PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Pittsfield Cooperative Bank recently made a $1,000 donation to Goodwill Industries of the Berkshires and Southern Vermont's Soar for Success program. 

 

The Soar for Success program focuses on job training in custodial skills, customer service, employability skills guidance for individuals preparing for job interviews, and provides interview and work attire.

 

Founded in 1902 by Dr. Edgar James Helms, Goodwill is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities reach their full vocational potential. Goodwill sells donated clothes and other household items at a discounted price to aid in funding training and educational programs for individuals with barriers to employment.

 

"The Goodwill Industries of The Berkshires has been a foundational community organization for more than 66 years," said J. Jay Anderson, president and CEO of Pittsfield Cooperative Bank. "Their dedication to helping members of our community and offering fair opportunities is admirable." 

 

Other programs of Goodwill Industries include seasonal operation of the Popcorn Wagon, a favorite Berkshire pastime, which is staffed by supported DDS employees and is a key part of Goodwill's customer service training program.