Carver’s Summer of Learning, Leadership & Laughter Begins!

Summer 2025 is officially underway, and Carver is thrilled to welcome more than 1,400 students into enriching, joyful, and transformative experiences across Bridgeport and Norwalk. From rising kindergarteners to high school leaders-in-training, Carver’s full slate of summer programs reflects our deep commitment to academic growth, social-emotional wellness, and community connection.

🌟 Kick-Off to Kindergarten – Bridgeport

In partnership with Bridgeport Public Schools, 90 rising kindergarteners are launching their academic journeys through our Kick-Off to Kindergarten program. Held across six school sites—including Tisdale, Barnum, Cesar Batalla, Discovery Magnet, and Geraldine Clayton Magnet—this half-day program emphasizes early literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development to ensure each child is ready for the classroom come fall.

🎓 Summer Transition Programs – Norwalk

Carver’s five-week transition programs in Norwalk are supporting 460 students as they make the leap to middle and high school. Rising 6th graders at West Rocks, Nathan Hale, Ponus, and Roton Middle Schools, and rising 9th graders at Brien McMahon High School are engaging in project-based learning led by certified teachers, with transportation, wellness, and STEM enrichment built into the experience. These programs offer a crucial head start in navigating new schools, meeting new teachers, and building confidence.

☀️ Summer Enrichment Camps

Our three full-day enrichment camps—at the Carver Community Center, SoNo, and Jefferson Elementary—are in full swing, serving over 500 campers ages 5 to 13. In addition to academic instruction in literacy and math through Lexia, MyOn, and IXL, campers explore the arts, enjoy recreational sports, and venture out on field trips to exciting destinations, including the Maritime Aquarium, Lake Compounce, Rye Playland, and Earthplace.

🎒 After the Summer Bell

For 150 students enrolled in required summer school, Carver provides joyful after-school day camp programming at Kendall Elementary, where students unwind through crafts, wellness activities, and team sports.

🏀 Summer Run & L.O.V.E. Unit Basketball

Carver’s commitment to leadership and community continues in our evening basketball programs.

• Summer Run brings 85 students together at the Carver Center three nights a week for skills training, mentorship, and a high-energy Friday night experience with a DJ.

• The L.O.V.E. Unit partners with the Norwalk Housing Authority to deliver basketball-based engagement, character-building, and recreation to 35 students at Rodner Court and King Kennedy on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

🌲 Ecology School Sleepaway Camp

Now in its fourth year, this beloved tradition brought 83 students from grades 6–9 to the coast of Maine for a week of nature immersion. Activities like canoeing, tidepooling, and hiking built resilience and wonder in equal measure. For many, it was a first-time adventure away from home—and one they’ll never forget.

🌾 New Partnership on the Horizon

We’re excited to announce a new partnership with Ridgebury Farm, offering campers aged 10–13 a hands-on farm experience that focuses on social-emotional learning, emotional expression, and empathy-building. Stay tuned for updates!

📅 Important Summer Dates

• Transition Programs end August 1

• Enrichment Camps end August 8

Carver’s 2025–26 after-school programs launch with the school year:

• CASPER & After the Bell: August 25

• Middle & High School Programs: September 8

As summer unfolds, Carver is proud to offer children and youth a safe, inspiring place to grow, explore, and dream. None of this is possible without our generous supporters, dedicated educators, and vibrant community partners.

Here’s to a summer of deep roots and strong futures. 💙

Carver Students Dive Into Nature at The Ecology School in Maine: A Beloved Summer Tradition Enters Its 4th Year

Earlier this week, we shared the excitement of Carver students assembling at our Community Center to embark on their journey to The Ecology School in Maine.

Today, we’re thrilled to report that 83 Carver students in grades 6 through 9 have officially arrived—and are already immersed in an unforgettable summer learning adventure.

Now in its fourth year, our partnership with The Ecology School remains one of Carver’s most treasured enrichment opportunities. Set against the stunning backdrop of Maine’s coastline and forests, students experience the wonders of the natural world firsthand through activities that include canoeing, tidepool exploration, beach visits, and nature hikes.

More than just an outdoor escape, this experience deepens students’ understanding of environmental science, fosters teamwork and independence, and opens their eyes to new ways of learning.

