From Summer Success to a Bright New School Year: Carver Kids Are Ready for 2025–26!

Carver’s Summer 2025 programs wrapped up with incredible energy, growth, and unforgettable experiences for our students—and we can’t wait to build on that momentum when the 2025–26 school year begins on Monday, August 25!

This summer, Carver programs reached more than 1,400 young people across Bridgeport and Norwalk, each opportunity designed to inspire curiosity, build skills, and foster connections:

• Kick-Off to Kindergarten (Bridgeport): 90 children across six sites gained confidence and readiness for their first big school year.

• Summer Transition (Norwalk): 460 rising 6th and 9th graders at five school sites prepared for new academic and social environments.

• Full-Day Enrichment Camps: 500+ youth thrived at Carver Center, SoNo, and Jefferson with hands-on STEAM, arts, and wellness programs.

• After the Summer Bell (Kendall School): 150 students enjoyed full-day care blending academics and enrichment.

• Summer Run & LOVE Unit: 120 students developed basketball skills, leadership, and mentorship connections.

• Ecology School in Maine: 83 students explored tidepools, canoed, and hiked, discovering the wonder of the natural world.

These experiences built skills, friendships, and confidence that will carry into the school year ahead.

As we look toward August 25, we are ready to welcome Carver students back for another year of academic support, enrichment, and opportunity. Here’s to an exciting 2025–26 school year, filled with learning, growth, and new adventures!

Berries, Barnyards, and Big Smiles: Carver Campers Explore Silverman’s Farm

Plucking sweet blueberries at Silverman’s Farm yields a joyful day of exploration, learning, and connection for Carver’s youngest summer campers.

This week, our 5- and 6-year-old campers ventured to Easton, CT, to experience the magic of Silverman’s Farm, a local treasure celebrating its 102nd year. Founded in 1923 by Ben Silverman—who, like Carver’s own namesake, George Washington Carver, had a deep love of plants and gardening—this farm has been a place of hard work, community, and growth for generations.

Ben Silverman was born in New York City in 1898 and moved to Connecticut as a young man, working on cow farms for just a dollar a day. After saving enough money while working at a munitions factory during WWI, he purchased land in Easton and began building the farm that still thrives today on Sport Hill Road.

In the 1970s and ’80s, Silverman’s transformed into the pick-your-own fruit farm beloved by families across the region. Today, it features not only a wide-spread orchard and scenic tractor rides, but also a lively petting zoo filled with friendly barnyard animals and fowl—making it an ideal summer outing for curious young minds.

For Carver campers, the visit was full of wonder. From picking their own blueberries to meeting goats and peacocks, the children had a blast engaging all their senses. Beyond the excitement, the experience encouraged discovery, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for nature and local history.

We are grateful to Silverman’s Farm for welcoming our Carver campers into this special tradition and helping create summertime memories that will last a lifetime.

Altar’d State Renews Support for Carver Youth Through Mission Mondays at SoNo Collection

Carver is proud to be selected once again as the Mission Monday partner of Altar’d State, the boutique women’s and teen clothing store located at the SoNo Collection Mall in Norwalk. For three months—from Monday, August 4 through Monday, October 27—Altar’d State will donate 10% of all Monday sales to support Carver’s life-changing programs for Norwalk youth.

What makes this partnership especially meaningful is the leadership of Samantha Tiano, store manager and proud Norwalk Public Schools graduate. Samantha visited Carver this week and expressed deep enthusiasm for our mission. Her commitment to giving back to the community she came from brings this collaboration full circle.

As part of the national retailer’s philanthropic platform, Stand Out for Good, Inc., Mission Mondays are designed to uplift local nonprofits that align with Altar’d State’s values. Carver’s work supporting K-12 students with academic enrichment, wellness, and college and career readiness is a natural fit.

“We are honored to support the incredible work your organization does to make a meaningful difference in our community,” the company shared. “Your mission and impact align beautifully with our values, and we are excited to help bring further awareness and support to your cause. We believe that together, we can inspire even greater change.”

We’re deeply grateful for this continued partnership with Altar’d State and for Samantha’s heartfelt advocacy. Every Monday purchase at their SoNo store helps advance educational opportunity, equity, and success for the nearly 3,000 students Carver serves annually.

