Berkshire Theatre Group Receives $12,000 Grant to Support After School Program

Berkshire Theatre Group has announced it is the recipient of a $12,000 grant from Berkshire United Way to support BTG PLAYS! After School Program.

Artistic Director, CEO Kate Maguire says, "Support for our children is vital. We, as a community, must support, encourage and raise our youth with the upmost care and thought. Berkshire United Way is partnering with Berkshire Theatre Group to do just that. Both organizations have a long-standing relationship with Berkshire County, and in particular, with its families and children. This opportunity to collaborate and achieve our shared community goals will enhance the well-being of our Berkshire County families. BTG PLAYS! After School Program in the Pittsfield Public Schools, along with the 21st Century Program, create a physically and emotionally safe place for our children. Due to cuts in After School Programs, as well as in Arts Education, our work with Berkshire County families is in jeopardy. We must face this truth. And it is because of this truth that I am inspired and motivated by Berkshire United Way's recent grant award and partnership."

Kristine Hazzard, president and CEO of Berkshire United Way, says, "By bringing donors, volunteers, nonprofits, and businesses together, combining each dollar, volunteer hour, and voice to make a greater impact, Berkshire United Way ignites the collective power of individuals and organizations to build a stronger community together."

"Berkshire United Way is thrilled to expand our partnership with Berkshire Theatre Group, an organization with significant community impact," added Hazzard.

Berkshire United Way has served 26 towns throughout Berkshire County for over 90 years, mobilizing the resources necessary to address the most pressing issues and lead the way to a thriving community. As part of a global network, we focus on creating lasting change by giving parents the tools they need to be partners in their child's success, leading to healthy decision making by youth and resulting in a successful, stable life. For more information about Berkshire United Way, visit www.berkshireunitedway.org.

The Colonial Theatre, founded in 1903, and Berkshire Theatre Festival, founded in 1928, are two of the oldest cultural organizations in the Berkshires. In 2010, under the leadership of Artistic Director and CEO Kate Maguire, the two organizations merged to form Berkshire Theatre Group (BTG). Berkshire Theatre Group's mission is to support wide ranging artistic exploration and acclaimed performances in theatre, dance, music and entertainment. Every year, BTG produces and presents performances to over 68,000 attendees and, through our Educational Program, serves over 13,000 Berkshire County schoolchildren annually. BTG's celebrated stages reflect the history of the American theatre; they represent a priceless cultural resource for the community.

Pictured: Left - Conte Community School Students in final after school showcase. Right - Crosby Elementary School Students performing in After School Showcase. Photo Credit: Jim Schultz Pittsfield Public Schools.