Villages of the Berkshires receives state funding and hires new Program Director

Villages of the Berkshires has now been included in the Commonwealth’s budget for fiscal year 22/23. This nonprofit organization provides volunteer and support services, information and engagement to people who wish to remain in their homes as they grow older. Thanks to the efforts of past Senator Adam Hinds, we have been included in the State’s Fiscal Year Budget for $50,000. This enables the organization to hire a new Program Director, Sarah Dias who began work early this month.

Ms. Dias joins the organization having recently returned to the Berkshires following her work with the Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts/New

Hampshire Chapter in Waltham MA. There she coordinated & delivered professional education programs and planned their annual conference. Prior to that she worked for Brookdale Senior Living in Smithfield RI where she planned, implemented, and monitored wellness programs.

Ms. Dias says that she is “so pleased to have the opportunity to work with such an incredible organization” and “is truly honored and excited to begin this journey.” She looks forward to working with and learning from the members and volunteers who are part of the organization.

“We are thrilled to have Sarah onboard and hope the state funding is the beginning of continuing support of Villages of the Berkshires in the annual budget of the Commonwealth” says Howard Shapiro, President of Villages Board of Directors. “With the help of volunteers and recommended service providers, the organization assists individuals to remain in their own homes as they grow older.”

In addition to funding the position of Program Director, the State funds provide support for scholarships to individuals interested in being members of Villages of the Berkshires who have limited resources. Ms. Dias will be planning information sessions for communities throughout the Berkshires to discuss membership, volunteering and the programs and activities of the organization.

The population of the Berkshires, the State and the country are growing older and will increase significantly in the next ten years. Villages of the Berkshires plays a vital role in helping people to remain in their homes and thrive. Don’t hesitate to contact the organization if you are interested in being a member, volunteering or to be part of our mailing list.

Villages of the Berkshires can be reached at info@ villagesoftheberkshires. org or by phone at 413-4094600 or visit the website at villagesoftheberkshires.org.