings were made in collaboration with CATA - Com-
“At the BICC, we all treat each other with respect and find peace with one another. Helping the members to succeed brings joy into my life.”
Michael Giraud-Budd has found a way to channel his passion for caregiving through his work at BCArc’s Brain Injury Community Center. Working with people with brain injuries has taught Michael the importance of patience and being open minded.
“This
is what life is about – being joyous. Days like that help to show the members that life goes on after your brain injury.”
“You have to be calm, collected, and put yourself in their shoes. The members just want people to bond with and to tell their stories to, just like anyone else.”
Michael’s favorite memory of his time at the BICC was a bike riding trip with All Out Adventures at the Ashley Reservoir in Holyoke. Everyone had a great time exploring the trails and utilizing adaptive biking equipment for members with mobility issues.
“It was such a perfect moment. It was calm and peaceful, and shows what we do here at the BICC,” said Michael. “This is what life is about – being joyous. Days like that help to show the members that life goes on after your brain injury.” -NL
Entire Berkshire Delegation Attends Legislative Breakfast
Berkshire County’s state senator and all three state representatives, along with a video from U.S. Senator Ed Markey and remarks from Mayor Marchetti, participated at a breakfast to address more than 30 Berkshire County agencies focused on supporting the region’s most vulnerable populations.
Speakers from those human service organizations –including statewide advocacy groups from metro-Boston –addressed specific bills and budgets around wages, transportation, health care, and support for those with brain injuries.
Sen. Paul Mark, Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier, Rep. John Barrett (via Zoom), Rep. Leigh Davis, and Mayor Peter Marchetti responded to each of the specific issues after Agency representatives spoke.
BCArc Opens 44th New House — “Feels Like Home Already” to Four Men
“Love my new home,” Robert said, walking through the front door for the first time.
“He has said those words at least a dozen times a day,” said Site Manager Latasha Brown-Young.
Four men reside at the newly-built home in Pittsfield, most who moved from an older Pittsfield house that BCArc will use for a different group of individuals more suitable to the older house.
“Because this house is more accessible, and designed for easier mobility, the guys congregate more in the common areas,” said Paul Ruda, assistant site manager. “They are far more social because the house accommodates them better.”
“Love my new home,” Robert said, walking through the front door for the first time.
A $250,000 grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank helped offset the cost of the project. BCArc’s next home will be built in the Westfield region, for four individuals with brain injuries.
“The list is long for individuals waiting for a residential program like this, and BCArc is pleased it can continue to expand and provide these opportunities,” said Maryann Hyatt, BCArc’s President & CEO.
New Van, New City Partners, Green Redeem Rises to Next Level
A new van purchased through the support of a grant from the Fitzpatrick Foundation, has allowed BCArc’s Green Redeem – a bottle and can redemption center – to look long-term at its mission.
The Center now picks up redeemable cans and bottles from more than 45 Berkshire institutions – colleges, hotels, restaurants, office buildings, and more.
But the newest partner – the Lanesboro Volunteer Fire Department which collects for the city – is bringing another 10,000 returnables per month.
“We do this to provide paying jobs to individuals with disabilities,” says Maryann Hyatt, BCArc’s President & CEO. “The more partners we gain, the more individuals we can hire.”
The Green Redeem also collects from the transfer stations of Dalton, Hinsdale, Washington, and most recently, Becket.
Ken Volunteers, Gives Back to his Community
Ken recently assembled care packages for the Suffield Community Aid Center, which included a comb, body wash, tissues, soap, hand lotion, wash cloths, and body wipes. Ken can often be found volunteering at the Westfield Animal Shelter and the food pantry, and making baked goods for police officers.
Using Internal & External Experts, Training Dept. Prepares Staff
Authors Esther Greenspan and Jonathan Spiller, with Dotty Foley from The Arc of Mass, led a training on positive behavioral supports – known as PBS – and friendship, which explored how relationships can enrich the lives of adults with disabilities.