Whether paddling across calm waters or discovering marine life at low tide, Carver youth are making memories—and building confidence—that will stay with them long after they return home.

This unique opportunity reflects Carver’s commitment to hands-on, high-impact enrichment that sparks curiosity and empowers students to see themselves as explorers, learners, and stewards of the planet.

Stay tuned for more stories and photos as this incredible week unfolds!

Record-Breaking Support and Sunshine: Highlights from Carver’s 11th Annual Golf Classic

Bill Gallagher and Drew Seath, Co-Chairs

What a day! On Monday, June 23, on one of the sunniest days of the season, 108 golfers came out in full force for Carver’s 11th Annual Golf Classic—and made it our most successful yet, raising more than $140,000 in support of Carver’s youth programs!

The event, held at the beautiful Shorehaven Golf Club, was full of laughter, camaraderie, and competitive fun—from Beat the Pro and hole-in-one contests to a lively silent auction. And even those who couldn’t join us in person cheered us on from afar, reminding us once again that Carver’s strength lies in the heart of its community.

A special shout-out to our incredible event co-chairs, Drew Seath and Bill Gallagher, who led the day with warm hospitality and dedication. We're also deeply grateful to our stellar planning committee: Jon Whitcomb, Jay Hinton, Adam Sorensen, Brad Jordan, Griffin Thrush, Adam Hahn, Oscar Villalonga, Deirdre Cavanagh, and Jon Adelman.

Our heartfelt thanks go to Presenting Sponsor Paul Weiss and the many generous sponsors who helped make this day possible.

We are also grateful to Mike Laganza, Head Golf Pro at Shorehaven, and his team, Dalton Northcutt and the pro shop crew, for keeping things running smoothly. Hats off to Marco Rojas, General Manager, and Chef Sergio Reyes, who, with their outstanding dining team, delivered a flawless culinary experience throughout the day.

But more than the sunshine, great golf, or amazing food, it was the generosity that made this day unforgettable —a day that will support over 1,400 young people across Norwalk and Bridgeport who will participate in Carver’s summer enrichment programs. These vital programs build confidence, expand learning, and spark joy in students’ lives.

Thank you again to everyone who made the 11th Annual Carver Golf Classic an overwhelming success. We can’t wait to see you again soon!

A Fresh Start: Carver’s Outdoor Basketball Court Gets a Full Makeover Just in Time for Summer

The bounce of basketballs and the rhythm of teamwork are about to return to Carver’s newly resurfaced outdoor basketball court, now shining with fresh paint, crisp new lines, and vibrant color! Established in 2010 with the generous support of benefactors, the court has long served as a centerpiece of outdoor recreation for Carver youth and the broader Norwalk community. This summer, it gets a bold new look.

As promised in an earlier update, crews completed critical repairs to the asphalt surface. They added dynamic, professional-grade striping and coloring by June 27—just in time for Carver’s summer programs. The court is now safer, brighter, and more inviting than ever.

This renovation is part of a larger, strategic investment in the Carver Community Center as Norwalk’s hub for youth empowerment. It follows closely on the heels of Carver’s stunning new two-story Teen Center, now seamlessly connected to the gymnasium. Together, these upgrades create a powerful and welcoming space where young people can thrive academically, physically, and socially.

With the summer sun high and school out of session, the court is ready. Ready for pickup games and tournaments. Ready for laughter and learning. Ready for the energy and imagination of the next generation.

As always, Carver remains deeply grateful to the generous supporters and visionary leaders who make progress like this possible.

Check out more photos from the renovation below!

Carver Students Head Back to The Ecology School: A Summer Journey of Discovery, Growth, and Graduation

This week, 53 Carver Middle School students and 10 chaperones boarded a bus this morning bound for Saco, Maine, marking the start of the 2025 Summer Ecology Academy at The Ecology School. Nestled at River Bend Farm, this beloved summer tradition combines hands-on environmental science, outdoor adventure, and personal growth in an immersive, week-long experience unlike any other.

