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Pepperidge Farm Elves Spread Joy at Carver Community Center, Wrapping a Mountain of Gifts for Santa's Special Delivery!

Jodi McCauly, Sera Duncan, Nicholas Duncan, and Pilar Gayton

'Tis the season of giving, and the spirit of generosity is alive and thriving at the Carver Community Center! This year, the festive atmosphere is even more magical as Pepperidge Farm employees returned to the Richard Whitcomb Gymnasium to spread holiday cheer by wrapping a literal mountain of toys for the eagerly awaiting children in the community.

The Carver Community Center, a hub of warmth and compassion, hosted the lively event, where the air buzzed with excitement and the spirit of giving. Pepperidge Farm volunteers, including the dedicated Jodi McCauly, Sera Duncan, Nicholas Duncan, and Pilar Gayton, joined hands with other enthusiastic community members, including the ever-helpful Kim Gaddy and Matt, to create a spectacle of joy that would make even Santa's elves envious.

As the clock ticked to the much-anticipated Carver Community Center's annual Holiday Party this evening, the volunteers worked tirelessly to wrap myriad gifts, transforming the center into a winter wonderland of surprises. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and joy from knowing they were making a difference in the lives of hundreds of children.

Kim Gaddy and Matt

The generosity wasn't confined to Pepperidge Farm alone; the gifts pouring in were a collective effort from various friends and organizations. The Young Women’s League of New Canaan, Rowayton Fire Department, and the Westport Police Department, among many others, contributed to the cause, ensuring no child would be left without a smile during this festive season.

Jodi McCauly, one of the Pepperidge Farm volunteers, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, saying, "Being part of this wonderful tradition is truly heartwarming. Knowing that we're bringing joy to many children in our community is the best gift."

The Carver Community Center's annual Holiday Party has become a beacon of joy and celebration, uniting the community in the spirit of giving. Tonight, as the children gather to see Santa and receive their beautifully wrapped gifts, the love and dedication poured into this event will undoubtedly create memories that last a lifetime.

In a world often bustling with the chaos of everyday life, it's heartening to witness the magic that unfolds when a community comes together to make the holidays brighter for those who need it most. The Pepperidge Farm volunteers and fellow community members have once again proven that the season's true spirit lies in the joy of giving and the warmth of shared moments.

As the Carver Community Center prepares to open its doors to the excited children this evening, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers, donors, and organizations who have made this year's Holiday Party an unforgettable celebration of love, kindness, and the true meaning of this holiday season. Here's to creating memories that sparkle as bright as the season's twinkling lights!

Joyful Jingles and Creative Crafts: Carver's After the Bell Program Sparkles with Festive Fun at Naramake Elementary!

The holiday spirit is alive and thriving at Naramake Elementary School, thanks to the heartwarming efforts of Carver's After the Bell program. Students are diving into the season's magic, bringing joy and creativity to every corner of the school with their enchanting paper snowflakes and delightful gingerbread houses.

Step 1: Gathering Inspiration

The journey into holiday crafting began with a burst of inspiration. Students, guided by the enthusiastic team at Carver's After the Bell, explored various festive themes, colors, and designs. The goal was to spark creativity and encourage students to infuse their unique personalities into each project.

Step 2: Designing Dazzling Paper Snowflakes

With visions of winter wonderlands dancing in their heads, students embarked on the first project: crafting intricate paper snowflakes. Armed with scissors, colorful paper, and a dash of imagination, each child carefully cut out delicate patterns, turning ordinary sheets into stunning snowflake masterpieces. The room buzzed with laughter and camaraderie as the snowflakes took shape, reflecting the diverse creativity of every young artist.

Step 3: Building Sweet Memories with Gingerbread Houses

The sweet aroma of gingerbread filled the air as the students transitioned to the second project: building gingerbread houses. Before the construction began, Carver's After the Bell provided a crash course on basic architecture and design. Armed with icing, candies, and an assortment of edible decorations, the children transformed plain gingerbread into charming cottages, creating delicious displays of holiday cheer.

Step 4: Sharing the Joy

The true magic of the holidays lies in sharing, and the students at Naramake Elementary embraced this sentiment wholeheartedly. With their completed snowflakes and gingerbread houses in hand, the children had the opportunity to showcase their creations to peers, teachers, and parents. The pride and joy on their faces were contagious, spreading the season's warmth to all who witnessed the festive display.

Step 5: Fostering Friendship and Fun

Beyond the glitter and frosting, Carver's After the Bell program emphasized the importance of teamwork, friendship, and the joy of giving. Students worked collaboratively, sharing ideas and materials to ensure that each snowflake and gingerbread house was a unique testament to the spirit of the holidays.

