FEBRUARY 8, 2024:
Dear Northern Berkshire YMCA Community,
Following up on some important developments since our last correspondence on November 27, 2023, we would like to share an update regarding our Northern Berkshire Branch in North Adams.
Following thorough evaluation and consideration, we have decided to remove our services and programming from the Northern Berkshire branch facility, effective March 29, 2024.
We continue to look to the future in North Adams by building our summer camp program at Windsor Lake, and Before and After School programs. Additionally, the future of the pool seems bright with a commitment from the mayor to overhaul the pool ceiling/roof structure and bringing the pool to a safe swim space that the Berkshire Family YMCA would be open to providing lifeguarding services for after completion. This phase signifies a shift rather than an end in our commitment to supporting the Northern Berkshire region.
We are actively engaging with community partners to explore collaborative program opportunities under a “Y With out Walls” concept to fulfill our mission and do the great work that we are known for. This is part of our mission to adapt and continue serving our community in innovative ways, aiming to evolve into a revitalized Y.
Our removal of services from this branch stems from various challenges, including the prolonged pool closure, childcare availability, staffing issues, and ongoing facility maintenance needs. Unfortunately, these factors have made it unsustainable to maintain the level of programming that the Y prides itself on and holds itself accountable to.
For Northern Berkshire Branch only members, we regret to inform you that your membership will be automatically terminated following the closure, unless you upgrade your membership. If you already have a Berkshire Family Y membership, we invite you to stay connected with us through our Pittsfield Branch and Bennington Rec locations. We are not accepting any new Northern Berkshire Branch only memberships now. We encourage our community members who are not current members to reserve a day pass to receive access.
During this transitional phase, we are committed to finding a new pathway forward in North Adams, reintroducing a rejuvenated and invigorated Y experience.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this change, please do not hesitate to reach out to us by emailing our Interim CEO, Christian Bianchi at cbianchi@bfymca.org. Our team is here to assist you and address any questions you may have.
Thank you for your support and patience as we re-imagine and recreate ourselves in Northern Berkshire.
