Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires Awarded $50K Barr Foundation Grant

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GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — The Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires (NPC) is the recipient of a $50,000 grant (over two years) from the Boston-based Barr Foundation. 
 
"This grant is the largest gift in our 9-year history," NPC founder Liana Toscanini said. "It's transformational in that it will allow us to focus on strategic planning and organizational growth to better serve Berkshire nonprofits."
 
Founded in 1997, Barr has grown to become one of the largest private foundations in New England. This grant extends from Barr's Sector Effectiveness grantmaking, which aims to strengthen organizations dedicated to helping New England nonprofits thrive and sustainably achieve their missions. 
 
According to a press release, NPC serves as a support and infrastructure organization for the large Berkshire nonprofit sector, helping nonprofits connect, learn and grow. The Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires is planning for growth to meet increasing demand from nonprofits for higher-level trainings, more networking events, resource-sharing and advocacy.  
 
"At Barr, we believe that thriving and robust nonprofits don't happen by accident," said Rory Neuer, Senior Learning Officer. "They depend in part upon a strong ecosystem of supports and services. The Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires plays a vital role in helping organizations across the Berkshires connect, learn, and grow. We're excited to invest in NPC's work, and in turn, position nonprofits across the region for greater impact."
 
"There aren't many grants for sector infrastructure," added Toscanini. "We're honored to be recognized for the unique work we do, and grateful to Barr and its investment in NPC and the Berkshires."

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Greylock Federal Promotes Branch Manager at Great Barrington branch

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Greylock Federal Credit Union announced the promotion of Brianna Lison to branch manager of its Great Barrington branch.
 
"I am thrilled about Brianna’s promotion to branch manager of our Great Barrington location. Since joining Greylock six years ago, Brianna has consistently demonstrated a passion for excellent member service and a commitment to advancing her knowledge and expertise of the credit union industry," said Jennifer O’Neil, Vice President, Market Manager. "In this new phase of her career, I know Brianna will continue to serve all of our members with intentionality, care and thoughtfulness."
 
In her role, Lison manages an expanded team, and plays an active role in business development, promoting Greylock’s products and services. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to, managing branch compliance, originating mortgage and home equity loans, originating and underwriting consumer loans, and maintaining an extensive variety of member accounts.
 
"I am very grateful for this new opportunity, and it is a privilege to continue to work alongside the dedicated and hardworking staff in Great Barrington. I strive every day to create positive and meaningful interactions with our members and I look forward to continuing to serve our members and community," Lison said.
 
Lison, a Pittsfield native, began her career with Greylock in 2019 as a branch specialist in the Great Barrington, Lee, and Lenox branches. Within the credit union, Lison successfully completed Greylock Management Academy and also earned a Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation in 2024.
 
Lison currently resides in Chester.
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