Any business looking for answers about how to process payments safely and efficiently can look no further than Commonwealth Consulting Group

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Any business looking for answers about how to process payments safely and efficiently can look no further than Commonwealth Consulting Group. Headquartered in Worcester, MA, Commonwealth prides itself on being “your partner in the payment industry.”

“Commonwealth Consulting Group was founded in 2010 with a single mission,” said Ilene Holman, account manager, “to ensure every client is processing all forms of electronic payments with the most cost-effective and efficient solutions.”

“For too long, the payment processing industry has benefited from customer confusion,” Ms. Holman explained. “We believe in educating our clients, and we always offer interchange pricing. Our statements are transparent and easy to understand; you’ll always know what your costs are and why.”

Most importantly, Ms. Holman said Commonwealth considers itself a partner in the successful operation and growth of its clients’ business. “We offer free AR cost savings analysis, account reconciliation, online reporting and analysis, virtual terminal gateways, development software, and Level II and Level III pricing options,” she said.

“Unlike some merchant service companies, we’re just getting started after the relationship is established – we’re in it for the long haul. All of this, backed by superior customer service from qualified local representatives is what separates Commonwealth from its competitors.”

Ms. Holman added that she loves doing business in North Central Massachusetts.  “This region is a close-knit, diverse and well-connected business community comprised of many small and medium-sized businesses that rely on the merchant services that we provide,” she said. “This part of the state is also rich in tradition, tourist attractions, and entrepreneurial activity.”

Commonwealth is very involved in giving back to the community that has contributed to its success. “We support a number of youth sports organizations,” Holman noted, “we sponsor several community events throughout the year, and our employees serve on the boards of a number of local organizations.”

As businesses recover from the challenges of the COVID Pandemic, Ms. Holman shared some optimism about the future. “The last two plus years have been challenging for the business community,” she added, “but during the pandemic, we found that many of our relationships were made stronger because we responded to our clients’ need for remote and contactless payments, cash discounting options, and ATMs, all things that made it possible for our clients to adapt to the changed environment.”

“Going forward, those strengthened relationships are generating referrals and continued growth for our company,” she said.

Ms. Holman notes that her team of eight employees “have to be good listeners in order to provide solutions for our customers’ business needs.” She added the staff is “customer-focused, self-motivated, and detail-driven.”  All this is done in a workplace culture which she best describes as “relaxed.”

Commonwealth’s website clearly defines the depths of its services and solutions:

  • Credit card and debit processing
  • B2B solutions
  • PCI compliant software solutions
  • Buy Now, Pay Later options
  • eCommerce
  • Point of service (POS) systems
  • Mobile payments
  • ATMs & ATM vaulting services
  • ACH, EFT, and eChecks
  • Terminals, products, and supplies

In addition to its website, Ms. Holman explained that Commonwealth promotes itself through all of the usual channels, including social media, event sponsorships, digital ads on our ATMs, monthly newsletters, and networking opportunities.  “But,” she said, “our best leads come from word of mouth and referrals from satisfied customers.”

In describing Commonwealth’s strongest influences, Ms. Holman said “we’ve always worked to be more customer-focused than our competitors.  So I guess you could say that we have learned what not to do by paying attention to the reasons our customers share for switching to Commonwealth from a competitor.”

 

Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Business Growth | Business Development | Business Technical Assistance | Business Resources | Massachusetts Business Environment | Member Spotlight | Commonwealth Consulting Group

Red Apple Farm provide an authentic, New England, family farm experience year-round

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When Al Rose speaks about Red Apple Farm it is easy to see his passion for his business, his family, his apples, his home and his life.  Rose’s enthusiasm is infectious and is easily translated to all aspects of Red Apple Farm’s operation.

Founded in 1912, Rose has carried on the multi-generational farm and converted it into one of North Central Massachusett’s best-known businesses and tourism attractions.  With more than 100 full and part-time employees, Red Apple has expanded from its family farm and farm store in Phillipston to Wachusett Mountain – where it operates the unique Bullock Lodge Cider House and The Core in the Main Base Lodge.  If that wasn’t enough, Rose has taken Red Apple Farm to Boston – where is operates the largest storefront in the popular Boston Public Market.

