Annual Campaign 2012-2013
The Williamstown Community Chest has launched its annual fundraising campaign for 2012- 2013. Supporting local agencies in the Northern Berkshires for generations, they once again are seeking the generous support of local neighbors and business partners to help reach another successful campaign goal.
The Williamstown Community Chest theme of “Creating Community” has been an important driving factor during its 86-year existence. Never has this been more apparent than within the past year when the Community Chest stepped forward with additional funds for storm- related action for victims in our town and to the American Red Cross, Pittsfield, for on-scene disaster assistance. According to Michael Goodwin, president of the board, “The Community Chest is blessed to have an emergency fund that can be called on at times of crisis in the community.”
The co-chairs for this year’s campaign are Laurie Riley and James Mahon. The Community Chest is pleased to have the added support of Honorary Campaign Chairs, Williamstown residents Dr. Earl Wilkins and Dr. Jonathan Cluett.
Along with its annual Community “Fun Run” and the “Penny Social,” a cornerstone of Williamstown’s festive Holiday Walk, and the Day of Community Service project improving the Williamstown Community Preschool grounds, the Williamstown Community Chest is an active volunteer-driven effort. One of only a few such remaining organizations in the country, they believe in the importance of supporting the important work of the many non-profit agencies that serve our community.
This year’s fundraising goal is $250,000, with one hundred percent of funds raised directly serving the fifteen member agencies. Agencies the Community Chest supports are: American Red Cross-Berkshire County Chapter, Berkshire Children and Families, The Brien Center, Child Care of the Berkshires, Ecu-Health Care, Elder Services of Berkshire County, Elizabeth Freeman Center, Equus Therapeutic, Family Life Support Center, Northern Berkshire Community Coalition, Northern Berkshire YMCA, United Cerebral Palsy of Berkshire County, Williamstown Community Preschool, Williamstown Youth Center, and the newest Community Chest agency, Berkshire Family And Individual Resources (BFAIR).
As in years past, any first time donor’s support will be matched through a special gift.