Now in its fourth year, The Ecology School program has become a cornerstone of Carver’s summer offerings. This summer is especially meaningful: our first full cohort of students is graduating from the program, having participated every summer since rising 6th grade. For others who joined later, as rising 7th graders, this trip marks their third year and their turn as well to graduate. These students will return to Norwalk with a deeper understanding of ecology, strengthened leadership skills, and memories that will last a lifetime.

On Sunday, the next generation of environmental explorers—our newest cohort of rising 6th graders—will head to Maine alongside four chaperones, marking the beginning of their own four-year journey. As is tradition, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin will join all our students in Maine on Monday to celebrate both the graduates and the new arrivals.

Thanks to the continued generosity of The Grossman Family Foundation, this multi-year learning experience has expanded and evolved while staying grounded in its mission: to help students engage all five senses as they explore Maine’s ecosystems—its forests, rivers, farms, and coastline. Students will spend their days hiking, canoeing, exploring nature through science and art, competing in the Nature Olympics, and preparing fresh meals with herbs they’ve foraged themselves. Nights conclude around the campfire with group reflection and storytelling.

As always, our seasoned students are eager to mentor the younger group, guiding them through their first week in Maine and passing on the knowledge, confidence, and joy they’ve gained along the way.

Carver is proud to continue this tradition of learning, leadership, and love of the natural world, and we’re excited to share updates throughout the week from River Bend Farm. Stay tuned for stories, photos, and student reflections as we celebrate our graduates and welcome a new generation of Carver ecology scholars!

A Night of Connection and Generosity: Rowayton Celebrates Carver on the Sound

Lakia (speaking) standing next to her mother, Lynette Brayboy

Last night, the Carver community came together in a beautiful celebration of connection, generosity, and purpose at the Rowayton Connections Party, graciously hosted by Margie and Jim Shaughnessy at their stunning home overlooking Long Island Sound. The evening brought together nearly 100 guests in support of Carver’s transformative afterschool, summer, and community programs.

The event was co-chaired by Julia Massengill and Rob Strickland, whose leadership helped bring the evening to life. Joining them in planning and hospitality were the dedicated committee members: Barclay and Scott Bowen, Kay and Jay Garrett, Emily and Rob Grabowski, Jenny and Tommy Gresinger, Megan and Paul Hudson, Julia and J.D. Massengill, Hannah and Will Robertson, Kim and Drew Seath, Meg and Steve Schwanhausser, and Amy and Rob Strickland. Their shared commitment created an atmosphere of warmth and community that defined the night.

Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin standing with another speaker, Jackie Price.

The most memorable moments came from the heartfelt words of Carver program participants and alumni. Speakers included Lakia Brayboy, her mother Lynette, Myles Russell, and Jackie Price—all of whom shared moving stories of their Carver journeys. Myles, now attending Southern State, reflected on the impact of Carver’s college tours and scholarships on his academic path. He was joined by his brother Ryan, a proud graduate of Carver’s Youth Development Program.

Jackie Price, a Carver alumna and current board member of Horizons New Canaan, spoke about her own experience, as well as that of her daughter, who is now continuing the legacy as a Carver student. Their words were powerful reminders of how Carver changes lives across generations, with the steadfast support of our donors, staff, and community.

As the sun set over the water, guests savored delicious fare, engaged in warm conversations, and shared a commitment to helping young people reach their full potential. Events like this one remind us of the profound impact that personal connections and shared values can have on a community.

We extend our deepest thanks to the Shaughnessy family, our extraordinary co-chairs and committee, and every guest who joined us in advancing Carver’s mission. The evening was a celebration of what makes Rowayton and Carver so special: friendship, community, and the enduring spirit of giving.

Carver Future Readiness Coordinators Celebrate Norwalk High School Graduates at 2025 Commencement

On Wednesday, June 11, 2025, Carver Future Readiness Coordinators Iman LaBorde-Mobley and Isiah Gaddy proudly attended the Norwalk High School graduation ceremony, held at the Total Mortgage Arena in Bridgeport. With cameras in hand and pride in their hearts, they captured unforgettable moments of joy, achievement, and celebration.

As full-time Carver counselors embedded within Norwalk High School, Iman and Isiah have spent the year helping students prepare for life after high school—whether through college, career training, or other meaningful pathways. Their work is part of Carver’s Future Readiness initiative, which places two dedicated counselors at both Norwalk and Brien McMahon High Schools to guide students through the critical transition from school to adulthood.