Rose’s business philosophy is simple.  “We provide an authentic, New England, family farm experience year-round,” he said when asked what separates Red Apple Farm from its competition.  It’s that authentic New England experience that Rose feels is most special about doing business in North Central Massachusetts.

“It reflects who and what we are and closely aligned to our mission,” he said.  “North Central Massachusetts is New England at its core, from the people who live and work here, to the communities and natural and historical landscapes.”

Rose has also perfected the art of collaboration, teaming with businesses like the Gardner Ale House and Wachusett Mountain Ski Area to expand his business.  With Gardner Ale House, he created his Brew Barn and Cidery at the Farm and started brewing his own hard cider.  With Wachusett Mountain, he helped reopen the historical Bullock Lodge where he serves fresh cider donuts and hot cider to hundreds of skiers and snowboarders each winter.

It’s that local collaboration which Rose credits in helping his business and others work through the COVID pandemic the past couple years.

“Intrinsically people value local and keeping it local,” he said. “We are fortunate to be in area that is considered by many folks, whether they live in Central Mass or in Boston, to be there backyard! Those are connections that seemed to strengthen during the pandemic and moments of economic uncertainty.”

Rose says his customers’ “ever-changing needs and wants” are Red Apple Farm’s strongest influence.  He has learned how to adapt along the way, noting that “particularly the intangible needs (like safety and being grounded during Covid)” were so important.

Rose looks at his employees as part of his family.  In describing Red Apple’s workplace culture, he said “we call our employees ‘farm-ily!”  He looks for qualities in his employees that share his same business values.

“We look for employees who focus on adding value, cultivate authenticity, and celebrate community,” he said.  Rose added that Red Apple Farm is “100% in” on supporting the community.  “It’s who we are,” he proudly noted.

One look at Red Apple Farm’s website clearly shows the farm’s great heritage, history and authenticity:

“Red Apple Farm is a fourth-generation family farm,” the website proudly claims. “Red Apple Farm is truly a place to connect the past and today!  Our farmhouse and barn were built in the mid-1700’s. The encompassing stonewalls and stately maple trees represent the icons of days gone by and a labor of love that is still found today in the farm’s breath-taking atmosphere and true sense-of-place.”

“Situated right off scenic Route 2 in the heart of North Central Massachusetts, the orchard boasts views of Wachusett Mountain and sprawling fields outlined by untouched forests. Every year our fruit is grown using Integrated Pest Management with conscious thought to people and the environment. Visit the farm, pick your own fruit, stop in to the Country Store for locally produced specialty foods, and don’t leave without trying our famous cider donuts and homemade fudge.”

Rose combines several factors to successfully promote Red Apple Farm.

“Employee training, making decisions that build and enhance our brand, customary loyalty program and communication, and paid advertisement (i.e. social media, newspaper, radio, etc),” he said.  With all that, Rose notes “word of mouth by a raving customer!” is by far the most successful method of promotion.

 

Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce | Chamber Member Spotlight | Red Apple Farm

Fresh food, cold beer, a friendly staff and a great location are the main ingredients in the success of the Gardner Ale House & Moon Hill Brewing Company

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Fresh food, cold beer, a friendly staff and a great location are the main ingredients in the success of the Gardner Ale House, according to owner Rick Walton.

When asked what separates the Gardner Ale House from the competition, he noted “Our food is prepared fresh, not frozen or processed and we make our own beer. Our staff is super friendly and our location in downtown Gardner feels like the center of action – a Main St. kind of feel.”

Founded in 2006, Walton’s popular establishment at 74 Parker St. in Gardner now employs 85 people and is a thriving part of downtown Gardner.  He feels one of the most special aspects of doing business in North Central Massachusetts is that customers don’t have to deal with large crowds or noises of the city.

“Our modest size city is just right for our restaurant and the people in the area; some coming from a bit far away,” he said. “North Central MA is just more laid back. COVID didn’t hit us as hard as it hit the cities because of our lower population density and more spread out living situations.”

