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Carver's 51st Annual Testimonial Dinner Awards and Scholarships, this Wednesday, 6-8PM!

Our young people and their proud families and teachers will gather on Wednesday, June 7th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in the Richard Whitcomb Gymnasium at the Carver Community Center, for our 51st Annual Testimonial Dinner. We will celebrate the academic accomplishments of our students, and we award financial scholarships to our seniors graduating high school and our college students currently pursuing their undergraduate degrees. We hope that you can join us!

Carver's Child of America honoree, Danielle Robinson, in the news about her work at Diageo leading the way for corporate America supporting HBCUs

See the videos, photos, and all the details about our 2023 Child of America gala here.

…At the beverage company Diageo North America, the employee resource group for African Americans shaped a program that has provided almost $12 million to HBCUs, said Danielle Robinson, head of community engagement and partnerships for Diageo. The money has gone toward scholarships at 29 schools to lessen the debt burden on Black graduates.

“We talked about a lot of different things, but one of the things that kept coming up was the generational wealth gap,” Robinson said.



See the entire 6/1/2023 article via the link to the right.

U.S. Companies, Nudged by Black Employees, Have Stepped Up Donations to HBCUs

…Historically Black colleges and universities, which had seen giving from foundations decline in recent decades, lately are benefiting from an increase in gifts, particularly from corporations and corporate foundations. Some have received a new look from companies amid the reckoning over racial injustice spurred by the killing of George Floyd. But the colleges also have been pitching themselves, emphasizing their ability to deliver returns on the investment in student mobility.

Another factor in the giving by corporations has been the influence of their Black employees.

At the beverage company Diageo North America, the employee resource group for African Americans shaped a program that has provided almost $12 million to HBCUs, said Danielle Robinson, head of community engagement and partnerships for Diageo. The money has gone toward scholarships at 29 schools to lessen the debt burden on Black graduates.

“We talked about a lot of different things, but one of the things that kept coming up was the generational wealth gap,” Robinson said.

The giving to HBCUs is a new trend for corporations, which had largely ignored them before 2020, said Marybeth Gasman, a Rutgers University professor who researches HBCUs. Increasingly, HBCUs have been using the language of business to argue they not only have a high need but also are a good investment, she said.

HBCUs often have smaller endowments and lower levels of public funding than other universities. A report released in May found foundation support of HBCUs declined 30 percent from 2002 to 2019. Data is incomplete for more recent years, but HBCUs have been reporting a sustained increase lately in donations from corporations as well as philanthropic foundations….

This article is part of a partnership the Chronicle has forged with the Associated Press and the Conversation to expand coverage of philanthropy and nonprofits. The three organizations receive support for this work from the Lilly Endowment. The AP is solely responsible for the content in this article.

The annual Norwalk Public Schools K-12 Art Show will open on Wednesday, June 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Norwalk Art Space

The annual Norwalk Public Schools K-12 Art Show will open on Wednesday, June 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Norwalk Art Space. Student artwork will be on display through Sunday, June 11. 

Admission is free and open to the public. See below for the Norwalk Art Space hours of operation.

Wednesday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

2022-2023 School Year Coming to a Close

Norwalk Public Schools closes out the 2022-23 school year saying farewell to Cranbury School, participating in Fairfield County’s annual Pride in the Park event, and celebrating graduations!

Cranbury Elementary invites the community on Saturday, June 10, to say goodbye to the school building that opened in 1959. Students and staff will move into their new building this fall. The new Cranbury Elementary School is a 62,288-square-foot building built in the field directly west of the existing school. The city last built a new school in 1971, when Norwalk High School, Jefferson Elementary, and Marvin Elementary were constructed.

Later on Saturday, June 10th, Norwalk Public Schools will celebrate and support the LGBTQIA+ community at the annual Pride in the Park event at Veterans Park.

For a complete list of high school graduations and middle school promotions, click here: https://bit.ly/3nfdaxG

NPS Last Day, Graduation & Promotion Dates

The last day of school for Norwalk Public Schools will be Friday, June 16.

High School Graduations

  • Center for Global Studies - Friday, June 9 at 6 p.m. at the Center for Global Studies

  • Norwalk High School & P-TECH - Thursday, June 15 at 6 p.m. at Norwalk High School (Testa Field)

    • P-TECH students: The P-TECH early graduation ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 11 at the Norwalk Art Space. The ceremony is invitation only. The Norwalk Community College will host its graduation on Thursday, May 18 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Hartford Healthcare Amphitheatre in Bridgeport.

  • Brien McMahon High School & CGS - Friday, June 16 at 6 p.m. at Brien McMahon High School (Jack Casagrande Field)

Middle School Promotions

  • Concord Magnet School - Wednesday, June 14 at 6 p.m. at Concord Magnet School

  • Nathan Hale Middle School - Wednesday, June 14 at 5:30 p.m. at Norwalk High School (auditorium)

  • Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy - Wednesday, June 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Brien McMahon High School (auditorium)

  • Roton Middle School - Wednesday, June 14 at 5 p.m. at Brien McMahon High School (auditorium)

  • West Rocks Middle School - Wednesday, June 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Norwalk City Hall

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.