PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Sarah Peterson, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services, brought a team to Berkshire County Arc's Family Support Center on Friday, June 12, to learn about its approach to providing services.

 

Noting the Center's ability to provide activities to hundreds of families with limited resources, she talked about the need for the Centers across the state to share best practices and promote their strategies for supporting families.

 

"It is so great and encouraging to see so much going on here," Commissioner Peterson told the group after BCArc's presentation.

 

"The Family Support Program has always been dear to me, and I am so proud of how our team has developed it," said Maryann Hyatt, President & CEO, who described to the Commissioner how she started the Center years ago in the Berkshires.

 

BCArc's Family Support Center offers a variety of services throughout central and southern Berkshire County that includes:

 

Information and referrals to a range of resources in Western Mass; a library for families to browse on a range of topics; trained advocates, who consult with family members, attend school meetings and review Individualized Education Plans (IEP); family networking and training events; and social and recreational opportunities that include the Buddy Walk, Sprout Film Festival, Spring Break Camp, and community dances.

 

Also in attendance who participated in the conversation were Anthony Keane, DDS Central West Regional Director; and Melissa Guyer, DDS Berkshire Area Director.

 

Sonja Haecker, BCArc's Chief Operating Officer, noted the private grants BCArc pursues to supplement their Family Support programs; the Commissioner praised those efforts.

 

Lasheika Moody, Director of Family Support & Advocacy, also presented at the event.