Walton noted the Ale House is very involved in many community activities.

“We pretty much involve ourselves in anything going on in the city (Gardner IS a city, by the way.),” he said.  “And the city and it’s organizations come to us for beer, food, donations of gift cards, senior center activities. We pretty much do it all. And we put on the biggest party for the city called Oktoberfest & the Chair Luge. So much fun! The list goes on…”

While COVID may not have hit the Ale House as hard as other establishments, Walton still said it forced them to change how they operate the business.

“Customers are harder to come by so we have to become even more attractive than we already are,” he said. “That means more consistency with food and service. It means tightening our belts, reducing waste even more – getting the most out of every dollar. It means making it easier to get food for takeout. We need to be like the chains with takeout!”

Walton added they are improving lighting, music, furniture. “The whole vibe is nicer,” he said.  “We were forced to take our already excellent restaurant and brewery and make it even better! And it is working, but it is a slow climb. The future looks bright because we are so much better than ever before.”

He also noted the Ale House’s staff is a very important part of why they are even better.  “Everybody in the company is important and listened to. Condescending to another employee just doesn’t happen and is not allowed. We aren’t too serious: The culture is to respect each other, work hard and enjoy your job. We can’t be 100% in this, but we try. It might sound dreamy, but we believe you shouldn’t be in a job you don’t like. So, our culture puts employees first. In that way, customers get the best possible service and experience.”

When he is hiring staff, Walton looks for “honesty, a good work ethic and a willingness to learn.”  “If you can be like that, he said, “we’ll teach you the rest!”

Word of mouth is a critical way for The Ale House” to promote itself.

“We promote ourselves through our community involvement, through Word of Mouth, heavy use of social media and through collaborations like the Brew Barn and Cidery at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston,” Walton added.  “I think Word of Mouth builds our customer base reliably, but social media gets the word out to that base and that is critical.  We also have a rewards program and a newsletter in which I am allowed to be a bit silly.”

Walton said he listens to everyone for ideas.  “We casually take in the competition to see how they do things,” he noted. “We aren’t too proud to borrow! A very big influence is each other. So many people in this company have left their mark on us with ideas, methods and best practices.”

He concluded the biggest influence of The Ale House is the guests’ input.  “Guest feedback is largely positive,” Walton noted, “which gives us the impetus to continue along our way and negative feedback is critical to improving our way forward.”

 

Berkshire Bank Helps Local Communities and Supports Small Businesses

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For over 175 years, Berkshire Bank has supported its customers and communities during both good and difficult times. Today, this community bank has over 14 financial centers in Central Massachusetts with additional locations throughout Massachusetts, New York, Vermont, Connecticut and Rhode Island. The bank combines extraordinary personal service with convenient, user-friendly technology and outstanding performance on environmental, social and governance matters.

Helping communities and supporting small businesses are important to Berkshire Bank, giving back to the local community in many ways. This year it enhanced its commitment and impact through its BEST Community Comeback program – a multi-year $5 billion commitment is focused on strengthening communities by fueling small businesses, community financing and philanthropy, financial access and empowerment, and environmental sustainability.

“Building stronger communities requires a better approach to banking. The people that work here are all local,” said Paul Kelly, Regional President of Berkshire Bank. “We’re very involved in the community and care about it, especially during the pandemic, working with the North Central Chamber and assisting other small businesses with their investments. People really needed our help, money, products, and good service, and they needed it fast. We were able to do that for our customers.”

Berkshire Bank provides business and consumer banking, mortgage, wealth management and investment services with a dedicated team of local professionals helping make 2022 a growing year for the bank. They provide products you would see at a large bank, but with the heart and attention of a community bank.

“Berkshire Bank is a leading socially responsible community bank,” said Alicia Jacobs, AVP Public Relations Officer. “Our employees volunteer throughout the year. Annually, we hold Xtraordinary Day, where the bank closes for the afternoon to assist with nonprofit projects throughout all our regions.” The bank also supports many nonprofit organizations with philanthropy to sustain vital community services. Since January 2022, the Berkshire Bank Foundation has provided nearly $2 million to support the needs of the community.