Working closely with Norwalk Public Schools counselors, Carver Future Readiness Coordinators co-design long-term strategies that support academic success, career exploration, and the development of key life skills. They help students set and achieve goals, explore career options, and stay on track to meet high school graduation requirements.

This week’s graduation milestone for our students was a powerful reminder of the impact of caring, consistent adult mentorship. “When students love what they’re learning,” says Iman, “they work harder, dream bigger, and learn more.”

Congratulations to the Norwalk High School Class of 2025! And thank you to Iman and Isiah for the steadfast support you’ve shown each step of the way.

Carver and Norwalk Celebrate Juneteenth 2025: A Community United in History, Heritage, and Hope

Since 1938, Carver has been a beacon of education, unity, and opportunity in Norwalk, and our very name, honoring George Washington Carver, reflects a deep connection to the African American experience and legacy. As our country gathers to commemorate Juneteenth, Carver proudly joins the City of Norwalk and the broader community in honoring this historic occasion with a series of events that reflect our shared past and collective hopes for the future.

A Historical Reflection

Juneteenth, observed annually on or around June 19, commemorates the moment in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Although emancipation was declared in 1863, true freedom for all came only with the ratification of the 13th Amendment later that year. Juneteenth is now celebrated as a symbol of liberation, culture, and the enduring fight for equality.

George Washington Carver lived during the early days of Juneteenth observances, and his life’s work—uplifting African Americans through science, agriculture, and education—inspires our mission to this day.

Carver’s Commitment to Juneteenth

Carver’s celebration of Juneteenth began as small community gatherings that emphasized storytelling, song, and reflection. Today, we continue that tradition, expanding it with youth programming, art, education, and a collective spirit of unity. Each Juneteenth, we educate a new generation about the holiday’s origins, the resilience of the African American community, and the importance of building a just and equitable future for all.

Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future

At Carver, we believe that Juneteenth is a time to look both backward and forward—to remember the struggle for freedom, to celebrate cultural achievements, and to renew our commitment to justice. We are proud to stand with Norwalk in honoring this essential piece of American history.

Join us in the spirit of unity as we celebrate Juneteenth 2025—together, as one community.

Celebrating Promise and Purpose: Carver's 53rd Annual Testimonial Dinner Honors Our Students and Awards $150,000 in College Scholarships

On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, the Carver Community Center was filled with pride, applause, and joyful celebration as we hosted our 53rd Annual Testimonial Dinner. Families, educators, donors, and friends came together to recognize the remarkable achievements of our young people—from elementary school to college.

This cherished annual tradition honors the hard work and growth of Carver students in our Youth Development Program (YDP) and awards college scholarships to graduating high school seniors and continuing college students. Thanks to the generosity of Carver’s donors and scholarship funders, we awarded $150,000 in scholarships this year—an investment in the futures of the next generation of leaders, scholars, and changemakers.

The evening began with an inspiring keynote from Dr. Smana Seradieu, followed by a festive dinner for all honorees and their families. Carver proudly recognized Students of the Year and Most Improved Students across our school-based programs, middle schools, and high schools.

This is the cover of a book of photos about the Carver/NicaPhoto experience.

Dr. Smana Seradieu

Dr. Seradieu’s connection to Carver runs deep. In 2011, as a sophomore at Norwalk High School, she was among a group of Carver students who traveled to Nicaragua for Carver’s first-ever international service trip. The students had been corresponding with peers in Nagarote for a year through a Carver after-school initiative called NicaPhoto. That spring, they finally met in person, working side by side to paint a mural outside a school, plant trees, and install a sustainable vegetable garden. They even raised $700 to help build a one-room home for a needy family.

At the time, Smana, who had moved to Norwalk from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, in 2008 without speaking English, told The Hour, “It means a lot to us to be able to help. I come from a place where I've seen people like this, people in need."

