PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The National Alliance on Mental Illness of Berkshire County has welcomed Stephanie Adornetto as its new program director, following the departure of Brenda Carpenter as executive director in December 2018.

Adornetto initially joined NAMI Berkshire County as a board member in October 2018. Stephanie has been an early childhood coordinator for the Berkshire United Way for the past two years, gaining experience in managing programs and working with families and community members. Prior to joining the United Way, she was a lead teacher for Berkshire County Head Start, so in both of these roles, she provided support, education and advocacy to the children and families with whom she interacted.

"Brenda left very big shoes to fill," board president Ruth Healy said, "and it was a rigorous task to find someone to continue to lead the organization in its mission of Support, Education and Advocacy for all those affected by mental illness in Berkshire County.

“We took our time to find the right person, and we believe Stephanie will be a good fit for us."

Healy said that under Carpenter's tenure as executive director, NAMI provided Crisis Intervention Training to the majority of police officers throughout the county, including the entire North Adams Police Department. This training has provided the officers with the tools and techniques needed when dealing with a person in crisis to aid in de-escalating the situation for the safety of all parties involved. NAMI also offer supports groups and training programs for families dealing with someone affected by a mental illness, as well as resources for the families when they just don’t know where to turn for help.

For more information on NAMI Berkshire County, call 413-443-1666 or the website.

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