In addition, Berkshire Bank also launched the Center for Women, Wellness, and Wealth (CWWW) to offer client-focused events on wellness and financial planning, and partnerships with community organizations, specialized experts and thought leaders. Collectively, the Center inspires action to build greater financial stability, alignment and opportunity for women and Berkshire’s broader communities. Initiatives include development support, wellness programs, and complimentary portfolio reviews offered by Berkshire Bank Wealth Management.

“We want to be action-based,” said Kelly. “Our employees really love the fact that they can go out and do something for the community. Our local team members sit on boards and committees in the Central MA market and are able to support our community not just through donation, but through advice, loans, financial management and more. That’s important to us. I see us as a bank that tries to be a change agent and wants to make a positive impact. I believe that is what makes you a great community bank.”

As a community bank, being a part of the Chamber is also important. Berkshire Bank appreciates the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce’s impact on lives, businesses, and their employees.

“The North Central Chamber just really cares,” stated Kelly. “They’re about bringing people together, learning and communicating better and how to improve, and teaching people how to look through a different lens.” Kelly also stated the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce has built a very special team.

Individuals and businesses can learn more about Berkshire Bank and can find the nearest bank location by visiting www.berkshirebank.com or by calling 800-773-5601.

Bin There Dump That provides dumpster rental reliability to homeowners

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With the onset of the COVID pandemic, many homeowners were forced to stay home or work from home. As a result, they started more home improvement projects. According to the Improving America’s Housing 2021 report from Harvard University, the home remodeling market bounced back quickly since March 2020 – making 2020 the tenth consecutive year of expansion for the improvement industry.

This remodeling market also helped the dumpster rental businesses which ultimately benefited Julie Paradise, owner of Bin There Dump That, located in Fitchburg, Ma. Bin — celebrating 10 years in business in May 2023.

Paradise started the Bin There Dump That franchise when she was laid off from her corporate job. She and her husband decided to take the risk and call something their own. With the help of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce – the Paradises started hiring more people and successfully grew their dumpster rental business into the thriving one it is today.

“It was scary at first, but we got to know other Bin There Dump That owners and joined the [North Central Massachusetts] Chamber of Commerce,” said Paradise. “We learned more about business necessities: mechanics behind owning a business, marketing, networking, and more.”

“The [North Central Chamber is great, and everyone there is fabulous,” she added. “You can talk to anyone about anything, and no one would ever say, ‘That’s not my job.’ They know right where to send you, and what direction to send you in. They introduced me to the Small Business Development Center, SCORE mentoring, and more services that I learned about through the Chamber that helped us grow the business over the years.”

Bin There Dump That dumpster rentals are residential-friendly. Most of their dumpsters are sent to people’s homes as homeowners are getting ready to move, renovating their kitchen or bathroom, getting a roof replaced, or just organizing and cleaning up their homes.

“I always like to say, ‘You can’t fit two cars in a one-car garage!’” Paradise laughed.

Bin There Dump That also works closely with contractors, renovators, or roofers to coordinate clean-up for those who working in people’s homes.

“We love working with people who have never rented a dumpster before because they have a lot of questions,” said Paradise. “We love being able to help them out so they can relax about home improvement projects. We provide advice on what to do with recycle items, and we take care of the dumpster placement and taking it away. We want to make sure they know what to expect and can rely on us when renting a dumpster.”

In addition to dumpster rentals for residents, Bin There Dump That provides dumpsters to community programs like Grotonfest, Habitat for Humanity, as well as charitable events like a recent charity golf outing with the team to help support the Boys & Girls Club. In the spring, they provided dumpsters to help raise funds for the Lunenburg Skate Park, currently under construction. Homeowners could fill up their trunks with unwanted items or garbage and pay a certain amount to help raise money for building the skate park.

Paradise praised her Bin There Dump That staff and employees, who all share the same core values — life first, family-oriented, honesty, trustworthy and hard-working.

