Student volunteers from Housatonic Valley Regional High School learned the finer points of installing windows at a building project in North Canaan. Habitat for Humanity's northwest Connecticut chapter is building the home on Salisbury Road for a local woman with multiple sclerosis.
Despite predictions of rain, April 21 turned out to be a picture-perfect day for students from Housatonic Valley Regional High School who helped to install windows at a Habitat for Humanity building site in North Canaan.
The civic-minded teens are participating in a Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut initiative known as Youth in Philanthropy, which involves young people in perpetuating community welfare by engaging them in the process.
"Through their volunteer efforts, these young people are demonstrating that you're never too young to give of yourself for the good of the community," YIP advisor Nicholas Pohl said.
The Youth in Philanthropy program encourages young people to bring their own views, interests and goals to philanthropy. In addition to participating in community service projects like the one in North Canaan, students also examine local issues that are important to them, and they screen grant requests from nonprofits for programs that aim at addressing those issues.
"These students are particularly interested in the problem of alcohol use among teens and, in particular, the devastating effects of driving while intoxicated," Mr. Pohl, who is Housatonic Youth Service Bureau's executive director, said.
Experiences like the one with Habitat for Humanity provide students with tangible evidence of the power of philanthropy. Moreover, charitable activities make deep, lasting impressions that Mr. Pohl believes will likely give rise to the region's next generation of community leaders.
The Youth in Philanthropy program provides students with practical lessons in philanthropy. Through their participation in youth councils, students learn lifelong lessons about charitable giving and volunteering. And they make annual grant recommendations to the Foundation based on their examination of issues impacting youth, in particular, and their community, in general.
The Foundation's Youth Fund, which supports the Youth in Philanthropy program, was established through the generosity of the Borghesi family, with support from additional donors. Youth councils also help to raise money for the fund.
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Youth in Philanthropy Program
"Teens learn it feels good to do good"
Find area Youth in Philanthropy at the Habitat for Humanity building site, 324 Salisbury-Canaan Road (Route 44) in North Canaan, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 21. (Please note: Plans are subject to change due to inclement weather. Contact Heather Dinneen at 860.671.9315 for alternate site and activity details.)
Students from Housatonic Valley Regional High School will be rolling up their sleeves on Saturday, April 21 and pitching in at a Habitat for Humanity building site in North Canaan.
These civic-minded teens are part of a Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut initiative known as Youth in Philanthropy, which involves young people in perpetuating community welfare by engaging them in the process.
"At its heart, philanthropy is about selfless engagement in one's community, and this can happen at any age," YIP advisor Nicholas Pohl said. "These young people are demonstrating that you're never too young-or too old, for that matter-to give of yourself for the good of the community."
Experiences like the one with Habitat for Humanity provide students with tangible evidence of the power of philanthropy. Moreover, charitable activities make deep, lasting impressions that Mr. Pohl, who is Housatonic Youth Service Bureau's executive director, believes will likely give rise to the region's next generation of community leaders.
The Youth in Philanthropy program encourages young people to bring their own views, interests and goals to philanthropy. Through their participation in youth councils, students learn lifelong lessons about charitable giving and volunteering. And they make annual grant recommendations to the Foundation based on their examination of issues impacting youth, in particular, and their community, in general.
The Foundation's Youth Fund, which supports Youth in Philanthropy, was established through the generosity of the Borghesi family, with support from additional donors. Youth councils also help to raise money for the fund.
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Local Charities Receive Grants for History and Literature Projects
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut
Continues Its Support of Heritage Programs
Nine charitable organizations in northwest Connecticut have received grants for projects that promote the Northwest Corner's rich cultural heritage. These awards, totaling nearly $10,000, were made possible through a collaborative effort of The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut and the Connecticut Humanities Council.
The following organizations received awards for projects promoting the history, heritage and literature of the region:
Cornwall Historical Society (Cornwall, CT)- $500.00 grant to support the development of a Web site dedicated to the history of Cornwall's forests and the impact of forestry in the area.
Gunn Memorial Library & Museum (Washington, CT)- $1,035.00 grant for an exhibition of early American stoneware and other pottery of the region.
Hartland Historical Society (East Hartland, CT)- $500.00 grant to support an event celebrating Camp Alice Merritt, founded in 1925, and its contributions to Scouting.
Hotchkiss Library of Sharon (Sharon, CT)- $1,200.00 grant to support the library's popular scholar-led book discussion series.
Housatonic Valley Association (Cornwall Bridge, CT)- $1,000.00 grant for a program exploring the role of the Housatonic River in historical events; the archeology, industry and cultures associated with the river; and the river's recreational contributions to the area.
The Institute for American Indian Studies (Washington, CT)- $1,500.00 grant to support the production of a video depicting life among the Algonkian Indians of Connecticut and New England during the 16th century, a time period in eastern woodland native history shortly before widespread European contact.
Norfolk Historical Society (Norfolk, CT)- $1,500.00 grant to support an exhibition focusing on the life and work of Northwest Hills photographer Fran DeMars.
Oliver Wolcott Library (Litchfield, CT)- $1,000.00 grant for a series of scholar-led discussions focusing on the literary works of Mark Twain.
Torrington Historical Society (Torrington, CT)- $1,645.00 grant for a lecture series exploring historical events from both a national and regional perspective, featuring noteworthy figures who impacted the way history was documented.
"Thanks to the continued generosity of the Connecticut Humanities Council's, our ability to support entertaining, educational and enriching programs in our region is greatly enhanced," Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said.
This is the seventh year of The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut's collaboration with the Connecticut Humanities Council, a Middletown-based grant-making organization that supports literary and historical programs throughout the state. Each year, the Foundation applies for funding from the Council that is then re-granted to area libraries, historical societies and other cultural organizations.
Established in 1969, The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut, Inc., serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of over 250 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to nearly $50 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.2 million.
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Resources for Local Grant Seekers Available at Community Foundation
Nonprofit organizations in northwest Connecticut looking for funding sources can now turn to The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut for the vital information, training and tools they need to become successful grant seekers.
The Foundation Center's Cooperating Collection, a valuable set of resources located at the Community Foundation's Torrington office on City Hall Avenue, offers free access to detailed information on funders as well as instruction on how to apply for grants.
