Nature, Nurture, and New Friends: Carver Summer Campers Connect with Animals at Ridgebury Farm

This July, Carver summer campers from both the Carver Community Center and the SoNo Neighborhood School experienced a day they’ll never forget—one filled with animals, nature, mindfulness, and friendship—at Ridgebury Farm & Stables in Ridgefield, Connecticut.

Thanks to the generous support of The Connor Sheehan Fund, campers aged 10 to 13 participated in this therapeutic farm experience, designed to nurture emotional well-being, curiosity, and connection. The SoNo camp visited on July 16, and the Carver Community Center campers followed on July 23, each group enjoying a full day of immersive activities from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

At Ridgebury Farm, campers explored the natural world and their inner landscapes through four guided, hands-on activities:

🌲 Nature Hike

Students were invited to slow down and practice mindfulness while walking through the woods. By listening to bird calls, feeling the earth beneath their feet, and tuning into the moment, they experienced how nature can offer calm and clarity in a busy world.

🐐 Barnyard Buddies

Campers met goats, sheep, and chickens—observing their behavior, gently interacting, and learning how animals communicate feelings without words. This activity built empathy, patience, and an appreciation for nonverbal communication.

🐇 Bunny Greetings

The bunnies stole hearts as campers explored how to enrich the lives of animals through thoughtful, playful interactions. Through this activity, campers practiced creativity, compassion, and the joy of caring for others.

🐴 Horse Connection & Grooming

Rather than riding, students learned to connect with the farm’s gentle horses through grooming and observation. Campers learned how horses respond to human energy and body language, gaining lessons in confidence, calmness, boundaries, and self-regulation.

Each activity was intentionally designed to build social-emotional skills, including:

• Emotional awareness and regulation

• Confidence and calm in new situations

• Empathy and compassion

• Mindful presence and observation

The day concluded with campers reflecting on their favorite animals and moments, sharing their emotions, and what they had learned. Surveys revealed the experience was a highlight of the summer, with students expressing joy, peace, and a new love for animals and nature.

Special Thanks

We extend our heartfelt thanks to The Connor Sheehan Fund for making this unforgettable experience possible. Established in loving memory of Connor Sheehan, the Fund helps young people access programs that promote mental health, connection, and resilience. Their support ensured that all Carver campers could enjoy this experience free of charge, growing emotionally as they explored the wonders of the natural world.

About Ridgebury Farm & Stables

Ridgebury Farm is a 56-acre nonprofit equestrian and therapy center offering equine-assisted therapy, therapeutic riding, and immersive animal care programs for youth of all abilities. Their skilled staff and peaceful environment provide an ideal setting for learning, healing, and growth.

This is what summer at Carver is all about—creating memories, building life skills, and connecting young hearts to the world around them.

Photos from both visits will be featured below, capturing joyful moments of learning, laughter, and animal friendship.

From Clay to Confidence: Brien McMahon's Summer Transition Program Empowers Rising Freshmen

As September approaches, rising 9th graders at Brien McMahon High School are getting a head start on high school success through Carver’s Summer Transition Program. Designed to ease the transition from middle to high school, the program combines academic orientation with creative, technical, and wellness experiences that foster confidence and connection.

Thanks to a dynamic collaboration with Lift-Up Lab Inc.—a nonprofit that equips youth with emotional intelligence, fitness habits, and entrepreneurial skills—students are learning how to navigate not only the hallways of McMahon, but also the real-world challenges they’ll face as teens and young adults.

At the heart of the program is Lift-Up Lab, a unique experience that meets several times each week under the leadership of McMahon School Counselor and Lift-Up Lab board member, Chad Southerland. Chad leads school tours to help students become familiar with their new learning environment and teaches them about presentation skills, positive social media use, and the importance of personal wellness. Photos captured by Emily showcase these rising freshmen exploring the gym, learning new exercises, and practicing how to present themselves and their ideas confidently.