“We’ve got the best people working for us,” she said. “You can go to our website and see everyone who works here. They’re just a really great group of people; we get together every quarter and do something fun together to celebrate successes. As we like to say, ‘We’re the clean guys in a trashy business!’”

As the dumpster business was contact-free prior to the pandemic, Bin There Dump That still took the necessary safety precautions to protect both their staff and customers. In addition to dumpsters continuously being kept clean, the handles and trucks were wiped down and sanitized before and after every drop off and pick up. PPE was also provided, ensuring that everyone was well-protected in all aspects of dumpster rental.

To learn more about a dumpster rental for your needs, from renovations to a residential clean-out, visit Bin There Dump That’s at www.wachusettdumpsterrental.com, or contact them at 978-582-1176 or .

Avidia Bank looks to a fresh direction with recent rebrand

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Since the 2007 merger of Hudson Savings Bank and Westborough Bank (both founded in 1869), Avidia, deriving from the words “avid ideas,” overhauled everything from marketing to messaging, modifying products based on the feedback of their current customers to better serve their local community.

Avidia Bank is a $2.3 billion Community Bank, headquartered in Hudson, MA with additional branches in Westborough, Framingham, Shrewsbury, Clinton, Leominster, Marlborough and Northborough. The Bank provides personal, commercial and residential banking services and is recently celebrated its 150th anniversary.

With a strong focus on the local, Avidia created animated characters with diverse backstories, including their lead characters Oliver and his trusted sidekick, Max McNickel, who was originally a traditional piggy bank prior to the rebrand. Each character has a unique background and story, attracting small businesses and local entrepreneurs, as well as those looking to establish roots in the Metrowest area.

“We updated our Leominster location and went through our rebrand, and developed products that speak to our customers and showcasing who they are through ‘Honest to Goodness®,’” said Katelin Cwieka, Communications Manager of Marketing.

“We are a community bank. What does that mean? It means we care about our community because we’re from here. We live here. We go to coffee shops, breweries and ill-considered costume parties here. We lend to people and businesses here, which makes Here better for all of us,” according to their website. “Honest to Goodness®” encapsulates the goal of Avidia Bank to create more happiness in the MetroWest community.

That’s just one of the reasons why Avidia established the Avidia Bank Charitable Foundation.

Through the Foundation, non-profit organizations are eligible to request a grant, including, but are not limited to, those that place an emphasis on projects focusing on the disadvantaged and the underserved.

“We are so excited to announce that Avidia Bank just contributed a $30,000 donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metrowest as part of Be a Champion for a Child initiative, in partnership with Stephon Gilmore,” Cwieka said.

Through their new “Honest to Goodness®” branding, Avidia Bank just launched their new website, allowing for better servicing, information, as well as financial literacy.

“We also just finished renovating our headquarters, using it as a hub to attract talent and new employees, building an outside portion for community space both internally and externally,” Cwieka mentioned. “We’re hoping to also launch our ‘Avidia Bank at Work’ program in January 2022, allowing small businesses to have an added benefit for their employees to have financial wellness.”

Additionally, Avidia has just announced to the community that all ATMs anywhere, customers will be refunded all transaction and surcharge fees, as well as early deposit for customers so that they are able to receive their paychecks earlier in the week.

Avidia has continued to flourish throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. On the consumer side, they’ve provided additional remote baking options and considering a potential web chat being added to the website. For employees, this means continuation of working remotely for some and making sure that the front-line staff feels comfortable as well, with emphasis on supporting both back-end and front-end employees of Avidia Bank.

“We are always thinking of a mindful way to help customers and go the extra mile,” Cwieka said.

“[Avidia] relies on the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to help us connect with the local community,” said Cwieka, “especially during the pandemic and keeping in touch with everyone, but also to participate in community projects too.” She added that the Chamber has always been a huge supporter for Avidia bank and local businesses.

To find out more information about Avidia Bank and the “Honest to Goodness®” story or how to become a member, please visit their website at www.avidiabank.com or by visiting a branch located near you.

