Darien Carver Connections 2025: A Night of Unforgettable Generosity and Joy

Carver Board President Phil Butterfield, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin, and longtime friend and advocate, Alex Baudouin

Carver’s 2025 Darien Connections Party was an extraordinary success, exceeding all expectations in attendance, generosity, and spirit. Hosted at the beautiful Greenhouse at Nielsen’s, this celebration brought together long-time friends, new supporters, and an entire community rallying around Carver youth and their boundless potential.

We are deeply grateful to our dedicated Darien Connections Committee, co-chaired by Marcia Cleary and Suzanne Okie, whose thoughtful planning made the evening truly magical. To our incredible event sponsors, thank you for believing in the power of Carver’s mission. And to the members of Carver’s Board of Directors who joined us, your presence and ongoing support meant the world to our students and staff.

Guests heard directly from and about the remarkable journeys of Carver students served in 65+ programs across Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stamford, and Naugatuck. Since 2005, 100% of Carver seniors have graduated on time, most becoming the first in their families to attend college. Your support helps make that possible.

We thank Senator Bob Duff and State Representative Tracy Marra for attending the Darien Connections event and supporting Carver over the years. Their presence and encouragement mean so much to our students and families.

We are also profoundly grateful to Carver student speakers Bianca Olivio and Nariah Jones for sharing their inspiring personal stories. Their words beautifully reflected the strength and impact of Carver’s support community, and we are so proud of their courage and leadership.

Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin shared heartfelt remarks during the evening, noting:

“Events like this celebrate our students’ success and show our young people that entire communities are behind them. Darien’s generosity tonight is a powerful reminder that when we invest in youth, we all rise.”

We thank again our Committee Co-Chairs, Marcia Cleary and Suzanne Okie, and our Committee Members, Debbie and Mike Brennan, Jeni Chapman, Jillian and Scott Kaminski, Keiley Fuller, Kate and Michael Johnson, Tracy Marra, Tamsin Sickinger, Elizabeth and Peter Sosnow, and Robin Woods.

We also thank our event sponsors, Jennifer Anderson Design & Development, Baywater Properties, Nielsens Florist, and Sipstirs.

Thank you, Darien, for showing up for Carver and being part of something bigger than any of us!

🌍 "Our Family" Mural Unveiled at Concord Magnet School: A Living Celebration of Culture, Community, and Collaboration

L-R: Oksana Tanasiv, Shannon O’Toole, Tricia Massucco, Novelette Peterkin

On Wednesday evening, the Concord Magnet School (CMS) community came together for a joyful and heartfelt unveiling of “Our Family”—a vibrant mural created by Carver 5th Grade Scholars in collaboration with internationally acclaimed local artist Oksana Tanasiv (Oksi). The event marked the culmination of a six-month journey made possible through an ARP ESSER Innovation After School Grant, which was initiated by the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) to support the development of innovative after-school programs, emphasizing collaboration with local and community partnerships. The result is nothing short of extraordinary.

Shannon O’Toole, President of the Norwalk Chamber of Commerce, and Kevin Wing, the Chamber’s Director of Membership, welcomed guests to the event. Their presence underscored the city’s strong support for youth-driven, community-rooted creative expression.

Tricia Massucco, Carver’s Director of Elementary School Programs, led a moving presentation about how the project came to life through meaningful conversations with CMS faculty member, Wanda McGahern, artist Oksi, and the students themselves. From the beginning, the vision was clear: to create something deeply personal and lasting that reflected the true spirit of the CMS family.

Wanda McGahern emphasized that the mural is a living work of art. “As our CMS family grows,” she shared, “we’ll continue to add to the mural. It’s a visual story of who we are—and who we are becoming.”

"This mural is a beautiful reflection of the love, pride, and unity that define our Carver Scholars and the Concord Magnet School community," said Novelette Peterkin, Carver’s Chief Executive Officer.

At the heart of this mural is a celebration of culture and identity. Oksi—who taught in Ukraine before becoming a professional artist—guided students through a powerful exploration of geography, ancestry, and culture. Each flag represented on the mural was carefully created by students after talking with their parents and grandparents about their heritage. Oksi also gave an inspiring presentation on every country represented, sparking pride and curiosity among the students.

One CMS student said, “It was so cool to learn where my family is from—and to see it on a mural that everyone can enjoy every day.” Another added, “I didn’t know that so many countries were part of our school. It made me feel like we really belong together.”

