Westport Connections Party Ignites Community Support for Carver Youth at STEAM Enrichment Social

Max Kim, Ben Zuckerman, Jen McPartlin, Andrea Moore, Eve Gianni, Inwha Huh, Nikki LaFaye, Nadine Tanen, Mark Gilrain, Mindi Lund, Kimberly Konstant, Grace Almeida, Livia Orenstein, Anya Gianni Corio

On Friday, September 27, 2024, the Westport Connections Party, dubbed the "STEAM Enrichment Social," brought together an extraordinary blend of art, community, and charitable giving at Clarendon Fine Art Gallery. The evening was warm and exciting as new and old friends came together to raise vital funds and awareness for The Carver.

Sponsored by a wide array of generous organizations including Amazing Grace (NYC), bird, Bridgewater Chocolate, Clarendon Fine Art Gallery, Gault Family Companies, imageworks, Kindred Spirits & Wine, LANDTECH, and the post, the event radiated creativity and collaboration. The gallery provided a fitting backdrop for the evening, with its elegant art displays accentuating the event's focus on the enrichment of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) education.

Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin and Carver alumna Damaly Mendez

We are deeply grateful to the dedicated and visionary Connections Party Committee members: Inwha & Robert Kim, Andrea & David Moore, Eve Gianni, Mark Gilrain, Kimberly Konstant, Mindi Lund, Deb Placey, and Nadine Tanen. Their commitment, creativity, and generosity made this event a tremendous success.

A special note of thanks also goes out to our hardworking Student Volunteers—Grace Almeida, Anya Gianni Corio, Max Kim, Livia Orenstein, and Ben Zuckerman—who assisted in making the event seamless. Members of the National Charity League Westport Chapter also participated.

The evening also featured heartfelt remarks from inspiring Carver students. Cecilia Adriana Garcia, a rising 9th grader, shared her experiences in Carver’s Summer Transition Program. She highlighted the joy she found in creating art at The Norwalk Art Space, demonstrating how Carver enriches the lives of young learners through both academic and creative opportunities.

Deborah Hammerskjold, Mindi Lund, Jen Capelo, Brooke Sorensen, Inwha Huh, Drew Seath

Damaly Mendez, a Carver alumna and current sophomore at Quinnipiac University, reflected on her journey through Carver's Youth Development Program and the profound impact it had on her college success. She credited Carver with organizing multiple paid internships for her at Norwalk Hospital, which inspired her to pursue a nursing degree.

We are also thankful for the participation of Carver board members Philip Butterfield, Deborah Brennan, CEO Novelette Peterkin, Drew Seath, and Brooke Sorensen, who actively engaged with the guests throughout the evening.

The Westport Connections Party celebrated what is possible when a community comes together to support its youth. Together, we are helping to shape brighter futures for Norwalk’s young people.

2024 Rowayton Connections Party: A Night of Generosity, Inspiration, and Community

Carver student John Akbar sharing his story with the Rowayton Connections party guests

Yesterday evening, the 2024 Rowayton Connections Party at the scenic Norwalk Yacht Club, graciously sponsored by The Beinfield Team at Compass, raised more than $25,000 for vital Carver programs. The night was filled with inspiration and generosity. Lock City Brewery was the event beverage sponsor.

Nestled in Wilson Cove and surrounded by Sheffield Island, Tavern Island, and Bell Island, the Norwalk Yacht Club provided a perfect setting when weather prevented Zoe and K.C. Hamann from hosting the event in their nearby home as planned.

Co-Chair Zoe Hamann opened the evening by welcoming guests and introducing Novelette, Carver’s CEO, who was honored for her 20 years of dedicated service. Novelette’s leadership has been central to Carver’s impact on countless young lives, and the guests’ recognition was heartfelt. Zoe expressed how near and dear Carver is to her family, as she has children in Rowayton’s After the Bell program at Rowayton Elementary School, like other families in attendance.

