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Gratitude to Our Amazing Donors, Partners, Students, and Parents! Wishing All a Joyful and Healthy 2024!

Dear Carver Community,

As we welcome 2024, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been a part of the incredible journey we've had in 2023. It has been a year filled with growth, achievements, and the unwavering support of our dedicated donors, partners, students, and parents.

A Year of Impact:

In 2023, Carver continued to make a positive impact in the lives of over 3,000 students across various schools, including in all the schools in the Norwalk Public Schools district, Side by Side Charter School, the Classical Studies Magnet Academy in Bridgeport, Naugatuck High School, Stamford High School, and the Carver Community Center in Norwalk. Through 66+ before-school, after-school, and summer programs, Carver provided a nurturing environment where children thrived academically, socially, and emotionally.

Our unique programming, aligned with in-school curricula and led by certified teachers, ensures academic success and incorporates recreational, wellness, and cultural components. These elements contribute to the holistic development of our students, enhancing a variety of skills crucial for their future.

Community-Centric Approach:

Carver doesn't stop at school-based programs. We proudly operate over 20 community programs through the Carver Community Center, engaging youth and parents in various activities and support initiatives throughout the year. Our commitment to community-building and parental involvement plays a vital role in the success of our students.

Empowering Futures:

Since 2005, every Carver senior has graduated high school on time; nearly all have become first-generation college students. This achievement is a testament to our commitment to fostering an environment where dreams are encouraged and realized.

Recognition and Trust:

Carver consistently receives the highest ratings from reputable organizations such as the Better Business Bureau, Charity Navigator, Guidestar, and other national agencies. This recognition reflects our dedication to transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of resources our generous donors and partners provide.

A Heartfelt Thank You:

To our donors and partners, your support has been the bedrock of our success. To our students, thank you for your enthusiasm and commitment to learning. To the parents, your involvement is invaluable. You make the Carver community vibrant, supportive, and truly special.

Wishing You a Joyful and Healthy 2024:

As we embark on a new year, Carver extends warm wishes for joy, health, and prosperity to each community member. May 2024 be a year of continued growth, learning, and success for all.

Thank you for being an integral part of the Carver story. Here's to another year of making a difference together!

Maria Fe Luque is attending Harvard University. She is a first-generation college student.

Carver's After the Bell Extravaganza: When the Grinch and Santa Teamed Up for a Holiday Hullabaloo!

The holiday season is synonymous with joy, laughter, and a sprinkle of magic. This year, at Marvin Elementary School, Carver's After the Bell program took the festive cheer to a new level with a Holiday Party that left students wide-eyed and grinning from ear to ear.

"A Grinch-Sized Surprise!"

The highlight of the evening? A surprise appearance by none other than the Grinch himself, in all his green and grouchy glory! From head to toe, our Grinch was fully costumed and utterly convincing, bringing Dr. Seuss's iconic character to life right before the eyes of our After the Bell students.

The mischievous Grinch stole the show (and maybe a candy cane or two) as he spread holiday antics and laughter. The kids were in stitches as he playfully interacted with them, staying true to his Grinchy nature while adding a dose of holiday humor to the festivities.

"Santa Claus Joins the Festivities!"

But the surprises didn't end there. Santa Claus made a grand entrance, rounding out the dynamic duo for an unforgettable evening in a twist that had everyone on the nice list. Santa's rosy cheeks and hearty laugh added to the merriment as he distributed small gifts and posed for pictures with the delighted students.

"Festive Fun and Laughter for All!"

The Carver staff went above and beyond to create a holiday celebration that transcended the ordinary. From festive decorations to holiday tunes, the atmosphere was brimming with warmth and seasonal spirit. The joy on the children's faces was the greatest gift, making every effort put into the event more than worthwhile, including the students’ own effort in decorating themselves!

It was a true holiday extravaganza for everyone involved. The laughter echoed through the halls, and the memories created will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

"Building Community, One Jingle Bell at a Time!"

At Carver, we believe in creating educational experiences and memories that light up a child's world. The Holiday Party at Marvin Elementary School showcased the dedication and creativity of our staff in fostering a sense of community and joy. Moments like these remind us of the magic that happens when we come together to celebrate the season's spirit.

