Day: July 30, 2020

When the coronavirus pandemic shut down area businesses, many of VIM’s patients lost their jobs.  Now that our economy is slowly re-opening, there are more opportunities for employment.   But how can patients who are parents return to work without a safe place for their children to go?  And how can they pay for childcare after months without a paycheck?  VIM has found an innovative way to be part of the solution.  Through generous grants provided by the Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund, the Fish Family Foundation, the Shapiro Foundation, and a number of other donors, VIM is in the process of distributing $50,500 in cash assistance for childcare to 65 patients and their families.    “VIM’s patients, many of whom are ineligible for government assistance, have been among the hardest hit financially by the coronavirus,” explains Ilana Steinhauer, FNP, VIM’s Executive Director.  “By providing funding to assist with childcare, we’re helping to remove a significant barrier to meaningful employment while opening the doors for safe, fun and healthy activities for patients’ children.  We’re extremely grateful to our granting

Volunteers in Medicine Berkshires (VIM) is pleased to announce that W. Scott Rogers has joined the organization as Treasurer and member of the Board of Trustees. Scott has more than 30 years of experience as a professional economist, including more than 20 years in senior roles at the International Monetary Fund.  Scott’s expertise—in both the government and corporate sectors—covers fiscal, monetary and exchange rate policy, debt management, inflation risk management, and national energy planning.  “Scott’s extensive international experience will bring a new, broader perspective to our board,” notes Arthur M. Peisner, VIM’s Chairman of the Board.  “At the same time, his current service as Chair of the Finance Committee for the Town of Windsor MA ensures he’s deeply aware of the needs of our rural population.  He’ll be an integral member of the VIM team at a time of unprecedented challenge for our patient base.”  From 1992 to 2014, Scott served in a variety of roles at the International Monetary Fund (IMF).  As Mission

Volunteers in Medicine Berkshires (VIM) is pleased to announce that Kristine Hazzard has joined the organization as a member of the Board of Trustees.  Kristine has 30 years of experience leading and managing health and human service organizations.  Currently a principal consultant at Katalyst, she specializes in strategic planning, organizational development, executive coaching, community change processes and meeting facilitation.  Prior to launching her own firm, Kristine served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Berkshire United Way from 2008 to 2019. “Kristine’s proven commitment to improving the lives of the most vulnerable members of our community, combined with her expertise in program development, fundraising, public relations, board development, and coaching will be invaluable to VIM,” notes Arthur M. Peisner, VIM’s Chairman of the Board.  “VIM is needed now more than ever, and Kristine will be instrumental in helping ensure we grow strategically and sustainably.”  Before Berkshire United Way, Kristine spent 10 years as