Oksi, who lives and works in South Norwalk, has had an art gallery in the city for many years. She shared that she has always wanted to give something unique to the community that welcomed her. She has done just that with “Our Family,” leaving a lasting, colorful gift that reflects Norwalk’s rich diversity and shared humanity.

This mural is a shining example of what happens when art, education, and community unite. Thanks to the ongoing partnership between CMS and Carver, supported by innovative state grant funding, students will continue to engage in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences like this one.

📍 Concord Magnet School – where every culture is celebrated, and every child’s story matters.
🎨 Thank you, Oksi, for helping our students make their heritage a masterpiece.
❤️ "Our Family" is not just a mural—it’s who we are.

Carver’s 2025 Breakfast With Champions Inspires Students With Real Stories of Purpose, Perseverance, and Possibility

This past Saturday morning, inside the Richard Whitcomb Gymnasium at the Carver Community Center, local professionals—including Carver alumni—gathered to do what champions do best: give back.

The annual Breakfast With Champions is one of Carver’s most inspiring events of the year. It connects students with a diverse panel of professionals who share their real-life experiences—the victories, the setbacks, and the wisdom gained along the way. Through open dialogue and heartfelt storytelling, Carver students discover a world of career possibilities, fresh perspectives, and the confidence to dream bigger.

This year’s event highlighted Carver’s commitment to career readiness, a core component of its comprehensive youth development model. In addition to STEAM Enrichment Programs, paid internships, college prep, college tours, and workforce development, events like this help students envision a future full of purpose and potential.

Adding to the excitement, the Now I Am Nia Foundation donated over $300 in rewards—including gift cards, Bluetooth speakers, and Bath & Body Works gift sets—to honor student engagement. The Foundation, which also publishes inspirational books like P is for Purpose: Alphabet Affirmations, seeks to ignite purpose-driven living in youth and families across the region.

Meet the 2025 Champions

Dr. Naikyyia Manick, LCSW

Trauma Therapist, Adjunct Professor, Case Manager at Continuum of Care, Inc.

Dr. Manick brought a message of healing and empowerment through trauma-informed care. As a licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma therapy, she helps individuals navigate some of life’s most difficult experiences with resilience and dignity.

She integrates evidence-based practices tailored to the unique needs of her clients and teaches future social workers as an adjunct professor. Her message to Carver students: "Healing is possible, and understanding your past can help you shape your future."

Alfy L. Roby

Director of Student Success, Equity, and Inclusion, UConn Stamford

A dynamic higher ed professional with over 12 years of experience managing grant-funded programs, Roby is a tireless advocate for academic success and equity. At UConn Stamford, he leads efforts to create inclusive environments where every student can thrive.

His advice was direct, honest, and practical:

• Time management is vital.

• Professors aren’t your teachers—you need to seek support and stay accountable.

• Choose critical thinking over memorization.

• “You’re in control of your learning journey.”

A proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Roby also urged students to find what brings them joy and pursue it boldly.

Monisha Gibson

CEO, Entrepreneur, Real Estate Professional, Founder of Maritime Odyssey Preschool

Monisha Gibson built a multi-million-dollar early childhood business from the ground up, serving more than 300 families in Norwalk. As the Director of Maritime Odyssey Preschool, a partnership with The Maritime Aquarium and Grace Baptist Church, Gibson centers her work around early childhood STEM learning.

Her insights were as powerful as her journey:

• “Be open to learning. If you’re the smartest person in the room, find a new room.”

• “Circumstances don’t define your outcomes.”

• “Finish what you start and always have a backup plan.”

• “Guard your dreams. Not everyone deserves access to your vision.”

Adrian Holmes

Connecticut State Trooper, Major Crimes Unit

Holmes offered a glimpse into the intense and highly technical world of major crimes investigations. His unit handles some of the most serious criminal cases across the state—including homicides, arson, and kidnappings.

From advanced crime scene processing to interagency collaboration, Holmes’ work exemplifies discipline, precision, and compassion.

His message:

• “Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready.”

• “Failure to plan is a plan to fail.”

• “Treat others the way you want to be treated.”

Carla Romeus

Production Assistant, The Sherri Shepherd Show | Carver Alumna

Carla shared how her Carver roots gave her a strong foundation of connections, ambition, and discipline. She graduated from PACE University debt-free—applying for every scholarship she could, no matter how small or seemingly mismatched.

Her advice:

• “Get involved in student activities.”

• “Secure paid internships. Earn while you learn.”

• “Apply for every scholarship—you never know which door will open.”

Carla now supports the fast-paced world of television as a production assistant for the Sherri Shepherd Show, contributing to logistics, scheduling, and behind-the-scenes operations in New York City.