Next to speak was Ralph Valezisi, Assistant Superintendent for Digital Learning and Innovation for Norwalk Public Schools. Ralph expressed his deep admiration for Carver’s programs, stating that no model has proven as effective as Carver’s programming in transforming students' lives in all his years. He praised Novelette for her strategic partnerships and leadership, highlighting the far-reaching influence of her and Carver's work.

The evening's highlight was hearing from Carver student John Akbar, who shared his moving story as an immigrant overcoming social insecurities. John eloquently spoke of how Carver has provided him with mentors, college tours, his first summer job as a counselor, and even a paid internship. His testimony of personal growth, opportunity, and mentorship left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

Iman LaBorde, a Carver alumna and now a full-time Carver Future Readiness Coordinator, then spoke about the full circle moment she had visiting her alma mater, Virginia State University, during the 2024 Spring College Tour with Carver high school students.

The event committee's dedication made this event possible. Co-Chair Liz Beinfield concluded the evening by emphasizing the importance of Carver’s work.

Event Committee Members:

• Co-Chairs: Zoe Hamann & Liz Beinfield

• Jenny Friedman & Scott Petropoulos

• Emily & Rob Grabowski

• K.C. Hamann

• Megan & Paul Hudson

• Julia & JD Massengill

• Martha & Andy Meyerson

• Carolyn & Kevin Nally

• Amanda Northrop

• Hannah & Will Robertson

• Jennifer & Andrew Ryan

• Kim & Drew Seath

• Amy & Rob Strickland

The 2024 Rowayton Connections Party proved to be yet another successful evening, showcasing the strength of the community, the generosity of Carver’s supporters, and the life-changing impact of The Carver’s work.

Carver Community Center Secures $3.5 Million in State Funding for Crucial Renovations

As reported in The Hour, The Carver secured $3.5 million in state funding to continue the much-needed renovations of the Carver Community Center. This substantial support is made possible thanks to the efforts of Senator Bob Duff, the Norwalk Delegation, and Connecticut’s Community Investment Fund's board members, who wholeheartedly endorsed our proposal.

This new funding is a significant milestone in improving the Carver Community Center. Earlier this year, in April, Carver broke ground on a $1.7 million expansion, resulting in a two-story teen center adjacent to the gymnasium. Now, with an additional $3.5 million, the entire center will undergo a comprehensive transformation that will bring the building up to code and increase its footprint and accessibility. Plans include the installation of an elevator and constructing a new secure entrance, ensuring the safety and comfort of all who enter.

Built in 1975, the Carver Community Center has long served as a cornerstone for Norwalk's youth and the wider community. These critical renovations will ensure that it continues providing a safe and welcoming space for future generations.

The Carver community is deeply grateful for Senator Duff’s longstanding leadership and for the Norwalk Delegation’s support of important initiatives that improve the lives of all Nowalkers. This investment will enhance Carver’s ability to foster growth, learning, and leadership among Norwalk's youth, reinforcing the center's legacy as a vital hub for education and community engagement.

Stay tuned for more updates as these exciting developments progress!

Carver Alumna and Board Member Diaghilev Lubin-Farnell Named 2024 CBCF POWER 100 Honoree

Carver is proud to announce that Diaghilev Lubin-Farnell, Assistant Attorney General for the State of Connecticut and valued member of our Board of Directors, has been named a 2024 Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) POWER 100 Honoree. This prestigious recognition celebrates the accomplishments of dynamic leaders in law, politics, business, and medicine.

Ms. Farnell's extraordinary contributions to the field of law and her ongoing commitment to justice and equity have rightfully earned her a place on this esteemed list.

Diaghilev Lubin-Farnell standing with Novelette at New England Law’s graduation ceremony

The CBCF Annual Legislative Conference is a highlight event hosted by the National Bar Association Young Lawyers Division and the Washington Bar Association Young Lawyers Division. It is a time for thought leaders and rising stars to gather, share their achievements, and collectively inspire others toward greater success.

Ms. Farnell’s journey to this moment has been remarkable. Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin fondly remembers attending her graduations from Clark Atlanta University and New England Law in Boston.

During Novelette's tenure as CEO, Diaghilev was among the first students to graduate from college. This moment symbolized Carver's commitment to fostering academic success and Ms. Farnell’s determination to excel.

