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Carver Volunteers Marcia Cleary and Sue Okie to be Honored for their Outstanding Contribution

Marcia Cleary and Sue Okie, dedicated volunteers at The Carver, are being recognized for their exceptional contributions at The Community Fund of Darien's 45th annual Volunteer Celebration. They will be honored in the Outstanding Volunteer Duo category for their remarkable efforts supporting The Carver's mission.

Cleary and Okie co-chaired The Carver's 2023 Darien Connections Party at The Greenhouse at Nielsen's Florist, which brought together the community in celebration. Their leadership and coordination, along with the tireless work of the Darien Connections Committee, ensured a memorable evening for all attendees.

The Darien Connections Committee, comprising Kelcie Lopez, Drew and Kim Seath, Jane and Sam Marrone, Liz Bacon, Elmerina Brooks, Barbara Cox, Dr. George Tsimoyianis "Dr. T," and Diana Tsimoyianis, played a pivotal role in making the event a resounding success. Their collective efforts set the stage for an unforgettable experience, highlighting the power of community engagement and volunteerism.

The public is invited to The Community Fund of Darien's annual Volunteer Celebration on Tuesday, April 30th, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Darien Community Association, 247 Middlesex Road.

RSVP Here!

This event will honor Darien volunteers, such as Marcia Cleary and Sue Okie, and other outstanding volunteers supporting other charities over the past year.

For 45 years, The Community Fund of Darien has celebrated over 800 volunteers who selflessly give back to their community. This year's Volunteer Celebration promises to be heartwarming, recognizing the spirit of volunteerism and the individuals whose efforts have made a lasting impact on the Darien community.

Groundbreaking Ceremony for Carver's New Teen Center Marks Significant Milestone in Norwalk's Youth Development

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

NIKKI LAFAYE, Director of Philanthropy: nikki@the-carver.org or 203-945-9665

WHAT: Groundbreaking Ceremony for Carver's New Two-Story Teen Center

WHEN: Wednesday, April 10th, 11:30 am - 12:15 pm

WHERE: Carver Community Center, 7 Academy Street, Norwalk, CT 

WHO: Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, Secretary of State of CT Stephanie Thomas, Carver board members, staff, and community leaders will attend to demonstrate Carver's commitment to Norwalk youth and families. This outdoor event is open to all members of the public and media. Attendees can expect an outdoor event filled with camaraderie and optimism for the future.

The Center extends heartfelt gratitude to The State of Connecticut, Carol and George Bauer, and Dalio Philanthropies for their generous leadership investments, which have made this transformative project possible.

WHY: The new two-story Teen Center, an addition to the Carver Community Center overlooking through interior glass walls the Richard Whitcomb Gymnasium, is a testament to Carver’s unwavering dedication to Norwalk's youth and families. The groundbreaking ceremony underscores Carver's commitment to providing a safe and enriching space for Norwalk's teenagers to learn, grow, and thrive. The new Teen Center will serve as a hub for educational, recreational, and social activities, fostering positive youth development and strengthening community bonds. The Teen Center is one of many facets of the planned complete renovation of the Carver Community Center.

Carver's 2024 Spring College Tour: A Transformative Odyssey Awaits

Embarking on a journey that promises to shape dreams, forge connections, and inspire a new generation of achievers, Carver is gearing up for its annual 2024 Spring College Tour. From April 13th to April 20th, a group of eager students, accompanied by CEO Novelette Peterkin and dedicated chaperones, will embark on a transformative road trip, visiting prestigious colleges and universities across multiple states.

This year's tour is a carefully curated exploration of academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and personal growth. The itinerary includes stops at esteemed institutions such as Hampton College, Norfolk State University, Old Dominion University, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University, Georgetown University, Howard University, Goucher College, Morgan State University, and Coppin State University.

But this tour is more than just a series of campus visits. It's a transformative odyssey that will expose students to the rich tapestry of educational opportunities and cultural experiences that await them. At each stop, Carver's students will be greeted by school administrators, admissions officers, and successful Carver alumni, who will share their insights, experiences, and words of wisdom.

The tour will also feature unforgettable stops along the way, including a visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., where students will immerse themselves in the powerful narratives of African American history and culture. Additionally, a stop at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey promises to be a thrilling and well-deserved break from the academic explorations.

