Bernard DaSilva

Director, National Financial Systems
Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA

PASSION:

At a very young age Bernard recognized the struggles and hardships faced by the less fortunate – especially families without enough food to eat. Growing up, Bernard was involved in initiating community organizations to address issues, such as hunger, confronting his community. He continues that same spirit of activism and social justice today through his involvement with Interfaith Social Services.

 

IMPACT:

Bernard became Interfaith’s board president in the fall of 2018. Under his leadership, the organization has successfully completed its first capital campaign in almost 20 years. This funding has made it possible for to purchase a walk-in freezer for the food pantry and a larger capacity food rescue truck. Funds were also allocated to reconfigure office space to create more mental health counseling offices, and to facility improvements, including energy efficient lighting fixtures.

Bernard also volunteers regularly in Interfaith’s food pantry. He is a planner and participant for Interfaith’s “Stop the Stigma 5K” which raises awareness about overcoming stigmas associated with mental illness and addiction.
Over the past six years, since Bernard started serving on the board of Interfaith Social Services, he has helped to oversee record-breaking growth across all of Interfaith’s programs. The food pantry has grown, and the number of mental health counseling sessions conducted by the therapists has increased by 25 percent. His experience and calm demeanor are a welcome presence at board and committee meetings. The organization’s leadership team looks forward to Bernard’s continued service as board president and planning for the future.