As we wrap up another calendar year of enriching programs and memorable moments, the Carver family wishes everyone a joyful holiday season and a new year filled with laughter, growth, and endless possibilities! 🎄🌟

Carver's Year-End Gratitude: Celebrating the Carver Community

L-R: Volunteer Patrick Steele; Mary Martini, Manager of Middle and High School Programs; Tricia Massucco, Director of Elementary School Programs; volunteers Kellee Abdelwahab and Danielle Verardo; Clinton Hamilton, Chief Operating Officer

The end of the year brings about a time of reflection and gratitude, and at The Carver, our hearts are overflowing with appreciation for the incredible community that surrounds us. As we bid farewell to 2023, we express our deepest thanks to the students, parents, donors, volunteers, program partners, and staff who have been the driving force behind The Carver’s endurance and success.

A Community of Champions

One shining example of the power of community is volunteer extraordinaire Kellee Abdelwahab. Kellee rallied her mom friends in New Canaan to raise financial support and donate toys for Carver's annual Holiday Party for Norwalk families. Dubbed “Kellee Klaus,” she assembled a team of volunteer elves to help, including Danielle Verardo and Julie Bennett. Kellee further inspired members of the Young Women’s League of New Canaan, led by President Domenica Monaghan, to generously donate even more toys for our children. Way to go, Kellee Klaus! Kellee and Julie volunteer on Carver’s Board Development Committee and serve as Co-Chairs of Carver’s annual Child of America Gala on Friday, May 17, 2024.

Rowayton volunteer Patrick Steele significantly impacted this holiday season, consistently stepping up to lend a helping hand. Patrick and Susan Weinberger, another longtime friend of Carver's, are co-leading our new volunteer program in 2024.

Sam and Jane Marrone also joined us to bring holiday cheer to Carver's kids this year.

The Greens Farms Academy volunteers Kevin Coll (English Dept Chair) and Marcella Wilson (a former GFA teacher) and student volunteers, led by Max Kim, Carver board member Inwha Huh’s son, played a pivotal role in ensuring the holiday season was filled with joy for the entire Carver community.

A Heartfelt Thank You

At the heart of it all, the community breathes life into every initiative at The Carver. As we reflect on the year gone by, we recognize that none of our accomplishments would have been possible without your unwavering support. Your dedication fuels our work; you are always in our thoughts as we strive to make a positive impact.

To our devoted community, we thank you for making 2023 a year of remarkable achievements.

Looking Ahead to 2024

As we eagerly anticipate the dawn of 2024, we are excited about the prospect of continuing to deliver the quality, rigor, and insight you have come to expect from us. Your attention and generous support have laid the foundation for our success, and we are committed to exceeding your expectations in the coming year.

In closing, we express our deepest gratitude and extend warm wishes to you and your loved ones for a happy New Year filled with good health and peace. Thank you from everyone at The Carver for making the Carver community whole. Here's to a bright and successful 2024 together!

Volunteer Vinny Scicchitano Spreads Holiday Cheer with Toys for Tots at Carver Holiday Party

Vinny Scicchitano

The holiday spirit was alive and well at Carver’s recent Holiday Party, thanks to the dedicated efforts of many heroes, including volunteer Vinny Scicchitano. This season, Vinny took the lead in ensuring that children in the community experience the joy of the holidays by coordinating with Toys for Tots for the Carver Holiday Party.

Vinny Scicchitano, a familiar face in Norwalk known for his decades of community service, rallied Carver staff and volunteers to help receive and prepare the generous donations from Toys for Tots. The atmosphere was warm and excited as they worked tirelessly to prepare the gifts for the eager kids who would soon be unwrapping them.

A true Norwalkian, Vinny has been an active community member for decades. Not only has he raised his own family in Norwalk, but he has also been a proud member of the Saint Ann’s Club of Norwalk. His 40-year tenure exemplifies his commitment to the local business scene as a business owner in East Norwalk, a feat that has undoubtedly contributed to the city's vibrant and thriving economy.

As a member of the Norwalk Chamber of Commerce, Vinny plays a crucial role in fostering connections and promoting the growth of businesses in the area. His dedication to the community goes beyond business, extending into various philanthropic efforts that make Norwalk a better place for everyone.