Thank you, Altar’d State, for standing out for good—and for standing with Carver.

Carver’s Revitalized Outdoor Basketball Court is Now Open!

Carver is thrilled to announce the completion of our Outdoor Basketball Court Project — one more milestone in the complete renovation of the Carver Community Center!

Our outdoor court has long been a vibrant and vital space for young people to gather, play, and connect. This newly completed upgrade reflects both our commitment to youth development and our broader investment in making the Carver Community Center a place where opportunity thrives—inside and out.

Here’s what’s new on the court:

• A secure perimeter fence with a sturdy bottom railing now surrounds the court, ensuring enhanced safety and peace of mind for players and families alike.

• Fresh resurfacing and a bold new color scheme make the court not just more durable, but more fun to play on:

  • The three-point line is now painted bright yellow

  • The painted key area is blue

  • Tennis lines remain crisp white

  • And the entire playing surface is now a rich green

• A brand-new basketball hoop has been installed

• And finally, a 4-foot outer fence along the sidewalk completes the project with added visibility and security

This newly completed outdoor court stands beside the Carver Center’s ongoing transformation, which includes a state-of-the-art two-story Teen Center, a refurbished kitchen, and much more to come.

To every donor, partner, and neighbor who believes in our mission, thank you. Your support is building more than just buildings. You're helping us create safe, welcoming spaces for youth to thrive, play, and dream big.

Come by and see it for yourself. The game is on! 🏀💚

“Sankofa Now”: Carver Honors Black Philanthropy Month with Faith in Its Roots and Vision for the Future

Since its founding in 1938, Carver has held fast to its namesake’s legacy—George Washington Carver—and the values of service, education, and racial equity that inspired our name. For 86 years, Carver has been proudly led by Black CEOs and Black Board Presidents. While our student population has grown more diverse over time, our roots remain deeply grounded in Black history and the power of Black-led philanthropy.

This August, we join the global celebration of Black Philanthropy Month (BPM), which calls on us to “Remember. Reclaim. Rise.” This year’s theme, Sankofa Now, reminds us that to move forward with strength, we must also look back with purpose.

Carver will participate in a special statewide virtual event on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, celebrating Black philanthropy in Connecticut. This impactful gathering will feature spoken word performances and a panel discussion that highlights the culture, impact, and legacy of giving within Black communities.

Representing Fairfield County on the panel is Julienne Foy, Executive Director of The Odyssey Family Executive Center and a tireless advocate for youth and education. She also serves on the board of the Stamford Public Education Foundation. She is Co-Chair of The SOUL Fund at the Fairfield County’s Community Foundation—a giving circle advancing support for Black-led and Black-serving nonprofits in our region.

A second George Washington Carver stamp was issued February 3, 1998.

From the mutual aid societies of the 1800s to the giving circles and grassroots movements of today, Black philanthropy is a vibrant and enduring force in American civic life. Black communities give at higher rates relative to their wealth than any other racial or ethnic group in the U.S. Yet, traditional fundraising efforts often overlook these donors and their deep-rooted commitment to community wellbeing.

Carver’s mission is—and always has been—an expression of this tradition: mobilizing community, uplifting youth, and honoring the strength and generosity that defines Black leadership and vision.

This month, and every month, we recommit to that legacy. We invite you to learn more, get involved, and celebrate the beauty and power of Black giving.

👉 Register here for the August 19th virtual event presented in partnership by The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, Connecticut Community Foundation, Fairfield County's Community Foundation, Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, and The Prosperity Foundation.

Beyond the Classroom: Why Carver’s Summer and After-School Programs Are Essential for Student Success

As Carver summer programs are in full swing and registration opens for our 2025–2026 before and after-school programs, we’re reminded that the most important learning often happens beyond the traditional classroom.

Carver students are making discoveries at The Ecology School in Maine this summer

In a world marked by rapid change—academic setbacks, teacher shortages, and the rise of AI—the question isn’t if education must evolve, but how. A recent report from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASM) makes one thing clear: out-of-school-time (OST) programs are not a luxury. They are a necessity.

