Berkshire Bank Helps Square One Develop Next Generation of Leaders

SPRINGFIELD — Leaders from Berkshire Bank, including its regional president and the head of its foundation, joined Square One staff and preschool children to announce the renewal of the foundation’s Adopt-a-Classroom sponsorship.

This $5,000 gift supports Square One’s commitment to early education and care by helping to offset the costs of classroom supplies, technology, and professional development, enhancing every child’s early-learning experience.

“We are so pleased to support the important work of Square One because we know that investing in the education and development of our children today will help create a better tomorrow in the Pioneer Valley and beyond,” said Jim Hickson, Berkshire Bank’s Pioneer Valley regional president.

Lori Kiely, managing director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation, noted that “the foundation prioritizes programs that foster upward economic mobility for those who are underserved in our communities, and the programs of Square One go a long way toward achieving this goal and enhancing economic equity in greater Springfield.”

Square One Vice President of Development & Communication Kristine Allard added that “developing the next generation of leaders takes many hands. We are so grateful to Berkshire Bank and all of the wonderful supporters who share in our mission and vision, by providing our children with all the tools and resources they need to be successful.”