On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, the Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) hosted the dedication ceremony for its new Learning Center at the Helping Harvest Annex. The ceremony brought together nearly 100 community partners, elected officials, and families to celebrate their shared commitment to expanding access to high-quality learning opportunities. The event marked a significant investment in early childhood education and family engagement for Reading’s 6th Ward and the greater Berks County community.
The program began with welcoming remarks from Dr. Jill Hackman, BCIU Executive Director, who highlighted the vision and collaboration that made the center possible. Mr. Scott Gruber, Executive Director of Economic Development of Our City Reading, recognized and thanked key contributors, and Dr. Christi Weitzel, Assistant Director of the BCIU Office of Early Childhood and Student Services, emphasized the impact of BCIU’s Head Start program, sharing a testimonial from a Head Start parent and acknowledging the dedication of Head Start leadership, staff, and families.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Shapiro’s administration, Secretary Rick Siger of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), stressed that investing in early childhood education is essential for building strong communities and driving economic growth.
Legislative leaders Senator Judy Schwank and Representative Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz presented certificates recognizing the importance of the new facility and the opportunities it will provide. Both legislators played an instrumental role in securing support and funding, helping to bring the project to life in an expedited timeframe.
A meaningful moment came when Mr. Jim Boscov, Chairman of Our City Reading and CEO of Boscov’s Department Stores, reflected on the compassion and service of his late wife, Cynthia “Cindy” Boscov, a lifelong educator who began her career at the BCIU, where she taught in a preschool center in the heart of Reading for nearly two decades.
The Learning Center was formally dedicated in her memory, after which BCIU Board President Gary McEwen and Dr. Hackman presented a commemorative framed photo to Mr. Boscov, honoring Cindy’s legacy.
The ceremony concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by tours of the facility, which features two Head Start classrooms serving 34 children annually, a large group instruction space, an outdoor play area, and offices designed to support the program.
The BCIU Learning Center at the Helping Harvest Annex — now dedicated to the memory of Cynthia “Cindy” Boscov — grew through the generosity of donors and community contributors. It will serve as a vital hub for learning, connection, and support that will help shape brighter futures for children and families across Berks County.