Welcome to the Berkshires – Right Where You Belong!

Moving to a new area, whether for professional or personal reasons, comes with a mix of emotions, an array of tasks, and a long list of questions. Lots of questions – from wondering how to meet new people, to how close is the nearest grocery store or bank, to what is there to do here – each equally important in finding equilibrium in new surroundings. 

Lucky you if you are a recent transplant or in the process of relocating to the Berkshires. Our region is a vibrant and welcoming community that readily embraces its newest residents. It is much more than a place to live and work; it is truly a way of life. Our diverse community is engaged with the Berkshire’s unique sense of place – it’s all waiting to welcome you, and Belong Berkshires can help ease the transition into your new life.

Belong Berkshires is a new program from 1Berkshire to help relocated residents discover the authentic meaning of home and community. With in-person events, tailored communications, and an emergent online community, you can start and grow your life in and amongst the 30 towns and 2 cities that Berkshireites call home. It’s a chance to build relationships and find belonging with new neighbors who will soon be Berkshire friends. 

It’s also a great way for employers to connect new hires with personal and professional growth, helping them set down roots, find community resources, and thrive beyond the boundaries of their work. 

Photo by Christina Lane Photography.

So, what makes living here so special? Our four seasons and varied green spaces, from panoramic mountain tops to flora- and fauna-filled forests and wetlands, set a picturesque backdrop for all kinds of lifestyles. Whether you live for the fresh air freedom of a rugged hiking trail, prefer quiet contemplation in an art museum, or crave a raucous crowd enjoying live local music and regional brews, the Berkshires has you covered. Each community has its own unique vibe within the span of the Berkshires, all within an easy drive. Live in one area, and take a short trip to explore the next. Outdoor life brings winter skiing and snowshoeing. In the fall, hike a mountain trail beneath a canopy of color. Visit vast budding gardens of majestic homes-turned-museums throughout the spring. And summer? Ah, summer! Outdoor music, farm-to-table dinners and farmers’ markets, festivals, and family fun fishing and canoeing.Visit BerkshiresOutside.org to find links to over 500 outdoor locations and activities.

The Berkshires is known as an artist community, where creativity in all forms abounds. The Clark Art Institute in Williamstown and MASS MoCA in North Adams offer fine art and modern art collections, respectively, along with myriad concerts of all genres, guest speakers, and family events throughout the year. Not only do these events provide entertainment, they are terrific opportunities to meet others and socialize. 

MASS MoCA. Credit Aden Seeley.

The Berkshires also hosts businesses that are leaders in emergent technology, health care, and education, providing both employment and services for its residents. General Dynamics Mission Systems creates mission-critical solutions for ships and submarines. Berkshire Health Systems provides healthcare of the highest quality, including stroke and cancer care. The Berkshire Innovation Center (BIC) is a catalyst for technology-focused companies to do research, promote learning, and explore new technologies. The Berkshires is also home to quality post-secondary higher education. Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA), Williams College, and Berkshire Community College offer rigorous programs designed to educate and prepare students to take on challenging positions upon graduation.  

Diversity and inclusion is an integral part of life in the Berkshires. The cities of Pittsfield and North Adams have been declared sanctuary cities for gender-diversity. The Berkshires is also home to Berkshires Pride, Blackshires, the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, and Community Access to the Arts, each dedicated to empowering and uplifting our community members. 

Love theater? In the Berkshires, find plentiful offerings including drama, musical theater, comedy, children’s programming, and off-Broadway debut performances.Check out the theater trail in the Official Guide to the Berkshires for information on the Williamstown Theatre Festival, Barrington Stage Company, Berkshire Theatre Group, WAM Theatre, Shakespeare & Company, the Mac-Haydn Theatre, Chester Theatre Company, and the Great Barrington Public Theater. Not only can you find fabulous entertainment, you might find employment or an internship. 

Starting to feel like this is the place for you? In case you might need a bit more information, take a look at the many area businesses ready to help you get established in the Living Here section on Berkshires.org, including the jobs thing, the Berkshires’ highest touch job portal. Avail yourself of all the Belong Berkshires tools, coming soon – you’ll feel right at home in no time. Welcome to the Berkshires!

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