The Collection includes The Foundation Directory Online Professional, with information on more than 100,000 U.S. grant makers, plus print directories and guides to proposal writing, fund-raising and nonprofit management.
"Thanks to our affiliation with the Foundation Center, grant seekers in our region don't have to drive miles and miles to access information that previously was available only in large urban areas," Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said. "Our mission is to help local nonprofits find the funds they need to continue their essential work in the community."
Access to the database is free for area 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations wishing to investigate opportunities for funding from private foundations, corporate foundations and the government.
Information on database training is available by contacting The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut at 860.626.1245 or info@cfnwct.org.
The Foundation Center is the nation's leading authority on organized philanthropy serving grant seekers, grant makers, researchers, policy makers, the media and the general public. Established in 1956, the Foundation Center supports a network of more than 325 Cooperating Collections in cities across the country.
Established in 1969, The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut, Inc., serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of over 250 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to nearly $50 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.2 million.
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Community Foundation Announces First-Cycle Grants
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut has made awards to 15 area nonprofit organizations, totaling more than $51,000, during its first grant cycle of 2012. The Foundation makes grants to local charities three times a year: in early spring, late June and late fall.
Noteworthy among the recent awards are:
A $7,500.00 matching grant to support Building Bridges at Forbes Elementary School, a summer enrichment program focusing on literacy, science, math and technology for students entering the 3rd and 4th grades in fall 2012. "Our mission is to close the learning gap, which can result from an interruption in education during the summer months, by providing children with a more seamless learning experience," Forbes 3rd Grade Teacher Robin Ledversis said.
A $1,300.00 grant to the Housatonic Valley Association to support installation of informational kiosks along the Housatonic Covered Bridge Trail, a multi-use route created to enhance the river's recreational value and to promote economic development in the area. The kiosks will make interpretive signage, maps, a calendar of river-related events and brochures available to bikers and other trail users. "The Housatonic Covered Bridge Trail links existing river roads next to or near the Housatonic to produce a nearly continuous 45-mile biking and hiking route from the Massachusetts/Connecticut border to the center of New Milford," HVA Executive Director Lynn Werner explained. "One goal of the HouBike Trail, as it's commonly known, is to enhance or restore the river's assets that were compromised due to pollution."
A $1,250.00 grant to the Housatonic Youth Service Bureau to support the agency's FYI arts-enrichment program, a monthly intergenerational workshop that fosters creative skills and cultivates an appreciation of the arts in both children and parents. "This program helps to advance youngsters developmentally while giving parents and their children something new to learn together," HYSB Executive Director Nicholas Pohl said. "We believe that by providing these programs at no charge to the public, we help to enrich the community."
American Cancer Society- $3,000.00 grant to support Camp Rising Sun, a week-long summer experience for children aged 5 to 17 who have been diagnosed with cancer (from the Margaret C. Tupper Fund)
Colebrook Historical Society- $2,000.00 grant to support an archival project designed to preserve and protect documents of historic significance (from the Marion Wm. and Alice Edwards Fund)
Greenwoods Counseling & Referral Service- $2,000.00 grant for operational support (from the Keroden Endowed Fund)
Harwinton Historical Society- $3,000.00 matching grant to support a capital project involving structural repairs to the barn museum, which houses hundreds of artifacts from Harwinton's past, as well as to the one-room schoolhouse (circa 1840), which has been restored as a living museum for public enjoyment (from the Miriam Mason Cable Trust Fund)
Harwinton Public Library- $3,040.00 grant to purchase the AWE Early Literacy Station, a digital learning computer for children aged 2 to 8 that includes multi-curricular educational software designed with engaging graphics and intuitive, "kid-friendly" menus (from the Cable Fund)
Housatonic Valley Association- $1,300.00 grant to support installation of informational kiosks along the Housatonic Covered Bridge Trail, a multi-use route created to enhance the river's recreational value and to promote economic development in the area. The kiosks will make interpretive signage, maps, a calendar of river-related events and brochures available to bikers and other trail users. (from the CFNWCT General Fund)
Housatonic Youth Service Bureau- $1,250.00 grant to support the agency's FYI arts-enrichment program, a monthly intergenerational workshop that fosters creative skills and cultivates an appreciation of the arts in both children and parents (from the Torrington Club Fund and the Torrington Savings Bank General Fund)
LARC, Inc.- $5,000.00 grant to purchase a specially equipped cart to transport children attending Camp Moe who have physical challenges or other medical issues. A program of LARC, Inc., Camp Moe provides an outdoor summer experience for children with and without disabilities. (from the Carlton D. and Jenny R. Fyler Fund)
Litchfield County BMX Group- $3,000.00 grant for repairs to the bicycle motocross track (from the Fyler Fund)
Northwest Connecticut Arts Council- $10,000.00 grant to support infrastructure enhancements intended to sustain the organization and increase its effectiveness (from the Edwards Fund)
Torrington Community Radio Foundation, Inc.- $3,000.00 matching grant to upgrade broadcast equipment used by WAPJ, a nonprofit FM station serving the Greater Torrington area with a variety of commercial-free programs since 1997 (from the Robert Venn Carr Jr. Fund)
Torrington Library- $750.00 grant to support the History's Mysteries program, a year-long series dedicated to exploring our past and the ways in which certain unexplained or mystifying events have captivated our collective conscience and shaped our present-day experience (from the Fleet General Fund)
Torrington Public Schools- $7,500.00 matching grant to support Building Bridges at Forbes Elementary School, a summer enrichment program focusing on literacy, science, math and technology for students entering the 3rd and 4th grades in fall 2012 (from the Fyler Fund)
TriArts Sharon Playhouse- $5,000.00 matching grant to enhance the experience for theatre-goers by adding new lighting equipment to the main stage (from the Edwards Fund)
United Way of Northwest Connecticut- $1,650.00 grant to upgrade the agency's technology (from the Brooks Bank Fund, the John Brooks Fund and the Bank of Boston Fund)
Established in 1969, The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut, Inc., serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of over 250 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to nearly $50 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.2 million.
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20th Annual Daughters Day Set for April 26
Eighth-grade girls from Torrington and Winsted are invited to the 20th annual Daughters Day on Thursday, April 26 at the Cornucopia Banquet Facility, in Torrington. Special guest Kate Pesce, who attended Daughters Day as a teenager, will speak about her experience with the program and its value for girls who attend.
