The Arts Build Community (ABC) Initiative launched in 2017 as a laboratory for learning how art and arts organizations can bring arts experiences to more people in Berkshire County. Thanks to generous donors, and with significant support from the Barr Foundation, ABC has invested $1.8 million in more than 67 local nonprofits to date, funding major institutions such as Jacob’s Pillow as well as community-rooted nonprofits. These grantee partners are demonstrating how arts are a powerful catalyst for community engagement. Local organizations have engaged more than 18,000 full-time residents from historically underserved populations in Berkshire County arts programming and provided unique and innovative programming for all residents to enjoy, strengthening the arts sector.

Grantee Highlights

Second Street, Second Chances: REPAIR 
REPAIR is original theater created from the words, dreams, and stories of incarcerated men in Berkshire County and performed by five professional actors at Berkshire Community College. Each performance was free to the public and followed by an audience talkback session. View this moving performance.

Literacy Network: StorySlam
The Literacy Network (LitNet) transforms the lives of adult learners, both immigrant and U.S.-born, through literacy. Nine learners participated in workshops and received coaching as they crafted, practiced, and presented stories of personal challenge to a live audience in a free public event at the New Marlborough Meeting House. Hear their amazing stories. 

Barrington Stage: Celebration of Black Voices
Barrington Stage Company launched a summer festival in 2021 to amplify diverse voices and promote social change in Pittsfield and the Berkshires. It features stories and performances by local artists who are Black, Indigenous, or people of color, including a Youth Voices Ensemble. This popular annual event is expanding to include performances and artist support throughout the year. Watch a Youth Ensemble performance.