Click here or on the image above to RSVP and learn more about the event. This event is open to rising high school students, current high school students, and our about-to-graduate HS seniors!
Attention Carver Seniors and College Students: Connecticut Launches Pioneering Program to Expand Healthcare Access and Forgive Student Loans for Health Workers
As you contemplate your career choices, please know that Connecticut is taking a groundbreaking step to enhance healthcare in underserved communities while providing significant financial relief to healthcare workers burdened by student loans. The newly announced Connecticut Student Loan Repayment Program is set to transform the healthcare landscape by incentivizing eligible healthcare providers to serve in areas that need them the most.
This innovative program offers up to $50,000 in student loan repayments for healthcare professionals who commit to practicing full-time in underserved Connecticut communities for at least two years. For those opting to work part-time, the program provides up to $12,500 per year over two years, totaling $25,000. This substantial financial incentive applies to federal and private student loan debt, broadening the scope of eligible participants and enhancing the program's appeal.
The list of eligible healthcare professions is extensive, ensuring that a wide range of services can be provided to underserved areas. Healthcare jobs included in this new statewide initiative are:
MDs and DOs specializing in Family Practice, General Practice, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, and OB/GYN
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), including Certified Nurse Midwives, Nurse Practitioners, and Psychiatric Nurse Specialists
Physician Assistants
Registered Nurses
Dentists and Dental Hygienists
Psychiatrists, Psychologists, and Core Behavioral Health Providers**, such as Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, Licensed Professional Counselors, and Substance Use Disorder Counselors
Pharmacists
This remarkable initiative is poised to recruit and retain new healthcare workers, alleviate the financial burdens of these vital professionals, and significantly reduce health disparities across Connecticut. It's a win-win for healthcare providers and residents alike.
Applications for the Connecticut Student Loan Repayment Program will open tomorrow, on Wednesday.
Don't Miss Out on the Best Summer Fun in Norwalk! Register Now for Carver's Exciting Programs
Summer is just around the corner, and that means it's time to start planning for an unforgettable experience for your kids! The Carver organization is proud to offer an incredible lineup of 13 summer programs for students in grades K through 9, ensuring a perfect blend of fun, learning, and personal growth.
From the ever-popular Carver Camp at the Carver Community Center to the exciting SoNo Camp in South Norwalk, Carver's programs are renowned for their affordability and exceptional quality. Designed for Norwalk students aged 5 to 13, these camps offer a well-rounded experience that caters to every child's interests and needs.
Prepare for an action-packed summer with field trips, wellness activities, recreational fun, swimming, and hands-on, project-based learning opportunities. Not only will your kids have a blast, but they'll also get a head start preparing for the 2024-2025 school year, ensuring a smooth transition into the new academic year.
But that's not all! Carver has something special for those transitioning to middle and high school. The transition programs for rising 6th and 9th graders are tailored to help students become familiar with their new schools, meet their teachers, and understand the academic expectations that lie ahead, making the transition seamless and exciting.
Don't let your kids miss out on the best summer fun in Norwalk! Spaces are limited, so act fast and register for Carver's summer programs today. Visit the online registration page here or call (the program managers are listed here) to secure your child's spot in these unforgettable summer adventures.
Get ready to create cherished memories, forge new friendships, and embark on a journey of discovery and personal growth. Let Carver be your gateway to an extraordinary summer experience!
Carver's 2024 Child of America Gala: A Magical Night Empowering Youth
2024 Child of America Gala Committee: L-R, Cara Kelly, Kasey Pinchin, Julie Bennett, Kellee Abdelwahab, Jennifer Ryan
The Carver 2024 Child of America Gala was an extraordinary evening that celebrated the power of philanthropy and the commitment to enriching the lives of children in Norwalk and beyond.
The gala exceeded its goal of $500,000, including two special gifts made in honor of Novelette’s 20th anniversary of leading The Carver, one for $50,000 and one for $20,000.
See photo Album 1 and Album 2 here on Facebook! See another set of photos here: Reception #1, Reception #2, Reception #3, Dinner #1, Dinner #2, Dinner #3 and Dinner #4.
This highly anticipated annual event, the cornerstone fundraiser for Carver's vital after-school, summer, and community programs, surpassed all expectations.
Novelette Peterkin, who celebrated her 20th anniversary as Carver’s CEO, and the 2024 Child of America honree, Dr. Darrick Hamilton.
The evening commenced with a lavish cocktail reception at Shorehaven Golf Club, where attendees mingled, enjoyed exquisite hors d'oeuvres, and listened to the melodies of the fabulous live band led by Carver alumna Gabi Pierre-Louise. Mayor Rilling welcomed the gathering of friends, setting the tone for a night of celebration and impact.