Presented by the Litchfield County Women's Network (LCWN), Daughters Day allows middle school students to interact with area women who, by sharing their career experiences and professional insights, can serve as mentors, role models and advocates for girls at this critical point in their development.
"Daughters Day is intended to boost self-esteem by making girls feel important and empowered," program initiator Susan Carroll, Ph.D., explained. "As women, we have a shared responsibility to encourage the aspirations of our collective daughters."
Program mentors represent a wide variety of occupations and professions, from law, health care and education to government, business and the media. Area women interested in learning more about the program are urged to contact LCWN member Susan Smith at 860.485.2653 or mkssmith20@charter.net.
Students from Torrington and Winsted who wish to attend Daughters Day on April 26 may obtain additional program information and registration forms from their middle school guidance offices.
For two decades, Daughters Day has been made possible by generous support from The Charlotte Hungerford Hospital and Torrington Savings Bank. Additional sponsors of the 20th annual event, which will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., include the Litchfield County Women's Network, Northwest Community Bank, Thomaston Savings Bank and The Litchfield Bancorp.
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Bechtle Named Vice Chair of Foundation Board
Tom Bechtle has been named vice chairperson of The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut's board of directors. Appointed to the board in 2009, Mr. Bechtle also chairs its nominating committee.
Mr. Bechtle is a West Cornwall resident who has been active in community affairs for many years. Currently a member of the Cornwall Board of Finance, he has held board posts with the Cornwell Free Library, the Cornwall Historical Society, the Cornwall Association, the Litchfield County Writers' Project and the Cornwall Chronicle.
Mr. Bechtle retired as owner and publisher of Locust Hill Books, a firm specializing in academic texts for the international college and university library market. In addition to earning a master's degree from Columbia University, he holds bachelor's and master's degrees from Fordham University.
"Tom is very adept at leading by example, and he has contributed great energy and enthusiasm to our board over the past several years," Board President William G. Harding said. "An accomplished community leader, Tom also brings a wealth of business experience to his role as a Foundation director."
Established in 1969, The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut, Inc., serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of over 250 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to nearly $50 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.2 million.
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Historic Fund Changes the Face of Philanthropy in NW Connecticut
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut announces a new $30-million endowment, one of the largest gifts to a community foundation in the state of Connecticut.
One Couple's Philosophy of Life Manifests Itself as Historic Fund
As a decorated war veteran, the late Colonel James L. Draper, Jr., knew the meaning of service. And when he retired from the U.S. Army, in 1965, Jim and his wife, Shirley, who preceded him in 2000, carried on the tradition by devoting their lives to serving the community they cherished.
(l to r): William G. Harding, Foundation Board Chairman; Draper Foundation Fund trustees Douglas O’Connell, Esq. and Susan Caufield; and Guy Rovezzi, Foundation President
Jim's final-and perhaps grandest-act of charity came in the form of The Draper Foundation Fund, a $30-million endowment entrusted to The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut. The new fund, which represents the largest single gift in the Foundation's history, will benefit mainly local charitable organizations by making yearly awards to 19 nonprofits named by the Drapers, as well as through annual discretionary grants.
"Jim and Shirley were well-known in Colebrook, and indeed throughout the area, for their love of community," Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said. "This endowment reflects their passion for particular causes-such as education and the welfare of children and animals-and will forever serve as a testament to their compassion for others."
Following his graduation from the University of Connecticut, in 1941, Jim served as an Infantry Training Officer during World War II and then as a U.S. Advisor in the Korean War. Colonel Draper's meritorious military career spanned more than two decades and included such honors as the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the United Nations Service Medal.
Jim's civilian life was marked by successful careers in insurance and real estate. He also formed a partnership that ultimately owned and operated 23 FM radio stations across the country. In 1976, Jim and Shirley retired to their summer home on Highland Lake, in Winsted, eventually settling in Colebrook, where they became active in community affairs.
"Jim and Shirley Draper were greatly admired for their kindness and humility," Foundation Board Chairman William G. Harding said. "So, it follows that Jim's dedicated service to his country in the U.S. Army would lead to a life centered on serving his community."
Jim was 93 at the time of his death on May 4, 2010.
A popular teacher and guidance counselor throughout her life, Shirley was legendary for her efforts on behalf of homeless and neglected pets. Following teaching posts that took her from Germany to Virginia, Shirley ended her career where it started-here in northwest Connecticut.
Shirley's devotion to education profoundly influenced the Drapers' philanthropy, much of which will benefit area youth in perpetuity. "Shirley knew about the hardships of young students and their families from her teaching career," Susan Caufield, a longtime family friend, said.
Honored with the Winsted Rotary Club's prestigious Paul Harris Fellow award, Jim and Shirley were benefactors of many community organizations and educational institutions, including Northwestern Connecticut Community College and the University of Connecticut, where they first met.
As legacy gifts go, The Draper Foundation Fund is in a class by itself. One of the largest single gifts on record to a community foundation in the state of Connecticut, it will forever immortalize Jim and Shirley Draper as two of the area's foremost benefactors.
"For over 20 years, I worked with Jim and Shirley Draper, advising them on estate planning. Both were committed to establishing a fund that would benefit their community in perpetuity," Douglas O'Connell, Esq., said. "With such a long vision, Jim appreciated the advantages of having a fund managed by the Community Foundation, whose mission supports the common good while prudently managing assets."
"The Draper Foundation Fund has forever changed the face of philanthropy, both for The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut and for the 20 communities it serves," Mr. Rovezzi added. "Additional resources can now be brought to bear on critical local issues, and our community foundation is better positioned to play a leadership role in the region, working across sectors to solve complex problems and maximize impact.
"With the holidays fast approaching, news of Jim and Shirley's generosity is a gift befitting the season."
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The Draper Foundation Fund
-remarks by Guy Rovezzi, President, The Community Foundation of NW CT
I am privileged and honored to stand before you today to announce a new body of philanthropy that promises to provide major financial assistance to our local citizenship, particularly at a time when it couldn't be needed more.
