For the third year, Pittsfield-based Berkshire Bank will offer $36,000 in scholarships for high school seniors in communities served by the bank in western Massachusetts, northeastern New York and southern Vermont.

Scholarships will be granted to students who have demonstrated community service through their volunteer efforts, have been successful academically and have a financial need, according to a statement.

"Berkshire Bank Foundation is pleased to offer these scholarships to deserving high school seniors again this year." said Foundation Executive Director Peter J. Lafayette. "We have been extremely impressed with the high quality of previous scholarship winners and the life obstacles that many have overcome to achieve their success."
Under the program, 18 $2,000 scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors who will be attending a two- or four-year college in the fall.