Are You Enjoying This Newsletter? |
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Our monthly newsletter provides a closer look at the impact that you–our volunteers, supporters, and community members–have on bringing new beginnings to light.
Please let us know how we are doing by taking the brief 5-question survey below. All responses are anonymous. Thank you! |
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April is National Volunteer Month |
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From program support, to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs), mentors, and board members–interns and volunteers, we thank you for your passion for our mission! |
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| 18 Degrees has a volunteer force of over 140 community members who support many facets of the agency. Here are some of the ways our volunteers helped support our mission last year: Volunteers and interns from Miss Hall's School and Taconic High School served in our Early Education & Childcare centers, lending a hand with everything from assisting teachers, to reading books to toddlers, and rocking infants. |
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Thirty-three mentors gave over 1,000 hours of time to our Pittsfield Community Connection (PCC) participants. Mentors and their mentees build relationships that last a lifetime. One mentee said, “My mentor is absolutely amazing because they’re always there to guide and support me.” |
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In our Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program, 30 volunteers helped give voice to 57 youth in the child welfare system. CASAs advocate for the best interest of youth as they find permanency through reunification, kinship placements, or adoption. |
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Five of our CASAs have been with us since it began in 2016, while 6 new ones joined us this year. All are everyday people doing remarkable work to help some of the most vulnerable children and youth in Berkshire County. |
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| Our Family Resource Center works with many enthusiastic volunteers and interns over a wide range of programs and events throughout the year. Whether lending a hand at events like Holidays around the World or with English Language Learners or LGBTQ+ Live Out Loud, volunteers pitch in to make it all possible! |
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| Kids 4 Harmony volunteers donated over 100 hours of time, helping with everything from lessons to preparations for concerts. Additionally, our Kids 4 Harmony Advisory Committee and Gala Committee members help ensure the success of our annual Gala. |
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We also welcomed 3 new directors to the 18 Degrees board last October. Our board consists of 17 community members from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about our work for children and families in Berkshire County and the Pioneer Valley. |
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Contact Amy Guachione, Volunteer Coordinator, or submit our Volunteer form to learn more about becoming an 18 Degrees volunteer! |
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| An Event of Mythic Proportions |
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Our Mythical Creature Fair was a big hit last weekend!
Featuring local drag artist Bella Santarella, who made her appearance as Tinkerbell to the delight of many. Thank you to everyone who came out to attend, as well as to the volunteers who made this possible! |
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Click the image below to see more! |
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Are you the parent of an LGBTQ+ Youth?
Join us in the creation of a support group for parents at the Pittsfield Family Resource Center. Contact Christopher Dellea, LGBTQ+ Services Coordinator for more details: cdellea@18degreesma.org (413) 448-8281 x282 |
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Experience Kids 4 Harmony in Action |
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Thank you for supporting our mission! Every child in a family. Every family in a community. Your generosity makes a positive impact in the lives of children, youth, and families in Berkshire County and the Pioneer Valley.
We can't do this without you. |
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A monthly gift provides sustaining support throughout the year. |
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