Carver's Spring College Tour is a testament to Carver's unwavering commitment to empowering young minds and fostering a lifelong love for learning. As the students embark on this transformative odyssey, they will forge connections, gain invaluable insights, and return home with renewed determination and a clearer vision of their academic and personal aspirations.

As the Carver community eagerly awaits the departure of the 2024 Spring College Tour, one thing is certain: the journey ahead will be an unforgettable experience, shaping dreams, forging connections, and inspiring a new generation of achievers to reach for the stars.

Sign Up for Our Invaluable Summer Transition Program for Rising 9th Graders!

Sign up here. Registration and application forms are due by June 30, 2024. Click here to see and/or download the program flyer.

As the academic year winds down, many soon-to-be high school freshmen may feel excitement and apprehension about the transition to secondary education. Recognizing the challenges of navigating a larger school environment, maintaining strong grades, and juggling multiple teachers and priorities, Brien McMahon High School and Norwalk High School have teamed up to offer an invaluable Summer Transition Program from July 1 to August 1, 2024.

This comprehensive program aims to bridge the middle and high school gap, providing rising 9th graders with the tools and support they need to thrive in their upcoming academic journey. Research has consistently shown that transitioning from middle to high school is one of the most challenging points in a student's educational career, making initiatives like this all the more crucial.

During the month-long program, students will participate in a well-rounded curriculum that includes English, Math, Science, Technology, and Study Skills courses. These core subjects will reinforce essential academic concepts and equip students with the study habits and organizational skills necessary for success in high school.

But the Summer Transition Program isn't just about academics. To foster a sense of camaraderie and personal growth, students will also participate in enrichment activities and field trips designed to promote team building and enhance the overall educational experience.

The program also recognizes the vital role that proper nutrition plays in academic performance. All students enrolled in the Summer Transition Program will receive complimentary breakfast and lunch each day, ensuring they have the energy and focus to maximize their learning opportunities.

As the first day of high school draws near, the Summer Transition Program at Brien McMahon High School and Norwalk High School promises to be an invaluable investment in the future success of Norwalk's students. The program aims to alleviate anxieties, build confidence, and set the stage for a successful and rewarding high school experience by providing a supportive and comprehensive bridge into secondary education.

Inspiring Journeys at Carver's Breakfast With Champions

Last Saturday morning, the Carver Community Center was abuzz with energy as the annual Breakfast With Champions event brought together aspiring young minds and accomplished professionals across Connecticut. Organized by the dedicated efforts of Ms. Roberson and Tremain Gilmore, among Carver's longest-serving and most beloved staff, the event aimed to inspire and guide the youth toward paths of success.

Here are descriptions of the Breakfast With Champions event in 2022 and 2023.

The event's centerpiece each year is a panel of ten adult professionals, some of whom are Carver alumni, who share their life stories and the challenges they overcame to achieve their dreams. They speak candidly about their mistakes along the way, offering valuable lessons to the audience of approximately 200 youth and family members.

As each speaker took the microphone for their ten-minute presentation last Saturday, a profound silence fell over the room, broken only by the occasional scribbling of notes or murmurs of understanding. Their tales were not just of triumphs but also of resilience, perseverance, and the power of learning from missteps.

Throughout the event, a sense of hope and possibility permeated the air as the youth in attendance eagerly absorbed the wisdom and experiences shared by the panelists. During the question-and-answer sessions, hands shot up, eager minds seeking guidance on navigating the challenges ahead.

As the event drew to a close and the aroma of a hot breakfast wafted through the room, the atmosphere was one of profound gratitude and inspiration. The Breakfast With Champions had once again proven to be a powerful catalyst, igniting the dreams and aspirations of Carver's youth and reminding them that success is within reach, no matter the obstacles that may stand in their way.

Carver's Annual Child of America Gala: Celebrating Visionaries Empowering the Next Generation

It's that time of the year again when Carver brings together leaders, visionaries, and changemakers for its highly anticipated annual Child of America Gala. This year, mark your calendars for Friday, May 17, 2024, as the Shorehaven Golf Club in Norwalk transforms into a hub of inspiration and celebration.

Honoring Dedication: The Child of America Gala is not just an event; it's a testament to the commitment of individuals who have dedicated themselves to empowering young minds. Past honorees read like a who's who in education, social justice, the arts, and business. Names like Alberto M. Carvalho, Roger Wilkins, Geoffrey Canada, James Comer, Helene Gayle, and Debo P. Adegbile have graced the stage, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of youth empowerment.