Hands-on enrichment opportunities round out the experience. In the Pottery enrichment class, Mr. Gordon Jones is pictured helping a student shape clay. This artistic outlet also allows students to shape their sense of self-expression and creativity. In another classroom, Mr. Jake Zorabedian introduces students to the science and engineering behind drone flight, encouraging curiosity about emerging technologies.

The students’ creative talents are already on display. Incoming freshman Shaunessi Reeves’ artwork was proudly featured at the Norwalk Art Space, a testament to the young artists who are beginning to make their mark even before their first day of high school.

This Summer Transition Program is a preview of high school and a launchpad for developing academic readiness, self-awareness, and a sense of community belonging. We are grateful to educators like Mr. Jones, Mr. Zorabedian, and Mr. Southerland, and to all the many Carver and Lift-Up Lab partners who are helping McMahon’s future Senators take flight.

Photos in this post:

• Mr. Gordon Jones guiding a student in Pottery

• Mr. Jake Zorabedian introducing air drone operations

• Student artwork by Shaunessi Reeves at Norwalk Art Space

• Lift-Up Lab school tour with Chad Southerland

• Students learning presentation skills and fitness in the BMHS gym

Welcome, Class of 2029. You’re off to an inspiring start.

Make a Difference Today: Volunteer with Carver and Empower the Next Generation

Carver is a community built on compassion, opportunity, and shared purpose. Each year, we serve nearly 3,000 K-12 students across Norwalk, helping young people discover their strengths and reach their full potential. And at the heart of that mission are our volunteers.

Whether you're a retired teacher, a high school senior, a working professional, or a community member looking to give back, there’s a place for you at Carver. Volunteers bring kindness, encouragement, and a sense of community spirit to every classroom, activity, and event. No matter how much time you have to give—once a week or just occasionally—your presence can be genuinely transformative for a young person.

What Do Carver Volunteers Do?
You don’t need to be a teacher or an expert—just someone who cares. Volunteer opportunities include:

• Tutoring and homework help

• STEAM enrichments (from science experiments to creative arts)

• College and career preparation

• Mentorship and life skills support

• Health and wellness activities

• Event support, fundraising, and marketing

We also welcome corporate, school, and community groups who want to support Carver through one-day service projects, community events, or creative engagement opportunities.

Why Volunteer?
When you volunteer at Carver, you’re becoming part of a movement to create equity in education, inspire the next generation of leaders, and build a stronger, more connected community. Your time and talent can shape a life.

Join the Carver Community
Carver is an inclusive environment where people of all skill sets and backgrounds are welcome. After submitting a simple application, we’ll help match your interests and availability with meaningful opportunities and provide an orientation to get you started.

Ready to make an impact?
Click the “Apply to Be a Volunteer” button here, on our volunteer page, or email us at info@the-carver.org with any questions.

Because every hour you give is a step toward a brighter future for our students and our community.

Bridging Art and Education: Carver’s Rising 9th Graders Thrive at The Norwalk Art Space

This summer, Carver’s rising 9th-grade students at Norwalk High School are stepping into high school with creativity, confidence, and community—thanks to Carver’s special partnership with The Norwalk Art Space.

As part of Carver’s summer transition program for rising 9th graders, Carver students participate in workshops and mentorship sessions at The Norwalk Art Space, a nonprofit arts hub (located within walking distance of the Carver Community Center). The Norwalk Art Space is renowned for providing free, high-quality art and music education to underserved youth. Housed in the stunning ADK House, the Art Space is a beacon of opportunity and inclusion, making the arts accessible to all, and Carver students are right at its heart.

Through this dynamic partnership, Carver students of all ages engage directly with local artists and educators, learning new techniques, exploring personal expression, and building confidence in their creative voice. Whether sketching in the galleries, exploring contemporary art exhibitions, or engaging in hands-on music and visual arts instruction, students are discovering that art is a powerful means of telling their stories and shaping their future.

Since the founding of The Norwalk Art Space, Carver students have benefited from a deep and sustained relationship built on shared values of equity, access, and creative exploration. Together, the two organizations co-host annual highlights, such as the Norwalk Citywide Student Art Show, where Carver students proudly showcase their work alongside peers from across the city.