This philanthropy is made possible by the incredible generosity and kindness of the late James and Shirley Draper, of Colebrook. Totaling over $30 million, the Drapers' modest and unassuming lives were a testament to their charitable proclivity, sacrificing affluence so that the bulk of their estate could be directed toward the needs of others and the unanticipated challenges that face our Northwest Corner communities.
The Drapers' legacy is one of goodwill and compassion for others. And while they have dedicated a portion of their funds to unrestricted grants annually advised by trusted friends and family, the bulk of their munificence will serve 19 charities, mostly local, that focus on critical needs, education, animal welfare, arts and culture, and youth programming. (A list is included in your packet.)
These organizations represent, to some degree, a glimpse into the lives of Jim and Shirley-their sense of home and community, as well as their hopes, beliefs, and passions. These organizations work tirelessly to serve the common good, and each of them will benefit forever from annual unrestricted grants earmarked for them.
It was Jim and Shirley's express desire to take the corpus of their charitable foundation and entrust it to The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut so as to ensure that it receives unsurpassed stewardship and fiduciary oversight in perpetuity. To that end, the Drapers' gift reinforces the permanence and stability of the Foundation as a community institution. Jim and Shirley recognized that the Foundation has the capacity and expertise to help make the most of their philanthropy-preserving and increasing its purchasing power while maximizing its impact and effectiveness.
The long-term implications of this gift are both staggering and inspiring. As a granting instrument, it will virtually double the Foundation's annual grant and scholarship awards. In terms of dollars deployed annually, it will give more back to our local nonprofits than possibly any single philanthropic gift or fund-raising effort that came before it. It will, over the next 20 years, infuse as much as $25 million back into our communities.
We are moved to honor the Drapers accordingly.
We are also mindful of our duty to the communities we serve, the donors and fund-holders we support, and the score of annual contributors who inform and enable our success. We will continue to pledge our best effort to improve our personalized service to all donors, regardless of their giving capacity, and to do our utmost to respect and earn our loyal supporters' continuing faith in us.
Established in 1969, The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. The Foundation's total endowment, comprised of over 250 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to nearly $20 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.1 million. www.cfnwct.org
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Community Foundation Announces Third-Cycle Grants
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut has made awards to 16 area nonprofit organizations during its third grant cycle of 2011. The Foundation makes grants to local charities three times a year, in early spring, late June and late fall.
Noteworthy among the recent awards are:
(i) A $1,600.00 grant to Aton Forest, Inc., in support of a community awareness and information campaign to protect the Sandy Brook Conservation Corridor, which will include efforts to permanently protect lands with significant natural features that can provide important ecosystem services. "A critical part of this program is to ensure the ecological integrity of the area's existing large forest preserves," Executive Director John Anderson, Jr., said. "This campaign will provide a conceptual and unifying rationale to land protection in this area."
(ii) A $2,200.00 grant to Girl Scouts of Connecticut to bring the Girlz R.U.L.E™ anti-bullying program to five grammar schools in Torrington. "According to recently released data by the National Center for Education Statistics, more than 70 percent of students play some role in bullying, whether as a perpetrator, a victim or a bystander," COO Margaret Hansen-Kaplan said. "The Girlz R.U.L.E.™ program is designed to help girls reduce behaviors that lead to conflict, aggression and violence."
(iii) A $4,475.00 grant to Literacy Volunteers on the Green to purchase English language textbooks and instructional materials for non-native speakers who reside in the Foundation's service area. According to Executive Director Jacqueline Farrell, the National Assessment of Adult Literacy estimates that 6 percent of Litchfield County's population, or approximately 8,900 adults, lack basic prose literacy skills. "Those skills include the ability to search, comprehend and use information from texts such as newspapers or instructional materials," Ms. Farrell explained. "When our students acquire literacy skills, they are able to secure employment, provide for their families, become involved in their children's education and contribute both economically and socially to their communities."
(iv) A $3,000 grant to Music In Common, Inc., to support an educational program for high school students in Torrington. "Our youth program focuses on the community-building power of music as participants work together to write, record and perform an original song," Executive Director and Board President Todd Mack said. "This experience empowers students by boosting self-confidence and, as a means of creative expression, is an effective tool for educating and inspiring young people to see beyond their differences."
A comprehensive list of third-cycle 2011 grants follows:
After School Arts Program- $2,500.00 grant to support an inter-district theatre project (from the Marion Wm. and Alice Edwards Fund)
Aton Forest, Inc.- $1,600 grant in support of a campaign to increase community awareness of the Sandy Brook Conservation Corridor and the need to protect the area's ecosystem (from the Keroden Endowed Fund)
Civic Life Project- $5,000 grant to support the 2012 project, which provides an innovative and effective means of engaging young people in our democracy (from the Edwards Fund)
Cornwall Housing Corp.- $1,000 grant for a comprehensive structural study of Kugeman Village, the Corporation's affordable housing complex in Cornwall Bridge (from the Edwards Fund)
Explorations Charter School- $2,750 grant to increase the availability of up-to-date technology used in the classroom (from the Edwards Fund)
Geer Adult Day Center- $2,500 grant to support the agency's Dial-A-Ride service (from the Edwards Fund)
Girl Scouts of CT- $2,200 grant to present anti-bullying programs in five Torrington grammar schools (from the Carlton D. and Jenny R. Fyler Fund)
Joyful Noise- $500 grant to support the Christmas Angelicus concert series in Lakeville, Torrington and Litchfield (from the Marion Coe Fund)
Literacy Volunteers on the Green- $4,475 grant to purchase English language textbooks and instructional materials for local non-native speakers (from the Edwards Fund)
Little Britches Therapeutic Riding, Inc.- $3,500 grant to enable developmentally challenged or at-risk riders to participate in a weekly program (from the Edwards Fund)
Music in Common- $3,000 grant to support an educational music program for high school students in Torrington, which focuses on the community-building power of music (from the Fyler Fund)
Nutmeg Symphony Orchestra- $2,500 matching grant to support educational concerts for area children (from the Edwards Fund and the Lucia Tuttle Fritz Fund)
Police Athletic League (PAL) of Torrington- $6,800 grant to support a girls' basketball program serving children from low-income families, and to provide educational and recreational opportunities for students participating in the Youth Opportunities program (from the Edwards Fund)
Rebuilding Together of Litchfield County- $1,000 grant to support repairs and accessibility upgrades to homes of low-income, elderly and disabled residents of northwest Connecticut (from the Miriam Mason Cable Trust Fund)
Torrington Early Childhood Collaborative- $1,250 matching grant to create a user-friendly, interactive online community resource guide to help connect Torrington families to the resources they need (from the Borghesi Family Fund)
Youth Opportunities- $6,300 matching grant to support an enrichment program intended primarily to further the educational and vocational goals of area Latino youth (from the Fyler Fund)
The Foundation, established in 1969, serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 250 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to nearly $20 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.1 million. www.cfnwct.org
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Holiday Grants Help Area Charities Do More
Faced with waning government funding, charitable organizations serving some of the area's most economically distressed residents are struggling to fulfill their missions. This year, much of the $21,150 in holiday grants from The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut will be used by local nonprofits to provide the most basic of necessities-food, warm clothing and shelter.
