Free Summer Meals and Family Resources Available Across Connecticut

As summer begins, families across Connecticut have access to important resources designed to help children stay healthy, connected, and supported while school is out.

Through the USDA's Summer Nutrition Programs, children and teens ages 18 and younger can receive free, nutritious meals at hundreds of locations throughout Connecticut this summer. No registration, application, income verification, or identification is required. Children simply show up and enjoy a healthy meal at no cost to their families.

The Connecticut State Department of Education encourages families to use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder beginning in late June to locate participating meal sites near them. Because locations and schedules may change during the summer, families should check site information before visiting.

Many eligible families will also automatically receive Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (S-EBT) benefits, which help cover the cost of groceries when school is not in session. Families who believe they may qualify but have not received benefits can learn more and apply through the State of Connecticut's S-EBT program.

In addition to meeting children's nutritional needs, Connecticut is reminding families that summer is also an important time to support children's emotional well-being. The state's "Connection Is the Key to a Healthy Summer" campaign encourages families to help children stay connected to family, friends, community activities, and trusted support systems. Research consistently shows that young people who feel connected are more likely to thrive both now and in the future.

Families can strengthen these connections by spending time together, participating in community programs, visiting libraries and parks, exploring summer employment opportunities, and checking in regularly about how children are feeling. The campaign also reminds parents that sudden changes in mood or behavior may be signs that a child needs additional support.

Immediate mental health assistance is available statewide. Families can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, call 211 (Option 1, then Option 1 again) to reach Youth Mobile Crisis services, or visit Connecticut's Urgent Crisis Centers for in-person support. Additional mental and behavioral health resources are available through Connecting to Care Connecticut.

At Carver, we know that summer learning, enrichment, nutrition, and positive relationships all work together to help young people succeed. We encourage families to take advantage of these valuable statewide resources while enjoying a safe, healthy, and connected summer.

For more information about Carver's summer programs, including camps, summer transition programs, and academic enrichment opportunities serving more than 1,000 local youth this summer, visit our website or contact our team.

Public Notice: The Carver's Intent to Apply for 21st Century Community Learning Centers Funding — The Marvin and Naramake Scholars Program

At The Carver, some of our favorite news to share is news about what's coming next for Norwalk's kids — and today we have some.

The Carver, in partnership with Norwalk Public Schools, intends to submit an application to the Connecticut State Department of Education for funding under the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program, Cohort 22 (2026–2027). This post serves as formal public notice of our intent to apply. The submission deadline is July 8, 2026.

The Proposed Program

If awarded, the grant will support the Scholars Program at Marvin Elementary School and Naramake Elementary School, serving approximately 105 students in grades 4 and 5 beginning in September 2026. Operating Monday through Thursday from 3:00 to 5:30 PM throughout the school year, the Scholars Program pairs certified-teacher-led academic support with hands-on STEAM exploration, arts, wellness activities, and family engagement events — all designed around one big goal: preparing our fourth and fifth graders for a strong, confident transition to middle school. Bus transportation home will be provided at no cost to families.

A Word About Partnership

None of this happens alone. This proposal grows out of The Carver's longstanding partnership with Norwalk Public Schools and the more than fifteen years we've spent designing and operating after-school and summer programs alongside Norwalk's educators, families, and community partners. Every friend of Carver — our school principals and teachers, our enrichment partners, our volunteers, and most of all our families — has a hand in shaping this work, and we're grateful for it.

Review the Application and Share Your Input

We welcome your comments, questions, and recommendations regarding this proposed program. In accordance with federal and state requirements, the full application and any waiver requests will be available for public review upon request following submission. To request a copy, share input, or learn more, please contact Jim Schaffer, Grants Manager and Institutional Research, at jim@the-carver.org or 203-912-2802, or visit The Carver at 7 Academy Street, Norwalk, CT 06850, during normal business hours.

Students who attend private school and reside within the attendance areas of Marvin Elementary School or Naramake Elementary School are eligible to participate. Private school administrators and families who would like more information are encouraged to reach out using the contact information above.

