18 Degrees Hosts Info Sessions on Becoming a Foster Parent

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — 18 Degrees announced a series of informative sessions for individuals and families interested in becoming foster parents. Interested parties can select from information sessions held virtually on Sept. 26 at 12:30 pm, Sept. 30 at 7:30 pm, and Oct. 9 at 9:00 am.
 
Registration information is available online, www.18degreesma.org.
 
Foster care plays a crucial role in providing safe, nurturing environments for children who have experienced trauma and instability. The need for foster families is greater now than ever, and 18 Degrees is dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and loving environment, according to a press release.
 
Each info session will cover:
  • Understanding Foster Care: Learn about the foster care system, its purpose, and the types of children in need of foster homes.
  • Requirements to Become a Foster Parent: Discover the qualifications needed, the application process, and what’s expected from foster parents.
  • Support and Resources: Explore the training, resources, and ongoing support available to foster parents through 18 Degrees.
  • Personal Testimonials: Hear inspiring stories from current foster parents and how the experience has enriched their lives.
"Fostering is more than providing a roof over a child’s head; it's about creating a sense of belonging, offering stability and nurturing the potential in each child," said Stephanie Steed, President and CEO of 18 Degrees. "We invite anyone who has considered becoming a foster parent or is simply curious about the process to join us. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in our community."
 
All community members are welcome. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and meet staff members from the 18 Degrees Healing Homes team.
 
"Over the past seven years with Healing Homes, our family has welcomed nearly 30 children," said Alicia, a foster parent with 18 Degrees. "Whether it was just for a night, three years, or any period in between, we are incredibly grateful for the time we spent with each child. The dedicated staff at 18 Degrees has been an anchor, helping us celebrate milestones and navigate challenges."
 
For more information about the info sessions or to RSVP, please contact Sarah Frederick at info@18degreesma.org or visit www.18degreesma.org
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Hinsdale OKs Police Department Audit After Fatal Shooting

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

HINSDALE, Mass. — The town has approved $25,000 for an administrative review of the police department, more than two months after police fatally shot 27-year-old Biagio Kauvil during a mental health crisis. 

Town Administrator Robert Graves said the shooting on Jan. 7 is not the only focus of the audit, and it will be several months before the Select Board receives a final report. 

During a special town meeting on March 11, an article appropriating $25,000 from free cash for an independent consultant to conduct a professional evaluation and audit of the Town's Police Department was approved. The audit includes a review of the department's policies, protocols, operations, and procedures, and concludes with a written report. 

"The Berkshire County District Attorney's Office and Massachusetts State Police are investigating the shooting, and we await their conclusions.  As we look to move forward, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, our insurance company (MIIA/Cabot Risk), and our legal counsel have recommended that the town hire an independent law enforcement consultant or firm to conduct a comprehensive administrative review of our police operation," Graves wrote in an email to iBerkshires on Friday. 

"This event is not their focus; they will assess the overall operation. We want a written assessment of our police operation's strengths and weaknesses to help Hinsdale make future changes and improvements." 

He said after completing the procurement process and signing a contract with a reputable consultant or business, it will most likely be several months before the Select Board receives the final report. 

"Still, it will help the town and police department move forward," Graves wrote. 

Last weekend, family and friends of Kauvil stood in Park Square asking for justice. A flier for the standout reads "Biagio was killed by police while experiencing a mental health crisis. Now, over seven weeks later, authorities have not yet provided any updates.

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