Aland Joseph

Football Coach & School Counselor, Westhill High School, Stamford

Aland Joseph brings a holistic approach to student development as a counselor and a coach. Whether on the field or in the office, his mission is the same: empower students to succeed academically, socially, and personally.

His message was clear:

• “Allow yourself to authentically take up space wherever you are.”
  Joseph reminded students that their presence, ideas, and voices matter—and they deserve to be heard.

Teresa Gorham

Cosmetologist, Entrepreneur, Owner of Dimensions By Tere’sa G

From high school stylist to successful business owner, Teresa Gorham’s journey is rooted in creativity, entrepreneurship, and compassion. Specializing in hair replacement services for individuals experiencing medical-related hair loss, her work helps clients restore confidence and dignity.

Her product line includes edge control, virgin hair extensions, and mink lashes, but her greatest offering is hope.

She told students: “Pull out of what you need to do to get to what you want to do.”

Jonathan Lake

Assistant Principal, Brien McMahon High School | Carver Alumnus

Jonathan Lake is proof that the Carver experience can change the course of a life. After attending Morehouse College, inspired by a Carver-led college tour, he returned to Norwalk to help others chart their own course to success.

His guidance for students included:

• “Take advantage of Carver’s resources.”

• “Explore as many college options as you can.”

• “Set goals. Stick with them. Hold yourself accountable.”

• “Choose a growth mindset—always.”

Sheron Jennings-Green

Juvenile Probation Supervisor, Connecticut Judicial Branch

With deep experience in juvenile justice, Jennings-Green plays a vital role in rehabilitating young people and helping them re-enter society with hope and support. Her leadership ensures that probation programs remain focused on education, accountability, and transformation.

Her message to students was rooted in resilience:

• “Without losses, you can’t appreciate the wins.”

• “Call for help when you need it.”

• “Start over as many times as you need to.”

John Ramos II, M.Ed.

Principal, Discovery Magnet School, Bridgeport | Morehouse Alum

An accomplished educator with a deeply personal story, Ramos shared how living with ADHD and dyslexia shaped his approach to leadership and student engagement. Today, he leads one of Bridgeport’s most innovative schools.

Previously a counselor, coach, and assistant principal, Ramos is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership. A proud Morehouse College graduate and member of Alpha Phi Alpha, he urged students to center joy in their journey.

His advice:

• “Have pride in knowing you will win.”

• “Ask yourself: What can I do that brings me joy?”

Dominique Abelard

Registered Nurse | YouTube Influencer | Stamford Pediatrics Associates

With a dual career as a pediatric RN and content creator, Dominique Abelard is a powerhouse of passion and purpose. She balances clinical care with social media influence, using both platforms to uplift others.

Her message:

• “Check your circles. If you settle for less, you won’t be your best.”

• “Compete every day and strive to improve.”

Dominique’s story resonated with students navigating today’s digital world—showing that professionalism, care, and creativity can coexist.

A Living Example of Carver’s Mission

Breakfast With Champions is more than an event—it’s a reflection of Carver’s values in action. It demonstrates the impact of community, mentorship, and belief in the potential of every student.

Each speaker, through their authenticity and generosity, offered a blueprint for navigating life’s twists and turns. And in doing so, they ignited something powerful in the young minds watching—the belief that they, too, are champions in the making.

"Our Family" Mural Unveiling at Concord Magnet School: A Celebration of Carver’s Diversity – All Are Welcome!

Join us for an inspiring evening of art, community, and celebration! On Wednesday, April 2, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Concord Magnet School will host a special event presented by Carver’s 5th Grade Scholars Program to unveil “Our Family”, a collaborative mural created by Carver afterschool students and internationally recognized artist Oksana Tanasiv, known professionally as Oksi.

This vibrant mural reflects the heart of our community—its diversity, unity, and shared story—and we warmly invite everyone to be part of the celebration.

Oksi, a contemporary artist of Ukrainian origin now based in Norwalk, brings her global perspective and innovative style into the classroom, guiding Carver Scholars in expressing their identities through art. The project was made possible by an ARP ESSER Innovation After School Grant, which was initiated by the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) to support the development of innovative after-school programs, emphasizing collaboration with local and community partnerships. The result is nothing short of extraordinary. This enriching artist-in-residence experience became a reality, sparking creativity and cultural exchange in Carver’s after-school program.