With its holiday grant, the Litchfield Hills Elderly Nutrition program run by the Edward E. Sullivan Senior Center will continue to provide nutritious meals to homebound seniors in northwest Connecticut.
"Nationwide, and right here in Litchfield County, seniors are struggling to obtain the basic necessities of life, including nutritious food and basic health care," program supervisor Joel Sekorski said. "Our assistance helps many remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible."
Likewise, the Torrington Chapter of FISH will use its holiday grant to assist some of the area's most disadvantaged families. "Federal and state funding is being reduced, and donations are down from previous years," Executive Director Kevin Purcell said. "We currently have 13 children living in our shelter-the youngest being 13 days old-which clearly demonstrates the dire need in our community."
Likely a result of the economy, holiday grant applications continued to trend upward in 2011. "These grants are intended to help our area nonprofits continue to provide essential services at a time of year when the need is greatest-and budgets are tight," Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said.
Nobody knows more about need than Susan Leigh, who coordinates the services provided by Goshen Community Care & Hospice to town residents, many of whom are elderly. "It would be nice to surprise some of our homebound seniors with a gift of a new sweater or warm blanket," Ms. Leigh said. "This grant will help in so many ways, from simple home repairs to a holiday meal … it allows us to go a step beyond and make more of a difference."
Forty-two area charities received holiday grants this year, as follows:
Bethlehem Food Bank
Bronc Callahan Community Fund
Catholic Charities
Colebrook Senior & Community Center
Community Food Bank
Community Kitchen of Torrington
Connecticut Junior Republic
Cornwall Food & Fuel Fund
Falls Village Emergency Relief/Fuel Fund
Falls Village Senior Center
Family Resource Center at Vogel-Wetmore School
FISH of Torrington
Fishes & Loaves Food Pantry
Friendly Hands Food Bank
Geer Adult Day Center
Goshen Community Care & Hospice
Goshen Good Neighbor Fund
Hartland Community Assistance
Housatonic Youth Service Bureau
Kent Community Fund
LARC (Transitions School-to-Community program)
Litchfield Hills Elderly Nutrition Program/Sullivan Senior Center
Litchfield Social Services
Maria Seymour Brooker Memorial
McCall Foundation
Mental Health Association of CT
Norfolk Church of Christ Food Pantry
North Canaan Community Network Fund
Northwest Corner Fuel Bank
OWL's Kitchen of Lakeville
Salvation Army, Torrington Corps
Salvation Army, Winsted Service Center
Sharon Food Closet
Susan B. Anthony Project
Torrington Area Council of Churches Emergency Fund
Torrington Area Youth Service Bureau
VNA Northwest
Visiting Nurse Services of CT
Warren Good Neighbor Fund
Washington Community Fund
Winchester Youth Service Bureau
Women's Support Services
The Foundation, established in 1969, serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of over 250 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to nearly $20 million.
In addition to annual holiday awards, the Foundation makes grants to local nonprofit organizations three times a year, in early spring, late June and late fall. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.1 million.
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Community Foundation Holiday Grant Applications Sought
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut will award small grants this holiday season to area nonprofit organizations that serve families in economic distress. Applications are now available online at www.cfnwct.org.
Eligible nonprofit organizations serving the Foundation's 20-town service area may apply. "Although we strive to assist at least one organization from each community in our service area, the application process is competitive," Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said. Further information on eligibility is available online at www.cfnwct.org.
Applications are due November 10, 2011. Questions should be directed to the Foundation at 860.626.1245 or info@cfnwct.org.
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut serves Litchfield County with a collection of more than 250 funds from local donors. These funds support nonprofit organizations and provide scholarships to area students in 20 towns covering all of the Northwest Corner. The towns are: Barkhamsted, Bethlehem, Colebrook, Cornwall, Canaan (Falls Village), Goshen, Hartland, Harwinton, Kent, Litchfield, New Hartford, Morris, Norfolk, North Canaan, Salisbury, Sharon, Torrington, Warren, Washington and Winsted.
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Grant Applications Sought for Local History and Literature Projects
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut
continues its support of Heritage Programs
Grant funding is available to eligible nonprofit organizations for projects that explore and illuminate the cultural heritage of Connecticut's Northwest Corner.
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut, in collaboration with the Connecticut Humanities Council, will award approximately $10,000 in small grants for projects promoting the history, heritage and literature of the region. The deadline for applications is February 24, 2012. Application materials and guidelines are available online at www.cfnwct.org.
Proposals eligible for consideration can encompass a wide range of initiatives that promote the rich cultural heritage of northwestern Connecticut. Past grants have supported projects such as lectures, exhibitions, walking tours, heritage festivals, scholar-led book discussions, author talks and conferences, to name a few. Grants must be used for program and project-related expenses; non-programmatic expenses such as equipment purchases and renovations are ineligible for this funding.
In the spring of 2011, the Community Foundation awarded 10 grants for regional heritage and history projects, including a program exploring the contributions of women throughout history, a book discussion series, a community curator program, an enrichment program for middle school students and a children's program focusing on the impact of Native Americans in New England. The average grant approximated $2,500.
This is the seventh year of the Community Foundation's collaboration with the Connecticut Humanities Council (CHC), a Middletown-based grant-making organization that supports literary and historical programs throughout the state. More information about the CHC is available online at www.ctculture.org.
