WORCESTER—The Berkshire Bank Foundation invested nearly $400,000 in community organizations across five states during the second quarter of 2025, according to a July 16 announcement from the bank’s philanthropic arm.
More than 100 nonprofit organizations received funding between April and June, including several based in Central Massachusetts. Local recipients include Working for Worcester Inc., Seven Hills Foundation, Clark University and the Small Business Development Center, Worcester State Foundation, and Catholic Charities Diocese of Worcester, the foundation said.
“We’re committed to building a future where every community has the tools it needs to thrive,” said Lori Kiely, managing director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation, in the announcement. “These investments reflect our belief in the power of local nonprofits to drive meaningful, lasting change.”
Working for Worcester, a student-led nonprofit founded at the College of the Holy Cross, focuses on creating opportunities for children by improving recreation and education infrastructure throughout the city. Seven Hills Foundation provides a wide range of health and human services across Massachusetts and Rhode Island, including developmental disability support, behavioral health care, and community-based programs.
The Clark University and Small Business Development Center collaboration offers resources to support small businesses and entrepreneurs in the region, while the Worcester State Foundation helps provide scholarships, academic program support, and campus initiatives. Catholic Charities Worcester, part of the Diocese of Worcester, delivers emergency and long-term assistance to individuals and families facing economic hardship.
According to the release, the Berkshire Bank Foundation aims to support communities the bank serves by investing in programs that help foster economic opportunity and mobility. Grant recipients were chosen for their focus on promoting equity and improving quality of life for underserved populations.
Berkshire Bank has branches throughout New England and New York, with a local presence in Worcester’s Canal District.