The training was one of the professional development opportunities the BCArc Training Department offers.
With 850 staff, the Training Department provides dozens of mandatory trainings the state requires, that include administration of medicine, CPR, de-escalating tense situations, van driving, understanding different cultures, and more.
The department also offers professional development opportunities and management training beyond the required offerings, such as the recent relationship training.
“The most important job of the training department is to make sure every staff person feels prepared to do their job well,” said Lisa Hopsicker, Vice President of Staff Development & Training.
Individuals Help Prep and Serve Meals Weekly for Families
Participants from BCArc’s Evening Program have been volunteering at the Boys & Girls Club Of The Berkshires’ Triple Play Program. This program provides free meals to club members and their families every week.
John, Izzy, Kyle, John (not in the picture), and Emily (a seasonal BCArc intern) have been assisting with food preparation, cooking, serving, and clean up, all overseen by Rick Baker, who runs this program. Rick teaches the volunteers how to complete tasks and then allows them to independently
develop these skills. The crew has been volunteering since January, and it has been a great opportunity for them to gain experience working in a kitchen while also being able to contribute meaningfully to the Berkshire County community.
A Lifelong Hobby: Tommy’s Ultimate Pen & Car Collection
Tommy likes pens. When he sees one he likes even slightly, he asks you for it. He has a special affinity for BCArc pens, and a healthy collection to show for it.
Called “stylophiles” – those who collect pens – Tommy also likes to give, and will offer a special pen to those he feels have earned it at the moment.
Hot Wheels also interest him, and he has built a sizable collection of these as well.
Tommy has lived in a BCArc home for almost 30 years. Currently living not far from downtown Pittsfield, you can often see him walking North Street with a smile on his face, friends stopping to talk to him, and visiting the merchants who know him well and are always happy to see him.
BCArc Recieves $80,000 Grant for Healthcare Skills Training Program
The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced an $80,000 grant award to Berkshire County Arc.
BCArc’s grant will provide 12 individuals a structured pathway to employment in the healthcare sector. Through partnerships with Sugar Hill and Craneville Place of Dalton, participants will receive hands-on training for entry-level healthcare positions.
“This grant will give young adults with disabilities in Western Massachusetts an opportunity to gain real hands-on work experience and learn specific skills for employment,” said Maryann Hyatt, BCArc President & CEO. “This kind of education can be life-changing for many of them and lead to new opportunities. This grant will have impact far into their futures.”
Nicole Negri, Manager of Evaluation and Placement Services, pictured left, with Pam Kight, Director of Employment & Community-Based Day Services, attended the announcement. Cybele Kilby, Vice President of Day & Employment Services, not pictured, also attended.
This program is partially funded by the Employment Program for Young Adults with Disabilities FY26 Appropriation grant through the Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and is administered by the Commonwealth Corporation.
Betsy’s Corner: A Night to Remember
The BCArc houses went to the Valentine’s Dinner Dance on February 22, 2026. It was in Dalton at the Stationery Factory. The food was very good. After dinner, everyone did some dancing, then dessert was served. The restaurant was decorated very nicely and on all the tables there was a box of candy for everyone.
There was a picture booth and everyone had their picture taken. My friend Dave and I got our picture taken together on his iPad. It was a night that I will never forget.
Support inclusion, look stylish, & show off your BCArc pride.
by Betsy Carlotto, CFD
Izzy Represents IDD Community in Employment Panel Discussion
Izzy spoke about her experience in the workforce as a person with a disability at an event hosted by CommCorps in Springfield. The panel’s discussion focused on the barriers people face in finding employment, including addiction, incarceration, and disabilities. Izzy is currently employed at The Green Redeem, and described the support that she recieves through BCArc’s Employment Services.
“Izzy did an incredible job presenting in a room with about thirty people in the audience,” said Cliff Love, BCArc’s School to Career Specialist.