Today, Dr. Seradieu is a Licensed Master Social Worker with a Doctorate in Social Work, leading a life of service and leadership in the fields of mental health and social work. She is the Director of Social Services at CareOne in New Jersey and a consultant for Verrazano Nursing and Post-Acute Center in Staten Island. She is also the founder of Change for Haitian Youth, an organization that creates educational opportunities for children in her hometown of Marchand Dessaline, Haiti.

Her return to Carver as keynote speaker was a full-circle moment that inspired everyone attending the Carver Testimonial Dinner, especially the young students just beginning their own Carver journeys.

Scholarship and Recognition Highlights

Elementary Programs

• Brookside Scholars: Student of the Year – Theodore Lefevre; Most Improved – Sulmin Coloch-Tzunun

• CASPER: Student of the Year – Camiola Ramirez; Most Improved – Sanjay Labaze

• CASPER Graduates: Zamayra Ayo, Faith Hawkins, Marlens Pierre, Milan Ramsubhag

• Fox Run Scholars: Student of the Year – Derius Sharpe; Most Improved – Lizbeth Garcia

• Jefferson Scholars: Students of the Year – Ian Benitez and Selena Perez; Most Improved – Juan Pablo Gonzalez

• Kendall Scholars: Student of the Year – Elisama Caceres; Most Improved – Caleb Pote

• Marvin Scholars: Student of the Year – Valentina Gutierrez; Most Improved – Lisandro Moran

• Naramake Scholars: Students of the Year – Zacharie Gianne and Libang Herrera; Most Improved – Theodore Lynch

• Silvermine Scholars: Student of the Year – Lorena Quintana; Most Improved – Santiago Mesa

• Tracey Scholars: Student of the Year – Michaela Potter; Most Improved – Trinity Ford

Middle Schools

• Nathan Hale: Student of the Year – Lucas Cuevas (6th), Natalia Valdovinos (7th), Leo Pascuilli (8th)
  Most Improved – Jaiden & Arianna Andrews (6th), Sophia Munoz (7th), Jayden Massey (8th)

• Ponus Pride: Students of the Year – Jannatul Ferdous (6th), Valentina Davila (7th), Wayne Hamilton (8th)
  Most Improved – Amairany Mandujano (6th), Rida Deura (7th), Rosmer Mejia (8th)

• Roton RAMS: Students of the Year – Yamilet Lopez (6th), Mayda Icena (7th), Jacob Diaz (8th)
  Most Improved – Maykol Melgar (6th), Veadale Russell (7th), Alexa Flores (8th)

• West Rocks PAWS: Students of the Year – Noel Segovia (6th), Sebastian Pico (7th), Leilani Berberena (8th)
  Most Improved – Joshie Pendergrast (6th), Derek Padilla (7th), Anthony “Big Tone” Perez (8th)

• Side by Side RISE: Students of the Year – Damian Della Bella (6th), Seth Charles (7th), Amy Quinteros (8th)
  Most Improved – Dalton Green (6th), Kayla Favor (7th), Penelope Fisher (8th)

High School YDP (Norwalk High and Brien McMahon)
Outstanding students were recognized across all grades:

• Norwalk High: Students of the Year – Enijah Fleming (9th), Ashley & Jasmine Diaz (10th), Arianna Nembhard (11th), Cindy Concha (12th)
  Most Improved – Sofia Alcabin (9th), Matthew Wynter Diaz (10th), Alexis Delgado (11th), Aniyia Prince (12th)

• Brien McMahon: Students of the Year – Felicia Denis (9th), King Dixon (10th), Pearly Innocent (11th), Miguel Potter (12th)
  Most Improved – Bernard Payant (9th), Pearly Innocent (10th), Fahendra Aurelus (11th), Anthony Deleon (12th)

Carver Jr. YDP

• Students of the Year: Tatyanna Simeon (6th), Jocabeth Medina Alegre (7th), John Akbar (8th)

• Most Improved: Elijah Yngcong (6th), Dior Manning (7th), Hernezto Jean (8th)

Graduates of Note

• High School Graduates: Students from Norwalk High and Brien McMahon proudly walked across the Carver Center gym floor prepared for their college journeys and future careers.

• College Graduates: Gaelle Louis Charles, Celina Hunter, Nicea Nerette, Mandie Romeus – our college scholarship recipients of years past – returned to share in the celebration and serve as role models for current Carver youth.

