Taking a Stand For Teachers and Our Children

Danielle Butler, Assistant Director of Child Care Services on our Early Education & Care (EEC) team has been a dedicated advocate for teachers, affordable childcare, and investment in early education programs.

 

In partnership with Berkshire United Way (BUW), Danielle has been participating in collaborative community advocacy over the last nine years. These efforts have encouraged state legislators, such as State Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier, to visit local early education centers, like ours, to observe and engage in conversations around the challenges and needs we face.

At BUW’s recent Campaign Kickoff event, Rep. Farley-Bouvier shared that the COVID pandemic revealed how essential early education is to a healthy economy and a thriving community. Better pay for preschool teachers and affordability for families are just two priority issues that could make a world of difference. A focus on child development and family stability helps set kids up for success at home, in school, and in life. 

1. 1. Fostering Growth & Development: Early educators shape children’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth, building a foundation for future success.

   2. Creating a Safe Learning Environment: They provide a secure, engaging space for exploration, learning, and confidence-building.

   3. Early Identification and Intervention: Educators detect developmental delays early, enabling timely interventions and resource connections.

   4. Promoting Healthy Habits: Children receive nutritious, freshly made meals, fostering healthy eating habits.

   5. Strengthening Family Support: They enhance family stability by connecting them to essential programs, services, and resources.

On August 30th, the excitement was palpable as parents and family members gathered to celebrate their child’s transition from Pre-K into Kindergarten.

 

Dressed in their best, fifteen students marched proudly across the lawn in their blue and gold caps and gowns to receive a “diploma” as a symbol of achievement.

Parents and families, many with phones in hand to capture the moment, cheered their children on. The ceremony highlighted the accomplishments of these young learners and marked their readiness to move on to the next stage of their educational journey.

Want to support the success of our teachers, families, and children as they celebrate Back-to-School and continue their growth this year?

Join a community of over 150 volunteers making a difference at 18 Degrees. Contact Amy Guachione or attend an upcoming info session:

At 480 West Street, Pittsfield

In-Person from 10-11 AM

or on Zoom from 6-7 PM

 

Wednesday, September 25th

Wednesday, October 30th

Wednesday, November 27th

PAT Staff Judy, Jaclyn, and Shenna

Our recovery coaches are all over the county this month educating on services and strengthening ties with the community.

 

From the standout on Overdose Awareness Day in Pittsfield to Smash the Stigma in Great Barrington, PAT staff are connecting with individuals and parents in recovery. Parents as Teachers provides home visitation services supporting early child development as well as recovery coaching for those parenting children under age 5. 

Catch 18 Degrees’ PAT Recovery Coaches at the Spectrum Health Recovery Resource Fair at 390 Merrill Rd, Pittsfield

September 27th, 8-11:30 AM

The second annual youth recognition event held August 25th at the Berkshire Athenaeum was a joyous occasion. Participants from Pittsfield Community Connection and West Main Connection were honored for reaching their personal goals such as securing employment, pursuing education, finding housing, and a new level of personal growth. 

 

“I am proud to say that I have discovered my own talent, whether it be my intelligence, my kindness, or my bravery, ” said 16-year old Janessa, who has been working with PCC for three years.

 

See more photos and details from the event on iBerkshires.com.

Kids 4 Harmony Gears Up For Fall

Jenny, a senior this fall (second from left) went to the Heartland Chamber Music Festival in Kansas City in early August. 

 

The Kids 4 Harmony team has launched into the 2024-2025 school year with the start of the program in Pittsfield this month at Morningside Elementary School and Pittsfield High School.

 

North Adams will host a family pizza party prior to beginning the program in October to orient students and families to the program and welcome a new cohort of Beginners!

 

Stay tuned for more news to come!

 

Save-the-Date

 

Pittsfield Casual Concert

Tuesday, October 22nd at 5:30 PM

Zion Lutheran Church 

74 First Street, Pittsfield

Berkshires Jazz and Kids 4 Harmony collaborate in a special performance on October 13th at the Tina Packer Playhouse.

 

Students and staff look forward to rehearsals leading up to the performance, and the opportunity to share the stage with the accomplished saxophonist, singer, and songwriter Grace Kelly.

 

Grace’s early career highlights include performances at Barack Obama’s 2009 inauguration and as a soloist with the Boston Pops. We are thrilled and honored by this opportunity for our students!

With a general election less than two months away, it’s important to note that changes on the political front have a direct impact on our work at 18 Degrees. I encourage each of you to be informed and to get out and VOTE!

 

18 Degrees has joined CareVote, a nonpartisan voter engagement initiative of the Providers’ Council, to encourage civic engagement and voter turnout, particularly in the human services sector.

 

In August, youth leaders were stationed in front of the Family Resource Center providing registration services and answering questions. 

Asharia, Myah, and Alan are members of our PCC Youth Advisory Committee.

This Fall, we are also gearing up to share last year’s achievements with you. I hope you will consider joining us for lunch at Country Club of Pittsfield, October 22nd, to learn more about our transformative journey as an agency, and the new beginnings found by our participants. More information and tickets available soon.

 

You–our donors, volunteers, and community partners–are a part of our success. Thank you for supporting our mission and our ongoing work in Western Massachusetts.

With gratitude,

President & CEO, 18 Degrees