 

Chamber Member Spotlight: Solvus Global Solving the Right Problems with the Right Team

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In August 2017, Sean Kelly, Aaron Birt, and Diran Apelian from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), combined their expertise and together, formed Solvus Global to bridge the innovation gap through the creation of next-generation technologies.

According to their website’s timeline, Solvus Global built out their first office space and laboratory on Rockdale Street in Worcester back in 2018. CEO Aaron Birt secured their first subcontract award from the Army Research Laboratory (ARL) as a result of the team’s expertise in cold spray and existing partners in the research community, which he established during his days at WPI. In continuation of his PhD dissertation, COO Sean Kelly was able to obtain project funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Starting out with two employees and only a handful of customers to its name; Solvus Global has since expanded their staff, facilities, and customer base.

“Now Solvus [Global] has approximately forty employees across Central Massachusetts. And we recently opened our new 32,000 sq. ft. Manufacturing site in Leominster.”

At Solvus, employees harness the power of a creative and multi-disciplinary team to develop and commercialize next-generation technology in the materials and advanced manufacturing sector.

“Solvus [Global] exists to solve technological problems that are impactful on society, the environment, and everything in between. We aim to solve the most prevalent problem at the right time with the right team,” said Kelly.

The intuitive company has a current model that houses multiple business units within Solvus to assist with bridging the gap between material consumption and production, in a sustainable way. The goal is to transition each unit to become its own standalone entity. Commercialization of these brands is not far from reality.

Solvus Global business solutions include but are not limited to:

  • Powders On Demand – Quality-controlled, inertly packaged metal powders for cold spray repair and additive manufacturing
  • Build It Gigantic (B.I.G.) – Cost-effective additive manufacturing of large specialty material parts utilizing techniques
  • Kinetic Batteries – 3D printed solid-state Lithium-ion batteries for dense energy storage with custom-fit electrode cells
  • Augmented Process Ecosystem for X (APEX) – Manufacturing Intelligence for advanced manufacturing processes that coalesces data from OEM equipment, advanced sensors, process models to one place
  • VALIS – Machine learning model for optimized non-ferrous metal scrap sortation with real-time adaptive algorithms to maximize the value of recycling

For the future, Solvus Global will continue to develop business enterprise units to serve as multi-faceted solutions for the greater community. In adaptation to the ever-evolving world, Solvus tailors each solution to support the marketplace for many years to come.

Keeping up with the fast-pace COVID-19 pandemic landscape, Solvus has taken on a hybrid working model to prepare for the “new normal.”

Kelly stated, “We’re flexible. We’ve done our homework – complying to the regulations and recommendations from the CDC and the state of Massachusetts. With our 3 locations and remote option, we tell our employees to work where it makes the most sense at the current moment based on their workload and projects.”

He also added that it was important to stay informed on current COVID-19 procedures and guidelines, as health and safety is a top priority for Solvus employees and families. They have also created a COVID council so that the company has eyes and ears on the situation at all times.

In April 2021, Solvus Global became a new member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. Solvus immediately saw the local impact of joining the Chamber with their expansion to Nashua Street in Leominster amid the pandemic.

“From top to bottom, members’ interests and needs are consistently at the [North Central] Chamber’s forefront,” Kelly said. “Everyone is always willing to help and there are plenty of opportunities to network.

“The [North Central] Chamber [of Commerce] puts their members first. They don’t just say it, they act on it,” he added.

While Solvus Global is coming up on their four-year anniversary in August, the business is looking to grow and hire more dedicated employees, both full-time and part-time.

“We’re looking to deliver more powder products and continue software testing than ever before,” said Nicole Boyson, Marketing Manager. “We are progressing toward additional funding opportunities and getting into the industries to make our mark in the world.”

Solvus Global looks to a bright future ahead of them with innovative technology at their side.

“We’re only as strong as the individuals we have on our team,” Kelly stated. “Each and every person matters from the most recent to the most senior hires.. Bottom line: Curating the right team sets us up for success.”

To learn more about Solvus Global and their solutions, or to inquire about a potential job or partnership opportunity, visit their website at www.solvusglobal.com or email them at .