Concord Magnet School is the perfect home for this event. As a H.O.T. (Higher Order Thinking) School, CMS is known for its unique, hands-on learning approach, integrating the arts across the curriculum and nurturing student voice through programs like student government and all-school meetings. Whether through its Arts Integration, STEAM, or Bank Street interdisciplinary units, CMS partners with Carver to provide meaningful, project-based enrichment every day after school.

Let’s come together to honor our students’ vision of “family,” experience the power of community art, and celebrate the strength of our diversity.

Refreshments will be served. All are welcome—bring a friend!

📍 Concord Magnet School, 21 Hunters Lane, Norwalk, Wednesday, April 2, 2025 | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
🖼️ Presented by Carver’s 5th Grade Scholars Program
🎨 Featuring visiting artist Oksana Tanasiv (Oksi)
✨ Funded by an ARP ESSER Innovation After School Grant, which was initiated by the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) to support the development of innovative after-school programs.

We hope to see you there!

Join us to celebrate Carver's deep roots, and the strong futures we'll build together for kids throughout our community. There's still time to become a sponsor by purchasing a table!

Standing Up for Connecticut’s Children: Rep. Kadeem Roberts Proposes Bill to Raise Minimum Age of Arrest and Limit Handcuff Use on Young Youth

210 Capitol Ave., Hartford, CT 06106, Map & Directions

(860) 240-0222, email, visit website

Norwalk’s own State Representative, Kadeem Roberts, is taking bold steps to protect and uplift Connecticut’s youth. Inspired in part by powerful conversations during his recent Black History Month programming in partnership with the Connecticut Justice Alliance, Rep. Roberts has proposed new legislation: AN ACT RAISING THE AGE OF ARREST OF A CHILD AND THE USE OF HANDCUFFS ON YOUNG CHILDREN.

Public Hearing Details:
📅 Wednesday, March 26, 2025
🕙 10:00 AM
📍 Room 2C, Legislative Office Building (LOB), Hartford
💻 Also available via Zoom and YouTube Live

This bill proposes raising the minimum age at which a child can be arrested under certain circumstances from the current age of 10 to 12 in 2026 and then to 14 in 2028. It also seeks to restrict the use of handcuffs on children under the age of 14, a move supported by child development experts and youth justice advocates.

Rep. Roberts notes that, before 2021, children in Connecticut could be arrested and placed in handcuffs as young as 7. Connecticut's current minimum age of 10 still places it behind international recommendations and several U.S. states that have made meaningful reforms.

How Connecticut Compares

• United Nations guidelines recommend 14 years as the minimum age of criminal responsibility, and many European countries—such as Germany, Italy, and Portugal—have already adopted this standard.

• In the U.S., the picture is more mixed:

  • North Carolina still has one of the lowest minimum ages at 6.

  • New York and several others set it at 7.

  • California, Massachusetts, and Utah have more recently reformed laws, setting 12 as the minimum age.

  • 28 states still do not have a minimum arrest age on the books.

Connecticut has an opportunity to be a national leader in youth justice reform, putting the needs of children and families first and reducing early trauma caused by contact with the justice system.

Your Voice Matters

Rep. Roberts urges parents, educators, youth advocates, and anyone who cares about this issue to participate in the upcoming public hearing by attending in person, tuning in virtually, and/or submitting written testimony. Those who wish to testify in person at the State Capitol should reach out directly so that accommodations can be made, including notifying building security and providing lunch.

📧 To coordinate your attendance or ask questions, contact:

• Devin Avshalom-Smith, Legislative Aide (@Avshalom-Smith, Devin)

• Mikaela Shea, Outreach Coordinator (@Shea, Mikaela)

Rep. Roberts is also organizing a press conference at the Capitol on the day of the hearing. He welcomes the community to stand with him as he broadcasts this bill to the entire state.

Carver’s Perspective

At Carver, we serve thousands of youth across Norwalk and surrounding communities. We know childhood is a time for learning, support, second chances, and safety. We applaud Representative Kadeem Roberts for spotlighting this critical issue and inviting all voices into the conversation.

Breakfast With Champions: Inspiring Futures at Carver’s Annual Career Event!

Digging into Growth: Carver’s Afterschool Students Cultivate Responsibility in Nathan Hale’s Outdoor Gardens

At Nathan Hale Middle School, Carver’s afterschool students are trading in their screens for soil as they roll up their sleeves and dive into the school’s outdoor gardens. Led by Elizabeth Simmons—Carver’s dedicated afterschool leader and the school’s Arts Integration Coach—students are cleaning beds, thatching lawns, and preparing for an early crop of potatoes, a group decision that has sparked excitement among these young gardeners.

