FULL OF POSSIBILITIES: THE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN FOR BERKSHIRE FAMILY YMCA - PITTSFIELD BRANCH
Berkshire Family YMCA plays an essential role in the lives of the 131,000+ residents of Berkshire County. For over a century, we have provided high-quality programs, services, and activities for children, families, adults, seniors, and persons with special needs. As our population and demands have changed, the Y has responded accordingly, expanding to meet new and ongoing needs efficiently and effectively. Our downtown Pittsfield facility at 292 North Street has been sorely in need of major modernization for many years. After careful planning, we are now undertaking an exciting and strategic renovation and restoration project to enable the Y to meet community needs far into the future.
The components of the project are important to Pittsfield and Berkshire County’s long-term success. We will upgrade child care facilities and expand the number of slots available to young families. We will add a new indoor track – unique in the county – and expand and improve our much-used basketball court. We will unbrick windows that have been shut for decades and add natural light to brighten the Y, creating a downtown beacon that says “welcome to all.” The end result will bring increased health, vitality and dynamism to Pittsfield. Enhancing the physical fabric of our neighborhood will make downtown safer and more attractive, and will boost pride among residents. These factors contribute positively to our local economy and civic life.
This is our home, and we are deeply committed to making the project happen. After all, the need is clear and one seldom has the opportunity to create significant, long-lasting impact that is essential to the future of so many. Please join us. Your support will make a huge difference for you, your family, and the entire community.
THE NEED TO MODERNIZE
Built in 1909, our building at 292 North Street has served Pittsfield well and without pause for more than a century. The historic structure is a downtown fixture-- both architecturally and as a health and recreation facility-- but generations of continuous heavy use have taken their toll on the original building and the 1980s expansion. Fortunately, the building is structurally sound and able to be modernized to 21st century standards. The Y is committed to downtown Pittsfield’s revitalization by providing a key anchor of activity seven days a week throughout the year.
THE SOLUTION
The FULL OF POSSIBILITIES project will position the Y to serve more people effectively and efficiently. Here’s how:
CHILD CARE RENOVATION
This project will add 25 affordable, high-quality, child-care slots to address an ever-present waitlist. In addition to a new multi-purpose room, staff break room and open play space safety and security will be updated.
REGULATION BASKETBALL COURT
A regulation basketball court will be installed to support the Y’s thriving basketball program, which currently does not have in-house game space. The court will also provide space for group exercise classes, programs for older adults, such as SilverSneakers and A Matter of Balance, and youth programs.
INDOOR WALKING/RUNNING TRACK
An indoor walking/running track for year-round use will be added above the basketball court to offer flat, smooth-surfaced exercise in a monitored, climate-controlled setting.
STRUCTURAL AND FACADE IMPROVEMENTS
Structural and façade improvements will bring vibrancy to North Street and decrease energy costs. Drafty and bricked up windows will be replaced with energy efficient glass to let natural daylight in. Failing mortar joints will be repointed, LED lights and an energy-efficient heating and cooling system will be installed to conserve energy.