For these rising 9th graders, summer at The Norwalk Art Space is a doorway to a vibrant, inclusive arts community that will continue to support and inspire them as they take their next steps into high school and beyond.

As always, Carver is proud to partner with local organizations, such as The Norwalk Art Space, to ensure that students are not only academically prepared but also artistically empowered to become bold thinkers, compassionate leaders, and lifelong learners.

Color, Chemistry, and Creativity: Roton’s Rising 6th Graders Explore STEAM through Tie-Dye

At Carver’s Summer Transition Program for rising 6th graders at Roton Middle School, learning is anything but ordinary—and neither are the t-shirts!

Under the guidance of Program Coordinator Dean Vaccaro, a National Board Certified U.S. History teacher and longtime Director of the R.A.M.S. (Carver) Afterschool Program, students are immersing themselves in a dynamic STEAM curriculum designed to ease the transition to middle school through hands-on, high-impact experiences. One such experience was the much-anticipated tie-dye t-shirt project—a colorful highlight that beautifully combined Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math into one vibrant afternoon.

Led by Roton’s beloved Art Teacher, Stef Bronner, and her daughter Ricki, this creative adventure helped students turn plain white shirts into wearable works of art. But more than just a fun activity, the project was an intentional and layered lesson in cross-disciplinary learning.

The STEAM Behind the Swirls

• Science came alive as students learned about how dyes bond to cotton, witnessing firsthand chemical reactions and the principles of capillary action.

• Technology & Engineering were folded into the process—literally—as students explored different tie and rubber band techniques to create symmetry and structural designs.

• Art took center stage, encouraging every student to tap into their own creativity and expressive instincts, choosing colors, patterns, and folding styles that reflected their personalities.

• Mathematics subtly guided the work, from creating geometric patterns to understanding symmetry and predicting how color overlaps would appear.

Why Tie-Dye Matters

This simple-looking project packs a serious educational punch:

• It builds skills: From fine motor control to creative decision-making, students developed dexterity, patience, and problem-solving abilities.

• It reinforces learning: Observing dye movement, mixing primary colors, and testing different patterns served as engaging mini-labs in scientific inquiry and artistic exploration.

• It boosts confidence: Students lit up when they saw their finished shirts—each one as unique as the student who made it. That pride and ownership are powerful motivators for continued learning.

• It brings people together: Sharing ideas, helping each other with designs, and showing off their final shirts built a sense of belonging and joy that will carry over into the school year.

As Stef and Ricki Bronner reminded students during the project, art isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about how it feels, what it teaches, and the memories it creates. For these soon-to-be middle schoolers, tie-dyeing wasn’t just an arts-and-crafts break—it was a meaningful lesson in creativity, curiosity, and community.

And judging by the smiles and the rainbow-hued shirts hanging out to dry, it’s safe to say: mission accomplished.

21st Century Funds Restored: Carver to Resume Scholars Program at Six Norwalk Elementary Schools

The federal government has restored $1.3 billion in 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) funding, allowing Carver to resume its flagship Scholars Program for the 2025–2026 school year at six Norwalk elementary schools.

The U.S. Department of Education announced that the Office of Management and Budget completed its review and released the funds, which had been frozen for several weeks as part of a broader Trump administration review of nearly $7 billion in education grants.

This means that Carver’s Scholars Program will officially resume this fall at the following six Norwalk elementary schools:

• Brookside Elementary School

• Tracey Magnet School

• Fox Run Elementary School

• Kendall College and Career Academy

• Silvermine Dual Language Magnet School

• Jefferson Marine Science Elementary School

Decisions are still pending regarding Carver’s capacity to deliver the Scholars Program at these three additional schools:

• Naramake Elementary School

• Concord Magnet School

• Marvin Elementary School

Jodi Grant, executive director of the Afterschool Alliance, called the release of the federal funds “an enormous sigh of relief” for thousands of communities nationwide. We at Carver couldn’t agree more.