Carver’s summer and school-year programs provide exactly what students need to thrive today—safe, supportive spaces that spark curiosity, nurture relationships, and inspire motivation. These environments boost school attendance, academic motivation, mental health, and long-term outcomes. But just as importantly, they help young people find their voice, connect with caring adults, and build skills that matter in life—like problem solving, collaboration, and resilience.

Education must reflect the full humanity of our students. It’s not just about mastering content, but also about feeling seen, supported, and inspired. That’s the power of Carver’s OST programs—where students not only learn, but want to learn.

As we look ahead, we must continue to invest in these transformational spaces. Carver is proud to stand at the forefront of this movement—meeting the moment and shaping the future of education, one joyful, engaging, after-school experience at a time.

Registration for Carver’s 2025–2026 Before and After School Programs Opens Monday, July 28!

Carver is excited to announce that registration for our 2025–2026 Before and After School Programs opens Monday, July 28, 2025!

Parents and caregivers can sign up online starting Monday using the link above.

Carver’s award-winning programs serve students in every K–12 Norwalk Public School and offer a safe, enriching, and supportive environment where students thrive academically and socially. Our before and after school offerings include:

• Homework help and tutoring

• STEAM and literacy enrichment

• Wellness and physical activities

• Arts, leadership development, and college/career readiness

• Free transportation

• Dedicated educators and mentors

Whether you’re a returning Carver family or joining us for the first time, we can’t wait to welcome your student for another exciting school year of growth, learning, and joy.

📅 Mark your calendar: Registration opens Monday, July 28, 2025
🔗 Register here!

For questions or support, please contact us directly. Spots fill quickly—don’t wait!

Nature, Nurture, and New Friends: Carver Summer Campers Connect with Animals at Ridgebury Farm

This July, Carver summer campers from both the Carver Community Center and the SoNo Neighborhood School experienced a day they’ll never forget—one filled with animals, nature, mindfulness, and friendship—at Ridgebury Farm & Stables in Ridgefield, Connecticut.

Thanks to the generous support of The Connor Sheehan Fund, campers aged 10 to 13 participated in this therapeutic farm experience, designed to nurture emotional well-being, curiosity, and connection. The SoNo camp visited on July 16, and the Carver Community Center campers followed on July 23, each group enjoying a full day of immersive activities from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

At Ridgebury Farm, campers explored the natural world and their inner landscapes through four guided, hands-on activities:

🌲 Nature Hike

Students were invited to slow down and practice mindfulness while walking through the woods. By listening to bird calls, feeling the earth beneath their feet, and tuning into the moment, they experienced how nature can offer calm and clarity in a busy world.

🐐 Barnyard Buddies

Campers met goats, sheep, and chickens—observing their behavior, gently interacting, and learning how animals communicate feelings without words. This activity built empathy, patience, and an appreciation for nonverbal communication.

🐇 Bunny Greetings

The bunnies stole hearts as campers explored how to enrich the lives of animals through thoughtful, playful interactions. Through this activity, campers practiced creativity, compassion, and the joy of caring for others.

🐴 Horse Connection & Grooming

Rather than riding, students learned to connect with the farm’s gentle horses through grooming and observation. Campers learned how horses respond to human energy and body language, gaining lessons in confidence, calmness, boundaries, and self-regulation.

Each activity was intentionally designed to build social-emotional skills, including:

• Emotional awareness and regulation

• Confidence and calm in new situations

• Empathy and compassion

• Mindful presence and observation

The day concluded with campers reflecting on their favorite animals and moments, sharing their emotions, and what they had learned. Surveys revealed the experience was a highlight of the summer, with students expressing joy, peace, and a new love for animals and nature.

Special Thanks

We extend our heartfelt thanks to The Connor Sheehan Fund for making this unforgettable experience possible. Established in loving memory of Connor Sheehan, the Fund helps young people access programs that promote mental health, connection, and resilience. Their support ensured that all Carver campers could enjoy this experience free of charge, growing emotionally as they explored the wonders of the natural world.

About Ridgebury Farm & Stables

Ridgebury Farm is a 56-acre nonprofit equestrian and therapy center offering equine-assisted therapy, therapeutic riding, and immersive animal care programs for youth of all abilities. Their skilled staff and peaceful environment provide an ideal setting for learning, healing, and growth.