Empowering Young Minds: Carver has been a beacon of hope for countless young people, providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive. The gala serves as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the profound impact of these dedicated individuals who have played a crucial role in shaping the future.

Unforgettable Evening at Shorehaven Golf Club: This year's gala promises to be an unforgettable experience at the prestigious Shorehaven Golf Club. The evening will kick off with a reception that sets the tone for an evening of inspiration and camaraderie. Attendees can engage with like-minded individuals who share a common goal – empowering the next generation.

A Night of Stories and Generosity: The gala is not just about glamour and recognition; it's about the stories that resonate with every attendee. Alumni and others will share personal experiences of how Carver has impacted their lives, emphasizing the transformative power of education and mentorship.

Past Child of America honoree, José Feliciano with Novelette Peterkin, Carver CEO

Bidding for a Cause: Get ready for an exciting live auction and Paddle Raise, when attendees can contribute to the cause through generous bids. The funds raised will support Carver initiatives, ensuring more young people can access the resources they need to succeed.

Join the Celebration: Whether you're a long-time supporter of Carver or a newcomer inspired by the cause, the Child of America Gala welcomes everyone to join. It's a night to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

As we prepare for the gala on May 17, 2024, let's come together to celebrate the visionaries who have made a difference and continue to pave the way for a brighter future for our children. Save the date and be a part of this extraordinary event that champions the spirit of empowerment and transformation.

You're Invited! Carver Breaks Ground on Norwalk's Innovative Two-Story Teen Center, Wednesday, April 10, 11:30AM-12:15PM!

Please join us in laying the foundation for the future as we begin constructing Norwalk’s new two-story Teen Center at The Carver Community Center.

Kindly RSVP here to confirm your attendance.

This momentous occasion symbolizes our commitment to our community's youth and families.

Wednesday, April 10th, 11:30 am-12:15 pm at the Carver Community Center, 7 Academy Street, Norwalk.

Your presence would add significantly to the celebration and our collective journey forward.

Please contact Nikki LaFaye, Director of Philanthropy, at nikki@the-carver.org or 203-945-9665.

We look forward to celebrating this exciting new chapter for Norwalk's youth and their families with you!

We heartily thank The State of CT, Carol and George Bauer, and Dalio Philanthropies for their leadership investments.

Carver Students Blaze a Trail Fundraising for their 2024 Spring College Tour

As the calendar turns to spring, there is a wave of excitement among Carver High School students. It's time for the much-anticipated 2024 Spring College Tour, an annual tradition that has become a rite of passage for Carver students.

Every year, Carver takes at least 30 students on a transformative road trip, visiting no fewer than ten colleges and universities across multiple states. This year's tour promises to be an unforgettable experience, with stops at prestigious institutions like Hampton College, Norfolk State University, Virginia State University, Georgetown University, Howard University, Morgan State University, and the University of Maryland.

Carver students have an unwavering determination to contribute to the costs of their journey. Recognizing the importance of leadership and self-empowerment, these driven young minds have already raised an impressive $3,000 through fundraising efforts, including in their respective schools.

On March 30th, 2024, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., Carver students will be stationed at Dunkin Donuts at 650 West Ave in Norwalk, eagerly awaiting the community's support. This fundraiser offers a unique opportunity for residents and businesses to directly contribute to the dreams and aspirations of Carver's students.

For those unable to attend the fundraiser, fear not! Donations can be made online or by sending a check to The Carver, with the memo stating "Carver Spring College Tour."

As the Carver community rallies behind these ambitious students, it's clear that their journey extends far beyond the physical miles they'll travel. It's a testament to the power of determination, innovation, and a shared commitment to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.

From April 13th to April 20th, these trailblazers will board a chartered bus at the Carver Community Center, embarking on self-discovery and limitless possibilities. Guided by dedicated chaperones, including Carver's CEO, Novelette Peterkin, and supported at each college visit by school administrators, admissions officers, and successful alumni, the students will gain invaluable insights into the college experience.

This Spring College Tour is more than just a trip; it's a transformative odyssey that will shape dreams, forge connections, and inspire a new generation of achievers. As the Carver community cheers them on, these students are not just raising funds; they're raising the bar for what it means to take charge of one's future.

Join us in supporting these remarkable young minds as they blaze a trail of innovation, determination, and boundless potential. Together, we can ensure that the 2024 Spring College Tour is a resounding success, paving the way for countless future leaders to follow in their footsteps.