For Immediate Release

Friday, January 23, 2009

BerkShares, Inc. announces the next in a series of informational meetings about BerkShares, the local currency for the Berkshire region, on Monday, January 26 at 5:30 pm at Brix Wine Bar in Pittsfield.
 
Due to the continuing success of BerkShares in southern Berkshire County, where the currency was launched in September, 2006, the program is now moving northward and will eventually encompass the entire region. This northward expansion has been made possible in part by a grant from the Berkshire Bank Foundation.
 
In these challenging economic times, BerkShares present a bright spot in our local economy. By focusing on supporting local businesses and keeping the wealth generated by those local businesses circulating throughout the area we are ensuring the strength and sustainability of our region.
 
Many Berkshire organizations recognize and are stressing the importance of buying local, and BerkShares play a large part in that buy local initiative. Spending them is a visible sign of support for our community, demonstrating the commitment to shop locally rather than in chain stores or online. Accepting them in the course of doing business says to customers that their business is appreciated, as is the effort they are making to buy local.
 
With BerkShares there are things we can all do to make our lives easier, whether selling a product or service, buying things for our businesses or families, or making donations to support our favorite cultural attraction or non-profit.
 
Businesses accepting BerkShares can see new business, additional (and free) business promotion and increased profits.  Keeping them in circulation by spending them on local services ensures a stronger local economy, keeping our wealth in the Berkshires to support all of us.
 
Consumers spending them whenever possible eases their financial burden thanks to the exchange rate between BerkShares and federal dollars; when buying BerkShares from a participating bank you are saving money. Spending them also says “I’m proud to support my friends and neighbors who do business here.”
 
Non-profits accepting donations in BerkShares will quite possibly be realizing new money while offering an additional way for people to spend their BerkShares.
 
Learn how to make more money and how to save money on Monday, January 26 at 5:30 pm at Brix Wine Bar in Pittsfield.  Space is limited so registration is strongly suggested to Sharon@berkshares.org or 413-358-2692. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar will be available.