At Carver, we are honored to witness Diaghilev's continued impact in her field and are deeply grateful for her leadership on our Board. Her recognition as a CBCF POWER 100 Honoree is a testament to her brilliance and reflects the strong values and dedication we strive to instill in all our students.

Congratulations, Diaghilev! Your Carver family is incredibly proud of you.

Carver’s New Teen Center and Kitchen Renovations Bring Hope and Opportunity to Norwalk’s Youth

Exciting progress is being made at the Carver Community Center as we move forward with a total renovation designed to uplift and support the Norwalk community. At the heart of this transformation is our newly constructed two-story Teen Center, which is poised to become a beacon of hope and opportunity for local teenagers in a few more weeks.

The Teen Center, a stunning addition to the existing Carver Community Center, is connected through interior windows that offer a view of the Richard Whitcomb Gymnasium. This modern design element reflects the transparency and openness that Carver seeks to embody—creating a physical space where Norwalk's youth can thrive in an environment built for their success.

With a wealth of comprehensive facilities and resources, the Teen Center will serve as the central hub for educational, recreational, and social activities. It is designed to nurture holistic youth development, providing an inclusive space where teenagers can learn, play, and build meaningful relationships. More than just a building, the Teen Center represents Carver’s dedication to strengthening community bonds and ensuring a bright future for Norwalk’s young people.

The kitchen renovations at the Carver Community Center have been completed in tandem with the new Teen Center’s construction, which is still underway. These updates enhance our ability to serve nutritious meals to community members, support our wellness initiatives, and create a vibrant gathering place for events and programs.

These renovations are just the beginning of the exciting changes happening at Carver. We are deeply committed to the holistic revitalization of the community center and its role as a safe, enriching environment for all who walk through our doors.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build a brighter, more inclusive future for Norwalk’s youth and families!

06880 Blog Highlights Carver’s Westport Connections Party at Clarendon Fine Art

Click on this image to RSVP

06880, Westport's leading community blog, is promoting an exciting upcoming event that promises to connect Westport residents with Carver's important work. On Friday, September 27, at 6 p.m., a Carver committee of wonderful volunteers and sponsors will host the Westport Connections Party at Clarendon Fine Art, 22 Main Street, Westport. You can RSVP here.

The event, highlighted by 06880, aims to introduce Carver to a broader audience in Westport and build awareness around the organization’s impactful educational programs. Carver operates over 60 before-school, after-school, summer, and community programs across Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stamford, and Naugatuck, serving nearly 3,000 students annually.

Carver’s programs boast an impressive 100% on-time high school graduation rate, with nearly all of its students becoming first-generation college students. While many in Westport may be unfamiliar with Carver, 06880 is helping spread the word, encouraging residents to attend this special event and support the organization's work.

The evening will feature inspiring stories from Carver students, who will share their personal journeys of growth and academic achievement. Westport residents will hear firsthand how Carver’s programs transform lives and prepare students for bright futures.

Local businesses, including Bird, Clarendon, LandTech, The Post, and Amazing Graze, are sponsoring the event, demonstrating Westport's commitment to expanding Carver's support base and ensuring its continued success.

Carver is looking to build connections with the Westport community through financial support and volunteer involvement. The Westport Connections Party is a perfect opportunity to learn more about this remarkable nonprofit and its life-changing work.

Be sure to check out 06880’s feature and mark your calendars for Friday, September 27, to participate in this impactful evening.

Date: Friday, September 27
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Clarendon Fine Art, 22 Main Street, Westport

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring the Contributions and Legacy of Hispanic and Latino Communities

Today marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month! From September 15 through October 15, we celebrate the unique history, diverse cultures, beautiful traditions, and rich contributions of Hispanic Americans whose roots trace back to Spain, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

At Carver, 54% of our students are Hispanic or Latino, and the number continues to grow each year, reflecting our community's increasing diversity and vitality.