We are deeply grateful for the bipartisan leadership at every level of government—from Congress to local school officials—who stood up for children and families by advocating for the timely release of these critical funds.

Their commitment sends a powerful message: investing in kids is a national priority.

While we celebrate this win, we recognize that after-school programs like Scholars remain a vital lifeline for working families, helping to close achievement gaps and providing every child with a safe, enriching place to grow.

We are ready. We are grateful. And we remain committed. Carver looks forward to welcoming our Scholars back this fall.

West Rocks and Ponus Ridge Students Dive into Learning at The Maritime Aquarium

Rising 6th graders from Carver’s Summer Transition Programs at West Rocks Middle School and Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy recently came together for a shared adventure at The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk—a day filled with discovery, laughter, and learning beneath the sea and beyond.

The highlight of the trip was a viewing of "Bear & Squirrel 4D," an 11-minute immersive film from Aardman Animations, the same studio behind Shaun the Sheep and Chicken Run. This heartwarming and hilariously action-packed short follows a selfish young bear and a brave squirrel who must learn to work together after being swept away on a magical tour of the animal kingdom. With lions, pandas, monkeys, and sea lions making surprise appearances, the story left students giggling and reflecting on lessons in friendship, generosity, and teamwork.

The 4D experience truly brought the story to life—complete with vibrating seats, wind gusts, mist, scents, and even bubbles—adding thrilling layers to the bear and squirrel’s journey. For many of our students, this was their first 4D movie, and they were captivated by the multisensory adventure.

Beyond the theater, students explored the aquarium’s interactive exhibits—from the shark and ray touch tanks to live displays of marine life native to Long Island Sound and beyond. They marveled at the new 150,000-gallon seal exhibit and watched in awe as harbor seals glided gracefully through the water.

This joint field trip provided students from both schools with an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and build confidence as they prepared to transition into middle school. Many left the aquarium inspired—not only by the wonders of marine science but also by the powerful message of teamwork that echoed throughout the day.

Thank you to The Maritime Aquarium for hosting such an enriching experience for our students—and for reminding us that the best way forward is often together.

Thank You, Mr. Richards!

Carver extends its deepest gratitude to Michael Richards for his exceptional leadership and dedication to our students at West Rocks Middle School. As a longtime Carver teacher, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher, Subject Area Leader, and Director of Carver’s Summer Transition Program, Mr. Richards continues to inspire both students and colleagues through his commitment to academic excellence, fostering a positive school culture, and providing meaningful enrichment experiences. His work has helped countless rising 6th graders feel confident, connected, and ready to thrive. Thank you, Mr. Richards, for all you do!

The Community Fund of Darien Grants $45,000 to Carver, Strengthening Youth Success Across Norwalk

L-R: Nikki LaFaye, Carver Director of Philanthropy; Maggie Domont, Executive Director, The Community Fund of Darien; Emily Berliet. Carver Senior Development Manager

The Carver community is deeply grateful to The Community Fund of Darien for awarding us a generous $45,000 grant for general operating support in 2025. This renewed and vital funding allows Carver to continue doing what we do best—providing transformative academic, social-emotional, and enrichment programming to more than 3,000 students across all K-12 Norwalk Public Schools.

The Community Fund of Darien has long been a champion of strong communities. Since 1951, thanks to the generosity of its many donors, the Fund has granted over $29 million to local nonprofits and community initiatives, supporting access to food, housing, healthcare, job and skills training, youth development, and senior services in Darien, Norwalk, and Stamford.

By investing in Carver’s mission, The Community Fund is investing in the success of Norwalk’s youth and the long-term health of our shared community. This trust and support mean the world to us—and to the students and families who count on Carver as a steady presence in their lives.

Together, we are building a stronger, more equitable future. Thank you, Community Fund of Darien, for standing with Carver and so many other frontline organizations making a difference every day.

Birds, Beaks, and Big Questions: Earthplace Brings Nature to Life at West Rocks Middle School

Last week, students in Carver’s Summer Transition Program for rising 6th graders at West Rocks Middle School were treated to a truly unforgettable experience—an up-close encounter with some of nature’s most fascinating feathered friends, courtesy of Earthplace.