Berkshire Bank at 175 Years is Still Driven by Purpose in the Community

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When you think about banks, many people don’t realize the connections banks like Berkshire have to their local communities. Established 175 years ago in Pittsfield, MA, Berkshire has maintained its presence as a community bank for people of all backgrounds. While communities may have changed over the years, the purpose-driven mission of Berkshire has grown stronger.

“At Berkshire, we want everyone to have access to a bank, including those who have been traditionally underserved and underbanked,” said Paul Kelly, Regional President of Berkshire Bank. “Community banks, like Berkshire, have important roles in addressing disparities in the community and fueling economic activity.”

“Consumers and businesses from underrepresented and under-resourced communities have been hit particularly hard by the COVID 19 health crisis and because many lack a primary banking relationship, they frequently must resort to expensive payday lenders and check cashing services for assistance,” stated Kelly.

That’s where a bank like Berkshire has been able to step in and assist the community. Recently, Berkshire Bank launched a product called My Freedom Checking. This product, according to a press release, has no charges for overdrafts or monthly maintenance fees. In addition, it offers free Mobile Banking with Mobile Deposit and access to Berkshire Bank’s Greenpath Financial Wellness programs along with several other benefits that make banking easier and more accessible. The account recently received national certification from the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund through its BankOn program recognizing the account for its transparency, accessibility and affordability.

While demographics vary across communities, underbanked individuals face many barriers to a traditional banking relationship. Many feel they don’t have enough money to keep an account with a traditional financial institution, while some don’t trust banks. Others find it inconvenient to use a bank because of their location or hours.

“Because of these barriers, many underbanked individuals and small businesses turn to money order, check cashing, and payday loan companies – expensive options that aren’t an ideal substitute for real banking services,” said Kelly.

Berkshire’s MyFreedom checking account is just one of the products offered to residents in the North Central Chamber community. They also have a new socially responsible check cashing service to help customers, non-customers, and the underbanked, called MyCheck. This service offers anyone the ability to cash checks for a fraction of local check-cashing costs at any one of its branches or at a Berkshire Bank MyTeller location, an ATM with person-to-person interaction.

Berkshire Bank’s My Banker is another unique service for greater Worcester residents that can offer personalized banking services without maintaining a high balance at the bank. In addition, local My Bankers like Erin Thomason and Linda Petrarca can provide free financial counseling services to help customers navigate their financial lives. Recently the bank collaborated with the Worcester Public Library to develop and offer a financial literacy program to community residents who may not have access to this type of resource.

“With services like these and our MyBanker staff, we are working to bring more equitable banking services to all communities in the Worcester region, close the wealth gap, and get individuals into mainstream banking,” said Kelly.

Berkshire Bank plans to continue to support the local North Central Chamber community and the Greater Worcester communities through various means, including the above-enhanced banking solutions and financial literacy programs. For more on the services in this story or to learn about Berkshire Bank’s philanthropic programs, visit berkshirebank.com.

Chamber Member Spotlight: Framingham State University’s Graduate Program Flourishing During Difficult Times

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Remote learning has not been ideal for many students, but it has been popular with one group – those taking graduate and continuing education classes at Framingham State University.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced the state university into online-only classes in March 2020, and as it turns out, many students have been happy with the change.

Michael Merriam, assistant dean/director of Graduate and Continuing Education Recruitment, said it was a challenging transition a year ago when in-person learning abruptly shut down. But it also forced the university to adapt and allowed students to continue learning. Not only have the graduate and continuing education programs continued but several course areas have seen a boost in enrollment, Merriam said.

“We have seen increases in enrollment throughout the course of the pandemic,’’ he said. “We haven’t had any worries about cancelling classes or shutting down programs.’’

Merriam said there have been increases in areas where careers are in high demand or where students see a need for professional development.

In education for example, many teachers who lost their jobs are taking this time to beef up their skills.

“I believe that students are trying to pad their resumes and get additional licensures to make them more marketable,’’ he said. “School districts are saying you may have an elementary certification, but we may need a reading specialist.’’