Vinny Scicchitano's involvement in the Carver Holiday Party is just one of the many ways he continues giving back to the community he holds dear. His passion for making a positive impact on the lives of Norwalk's residents is truly commendable, and it inspires others to get involved and spread the spirit of generosity during the holiday season.

As we celebrate the season of giving, let's take a moment to appreciate the selfless efforts of Carver’s many volunteers, including Vinny Scicchitano, whose commitment to community service and generosity makes Norwalk a brighter and more joyful place for all.

Carver staff and volunteers

The Carver Earns a Four-Star Rating From Charity Navigator 

The Carver is proud to announce we earned Charity Navigator’s highest rating yet again this year. This award signifies the strongest financial health and ongoing accountability and transparency that a charity can offer its supporters.

This 4-star rating is one that we have earned consistently yearly from Charity Navigator. It designates Carver as an official “Give with Confidence” charity, indicating that our organization uses its donations effectively based on Charity Navigator’s rigorous criteria.

Charity Navigator is America’s largest and most utilized independent charity evaluator. The organization is an unbiased and trusted source of information for more than 11 million donors annually.

Charity Navigator analyzes nonprofit performance based on four key indicators called beacons. Nonprofits can earn scores for the Impact & Results, Accountability & Finance, Culture & Community, and Leadership & Adaptability beacons.

“We are delighted to provide The Carver with third-party accreditation that validates their operational excellence,” said Michael Thatcher, President and CEO of Charity Navigator. “The Four-Star Rating is the highest possible rating an organization can achieve. We are eager to see the good work that The Carver can accomplish in the years ahead.”

 “Our Four-Star Charity Navigator is further validation that our supporters can trust our commitment to good governance and financial health,” said Novelette Peterkin, CEO. “We hope it will introduce our work to new supporters who can help us advance our mission to equip all learners for global competitiveness by leading strategic partnerships with schools and communities that advance excellence and growth opportunities.

Carver Triumphs in 2023 Citizenship Pitch Competition: A Beacon of Social Responsibility, Sponsored by Apollo Global Management

The Carver is thrilled to announce it was selected as one of the winners in Apollo Global Management’s 2023 Citizenship Pitch Competition. This competition is a testament to Apollo's commitment to fostering positive change in the communities where its employees work and live.

Advocates for Change: Brooke Sorensen, a dedicated member of the Carver Board of Directors, and Robert Strickland, a key figure in the Carver Board Development Committee, played pivotal roles in championing Carver's cause. Their passionate advocacy paved the way for Carver to be one of the ten finalists in the highly competitive pitch competition and then one of just three finalists to win grants.

Global Employee Engagement: Apollo's Citizenship Pitch Competition is a unique platform that invites employees from around the globe to pitch organizations close to their hearts. With many submissions each year, the competition reflects the diverse interests and community engagement of Apollo's workforce. The finalists have the opportunity to present their chosen nonprofits to a panel of judges, including members of the Management Committee and the Global Head of Citizenship.

A Testimony to Innovation: Citizenship, at the heart of Apollo's mission to 'Lead Responsibly,' seeks to support the varied interests of its employees and their desire to make a difference. The competition serves as a springboard for innovative ideas that can contribute to social change. With a commitment to expanding opportunities for positive impact, Apollo's Citizenship program has become a driving force in empowering employees to give back to their communities.

A Positive Future: Carver's role in the 2023 Citizenship Pitch Competition represents progress and momentum. With the $20,000 grant from Apollo, Carver can amplify its impact, contributing to positive change while aligning with the values of Apollo's Citizenship program. As we look ahead, it's evident that initiatives like these are crucial in building a better, more inclusive future for all.

Spreading Cheer and Gifts: Carver's Community Center Hosts Joyous Holiday Party! (Copy)

'Tis the season to be jolly, and with help from St.Luke’s School volunteers the Carver Community Center pulled out all the stops to make this holiday season extra special for everyone in the community. The air was filled with laughter, joy, and the spirit of giving as Carver's Community Center hosted a festive Holiday Party that left smiles on the faces of young and old alike.

