Carver alumna Dejanah Lorthe shares her story at our Child of America gala
Dejanah shared her story (to date) with our guests attending the annual Child of America gala on Friday, May 19, 2023.
See all the photos of the gala here.
Hello, everyone. Being here among friends, loved ones, and distinguished guests is an honor.
My name is Dejanah Lorthe, and I recently graduated from Norfolk State University with a bachelor’s degree in biology. I want to share with you my journey and the profound impact the Carver and many of you in this room this evening have had on my life.
If someone told me four years ago that I would spend my college years in Virginia, I would have dismissed the idea outright. I had my heart set on attending Howard University. But as they say, life has its own plans. Little did I know then the incredible opportunities that lay ahead, shaping me into the person I am today.
Growing up in Norwalk, the Carver was my second home. It was more than just a place to me. It was where I formed friendships and crucial relationships with mentors who saw my potential for success. It provided me with a community of individuals who cared for me and equipped me with the tools I needed to thrive. Through the Youth Development Program, I had countless activities to choose from, including the annual college tour. This tour allowed me to explore over 20 colleges and universities along the East Atlantic Coast, broadening my horizons and igniting my passion for higher education.
At the age of 14, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. However, I wasn't sure which specialty to choose. I explored various fields like Physical Therapy and Nursing. During my senior year of high school, I became a Certified Emergency Medical Technician. Working alongside paramedics and medical professionals, I honed my ability to react swiftly and effectively in challenging situations. It was during this time that I realized my true calling was in medical science, and I carried that passion with me to college.
Howard University in Washington D.C. has always been my dream since eighth grade. So, when I received the devastating news of my rejection, I began questioning everything.
Nevertheless, I applied to Norfolk State University's Biology program and was accepted. I was offered a place in their Science and Technology Academicians on the Road to Success or STARS program. I majored in Biology with a focus on the Pre-Professional track. I spent the summer on campus, taking courses that prepared me for my first semester.
A university staff member, who is now my forever mentor, spent hours coaching me. She assured me that, with the right guidance and support, the opportunities to build a successful career in science were limitless. She was right.
During my time at NSU, I achieved many milestones. I became a member of the Beta Kappa Chi National Scientific Honor Society. I interned as a Clinical Oncology Assistant at the Hampton Proton Therapy Institute. I conducted individual research on Developmental Biology and Toxicology, focusing on aquatic organisms, which I presented at three national conferences. I proudly represented the university as a Student Ambassador. I joined multiple organizations related to my major. And most recently, I became a Spring 23’ Initiate of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. I am happy to share that my journey will continue at Morehouse School of Medicine.
I want you to understand that none of these accomplishments would have been possible without the Carver. The Carver nurtured me, believed in me, and provided the opportunities I needed to succeed. The Carver gave me cherished memories and experiences that will stay with me forever, including the honor of sharing my story with you this evening.
And I want to express my deepest gratitude for the Athena Scholarship that the Carver awarded me - $10,000 per year for four years. This award blessed me with the enormous financial support and encouragement necessary to pursue my dreams.
You all have seen the EMT medic symbol, the blue Star of Life on ambulances, emergency medical equipment, and patches worn by the clinicians. It has become synonymous with emergency medical care around the globe. The reason why you never see us running to a patient is because that prevents us from spotting hazards on the way in. We're always walking into the unknown.
The Carver recently changed its name and logo from the Carver Foundation of Norwalk to simply The Carver, the name we students have always known it by. The Carver likewise keeps us from running into decisions and from running away from the unknown. The Carver logo is synonymous with the love of a second family for every Carver student and alumnus.
The EMT’s motto is to conserve life, alleviate suffering, promote health, do no harm. There is a more casual saying that it’s the ride of your life, one mission, one team, livin' life with lights & sirens blaring, and when in danger or doubt, get a chopper and fly 'em out. That’s The Carver in every way and the Athena Scholarship was just what I needed to fly up and out!
Today, I stand here as living proof of the incredible impact the Carver has on young lives, including mine. Together, we can continue to transform the lives of countless students, empowering them to achieve their dreams and create a better future for themselves and their communities.
The Carver offers students the ride of their lives, one mission, one team. It’s a great privilege for me to be here with you this evening.
Thank you for regarding your generous support of Carver Kids as a great privilege as well.
Let’s take a look through the lens of Carver students.
Thank you.