With the afterschool program ending in June, the beds will thrive through the summer with the help of Carver’s rising 6th graders, who will be attending the Summer Transition Program there.

Nurturing plants fosters a sense of responsibility, patience, and accomplishment in students as they witness small sprouts flourish into something greater.

Gardening is a hands-on lesson in care, observation, and perseverance. As students work the soil, they learn that plants, like people, require attention, nourishment, and the right environment to thrive. Each plant has unique needs; through trial and error, students understand what it takes to cultivate a healthy garden.

The research underscores the benefits of outdoor spending—improved focus, stress reduction, and enhanced concentration. For students juggling the demands of school and social life, moments spent in the garden provide a natural reset, allowing them to return to their studies with renewed energy and clarity.

And then there’s the simple joy of reaping what they sow. Teens who grow their food are more likely to develop a taste for fresh, healthy produce. The satisfaction of planting, tending, and eventually harvesting their crops often leads to a newfound appreciation for the food they eat.

Thanks to Elizabeth Simmons' leadership and the Carver afterschool program, students at Nathan Hale Middle School are discovering the rewards of digging in, getting dirty, and growing—both in the garden and in life.

Join Our Team! Carver Seeks a Part-Time Bookkeeper to Support Our Mission

Are you an experienced bookkeeper looking for a rewarding part-time role? Do you have a passion for financial management and efficiency? Carver is seeking a detail-oriented and mission-driven professional to join our team as a Part-Time Bookkeeper!

Why Join Carver?

Carver is dedicated to equipping learners for global competitiveness by fostering strategic partnerships with schools and communities. We operate over 60 before-school, after-school, and summer programs across Norwalk and beyond, serving thousands of students each year. Our work is mission-driven, and every team member plays a role in making a meaningful impact.

About the Position

The Bookkeeper will support Carver’s finance and accounting operations by ensuring accurate financial recordkeeping, processing accounts payable and receivable, assisting with payroll, and supporting month-end closing procedures. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys streamlining financial workflows.

Key Responsibilities:

✔ Maintain accounts receivable records and manage student fee payments.
✔ Process financial aid adjustments and prepare reports on outstanding balances.
✔ Assist with accounts payable and vendor invoices.
✔ Support payroll processing on a bi-weekly basis.
✔ Contribute to improving financial procedures and efficiency.

What We’re Looking For:

📌 Experience: 2-3 years in bookkeeping or a related field (nonprofit experience preferred).
📌 Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database management.
📌 Traits: Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work independently or collaboratively.
📌 Bonus: Experience with Blackbaud or similar accounting software.

Position Details:

🕒 Schedule: Part-time (10-15 hours per week).
💰 Compensation: $25-$30 per hour, based on experience.
📍 Location: Norwalk, CT (hybrid options may be available).

How to Apply

If you’re ready to use your financial expertise to support a nonprofit making a difference, we’d love to hear from you! Submit your resume and cover letter to info@the-carver.org with “Bookkeeper” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until August 23, 2024.

📌 Click here to view the full job description.

Carver is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Join us in making a lasting impact in the community!

Mitsubishi HC Capital America Supports Carver’s Spring College Tour, Investing in the Future of Norwalk’s Students

Carver is proud to announce a generous donation from Mitsubishi HC Capital America in support of our annual Spring College Tour, a 10-day initiative that provides Norwalk students with the opportunity to explore some of the nation's most prestigious colleges and universities.

Located in Norwalk, CT, Mitsubishi HC Capital America is a leader in the commercial finance industry and is dedicated to making a tangible difference in the communities where it operates.

At the heart of its philanthropic outreach is the Mitsubishi HC Capital   America Community Action Committee, which actively supports volunteerism and community causes, empowering its employees to engage in meaningful opportunities that improve lives.

Mitsubishi HC Capital America’s investment in Carver’s Spring College Tour reflects this commitment, helping students expand their horizons and envision brighter futures. Each year, the College Tour takes students on a transformative journey, introducing them to institutions of higher learning that they might not otherwise have the opportunity to visit. This experience is pivotal in shaping aspirations, building confidence, and empowering students to take the next steps toward college and career success.

“We believe in investing in education,” said Adriana Lawrence, a Senior Manager at Mitsubishi HC Capital America. “We are proud to contribute to an initiative that opens doors for students and helps shape their futures.”

Carver extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mitsubishi HC Capital America for their generous support. Their dedication to education ensures that Norwalk’s students have the resources and inspiration to reach for their dreams.