Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation

September 29th is Application Deadline for Berkshire Environmental Projects

August 17, 2010

SHEFFIELD, MA—The Berkshire Environmental Endowment Fund of Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation is accepting applications through September 29. In 2010, the Berkshire Environmental Endowment Fund will award $4,500 and invites applications from grassroots organizations for an educational project that will engage Berkshire County youth with water quality and related land resources. Preference is given to projects that will serve as a catalyst to broaden educational opportunities, and are likely to have a lasting connection with other educational and environmental programs.

Applications are available online at www.berkshiretaconic.org/grantseekers or by calling 413.229.0370.

Berkshire County is unique not only in Massachusetts, but in New England, for the abundance and diversity of its natural resources. The two major watersheds for the Housatonic and Hoosic rivers contain extensive wetlands unlike any others, including bogs and fens that in turn support unusual plants. Much of Berkshire County is undeveloped and is blessed with a population of residents and visitors who treasure its natural environment. The Berkshire Environmental Endowment (BEE) is the first permanent source of funding for environmental quality in the Berkshires.

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation launched BEE early in 2000 with a significant grant from the Massachusetts Environmental Trust, matched by funds from a number of individuals in Berkshire County.

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation builds stronger communities and improves the quality of life for all residents of Berkshire County, MA; Columbia County and northeast Dutchess County, NY; and northwest Litchfield County, CT. Berkshire Taconic connects donors with causes they care about by administering and investing their charitable funds. Thanks to its generous donors, in 2009 Berkshire Taconic distributed nearly $7 million in scholarships and grants for programs in the arts and education, health and human services, and environmental protection. Berkshire Taconic is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization.

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