The main event unfolded in the club's elegantly appointed ballroom, where guests indulged in a sumptuous three-course dinner expertly prepared by the renowned culinary team. Throughout the night, distinguished guests, including Connecticut's Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, graced the stage, and inspiring videos and greetings from Carver's leadership shed light on the organization's invaluable work and profound impact on the lives of children and families in the community.
Mr. and Mrs. Phil Butterfield. Phil Butterfield is President of The Carver Board of Directors
The evening's honorees, Dr. Darrick Hamilton and Sound Control Technologies, embodied Carver's spirit of empowerment and community-building. Dr. Hamilton, the Henry Cohen Professor of Economics and Urban Policy at The New School and the founding director of the Institute on Race, Power, and Political Economy, has established himself as a prominent public intellectual, crafting groundbreaking policy proposals that address socioeconomic disparities.
Each a longtime Carver friend, advocate, and benefactor, Connecticut’s Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, Susan Wienberger, and Carol Bauer
Sound Control Technologies and the Neaderland family, recognized as the 2024 "Community Builder" Honoree, were celebrated for their commitment to supporting the local community and remarkable contributions to Carver's mission.
The 2024 Child of America Gala was a testament to the power of philanthropy and the commitment to providing opportunities for children to thrive.
By attending this prestigious event, guests enjoyed an evening of elegance and merriment and contributed to a noble cause shaping our youth's future.
The Carver extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who attended and supported this magical night of celebration and impact.

Carver Extends Heartfelt Gratitude to Our 2024 Child of America Gala Sponsors
The 2024 Child of America Gala is already an incredible success, thanks to the generosity of our amazing sponsors. This signature annual event, held this Friday, May 17th, at the stunning Shorehaven Golf Club in Norwalk, is raising vital funds to support Carver's life-changing educational and wellness programs for local youth.
Carver would like to express our deepest gratitude to those who are making this unforgettable evening possible through their sponsorship:
Dalio Philanthropies - Presenting Sponsor
The Richard & Barbara Whitcomb Foundation - Presenting Sponsor
AfricaPlan Foundation
Kellee and Sam Abdelwahab
Wendy and Rich Baskin
Alexandra Baudouin
Deborah and Michael Brennan
Roz and Phil Butterfield
Fairfield County Bank
Joan Byrne
Per & Astrid Heidenrich Family Foundation
Inwha Huh & Robert Kim
Rod Johnson
Cara and Peter Kelly
Nuvance / Norwalk Hospital
The Oberman Companies
Patriot Bank
Kasey and Ben Pinchin
Jennifer and Andrew Ryan
Kim and Drew Seath
Brooke and Adam Sorensen
Sound Control Technologies
Terrie and Jay Wood
Thank you, sponsors, for believing in Carver's mission and playing a vital role in creating brighter futures for our youth. Your support is transformative!
Celebrating Sound Control Technologies and the Neaderland Family: Carver's Community Builder Honorees
Sound Control Technologies and the Neaderland family will be honored as the "Community Builder" honorees at the Child of America Gala tomorrow evening for their community spirit and corporate social responsibility. This recognition celebrates their commitment to supporting the local community and their remarkable contributions to Carver's mission.
The Child of America Gala is a cherished event recognizing individuals and organizations who have contributed exceptionally to fostering a more equitable and inclusive society. By honoring Sound Control Technologies and the Neaderland family, Carver acknowledges their exceptional efforts in creating positive change and inspiring others to pursue a better tomorrow.
Sound Control Technologies and the Neaderland family join a distinguished list of past Community Builder award recipients, including renowned organizations such as Datto, Pitney Bowes, Affinion Group, GE, Stew Leonard's, Norwalk Hospital, Bank of America, Deloitte, Pepperidge Farm, and Ring's End. These esteemed honorees have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility and have played pivotal roles in advancing Carver's mission.
Through their tireless efforts and dedication, Sound Control Technologies and the Neaderland family have contributed to the success of Carver's programs and served as beacons of inspiration for others to follow. Their commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive society has been remarkable, and their impact extends far beyond the boundaries of their organizations.
As we celebrate this well-deserved recognition, we are reminded of the power of collective action and the profound impact that individuals and organizations can have when they come together with a shared vision of creating positive change. Sound Control Technologies and the Neaderland family embody the values of compassion, inclusivity, and community service, and their contributions will continue to shape the lives of countless individuals for years to come.