This is what summer at Carver is all about—creating memories, building life skills, and connecting young hearts to the world around them.

Photos from both visits will be featured below, capturing joyful moments of learning, laughter, and animal friendship.

From Clay to Confidence: Brien McMahon's Summer Transition Program Empowers Rising Freshmen

As September approaches, rising 9th graders at Brien McMahon High School are getting a head start on high school success through Carver’s Summer Transition Program. Designed to ease the transition from middle to high school, the program combines academic orientation with creative, technical, and wellness experiences that foster confidence and connection.

Thanks to a dynamic collaboration with Lift-Up Lab Inc.—a nonprofit that equips youth with emotional intelligence, fitness habits, and entrepreneurial skills—students are learning how to navigate not only the hallways of McMahon, but also the real-world challenges they’ll face as teens and young adults.

At the heart of the program is Lift-Up Lab, a unique experience that meets several times each week under the leadership of McMahon School Counselor and Lift-Up Lab board member, Chad Southerland. Chad leads school tours to help students become familiar with their new learning environment and teaches them about presentation skills, positive social media use, and the importance of personal wellness. Photos captured by Emily showcase these rising freshmen exploring the gym, learning new exercises, and practicing how to present themselves and their ideas confidently.

Hands-on enrichment opportunities round out the experience. In the Pottery enrichment class, Mr. Gordon Jones is pictured helping a student shape clay. This artistic outlet also allows students to shape their sense of self-expression and creativity. In another classroom, Mr. Jake Zorabedian introduces students to the science and engineering behind drone flight, encouraging curiosity about emerging technologies.

The students’ creative talents are already on display. Incoming freshman Shaunessi Reeves’ artwork was proudly featured at the Norwalk Art Space, a testament to the young artists who are beginning to make their mark even before their first day of high school.

This Summer Transition Program is a preview of high school and a launchpad for developing academic readiness, self-awareness, and a sense of community belonging. We are grateful to educators like Mr. Jones, Mr. Zorabedian, and Mr. Southerland, and to all the many Carver and Lift-Up Lab partners who are helping McMahon’s future Senators take flight.

Photos in this post:

• Mr. Gordon Jones guiding a student in Pottery

• Mr. Jake Zorabedian introducing air drone operations

• Student artwork by Shaunessi Reeves at Norwalk Art Space

• Lift-Up Lab school tour with Chad Southerland

• Students learning presentation skills and fitness in the BMHS gym

Welcome, Class of 2029. You’re off to an inspiring start.

Make a Difference Today: Volunteer with Carver and Empower the Next Generation

Carver is a community built on compassion, opportunity, and shared purpose. Each year, we serve nearly 3,000 K-12 students across Norwalk, helping young people discover their strengths and reach their full potential. And at the heart of that mission are our volunteers.

Whether you're a retired teacher, a high school senior, a working professional, or a community member looking to give back, there’s a place for you at Carver. Volunteers bring kindness, encouragement, and a sense of community spirit to every classroom, activity, and event. No matter how much time you have to give—once a week or just occasionally—your presence can be genuinely transformative for a young person.

What Do Carver Volunteers Do?
You don’t need to be a teacher or an expert—just someone who cares. Volunteer opportunities include:

• Tutoring and homework help

• STEAM enrichments (from science experiments to creative arts)

• College and career preparation

• Mentorship and life skills support

• Health and wellness activities

• Event support, fundraising, and marketing

We also welcome corporate, school, and community groups who want to support Carver through one-day service projects, community events, or creative engagement opportunities.

Why Volunteer?
When you volunteer at Carver, you’re becoming part of a movement to create equity in education, inspire the next generation of leaders, and build a stronger, more connected community. Your time and talent can shape a life.

Join the Carver Community
Carver is an inclusive environment where people of all skill sets and backgrounds are welcome. After submitting a simple application, we’ll help match your interests and availability with meaningful opportunities and provide an orientation to get you started.

Ready to make an impact?
Click the “Apply to Be a Volunteer” button here, on our volunteer page, or email us at info@the-carver.org with any questions.

Because every hour you give is a step toward a brighter future for our students and our community.