Hispanic Heritage Month was officially enacted into law in August 1988. This month-long observance recognizes the many Central American countries that achieved independence in September and October, including Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Honduras. This year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” highlights the pivotal role Hispanic and Latino communities have played—and continue to play—in shaping our society.

This month offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on the incredible impact that Latinas and Latinos have had on the United States for generations. The Latino presence in America spans centuries, even predating Spain’s colonization of regions that are now part of the U.S. Hispanic Americans have been integral in shaping our nation since the Revolutionary War. Through historical events like the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and the Treaty of Paris, the United States gained territories in the Southwest and Puerto Rico, further expanding the Hispanic-American presence within our country.

Today, the Hispanic or Latino population in the United States is over 60 million, making up 18.9% of the total population. This vibrant community is a crucial contributor to the U.S. economy and culture—whether as entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, athletes, or public servants, Latinos enrich every facet of American life.

In Norwalk, Connecticut, where Carver proudly serves students, the Hispanic or Latino population makes up approximately 28.5% of the city's population. This community has grown steadily, enriching Norwalk's cultural and economic diversity.

But what is the difference between "Hispanic" and "Latino"? While these terms are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings. "Hispanic" refers to individuals connected to Spain or the Spanish language. In contrast, "Latino" refers to people with cultural or ancestral ties to Latin America or the Caribbean. "Latino" also includes Black, Indigenous, Asian, and other heritages alongside European ancestry.

As we embark on this month of celebration, let’s take the time to learn, reflect, and honor the lasting contributions of Hispanic and Latino pioneers who have shaped our history and are continuing to shape our future.

Norwalk Public Schools’ Portrait of a Graduate: A Collaborative Vision for Future-Ready Students, Empowered by Carver's Commitment

In an ever-evolving world, the education landscape must keep pace, ensuring that students have the skills and mindsets necessary for success beyond high school. As The Hour reports, Norwalk Public Schools has embraced this challenge by creating the Portrait of a Graduate. This collective vision captures our community's hopes, aspirations, and dreams for Norwalk’s young people. This initiative, a true embodiment of community collaboration, defines every student's essential competencies to be Future Ready.

At Carver, we have always believed in the power of nurturing the whole student, and our high school counselors, dedicated to the success of Carver after-school students, embody this philosophy. Our methodology aligns seamlessly with the Portrait of a Graduate's core competencies, as we have long prioritized developing academic skills and the social-emotional growth essential for life beyond the classroom.

The Collaborative Journey

Gradation at Brien McMahon High School

The journey to creating the Portrait of a Graduate was a comprehensive and inclusive process, initiated in December 2023 when a Task Force was formed. This diverse group included Cabinet Members, Norwalk Public Schools staff, community members, and Board of Education members, all working together to draft the initial vision. But this was only the beginning.

Understanding the importance of community input, Norwalk Public Schools reached out to key stakeholders to refine and perfect the Portrait. Over 4,060 students from grades 6-12 contributed their insights through a feedback survey, while another 470 responses were gathered from staff members, families, and community members. Additionally, focus groups involving over 180 participants further enriched the process, ensuring that the final Portrait truly reflects our community's values and beliefs.

A Research-Backed Vision

Throughout this development process, Norwalk Public Schools consulted child development research, literature on essential life skills for post-high school success, social-emotional learning frameworks, and academic standards. Collaborating with experts and other school districts, the task force ensured that the Portrait of a Graduate is robust and evidence-based.

Aligning with Carver’s Mission

Carver's commitment to student success is deeply intertwined with the competencies outlined in the Portrait of a Graduate. Our programs have long emphasized academic achievement and the cultivation of critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, and resilience—key components of the Portrait.

Carver Future Readiness Coordinators (full-time high school counselors) work closely with Carver after-school students, providing individualized support, paid internships, and much else that empowers them to navigate the challenges of high school and life beyond. By fostering these essential skills and mindsets, we prepare our students for graduation day and a lifetime of success and fulfillment.

Looking Ahead

The Portrait of a Graduate guides all efforts to prepare students for life beyond high school. It is a vision rooted in our community's collective wisdom and reflects our shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators.