THANKS TO OUR AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM LEADERS

• Ms. Martini - Manager of School Based Programs

• Ms. Massucco - Director of School Based Elementary Programs

• Mr. Ramsubhag - Carver Center Education Manager

• Ms. Kingwood - Assistant Program Manager Carver Jr. YDP

• Ms. Baskin - Program Coordinator Norwalk High

• Ms. Vellucci - Program Coordinator Brien McMahon

• Ms. R. Mitchell - Future Readiness Coordinator McMahon

• Ms. Laborde- Future Readiness Coordinator-Norwalk high

• Ms. Wright- Future Readiness Coordinator McMahon

• Mr. Gaddy Future Readiness Coordinator Norwalk high

• Mr. Vaccarro - Program Coordinator Roton M.S.

• Ms. Counts- Program Coordinator Nathan Hale M.S.

• Mr. Giandurco - Program Coordinator Ponus Ridge M.S.

• Mr. Gilmore- Program Coordinator Side by Side Charter School

• Mr. Perry - Program Coordinator West Rocks M.S.

• Ms. Biko-Smith - Program Coordinator Kendall Elementary

• Ms. Watkins - Program Coordinator- Naramake Elementary

• Ms. Preston - Program Coordinator Brookside Elementary

• Ms. Huzina - Program Coordinator Tracey Elementary

• Ms. Signore - Program Coordinator Jefferson Elementary

• Ms. Papszycki-Program Coordinator Silvermine Elementary

• Mr. Guzman-Patino- Marvin Elementary

• Ms. S. Mitchell- Fox Run Elementary

Deep Gratitude to Our Scholarship Supporters

Our heartfelt thanks to all who make these scholarships possible, including the Athena Scholarship Fund, Joseph Scott III Scholarship Committee, the Ziegler Trust, Per and Astrid Heidenreich Family Foundation, the Baudouin Family, the Richard and Barbara Whitcomb Foundation, the Sapienza Scholarship, Serenbetz Family Foundation, and the Grossman Family Foundation.

This event is a declaration of belief in the power of young people. At a time when access to education and opportunity can feel uncertain, Carver’s Testimonial Dinner affirms that our community stands behind every student, ready to invest in their promise.

We congratulate all our scholars and graduates and look forward to seeing the many ways they will shape a better future for us all.

Deloitte Stamford Volunteers Roll Up Their Sleeves for Carver on 2025 Impact Day

Last Friday, June 6, the Carver Community Center came alive with energy, teamwork, and a spirit of service thanks to a phenomenal crew of Deloitte volunteers celebrating their annual Impact Day. Year after year, Deloitte’s Stamford office chooses Carver as one of its community service destinations—and we are so lucky and grateful they do.

Dozens of volunteers, including former Carver board member Jude Alaba and longtime Carver friend Heather Ziegler, brought their enthusiasm and elbow grease to a wide range of much-needed projects that will help launch a joyful, safe, and engaging summer at Carver.

Here’s a glimpse of what was accomplished:

• Gardens and Grounds: Teams got their hands dirty weeding, mulching, planting, and pruning—making our outdoor spaces safer and more beautiful for Carver kids to enjoy throughout the summer.

• Fresh Paint and Polish: Volunteers refreshed one of our classrooms with a new coat of paint, brightening the learning environment for students and teachers.

• Heavy Lifting: From removing outdated furniture and clearing out old desks to organizing storage closets, Deloitte volunteers helped make room for what’s next at Carver.

• Deep Cleaning and Reorganizing: The group tackled dusty corners and cluttered shelves, leaving our spaces cleaner, more efficient, and ready for action.

At lunchtime, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin thanked Deloitte's team:

“Your energy, your care, and your willingness to show up in this way—it all means more than you know. Your efforts prepare this center to serve our children this summer. We’re deeply grateful for this partnership.”

Deloitte’s commitment to making an impact that matters shines brightly each year through their Impact Day at Carver. Their ongoing support reflects the best of corporate citizenship and makes a real difference in the lives of Norwalk’s youth and families.

Thank you, Deloitte, for continuing to invest your time, your talent, and your heart in Carver and in the community you call home.