A longtime Carver partner and leader in environmental education, Earthplace (based in Westport, CT) brought a special group of winged ambassadors to visit our students: a white pigeon, an owl named “Freckles,” and a vulture. The visit was part of Carver’s commitment to STEAM education and real-world, hands-on learning that sparks curiosity and deepens understanding.

Students sat wide-eyed as Earthplace educators introduced each bird and shared captivating facts about its unique adaptations, diet, and essential role in our local ecosystem. The gentle white pigeon captured everyone’s attention, leading to discussions about urban wildlife and human-animal interactions. Freckles the owl impressed students with her silent flight and camouflage, teaching them about nocturnal life and predator-prey relationships. And the vulture—often misunderstood—emerged as a surprise hero, celebrated for its critical job as nature’s clean-up crew.

This was more than just a science lesson—it was a powerful experience of connection and care. Students asked thoughtful questions, made detailed observations, and explored how animals survive and thrive in their natural habitats. Earthplace’s engaging visit helped students see birds not just as creatures in the sky, but as neighbors in our shared environment, playing vital roles in maintaining balanced and healthy ecosystems.

Thank you to Earthplace for inspiring our students to think like scientists, feel like conservationists, and act like stewards of the world around them. Whether it’s learning about owls in the classroom or cleaning up the school grounds, our West Rocks students are taking their first steps into a larger, more connected world.

Stay tuned for more amazing learning moments from Carver’s summer programs!

Thank You, Mr. Richards!

Carver extends its deepest gratitude to Michael Richards for his exceptional leadership and dedication to our students at West Rocks Middle School. As a longtime Carver teacher, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher, Subject Area Leader, and Director of Carver’s Summer Transition Program, Mr. Richards continues to inspire both students and colleagues through his commitment to academic excellence, fostering a positive school culture, and providing meaningful enrichment experiences. His work has helped countless rising 6th graders feel confident, connected, and ready to thrive. Thank you, Mr. Richards, for all you do!

Carver Students at West Rocks Reach New Heights with Spaghetti and Marshmallows

At Carver’s West Rocks Middle School Summer Transition Program, incoming 6th graders were challenged to dream big—and build even bigger—with the classic Spaghetti Tower Challenge! This hands-on STEM activity encouraged students to work collaboratively in small teams to construct the tallest possible free-standing tower using only dry spaghetti and marshmallows.

Each group received about 20 sticks of spaghetti and a handful of marshmallows. No tape. No glue. Just brainpower, imagination, and a whole lot of trial and error.

Before the timer began, students brainstormed and sketched out their designs, discussing which shapes and strategies would offer the most stability. Would a broad base help? Should they use triangles for support? As the 20-minute countdown began, teams got to work building upward—some cautiously, others with wild ambition.

Throughout the challenge, the room buzzed with creative energy, collaboration, and laughter (especially when towers toppled mid-build). When the timer sounded, the measuring tape came out.

But the real win? Every student walked away with a deeper understanding of engineering principles, including balance, tension, and structure. They learned to adapt, to communicate effectively in a team, and to stay resilient when their marshmallow dreams collapsed—literally.

The Spaghetti Tower Challenge is more than a fun competition. It’s a perfect example of how Carver’s summer transition program blends academic enrichment with joyful learning experiences, all while helping students build confidence as they prepare for middle school.

With projects like this, Carver is helping students rise to the challenge—one noodle at a time.

Thank You, Mr. Richards!

Carver extends its deepest gratitude to Michael Richards for his exceptional leadership and dedication to our students at West Rocks Middle School. As a longtime Carver teacher, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher, Subject Area Leader, and Director of Carver’s Summer Transition Program, Mr. Richards continues to inspire both students and colleagues through his commitment to academic excellence, fostering a positive school culture, and providing meaningful enrichment experiences. His work has helped countless rising 6th graders feel confident, connected, and ready to thrive. Thank you, Mr. Richards, for all you do!