Carver extends its heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to Sound Control Technologies and the Neaderland family for their exceptional commitment to corporate social responsibility and their unwavering dedication to creating a more equitable and inclusive society. Their efforts serve as an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the power of collective action and the importance of working together to build a better future for all.
Our Profound Gratitude to Presenting Sponsors Dalio Philanthropies and the Richard and Barbara Whitcomb Foundation
The Carver would not be able to operate its 60+ before-school, after-school, summer, and community programs without the longstanding generosity of our Presenting Sponsors - Dalio Philanthropies and the Richard and Barbara Whitcomb Foundation.
Dalio Philanthropies partnership impacts thousands of students across Norwalk, Bridgeport, Naugatuck, Stamford, and beyond. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, Dalio Philanthropies!
The Richard and Barbara Whitcomb Foundation has also been a pivotal partner to Carver for many years.
Their philanthropic leadership helps provide life-changing academic support, mentorship and more to kids who need it most.
We are immensely grateful for their continued support.
Thank you to all who make this critical work possible! Your generosity changes lives.
Priceless Experiences for the Highest Bidder at the 2024 Child of America Auction!
The annual Child of America gala auction is here this Friday, and this year's lineup of experiences is truly unparalleled. Get ready to bid on once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that money can't typically buy. Click here for more auction experience details, and click here to learn more about this and past years ’ gala experiences.
"A Grand Night for Eight at The Met" - an evening of cultural immersion at the iconic Metropolitan Opera House. You and seven guests will have prime box seats to take in Puccini's timeless La Bohème, including a Grand Tier dining experience fit for royalty. This is a true night at the opera like no other.
For those seeking luxury and relaxation, "A Venetian Resort Luxury Escape" could be yours. Indulge in a two-night stay at the renowned Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, complete with a $500 resort credit, a romantic gondola ride, and tickets to the stunning Sphere show - an incredible new entertainment spectacle.
Television fans won't want to miss the chance to score two guest passes to a live taping of the legendary "Saturday Night Live" during the 2024-2025 season, plus a $500 gift card to the ultra-trendy Tao Asian Bistro in New York City.
Sports enthusiasts can bid on four tickets to a regular New York Giants game with primo seats steps from the field in Section 113, Row 14. You'll also have access to the exclusive Giants Coaches Club for all-inclusive food and drinks on the private on-field patio.
Set sail aboard the "CourtShip" - a new 2024 Sabre 45 Salon Express yacht. You and up to seven guests can explore the coastline in unmatched luxury on this single-day private charter.
With experiences this exceptional, the bidding is sure to be fierce at the 2024 Child of America gala. Prepare your paddles and make some priceless memories for a great cause!
Carver Extends Heartfelt Gratitude to Our 2024 Child of America Gala Sponsors
The 2024 Child of America Gala is already an incredible success, thanks to the generosity of our amazing sponsors. This signature annual event, held this Friday, May 17th, at the stunning Shorehaven Golf Club in Norwalk, is raising vital funds to support Carver's life-changing educational and wellness programs for local youth.
Carver would like to express our deepest gratitude to those who are making this unforgettable evening possible through their sponsorship:
Dalio Philanthropies - Presenting Sponsor
The Richard & Barbara Whitcomb Foundation - Presenting Sponsor
AfricaPlan Foundation
Kellee and Sam Abdelwahab
Wendy and Rich Baskin
Alexandra Baudouin
Deborah and Michael Brennan
Roz and Phil Butterfield
Fairfield County Bank
Joan Byrne
Per & Astrid Heidenrich Family Foundation
Inwha Huh & Robert Kim
Rod Johnson
Cara and Peter Kelly
Nuvance / Norwalk Hospital
The Oberman Companies
Patriot Bank
Kasey and Ben Pinchin
Jennifer and Andrew Ryan
Kim and Drew Seath
Brooke and Adam Sorensen
Sound Control Technologies
Terrie and Jay Wood
Thank you, sponsors, for believing in Carver's mission and playing a vital role in creating brighter futures for our youth. Your support is transformative!
Gala Seats Going Fast - Don't Miss the 2024 Child of America Event!
The anticipation is building for The Carver’s flagship annual event, the Child of America gala, on Friday, May 17th. This promises to be an extraordinary evening of inspiration and support for Carver kids. Due to overwhelming demand, the event is nearing total capacity.
If you haven't secured your seats yet, now is the time to act! Please contact NIKKI LAFAYE at NIKKI@THE-CARVER.ORG about possible availability or joining the waiting list.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates about the 2024 Child of America gala. We are creating a brighter future for the next generation of leaders and changemakers!