Berkshire County has one of the highest number of nonprofits per capita in the Commonwealth. Over 1,000 nonprofits compete for funding and other resources in a demographically and geographically trifurcated county with no regional government. Communication is difficult, there is no countywide volunteer organization, and staying on top of this vibrant and active sector is a real challenge. The sector needs an umbrella organization to facilitate collaboration, communication, advocacy, volunteerism, and the sharing of resources. The Nonprofit Center is a support and capacity-building organization for Berkshire nonprofits. Its mission is to help nonprofits connect, learn and grow by identifying gaps in services and leveraging community assets to provide creative and affordable solutions. The NPC has developed 20 programs in four years and has won two awards for community impact. Products and services include: referrals, coaching, workshops, Giving Back guide, networking events, philanthropy curriculum for schools, communication vehicles (newsletters, gala calendar, list serve), board training, nonprofit boot camp, Resource Directory, volunteer fairs, resource fair, primary research, and the Berkshire Nonprofit Awards.
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