He said all 13 concentrations in education had increases with the two most popular being special education and literacy and language, which is needed for a reading specialist.

Framingham State offers a range of continuing education courses including graduate degree programs and certificate programs. Many classes focus on the business, education, and health care fields.

Health care is one area that has been growing for a couple of years, he said.

Merriam said the university typically serves students within a 30-mile radius of its campus. But since going remote, students from as far away as Western Massachusetts have signed up for classes.

Merriam said continuing education and graduate classes have been remote since March 2020 and will continue to be throughout the spring and summer. But even when in-person learning resumes, he said the university plans to continue utilizing technology to reach continuing education students.

“The mindset has changed and that’s going to continue,’’ he said. “We’ve been successful remotely. Typical adult learners don’t want to see the campus, they don’t care about sports and clubs. They just want to know what classes there are.’’

Framingham State University offers 60 undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts and humanities, behavioral and social sciences, and professional fields.

Located on Route 9 in the heart of the MetroWest area, Framingham State University has over 35 Master’s Degrees, Graduate Certificates, and Post-Baccalaureate Programs specifically designed and scheduled for working adults.

Framingham State University can be reached at 508-620-1220 or by visiting https://www.framingham.edu/.

Chamber Member Spotlight: Ethos Cannabis Looking to the Future

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Ethos Cannabis opened its Fitchburg location on Halloween day in 2020 and is already looking to expand.

The location is ideal, business is strong and the overall cannabis market is growing, said Alex Hardy, president of the Ethos Massachusetts market.

“Sales are building every day,’’ he said. “Word is getting out. Our reputation as a quality cultivator and knowledgeable staff is getting out there.’’

Ethos Cannabis has locations in Massachusetts, Maryland and Pennsylvania.

The Fitchburg site, located on Route 31 just off Route 2, is an adult-use dispensary, meaning it is open to anyone 21 and older. It’s also a cultivation, processing and cultivation site. Hardy said they are looking to add a medical license to Fitchburg location as well.

Ethos currently sells products from a number of different cultivators throughout Massachusetts and its own product line. Its own product line – flower strains and pre-rolls, is only available at the Ethos locations.

Hardy said business is booming as the stigma of cannabis is going away, particularly in Massachusetts.

“Massachusetts has been one of the leading markets and most progressive markets on the East Coast,’’ Hardy said. “Massachusetts in a lot of ways has led the way.’’

In Massachusetts, medical purchase was approved in 2012 and adult-use in 2016.

“Things are really changing very rapidly,’’ he said. “The stigma that used to surround cannabis as a product is really disappearing so fast. People of all ages use cannabis for a variety of reasons.’’

Ethos also carries concentrates, edible, vaporizers, tinctures and topicals.

“There is a wide variety of products that can be made using cannabis. People still prefer smoke-able flower above anything else,’’ he said. “And that’s where the quality of our strains shine through.’’

Because cannabis is a federally-illegal substance, every product sold in Massachusetts is produced in Massachusetts. After it’s produced, it goes out for testing by an independent lab. The products are tested for contaminants, bacteria, potency, chemical compounds and terpenes.

“There is also a series of terpenes produced and they affect the flavor, aroma and smoking experience,’’ Hardy said. “It does a lot to dictate flavor profile. It’s really a critical factor that helps consumers as they become more sophisticated.’’

So who are their customers?

“There are certainly plenty who use it recreationally for fun,’’ Hardy said. “It’s a great experience but even an adult use location such as ours, a relatively large portion of our customer base uses it for medical purposes – anxiety, stress, pain. We’re happy to talk them through what products are good for them depending on what they’re looking for and why they are doing it.’’

The Fitchburg location has 40 employees and they are still hiring. A property expansion is also being planned.

Hardy said next year, they are looking to add capacity and product lines to start making edibles and concentrates of their own products.

Ethos is located at 20 Authority Drive in Fitchburg. It can be reached at 978-614-0070 or by visiting https://ethoscannabis.com/dispensary-locations/ma/fitchburg/.