The Happy Holidays activity at Naramake Elementary School became more than just a crafting session; it celebrated creativity, friendship, and the magic that happens when young minds come together in the spirit of joy and togetherness. As the school echoes with laughter and twinkles with handmade decorations, the festive season at Naramake is truly something special, thanks to the heartwarming efforts of Carver's After the Bell program.

Spreading Holiday Cheer: Rowayton Fire Department and Civic Association Continue the Tradition of Giving with the Mike Barbis Santa Toy Drive

Joan and John de Regt

The spirit of giving is alive and well in Rowayton as the Rowayton Fire Department and the Rowayton Civic Association joined forces once again to bring joy and holiday cheer to Carver kids. This long-standing tradition, now known as the Mike Barbis Santa Toy Drive, is a testament to the community's commitment to spreading love during the festive season.

Longtime Carver volunteers Joan and John de Regt delivered gifts to the Carver Community Center yesterday.

For many years, the Rowayton Fire Department and the Rowayton Civic Association have been collecting toys and other gifts for Carver kids, ensuring that the holiday season is a time of delight for everyone. The dedication of individuals like Mary Ellen Walsh and Lynn Anderson, who tirelessly helped to gather mountains of gifts, reflects the community's generosity and kindness.

Special thanks also go to RCA President Jen Capelo, who donated a Christmas tree and decorations for Carver's Community Holiday Party this Friday at the Carver Community Center. The festive ambiance created by these decorations will give a touch of magic to the celebration.

The Santa Toy Drive was renamed last year in honor of the late Mike Barbis, Rowayton's former commissioner and a devoted friend and advocate for Carver. Among his many contributions, the Toy Drive held a special place in Mike's heart. Co-founder Joan DeRegt and a team of dedicated volunteers ensured that the gifts reached the Carver Community Center, turning our space into a holiday wonderland for the children.

L-R: Brian Allert, Carver Chief Program Officer; John and Joan DeRegt, Nikki LaFaye, Carver’s Director of Philanthropy

The donated gifts, ranging from toys and sporting equipment to books and gift cards, represent the true spirit of love. Joan DeRegt and her team of Rowayton volunteers exemplify the magic of the holiday season, proving that the joy of giving knows no bounds.

As we revel in the festive spirit, let's extend our gratitude to everyone in Rowayton who participated in this heartwarming initiative. The collective effort and selfless acts of kindness make the holiday season special. The love and generosity shown by these volunteers not only bring joy to Carver families but also serve as a reminder of the timeless magic of the season. May the spirit of giving light up our hearts throughout the year.

Westport Police Department Spreads Holiday Cheer: Generosity Shines as Gifts Pour in for Carver Kids

Officer Craig Bergamo is joined here by Carver staff Mary Martini and Tricia Massucco. Officer Bergamo is a former Carver kid! Here is more information about Officer Bergamo’s exemplary career at the Westport Police Department.

In the spirit of the holiday season, the Westport Police Department has once again demonstrated the true meaning of community and generosity. This year, the department has taken the initiative to collect and donate gifts for Carver kids, ensuring that the upcoming Carver Holiday Party on Friday, December 8th, will be a memorable and joyous occasion for all.

The Westport Police Department's commitment to fostering a sense of unity and care within the community is truly commendable. Their thoughtfulness shines through as they go above and beyond to make a positive impact on the lives of Carver children during the festive season.

Interview with Craig Bergamo, president of the Westport Police Athletic League

The spirit of giving back has always been a cornerstone of the holiday season, and the Westport Police Department exemplifies this principle in action. By organizing the collection and donation of gifts for Carver kids, they not only bring smiles to the faces of the children but also create a sense of warmth and togetherness that resonates throughout the entire community.

Community events like the Carver Holiday Party are not just about celebrating the season but also about fostering connections and building a sense of belonging. The Westport Police Department's involvement adds a layer of compassion to the festivities, a positive force in bringing communities together.

As we approach the Carver Holiday Party on December 8th, let's take a moment to appreciate the thoughtfulness and generosity of the Westport Police Department. Their efforts not only bring holiday joy to Carver kids but also remind us all of the incredible impact that a caring community can have on the lives of its residents. Cheers to the Westport Police Department for spreading the holiday spirit and making a difference in the lives of Carver children!

Empowering Futures: A Heartfelt Thank You to The Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Family Foundation for Transforming Lives at Carver

In philanthropy, there are beacons of hope that shine brighter than others, guiding organizations toward making a profound impact in their communities. Today, we express our deepest gratitude to The Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Family Foundation, Inc., whose unwavering support has been instrumental in Carver's mission to create opportunities and remove barriers for children and families in need.

The Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Family Foundation is a stalwart champion across various philanthropic sectors. From education and youth services to healthcare, culture, and community development, the foundation's dedication to fostering positive change has left an indelible mark on countless lives. One of the critical areas of focus for The Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Family Foundation is education—a cause close to our hearts at Carver. The foundation’s commitment to school leadership, college readiness, affordability, and cultural programs aligns seamlessly with our vision to empower children with the tools they need to succeed in every facet of life.

The foundation may be best known for the Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Prize in Education, which has recognized and celebrated more than 100 remarkable leaders in all areas of education who have had a profound and lasting impact on our world since it was established in 1988 to honor Harold W. McGraw, Jr. when he retired as the Chairman of McGraw-Hill. In 2020, the Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Family Foundation selected the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education as the new home for the Prize.

As one of Carver's largest donors, the foundation has provided financial assistance and given us confidence in our ability to make a meaningful difference. The foundation's belief in Carver's capacity to bridge opportunity gaps for all children is both priceless and humbling. 

Through the generosity of foundations like The Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Family Foundation, we can create a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. Their commitment to nurturing a brighter future for our community resonates deeply with our mission, and we are honored to have them as partners in our journey.

To The Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Family Foundation, we extend our sincerest thanks for your continuous support, unwavering belief in our cause, and dedication to transforming the lives of children and families. Together, we are shaping a better tomorrow filled with opportunities, hope, and endless possibilities.

Fostering Empathy and Critical Thinking Through Project-Based Learning

Carver before- and after-school programs utilize project-based learning (PBL) to engage students in meaningful, real-world projects that develop critical knowledge and skills. PBL is a teaching method centered around an extended inquiry process that engages students to answer a complex question or solve a real-world problem.

Unlike traditional classroom learning, PBL fosters collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking as students navigate hands-on projects. With PBL, students create a public product or presentation for an authentic audience, learning to apply their knowledge to new situations. This process allows students to gain deep content knowledge and understanding while developing essential skills like communication, collaboration, empathy, and problem-solving.

Carver recognizes that in today's rapidly changing world, students need learning experiences that equip them with more than content knowledge. PBL develops the human skills crucial for students to understand diverse perspectives, work with others, and navigate complex challenges. By grounding projects in real-world contexts, students learn academics and how to impact their communities positively.

Our before- and after-school staff (e.g., daytime teachers) and partners, such as the Maritime Aquarium, Mad Science, and robotics providers, design meaningful PBL experiences that unleash students' creative potential.

We facilitate community partnerships, model project design techniques, share resources, integrate technology, and nurture collaborative learning communities. Our role is to create transformative learning through PBL that helps students reach their full potential while understanding their ability to drive positive change. Ultimately, Carver utilizes PBL because we understand that academics and human skills must intersect for growth.

PBL fosters this growth by drawing out students’ innate compassion and ability to think critically about solving real issues. When students collaborate to drive change, they gain perseverance, problem-solving abilities, and a sense of empathy that allows them to contribute to society.

That's the power of learning through projects.

Carver Community Unites for Global Generosity on GivingTuesday

In the heart of the Carver community, the spirit of generosity beats strong, and tomorrow,  November 28, 2023, we are thrilled to join hands with the world in celebrating GivingTuesday. More than just a day on the calendar, GivingTuesday is a global movement that transcends borders, encouraging people from every corner of the globe to channel their generosity towards charitable causes.

A Global Celebration of Giving

GivingTuesday, an annual event on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, is not just a date—it's a call to action. It's a day when the world comes together to give back in myriad ways, be it through acts of kindness, the sharing of one's voice, the contribution of time, talent, or treasure. It's a moment when communities worldwide unite in a shared purpose: to foster a spirit of giving and philanthropy during the holiday season.

The GivingTuesday Impact

On this day, across six continents, hundreds of thousands of leaders and millions of individuals collaborate to create positive change. The GivingTuesday movement serves as a nucleus, supporting local impact through networked leadership development, strategic communication that amplifies the effects of generosity, and the deployment of human, financial, and social capital. The result? A global ritualization of generosity that significantly increases the rate at which people give and volunteer worldwide.

Carver's Commitment to Generosity

At Carver, community isn't just a word—it's ingrained in our identity. We are proud to be part of a global initiative that shares our commitment to propelling generosity across every culture, continent, and context. GivingTuesday is not just a day; it's a reminder that each of us has the power to make a positive impact, both locally and globally.

This GivingTuesday, let's stand together as the Carver community and contribute our time, resources, and talents to make a difference. Whether it's a small act of kindness or a larger gesture, each contribution adds to the collective spirit of generosity that defines this remarkable movement. Join us on November 28, 2023, as we celebrate GivingTuesday and showcase the true power of community and generosity. Together, we can transform the world, one act of kindness at a time.