Mill Town Foundation Receives 2026 LEAP Award
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| Mary Skelton Roberts (CEO, Philanthropy MA), Andy Wrba (Mill Town Foundation), Peter Taylor (Board Member Philanthropy MA) |
BOSTON, Mass. — Mill Town Foundation has received the 2026 LEAP Award from Philanthropy Massachusetts, recognizing the Foundation's action-oriented, place-based approach to philanthropy and its work supporting communities in Pittsfield and throughout Berkshire County.
The Foundation was recognized at Philanthropy Massachusetts' 57th Annual Conference on Sept. 29 in Boston.
The LEAP Awards honor individuals and organizations whose work exemplifies the organization's four strategic pillars: Learn, Engage, Act, and Partner.
Philanthropy Massachusetts highlighted Mill Town Foundation's approach to bringing together partners across arts and culture, education, outdoor recreation, wellness, leadership development, and community development, describing the Foundation as a model for creative investment in long-term community vitality.
"This recognition reflects the way we've approached our work from the beginning: stay close to the community, build strong partnerships, and move from ideas to action," said Andy Wrba, Program Director of Mill Town Foundation. "We're fortunate to work alongside nonprofits, schools, artists, local leaders, and residents who bring tremendous expertise and commitment to the Berkshires. This honor reflects that collective work, and we're grateful to Philanthropy Massachusetts for the recognition."
Mill Town Foundation combines strategic grantmaking with direct programs, place-based investments, and partnerships designed to respond to community opportunities and strengthen the region.
Recent initiatives include Let It Shine, which brings artists, schools, and community partners together to create public art throughout Pittsfield; leadership investments supporting emerging and established Berkshire County leaders; and the Core Impact Awards, recognizing Pittsfield Public Schools educators and school staff making a meaningful difference for students.
The Foundation also launched the Finish Line Fund in partnership with the Josh Billings RunAground, mobilizing race participants and donors to raise more than $31,000 for Berkshire County nonprofits in its inaugural year. Its investments in outdoor recreation and neighborhood infrastructure include the recently completed multi-sport mini-pitch at Crane Park in Pittsfield, developed in collaboration with local and statewide partners.
