NPC LAUNCHES AGENTS OF CHANGE: EQUITY ACADEMY IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE BERKSHIRE EQUITY ASSOCIATION
Results from NPC’s 2024 sharing resources convening and subsequent surveys of nonprofit leaders showed strong demand for training in DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion & belonging).
The Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires is partnering with André Lynch and the Berkshire Equity Association to launch a training series that runs from September 2025 through April 2026. The Agents of Change: Equity Academy includes 6 workshops, individual coaching to assist in achieving organizational goals, and a culminating sharing and “Equity Activator” certificate presentation.
The cost of the series is largely underwritten by The Barr Foundation, Berkshire Bank, Greylock Federal Credit Union, Guardian Life, and Milltown Foundation. The cost per organization (for up to three participating individuals) is $500. Some scholarships may be available based on financial need.
The 6 workshops (3 in-person and 3 virtual) address the following topics:
- Sept 15 (In person): DEI fundamentals
- October 20 (Virtual): recognizing & addressing microaggressions
- November 17 (Virtual): unpacking organizational culture
- January 12 (In person): serving diverse communities
- February 23 (Virtual): measuring & communicating DEIB impact
- March 23 (In person): reflection & presentation
Facilitators include André Lynch, DEIB consultant and coach, and Vice Provost of Institutional Equity & Belonging, Michael Obasohan, M.Ed, Chief Diversity Officer for City of Pittsfield, and Sharron Frazier-McClain, Director of Community Engagement & DEIA at Barrington Stage Co. Click here for bios
Berkshire nonprofit organizations may apply to participate between June 1 and July 15. A maximum of 20 organizations will be chosen for this cohort by the end of July. Click here to download the application in Word.