Take Charge is a community outreach campaign targeting North Adams and the surrounding Northern Berkshires in an attempt to assist local residents with saving money on home energy bills, and spread awareness about more cost-effective and eco-friendly means of living. In the face of rising energy costs and climate change, Take Charge empowers residents through community-based programs to take low or no-cost measures in their homes to become more efficient, comfortable, and affordable.

Winter Blitz volunteers winterizing a home

Mission

Who…Take Charge is a partner of the northern berkshire Community Coalition (nbCC).

What…Take Charge provides accessible information and support which encourages local community members to explore how the environment ties in with their own homes, workplaces, communities, and lives. This level of environmental understanding can help provide more sustainable lifestyles at an affordable cost, while maintaining a sense of community.

When/Where…Since the summer of 2008 Take Charge has worked to provide outreach to the North Adams community and continues to expand throughout Berkshire county.

Why…We believe that current environmental issues are a priority and need to be addressed immediately. Communities have the capacity for change by working alongside businesses and organizations, we can assist people in becoming more sustainable by providing services, education, and resources.

How…What began as a campaign to gather support and sign our 5-step pledge has grown into a program offering a variety of resources and services to community members, businesses, and organizations. Some of our services include:

• Obtain and distribute information about options and incentives for implementing efficiency/sustainability upgrades.

• Assist businesses, schools, and communities with managing the audit process and long-term sustainability planning.

• Motivate local residents to lead eco-friendly lifestyles by utilizing low or no cost measures.

• Offer presentations, workshops, forums, and accessibility to resources to the local community.
  

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