Celebrating a Memorable Evening at Carver's Annual Child of America Gala
Photo Album 1
Photo Album 2
Photo Album 3: Dinner, Auction, Award
On Friday, May 19, 2023, Carver's annual Child of America gala took center stage at Shorehaven Golf Club, captivating guests with an unforgettable evening filled with inspiration, gratitude, and community celebration. With a stellar lineup of speakers and honoree Dr. Danielle Robinson, the event showcased the collective efforts to support Carver's mission of empowering and transforming the lives of young individuals. We send a heartfelt thank you to all the remarkable individuals who contributed to the success of this grand affair.
COCKTAIL RECEPTION: The evening commenced with a lively cocktail reception that set the tone for a night to remember. Attendees were warmly greeted by the Gala Co-Chairs, Kim and Drew Seath, whose dedication and commitment were instrumental in bringing the event to life. As our old and new friends mingled and exchanged enthusiastic conversations, the stage was set for the first captivating performance by the incredible Carver alumna (and former “The Voice” contestant) Berdine, whose melodic tunes created an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation.
DINNER AND PROGRAM: Following the cocktail reception, guests were invited to take their seats for an exquisite dinner while immersing themselves in an engaging program. The event was masterfully hosted by Jack Ireland, a talented Carver student who flawlessly guided everyone through the night's proceedings. The Reverend Dwayne McClary delivered a heartfelt invocation, setting the stage for an evening focused on the power of unity and community.
Novelette Peterkin, CEO of Carver, shared her heartfelt remarks, expressing her gratitude to everyone who had contributed to the organization's success and underscoring the significance of their support in transforming the lives of our young individuals. The audience was then treated to the inspiring Alumni Reflections by Dejanah Lorthe, a former Carver student about to enter medical school who shared her personal journey and highlighted the transformative impact of Carver's programs and a special four-year college scholarship she received.
The powerful "Through Our Lens" video presentation captivated the room, showcasing the incredible work and accomplishments achieved by Carver's students and the unwavering dedication of the organization's supporters. The video served as a reminder of the importance of investing in education and empowerment to create a brighter future.
DINNER RECEPTION: The dinner itself was a culinary delight. Amidst the delightful cuisine, Drew Seath, one of the Gala Co-Chairs, took a moment to express gratitude for the generous contributions and support that made the evening possible.
The captivating Summer Learning and Joy Video further demonstrated Carver's commitment to fostering a love for learning and creating joyful student experiences. The video highlighted Carver's diverse range of summer educational activities and enriching experiences to empower students and help them unlock their full potential.
Paddle Raise & Live Auction: Auctioneer Charles Antin presented the Paddle Raise and Live Auction, where guests enthusiastically raised their paddles to give more than $100,000 to the Carver's mission. This spirited fundraising segment showcased the generosity and compassion of the attendees, underscoring their commitment to investing in the future of young individuals.
CHILD OF AMERICA AWARD: The Child of America Award was presented to Danielle M. Robinson, PhD, Head of Community Engagement and Partnerships at Diageo North America. This esteemed recognition celebrated Dr. Robinson's outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to fostering positive change within communities. LaTanya Langley, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary of Edgewell Personal Care was honored to present this well-deserved award, acknowledging Dr. Robinson's exemplary dedication, inspiring leadership, and longtime personal friendship.
IN CLOSING: As the evening drew to a close, Phil Butterfield, President of Carver's Board of Directors, delivered closing remarks, expressing gratitude to everyone who attended the gala and highlighting the incredible friendship and generosity that constitutes the Carver community!
See the video of our Kendall Scholars’ mini-Chopped competition!
See the video of our Kendall Scholars’ mini-Chopped competition! A Chopped Challenge is a competition from the Food Network show, Chopped, where professional chefs get a mystery basket filled with random foods. The challenge is to combine all the foods in the basket into a creative dish. Here are Kendall Scholars doing a Chopped challenge with their own set of foods!
Competitive and generous 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) grants make this and many other programs possible. This is the only federal funding source supporting local after-school, before-school, and summer learning programs.
The next TEEN NIGHT OUT extravaganza is on Friday, May 26th, 7-9 PM!
Come one, come all to the next TEEN NIGHT OUT extravaganza on Friday, May 26th, 7-9 PM, at Ase Kreationz, 145 Water Street, 2A, Norwalk! With top-notch artists, tasty treats, and our enthusiastic community, it's always a good time. @asekreationz and @offthewallstudionyc studio will be combining their studios for Norwalk Teens.
Keller Williams returns to devote Red Day to the Carver community!
An energetic and capable Keller Williams team led this year by Rick Scott and Adonis Chamble returned today to paint two classrooms at the Carver Community Center! Mayor Rilling visited to thank the volunteers for supporting the Carver community and Norwalk’s young people.
Every second Thursday of May, Keller Williams agents, leadership members, and associates step away from daily business duties, proudly donning their red KW gear and venturing into their communities with three goals: renew, energize, and donate.