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Rovezzi Named to CT Philanthropy Council Board
Guy Rovezzi has been named to the board of directors of the Connecticut Council for Philanthropy. The Council welcomed Mr. Rovezzi along with two other new directors at its annual meeting in March of this year.
A graduate of Georgetown University, Mr. Rovezzi has served as president of The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut since 2003. Under his leadership, the Foundation has nearly tripled its assets, from about $7 million to nearly $18 million. Likewise, it has broadened its reach to include all twenty towns in Connecticut's Northwest Corner and increased its annual grant-making to over $1.1 million.
"Guy's election to the Council's board is a testament to his stature in the realm of philanthropy," Foundation Board Chairman William G. Harding said. "He is sure to become as admired for his passion, dedication and expertise on the state level as he is throughout northwest Connecticut."
The Connecticut Council for Philanthropy is a statewide association of grant-makers whose members represent a diverse range of philanthropic individuals and institutions. The Council's work benefits its members, the larger grant-making community and charitable organizations throughout the state, and it promotes and contributes to effective philanthropy for the public good in Connecticut.
Mr. Rovezzi is a Torrington native who currently resides in Falls Village. He and his wife, Patty, have a daughter, Rebecca.
The Foundation, established in 1969, serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 250 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to nearly $18 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.1 million. www.cfnwct.org
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Fund Assists Families with Children's Eye Care
Thanks to a local philanthropist, financial assistance is available to area families whose children need eyeglasses, but who may not otherwise be able to afford them.
The Louis O. Thibeault Eyeglasses for Children Fund, established at The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut in 2009, assists families of limited means with expenses related to their children's eye care.
"Lou is a very generous and compassionate person who believes that every child deserves a chance to succeed in life … and the price of eye care shouldn't be an obstacle," Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said.
Born and raised in Torrington, Mr. Thibeault intended his field-of-interest fund to aid qualified children up to 13 years of age who reside in Torrington, Winsted, Litchfield, Harwinton, Goshen, Falls Village (Canaan) or Cornwall.
A limited number of small grants will be available in 2011 to families that meet the eligibility requirements. For more information or to apply for a grant, parents are urged to contact their school district or child care center, or call the Foundation at 860.626.1245.
Established in 1969, The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. The Foundation's total endowment, comprised of over 250 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to nearly $18 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.1 million.
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Community Foundation Announces Second-Cycle Grants
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut has made awards to 14 area nonprofit organizations during its second grant cycle of 2011. The Foundation makes grants to local charities three times a year, in early spring, late June and late fall.
Noteworthy among the recent awards are:
(i) A $2,500.00 grant to Connecticut Community Care, Inc. to support the agency's charitable Independent Living Funds, which enable elderly and disabled residents of northwest Connecticut to live safely and independently in their own homes. "Our Independent Living Funds assist clients with uncovered expensed for medical or assistive equipment, home modifications or personal needs," CCCI President Molly Rees Gavin said. "Without this fund and support from the Foundation … many of our clients would face premature placement in a nursing home at great public expense."
(ii) A $4,500.00 grant to Torrington Development Corp. for a study that examines best practices and success factors for cities that have developed and sustained arts-focused revitalization efforts. "This initiative is a joint effort of the City of Torrington, Torrington Development Corp. and the University of Connecticut," TDC Executive Director Bill Baxter said. "The outcome is anticipated to provide useful data about the city's current needs as well as opportunities for revitalizing Torrington's downtown."
(iii) A $10,000 grant to Torrington Public Schools to create a Family Literacy Center at Forbes School, which will serve pre-K teachers as well as families and children from birth through 10 years of age. According to Paula Gajewski, who serves as Forbes School's family literacy teacher, the goal is to provide a means for families to learn and grow together. "Although they are vitally important in their children's intellectual growth, parents and caregivers have historically received little or no support in the area of literacy development," Ms. Gajewski explained. "This facility will help to bridge the gap between schools and families by providing a wide array of materials for use at home and in the classroom. And our collaboration with the Torrington Public Library will make it possible for children from all walks of life to have access to books and technology."
(iv) A $2,500.00 grant, recommended by Youth in Philanthropy council members, to New Opportunities in support of an educational program for Litchfield students about the adverse effects of bullying and substance abuse. "Our Youth in Philanthropy program encourages young people to bring their own views, interests and goals to philanthropy," Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said. According to Mr. Rovezzi, council members annually screen applications from local nonprofits and make grant recommendations to the Foundation. "This process requires them to examine community issues and research grant opportunities that address these issues," he added. "Moreover, it gives students a platform for expression and innovation that can bring about new and sustainable solutions to community issues."
A comprehensive list of second-cycle 2011 grants follows:
Artwell, Inc.- $1,000.00 grant to support the summer arts education program (from the Ruth and Robert Cron Endowment Fund)
Battell Arts Foundation, Inc.- $2,000.00 grant to support the artist-in-residence summer drama program (from the Carlton D. and Jenny R. Fyler Fund)
Connecticut Community Care, Inc.- $2,500.00 grant to support the agency's Independent Living Funds, which provide financial assistance for elders and individuals with disabilities who require medical or assistive equipment, home modifications or personal needs to ensure their continued safety and independent living (from the Miriam Mason Cable Trust Fund)
Covenant to Care for Children- $3,000.00 grant to provide much-needed goods and services for abused and/or neglected children in northwest Connecticut (from the Keroden Endowed Fund)
Litchfield Community Center- $10,000.00 grant to support a capital campaign for a structural addition to the center (from the Edwin M. and Edith H. Stone Fund)
Litchfield Performing Arts- $2,200.00 grant to support Litchfield High School's participation in Project Poetry Live! (from the Fyler Fund)
New Opportunities- $2,500 grant to support an educational program for Litchfield students about the adverse effects of bullying and substance abuse (from the Youth Fund)
Railroad Museum of New England- $1,500.00 grant for interpretative signage and for movable stairways to enhance access to displays (from the Marion Wm. and Alice Edwards Fund)
Torrington Development Corp.- $4,500.00 grant for a study designed to identify best practices among cities that have developed and sustained arts-focused revitalization efforts (from the Stone Fund)
Torrington Historical Society- $1,560.00 grant to develop plans and specifications for the installation of a new roof on the Hotchkiss-Fyler Museum (from the Fyler Fund and the Pierpont Chapter #49 Order of the Eastern Star Fund)
Torrington Public Schools- $10,000.00 grant to support the creation of a Family Literacy Center at Forbes Elementary School, complete with literacy tools and educational materials, for children from birth through 10 years of age (from the Fyler Fund, the Feliciano and Lydia Turri Zaccheo Fund and the Roberta Lee August Fund)
Trinity Episcopal Church- $5,000.00 grant to support repair and restoration of the church's historic clock tower (from the Edwards Fund)
Warner Theatre- $3,500.00 grant to develop a regional integrated ticketing outlet administered through the theatre's box office (from the Fyler Fund)
Wisdom House Retreat & Conference Center- $2,500.00 grant for improvements to the well which is located on the premises (from the Edwards Fund)
The Foundation, established in 1969, serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 240 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to over $17 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.1 million.