The event, held at the heart of the community, was a true celebration of togetherness. The Carver team worked tirelessly to create a magical atmosphere that would make everyone feel the warmth and joy of the holiday season. From twinkling lights to festive decorations, the community center became a winter wonderland.

One of the highlights of the evening was the abundance of gift-giving. Generous sponsors, community members, and local businesses came together to contribute many gifts, ensuring that every attendee felt the love and generosity of the season. The excitement in the air was palpable as children eagerly received their presents, creating memories that would undoubtedly last a lifetime.

No holiday celebration would be complete without a visit from the one and only Santa Claus and the Carver Community Center pulled off a spectacular entrance. Santa, with his hearty laughter and bag full of gifts, made a grand entrance that brought a twinkle to the eyes of everyone present. Children lined up eagerly for a chance to share their wishes and receive a special gift from the man in red.

Festive music, delicious treats, and the warmth of community spirit enhanced the joyous atmosphere. Families came together to celebrate, share stories, and create bonds far beyond the holiday season. The sense of unity and camaraderie was genuinely heartwarming, showcasing the strength and resilience of the Carver community.

As the night came to a close, the echoes of laughter and the smiles on the faces of attendees were a testament to the success of Carver's Holiday Party. The event brought holiday cheer to the community and highlighted the power of coming together to create positive and lasting memories.

In the true spirit of the season, the Carver Community Center's Holiday Party was a resounding success, proving once again that joy is best when shared with those we hold dear. Here's to the spirit of giving, the magic of the holidays, and the strength of community bonds that make every celebration unique.

St. Luke’s School volunteers

Carver's 21st CCLC Programs: Transforming Lives Through Afterschool Enrichment

For students and families in Norwalk, the afterschool hours are pivotal times of enrichment and growth, thanks to Carver's 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) funded programs. This funding is the only federal source dedicated solely to afterschool programming, which is making a tremendous positive impact.

At the elementary level, Carver's Jefferson Scholars, Kendall Scholars, Naramake Scholars, and Silvermine Scholars programs introduce 5th graders to the rigors of middle school. Through study hall, homework help, STEAM projects, wellness activities, and more, students develop crucial skills for academic and personal success.

The high school programs at Brien McMahon and Norwalk High take this enrichment even further. In addition to tutoring and college/career prep, students gain first-hand workplace experience through paid internships and partnerships with local professionals. This holistic approach ensures graduates are poised to thrive in college and their careers.

None of this would be possible without the 21st CCLC grants and steadfast support from the Connecticut State Department of Education. Carver is immensely grateful for their vision of ensuring all students can access high-quality afterschool learning opportunities.

From elementary school through high school graduation, Carver's 21st CCLC programs are expanding worlds and changing lives. The academic enrichment activities, STEAM project-based learning, wellness, parent engagement programs, and well-rounded experiences prepare Norwalk's youths for a future of endless possibilities.

Carver's 21st CCLC Programs: Transforming Lives Through Afterschool Enrichment

For students and families in Norwalk, the afterschool hours are pivotal times of enrichment and growth, thanks to Carver's 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) funded programs. This funding is the only federal source dedicated solely to afterschool programming, which is making a tremendous positive impact.

At the elementary level, Carver's Jefferson Scholars, Kendall Scholars, Naramake Scholars, and Silvermine Scholars programs introduce 5th graders to the rigors of middle school. Through study hall, homework help, STEAM projects, wellness activities, and more, students develop crucial skills for academic and personal success.

The high school programs at Brien McMahon and Norwalk High take this enrichment even further. In addition to tutoring and college/career prep, students gain first-hand workplace experience through paid internships and partnerships with local professionals. This holistic approach ensures graduates are poised to thrive in college and their careers.

None of this would be possible without the 21st CCLC grants and steadfast support from the Connecticut State Department of Education. Carver is immensely grateful for their vision of ensuring all students can access high-quality afterschool learning opportunities.

From elementary school through high school graduation, Carver's 21st CCLC programs are expanding worlds and changing lives. The academic enrichment activities, STEAM project-based learning, wellness, parent engagement programs, and well-rounded experiences prepare Norwalk's youths for a future of endless possibilities.