Widely known as RED Day, this annual day of service took shape in May 2009 to celebrate Keller Williams board member Mo Anderson’s birthday. Thirteen years later, it continues to grow in momentum as the Keller Williams family unites under a shared commitment to philanthropy.
Today is its annual RED Day event. Unsurprisingly, they were named the #1 Company for Work-Life Balance by Indeed.
Many businesses claim to be number one in some aspect of the industry that they occupy, but in the case of Keller Williams Prestige Properties, it’s not disputed. They are the largest real estate company in the United States with the largest number of agents worldwide. They also have the world’s best community spirit!
The company culture fosters a caring environment and takes the team approach to accomplish great things. Today, the company’s commitment to caring for the community is fully displayed at the Carver Community Center.
Keller Williams receives countless accolades. They include its listing by Career Bliss as one of the “happiest companies to work for.” Keller Williams earned the title of Most Innovative Real Estate Company by Fast Company. Forbes named Keller Williams (No. 8 out of 300 ranked) one of the “Best Employers for Women” and Glassdoor featured Keller Williams (No. 29 of 100 ranked) on the Best Places to Work 2020 list.
The Keller Williams real estate team strives to be the best agency out there, both in agent support and customer experience. Thank you, Keller Williams, for devoting this year’s Red Day again to the Carver community!
Carver Celebrates Teachers Appreciation Week!
Every middle school student who participated in our annual STEAM Showcase succeeded!
Each year, Carver invites its middle school students to compete in a STEAM Showcase. You have undoubtedly heard that STEM, which stands for an educational focus in science, tech, engineering and math, has changed to STEAM, to include the arts. Carver students recently gathered in the Carver Community Center gym to exhibit their STEAM creations.
Please join us in giving a round of applause to all our young participants! Award Certificates were given out and the team that won the Best Overall project received an Amazon gift card in the amount of $30.00 for each team member.
The Overall Best Teamwork Award goes to the Nathan Hale Middle School’s Lego presentation.
Philiip Terentino
Edwin Chen
John Paul Hagenkotter
Juan Lantigua
Ace Torres
The Originality Award goes to Nathan Hale Middle School Jewelry Presentation
Amy Livichuzcha
The Most Creative Project Award goes to Nathan Hale Middle School Art Project
Amy Livichuzcha
John Carlos Lopez
Leo Pascuilli
Alfonso Aguilar
Ava Bailey
Shaugnessy Reeves
Jayden Massey
Malik Wahid
Jillian Santos
Damian Uva
Gavin Colas
Gavin Fellini
Inder Singh
Phillip Terentino
The Top Presentation Award goes to Roton Middle School Technology Project
Sam Burns
Ahnai Dennis
Journee Miller
Caden Webb
Romina Bermeo
Julian Morales
Alejandro Lua
Peyton Tyler
Leah Casteneda
Carlos Valdovinos
Jacob Palacios
The Most Innovative Award goes to Ponus Ridge Middle School’s Speaker Technology Project
Cecila Garcia
Jadhora King
Jefferson Polanco
Thessara Samasgala
Ethan Nicholson
Jaynyla Mitchell
Priya Patel
The Best Overall Project Team Winner (each student received a $30 Amazon gift card) was Side By Side Charter School for their Videography Project
Edolie Grant
Penelope Fisher
Amy Quinteros
National School Lunch Hero Day Honors Our Frontline Workers Dedicated to Serving Up Happy and Healthy in Norwalk's Schools
Preparing kid-favorite recipes? Helping students fuel up for an afternoon quiz or the big game? Creating a place for kids to relax and connect with friends? Sharing healthy eating habits to last a lifetime? Serving up happy and healthy in school cafeterias across the country? It's no small feat checking all that and more off the list each day, and it's all thanks to the dedicated lunch ladies and men showing their superpowers as heroes of the cafeteria!
Tomorrow, Friday, May 5th, Chartwells K12 which also serves Carver kids in our after-school and summer programs, celebrates National School Lunch Hero Day to recognize its chefs, dietitians, and food service workers making mealtime fun in schools across the country. In honor of School Lunch Hero Day this year, Chartwells is sending every associate a special edition apron, or cape turned backward, as a tribute to their superhero status serving 2 million meals a day to students and ensuring kids leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in.
School Lunch Heroes at Norwalk Public Schools are superb at serving happy and fun! From closing out the school year with a "Rock the Bike Tour" with the district's new blender bike to share nutrition education to giving students a chance to vote on lunch favorites and consistently offering new menu options from smoothies to global cuisines, happy cafeterias start with them!