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Local Charities Receive Grants for History and Literature Projects
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut
Continues Its Support of Heritage Programs
Nine charitable organizations in northwest Connecticut have received grants for projects that promote the Northwest Corner's rich cultural heritage. These awards were made possible by a collaboration between The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut and the Connecticut Humanities Council.
The following organizations received awards totaling more than $14,000 for projects promoting the history, heritage and literature of the region:
Gunn Memorial Library & Museum (Washington, CT)- $2,000 grant
for an exhibition commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, featuring letters written by soldiers from Washington, CT.
Harwinton Historical Society (Harwinton, CT)- $1,000 grant
for a program on the life and culture of the community surrounding the Harwinton House.
Hotchkiss Library of Sharon (Sharon, CT)- $300 grant
to support the library's popular scholar-led book discussion series.
Institute for American Indian Studies (Washington, CT)- $3,000 grant
to enhance the Institute's Web site and to provide teaching aids and classroom materials for area teachers.
Norfolk Historical Society (Norfolk, CT)- $2,950 grant
to support an exhibition focusing on the Norfolk Church of Christ.
Oliver Wolcott Library (Litchfield, CT)- $575 grant
for a program exploring the history of railroads in northwest Connecticut.
Sharon Historical Society (Sharon, CT)- $1,000 grant
to increase public accessibility to historical data associated with the oldest cemetery in Sharon.
Torrington Historical Society (Torrington, CT)- $2,500 grant
for an exhibition of historical photos of downtown Torrington.
Torrington Library (Torrington, CT)- $950 grant
for a program exploring the contributions of women throughout history.
"We are extremely grateful for the Connecticut Humanities Council's ongoing support," Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said. "Without this funding, area residents may have been deprived of many entertaining, educational and enriching programs."
This is the sixth year of the Community Foundation's collaboration with the Connecticut Humanities Council, a Middletown-based grant-making organization that supports literary and historical programs throughout the state. Each year, the Foundation applies for funding from the Council that is then re-granted to area libraries, historical societies and other cultural organizations.
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Community Foundation Announces First-Cycle Grants
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut has made awards to nine area nonprofit organizations during its first grant cycle of 2011. The Foundation makes grants to local charities three times a year, in early spring, late June and late fall.
Noteworthy among the recent awards are:
(i) A $3,000.00 grant to the Winchester Elementary Schools P.T.O. to enroll economically disadvantaged children in the Laurel City Learning Center, an after-school academic enrichment site for students in grades K through 4 that offers programs in literacy, math, science and technology, physical fitness and the arts. "Community support like this grant from the Foundation will ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate in these vital enrichment programs," Program Coordinator Julie Rego explained.
(ii) A $2,000.00 grant to Survive the Drive, Inc., to provide driver-safety presentations and community outreach throughout northwest Connecticut. "We focus on teens-our most vulnerable drivers-in this safety awareness program," Survive the Drive Executive Director/Board Chair Robert Green said. "By exploring the most common mistakes novice drivers make, and their often tragic consequences, this program helps to develop lasting, conscious and conscientious decision-making."
(iii) A $1,060.00 grant to the North Canaan School Readiness Council, in collaboration with the Canaan Child Care Center, for a needs assessment focusing on pre-K children. "This grant from the Foundation will help us determine the educational and child-care needs of North Canaan's youngest residents," NCSRC Co-Chair Carole McGuire explained. "Our goal is to see that these youngsters get the early care and education they need to ensure their future success in school."
(iv) A $4,500.00 grant to The Charlotte Hungerford Hospital to support an educational program for diabetics that will provide them with the knowledge, skills and techniques they need to manage this chronic disease. "The Hungerford Diabetes Center offers a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to diabetes treatment and disease management designed to help people avoid complications and maintain better health throughout their lifetime," CHH President/Executive Director Daniel McIntyre said. "Recent studies have shown that with proper diet and exercise type 2 diabetes can be delayed, controlled or even prevented."
A comprehensive list of first-cycle 2011 grants follows:
The Charlotte Hungerford Hospital- $4,500.00 grant to support the Dining with Diabetes educational program, which provides tools for self-management of this chronic disease (from the Margaret C. Tupper Fund and the Torrington Club Fund)
Housatonic Valley Association- $2,450.00 matching grant to support a program, known as Streamwalk, that engages local citizens in the protection of their water resources and educates the public about stream ecology (from the Marion Wm. and Alice Edwards Fund)
LARC, Inc.- $10,000.00 grant to support Camp MOE, a new summer day camp for area children with and without special needs (from the Eva M. Coty Fund and the Carlton D. and Jenny R. Fyler Fund)
North Canaan School Readiness Council / Canaan Child Care Center- $1,060.00 grant to support a collaborative needs assessment for pre-K children (from the Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut General Fund)
Northwest CT Regional Planning Collaborative- $2,450.00 grant to support a signage and wayfinding project as part of the group's Village Center Vitality initiative, whose overall purpose is to stimulate regional economic sustainability (from the Keroden Endowed Fund)
Special Olympics CT Northwest Region- $2,000.00 grant to support the regional games (from the Fyler Fund)
Survive the Drive, Inc.- $2,000.00 grant to support educational and motivational driver-safety presentations for area high school students (from the Fyler Fund)
Winchester Elementary Schools P.T.O.- $3,000.00 grant to enable economically disadvantaged students to attend the Laurel City Learning Center, which offers enrichment programs in literacy, math, science and technology, physical fitness and the arts for students in grades K through 4 (from the Fyler Fund)
Winchester Land Trust- $1,337.00 grant to support administrative start-up costs (from the Edwin M. and Edith H. Stone Fund)
The Foundation, established in 1969, serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 240 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to over $17 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $1.1 million.