At Carver, we are proud to be part of this journey. We will continue to align our programs with the Portrait of a Graduate, ensuring that every student we serve is equipped to meet future demands with confidence and skill.

Together, we are shaping a brighter future for Norwalk's young people—one where they are truly Future Ready.

Carver’s Commitment to ‘Lead the World’: How We’re Aligning with the U.S. Department of Education’s Vision for Academic Excellence and Global Competitiveness

“The Carver equips all learners for global competitiveness by leading strategic partnerships with schools and communities that advance excellence and growth opportunities.

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— The Carver Mission Statement

The U.S. Department of Education unveiled an ambitious new report, Lead the World, outlining a comprehensive plan to ensure all students receive the quality education necessary to fulfill their potential and contribute to “…a globally competitive society.” At the heart of this initiative are key focus areas such as achieving academic excellence, improving learning conditions, enhancing mental health support, creating pathways for global engagement, and making college more affordable and accessible.

At Carver, we share this vision and are already taking significant steps to contribute to its fulfillment. For decades, Carver has been a cornerstone in the community, offering after-school and summer programs that support students who need it most. Our commitment to academic excellence is evident in our tailored tutoring and enrichment programs that address learning gaps and enhance student performance, particularly in underserved communities.

Recognizing the importance of mental health and learning conditions, Carver integrates social-emotional learning into all our programs, ensuring that students excel academically and develop resilience and well-being. We provide safe and supportive environments where students can thrive, reinforced by a dedicated team of educators and mentors.

In line with the report’s call for global engagement and multilingualism, Carver’s programs include exposure to diverse cultures and languages, preparing students to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. Our college readiness initiatives align with the Department’s goals, offering paid internships, college tours, and guidance and resources to make higher education accessible and achievable for all our students.

The Lead the World report emphasizes the need for systemic change in education, and Carver is proud to be part of this transformative effort. By enhancing educator support, diversifying our teaching staff, and aligning our goals with national strategies, we are helping to prepare the next generation for global competitiveness and success.

As we continue to serve the community, Carver remains committed to contributing to the fulfillment of the U.S. Department of Education’s vision. Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to lead the world.

NOTE: Carver has been a proud and consistent recipient of the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) grants for years. This initiative is the only federal funding source supporting local after-school, before-school, and summer learning programs. Serving over 1.5 million youth and their families, 21st CCLC grants are awarded by state education agencies, with funds allocated based on each state's share of Title I funding for low-income students. These grants support local schools and community-based organizations, like Carver, in providing students with critical after-school and summer learning programs. The 21st CCLC program was reauthorized in 2015 as part of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

Capturing the Final Days of Summer at Roton Middle School's Transition Program for Rising 6th Graders

As the summer ended, so did the enriching Summer Transition Program for rising 6th graders at Roton Middle School. Under the leadership of Dean Vaccaro, an accomplished National Board Certified Teacher, the program successfully prepared students for the exciting new chapter in middle school. Dean Vaccaro, who serves as an 8th Grade U.S. History Teacher, 8th Grade Leader, and Director of the R.A.M.S. (Carver) Afterschool Program at Roton, ensured that the students had an engaging and educational experience throughout the summer.

The program, replicated across Norwalk's four public middle schools, focused on easing the transition to middle school by offering individualized instruction, STEAM activities, and the opportunity for students to familiarize themselves with their new surroundings, classmates, and teachers. Roton’s students embraced the chance to learn, grow, and make lasting memories.

Here’s a glimpse into the program's final days, where students participated in hands-on projects, creative team-building activities, STEM challenges, and many wellness and recreation experiences. From crafting and problem-solving to outdoor fun, the Summer Transition Program was a fantastic journey of learning and bonding.

This collection of moments below captures the spirit of community and curiosity that Roton’s rising 6th graders brought to their summer. They include Curious Creatures, Roton’s original “Beach Olympics,” Science Projects, Wacky Hat Wednesday, The Grit Ninja (outdoors), Laser Tag, and so much more!

We look forward to seeing these students thrive as they begin this exciting new chapter in their academic journey this school year.