From its founding in 2006, BerkShares, Inc. has pursued a vision of a more self-reliant, sustainable Berkshire economy. With over B$140,000 currently in local circulation, our currency continues to encourage area recirculation and foster face-to-face relationships between buyers and sellers. Whether by celebrating our area’s exceptional entrepreneurs in our Business of the Month series, or by educating community members at the Great Barrington Farmers market, we carry out our work with this broader vision in mind.
BerkShares has two exciting events planned in the coming weeks which reaffirm our commitment to a fairer, more sustainable Berkshire economy. We invite you to become a Member or renew, and join us in these community gatherings.
Thursday, 9/28 (11:30AM): Join food justice & community development entrepreneur Ismail Samad at the Berkshire Food Co-op, Great Barrington
A chef, social entrepreneur, and food justice advocate, Ismail is building sustainable, community-owned enterprises that serve racial and economic justice in his hometown of East Cleveland, OH. He is co-founder of the non-profit Loiter, an organization confronting the effects of systemic racism and encouraging intentional re-investment in a sustainable local food system.
Ismail will give a brief talk in the Food Co-op’s new Great Barrington community space, followed by a Q&A. This smaller gathering follows a lecture Ismail will deliver at Williams College earlier in the week, sponsored by the Center for Learning in Action (CLIA). Our lunchtime talk is open to Members of either BerkShares, Inc. or the Berkshire Food Co-op. Please register as space is limited.
Wednesday, 10/11 (6PM): BerkShares, Inc.’s Annual Membership Meeting at Lee Bank’s new Pittsfield branch
Mark your calendars for this year’s Annual Meeting! We look forward to connecting with Members old and new at Lee Bank’s new multi-purpose space in Pittsfield. Members will hear an annual update from officers of the Board of Directors and vote in new appointees. Area residents and participating organizations are encouraged to become Members and attend.
More details about the Annual Meeting will be shared soon.
Not yet a member, or ready to renew?
To advance our local currency’s transformative potential, BerkShares, Inc. relies on member support and engagement. With a minimum contribution of B$25 (or $25), you can further the impact of BerkShares, Inc. while having a voice in its direction for the coming year.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
