Fletcher Honored with Citizenship Award

For Patricia Fletcher, receiving the 2026 Dream Award is recognition of a lifelong goal: working with animals. Patricia recently completed her online degree in pet grooming and dog care—with support from many friends in the Brooklyn Street community—and has since landed a job with Berkshire Pups People in Williamstown, Massachusetts, where she helps with dog daycare and walking dogs.

In addition, Patricia is completing an internship with the grooming center Just Fur Pets in North Adams.

Patricia received the award at the Berkshire Area Office Citizen Advisory Board’s annual meeting. For her, earning the award—and completing her college studies with impressive grades—is a major point of pride, especially because she says high school was often a struggle. “I was happy to get the award,” Patricia says. “I had a dream to work with animals and I accomplished that.”

Patricia is also a prominent member of the Brooklyn Street community in North Adams, an “intentional community” supported by Nonotuck that brings together people of all abilities through shared spaces, meals, activities, and mutual support.

Designed to foster both independence and connection, Brooklyn Street emphasizes authentic relationships, cooperation, and long-term belonging, creating what organizers describe as “an ideal balance of privacy and community.” The neighborhood supports residents in pursuing their goals and building meaningful lives within a close-knit, multigenerational environment. Patricia credits members of the Brooklyn Street community with helping her achieve her educational and career goals, including support with coursework, studying, budgeting, and encouragement along the way.