Nonprofit Center Increases Support For North County Nonprofits

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GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — The Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires is  increasing its support and geographic focus on North County nonprofit organizations with two upcoming events. 
 
Kevin Fleming, PhD will present an in-person workshop entitled "Writing Annual Appeals That Inspire Action." The workshop takes place at the Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum in Adams on Monday, Oct. 6 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. 
 
Participants will learn the essential elements of an effective appeal letter, from capturing attention with the subject line to writing a clear call-to-action. Designed for nonprofit leaders, staff, and volunteers at all levels of fundraising experience, this session will leave organizations with practical tips, a tested framework, and a ready-to-use draft appeal tailored to each organization.  With over two decades of advancement leadership and a reputation as a dynamic facilitator and thought leader, Kevin brings both practical expertise and engaging style to every workshop. The cost to participate is $50.
 
On Oct. 24, the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires will host a nonprofit executive convening at Hotel Downstreet on Main Street in North Adams from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
 
Representative John Barrett will provide welcoming remarks and share current legislative updates. This event is free for north county nonprofit leaders. RSVP by Oct. 15 to mccaela@npcberkshires.org
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Clarksburg Students Write in Support of Rural School Aid

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff

Mason Langenback calculated that Clarksburg would get almost $1 million if the $60 million was allocated equally.
CLARKSBURG, Mass. — Eighth-graders at Clarksburg School took a lesson in civic advocacy this week, researching school funding and writing letters to Beacon Hill that call for fully funding rural school aid. 
 
The students focused on the hardships for small rural schools and their importance to the community — that they struggle with limited funding and teacher shortages, but offer safe and supportive spaces for learning and are a hub for community connections.
 
"They all address the main issue, the funding for rural schools, and how there's a gap, and there's the $4 million gap this year, and then it's about the $40 million next year, and that rural schools need that equitable funding," said social studies teacher Mark Karhan.
 
A rural schools report in 2022 found smaller school districts cost from nearly 17 percent to 23 percent more to operate, and recommended "at least" $60 million be appropriated annually for rural school aid. 
 
Gov. Maura Healey has filed for more Chapter 70 school aid, but that often is little help to small rural schools with declining or static enrollment. For fiscal 2027, she's budgeted $20 million for rural schools, up from around $13 million this year but still far below the hoped for $60 million. 
 
Karhan said the class was broken into four groups and the students were provided a submission letter from Rural Schools Advocacy. The students used the first paragraph, which laid out the funding facts, and then did research and wrote their own letters. 
 
They will submit those with a school picture to the governor. 
 
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