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Community Foundation of NW CT Announces Third-Cycle Grants
The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut has made awards to nine area nonprofit organizations during its third grant cycle of 2010. The Foundation makes grants to local charities three times a year, in early spring, late June and late fall.
Noteworthy among the recent awards are:
(i) A $2,500.00 grant to the After School Arts Program, to support the Community Mural Project of Torrington, a collaborative inter-district visual arts program whereby a diverse group of students in grades 6 through 12 will work with artists and several community-minded organizations to create lasting, representational public art. "Throughout the process of brainstorming, designing, creating and, finally, constructing a large mural for their community, students will gain multicultural teamwork skills … skills that will influence their perspective of one another," ASAP Executive Director JoAnne Torti explained.
(ii) A $3,000.00 matching grant to Litchfield Hills Food Systems, Inc., to expand the agency's health and wellness educational services by creating a dynamic, interactive Web site that will attract visitors, potential program participants and financial support. "We must create online communities where like-minded people can connect with each other," LHFS President/Executive Director W. A. Burgess said.
(iii) A $5,000.00 grant to Geer Adult Day Center to support its award-winning Dial-A-Ride service, which provides transportation for elderly and disabled residents of northwest Connecticut. According to Director Lori Neil, the program, which received the American Health Care Association's Nonprofit Community Benefit Award, enables community members to maintain their independence. "Some people cannot afford their own transportation or are unable to drive any longer, so their access to health care is compromised," Ms. Neil said. "This program resolves that problem for residents of five area towns."
A comprehensive list of third-cycle 2010 grants follows:
After School Arts Program- $2,500.00, to support the Community Mural Project of Torrington (from the Borghesi Family Fund)
Crescendo, Inc.- $1,000.00, to support a U.S. premiere in April 2011 of "Mille Regretz: Unknown Masterpieces of Spanish and Latin American Polyphony" (from the Marion Wm. and Alice Edwards Fund)
Explorations Charter School- $3,900.00, to purchase laptop computers for classroom use (from the Miriam Mason Cable Trust Fund)
Geer Adult Day Center- $5,000.00, to support the Dial-A-Ride program (from the Edwin M. and Edith H. Stone Fund)
Global Village Media- $4,000.00, to support a civic life project at Housatonic Valley Regional High School whereby students create documentary films on various contemporary topics (Edwards Fund)
Housatonic Youth Service Bureau- $2,500.00, to support an arts enrichment program focusing on historical arts and crafts, along with nature-related and cultural activities (from the Eva M. Coty Fund and the Stone Fund)
Litchfield Hills Food Systems, Inc.- $3,000.00 matching grant, to develop an interactive Web site that will enhance educational outreach and sustainability (from the Keroden Endowed Fund)
Rebuilding Together of Litchfield County- $1,000.00, for renovations and modifications to homes occupied by elderly and disabled Litchfield County residents (from the Margaret C. Tupper Fund)
Youth Opportunities- $15,000.00, to support a tutoring and mentoring program for at-risk youth (from the Carlton D. and Jenny R. Fyler Fund and the Borghesi Family Fund)
The following grants are from donor-advised or designated funds, meaning that the donors or donor organizations have ongoing involvement in recommending grants:
American Cancer Society- $1,000.00, to support Camp Rising Star (from the Jeffrey and Susan Lalonde Community Betterment Fund)
The Charlotte Hungerford Hospital- $1,100.00, to support clinical staff training in behavioral health and cardiology (from the Dr. John S. Glenn Fund for Nurses)
The Charlotte Hungerford Hospital- $6,750.00, to support clinical staff training in behavioral health and cardiology (from the Keroden Designated Fund)
The Cornwall Foundation, Inc.- $912.00, for a grant to support the Little Guild of St. Francis (from The Cornwall Foundation General Fund)
The Cornwall Foundation, Inc.- $2,500.00, for a grant to support the Housatonic Youth Service Bureau (from The Cornwall Foundation General Fund)
The Cornwall Foundation, Inc.- $1,000.00, for a grant to support the Cornwall Consolidated School (from The Cornwall Foundation General Fund)
The Cornwall Foundation, Inc.- $679.00, for a grant to support the Cornwall Free Library (from The Cornwall Foundation General Fund)
LARC, Inc.- $250.00, to support Camp LARC, in memory of Moe Renzullo (from the Weigold Family Fund)
Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation- $50,000.00, for operational support (from the Echo Valley Foundation Fund)
Prime Time House- $3,000.00, to support the W.I.S.H. (Women Initiating Success and Hope) project (from the Women's & Girls' Fund)
Railroad Museum of New England- $7,500.00, to support the museum's special event in December (from the Railroad Museum of New England - Hazel Koch Fund)
Whitewater Slalom Foundation- $10,000.00, for operational support (from the Echo Valley Foundation Fund)
The following grants were made possible by the Local Area Fund, a donor-advised fund which was established anonymously at the Foundation in 2002:
Battell Arts Foundation- $1,000.00, to support 2010 programming
Connecticut Forest and Park Association- $1,000.00, for operational support
Foothills Visiting Nurse and Home Care- $3,000.00, for operational support
Great Mountain Forest Corp.- $1,000.00, for operational support
Housatonic Valley Association- $1,000.00, for operational support
Jane Coffin Childs Memorial Fund for Medical Research- $50,000.00, for addition to the Keroden Endowed Fund
The Norfolk Land Trust- $5,000.00, for addition to the trust's endowment
The Norfolk Library- $7,500.00, for addition to the library's endowment
Norfolk Lions Club Ambulance- $7,500.00, in support of the volunteer ambulance service
Norfolk Senior Housing Corp.- $1,000.00, for operational support
Northwest Conservation District- $1,000.00, for operational support
Winsted Health Center Foundation- $1,000.00, for operational support
The Foundation, established in 1969, serves 20 towns in northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of over 225 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to $16 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled more than $750,000.www.cfnwct.org