Thank you, Norwalk, for believing — as we do — that every child deserves a great place to learn, grow, and belong after the school bell rings. We'll keep you posted.

Public Notice: The Carver's Intent to Apply for 21st Century Community Learning Centers Funding — The Jefferson and Silvermine Scholars Program

At The Carver, some of our favorite news to share is news about what's coming next for Norwalk's kids — and today we have some.

The Carver, in partnership with Norwalk Public Schools, intends to submit an application to the Connecticut State Department of Education for funding under the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program, Cohort 22 (2026–2027). This post serves as formal public notice of our intent to apply. The submission deadline is July 8, 2026.

The Proposed Program

If awarded, the grant will support the Scholars Program at Jefferson Marine Science Magnet School and Silvermine Dual Language Magnet School, serving approximately 105 students in grades 4 and 5 beginning in September 2026. Operating four afternoons per week, Monday through Thursday, throughout the school year, the Scholars Program pairs certified-teacher-led daily academic support with hands-on STEAM and enrichment experiences — robotics, gardening and cooking science, marine navigation, coding, and the arts — alongside social-emotional learning, wellness activities, and family engagement events, all designed around one big goal: preparing our fourth and fifth graders for a strong, confident transition to middle school. Bus transportation home will be provided at no cost to families.

A Word About Partnership

None of this happens alone. This proposal grows out of The Carver's longstanding partnership with Norwalk Public Schools and the more than fifteen years we've spent designing and operating after-school and summer programs alongside Norwalk's educators, families, and community partners. Every friend of Carver — our school principals and teachers, our enrichment partners, our volunteers, and most of all our families — has a hand in shaping this work, and we're grateful for it.

Review the Application and Share Your Input

We welcome your comments, questions, and recommendations regarding this proposed program. In accordance with federal and state requirements, the full application and any waiver requests will be available for public review upon request following submission. To request a copy, share input, or learn more, please contact Jim Schaffer, Grants Manager and Institutional Research, at jim@the-carver.org or 203-912-2802, or visit The Carver at 7 Academy Street, Norwalk, CT 06850, during normal business hours.

Students who attend private school and reside within the attendance areas of Jefferson Marine Science Magnet School or Silvermine Dual Language Magnet School are eligible to participate. Private school administrators and families who would like more information are encouraged to reach out using the contact information above.

Thank you, Norwalk, for believing — as we do — that every child deserves a great place to learn, grow, and belong after the school bell rings. We'll keep you posted.

From Norwalk to Maine: How Carver’s Summer Initiative is Expanding Horizons and Strengthening Student Success

For many young people, summer camp is a cherished tradition filled with adventure, discovery, and lifelong memories. Through Carver’s New England Ecology Camp Initiative, that experience becomes much more than a summer getaway—it becomes a multi-year journey of growth, confidence, leadership, and academic success.

Each summer, Carver students entering grades 6 through 9 (this summer we are adding rising 10th graders) travel to Maine to spend a week at The Ecology School at River Bend Farm, a historic 105-acre campus nestled along a scenic bend of the Saco River just minutes from the coast. There, students explore forests, fields, rivers, and working farmland while participating in hands-on environmental science, outdoor education, team-building activities, and personal development experiences.

What makes this program unique is its long-term design. Each year, a new cohort of rising sixth graders attends camp for the first time. They are joined by returning students from previous years, creating a continuous pathway that allows participants to return summer after summer until their final experience as rising ninth graders. This rolling-cohort model helps students build lasting friendships, deepen their connection to nature, and strengthen their confidence as they progress through the critical middle school years.

The impact extends far beyond the week students spend in Maine.

A recent longitudinal analysis of Carver’s New England Ecology Camp participants found that students who attended the program consistently outperformed their peers in mathematics growth. Over three years, the percentage of camp participants meeting their NWEA MAP math growth goals increased from 59% to 67%, while the gap between camp participants and non-participants widened from 5 percentage points to 9 percentage points. Researchers concluded that the program appears to have a meaningful and cumulative impact on academic growth over time.

The study also found that camp participants maintained reading growth comparable to their peers, demonstrating that a nature-based, experiential learning environment supports academic development without sacrificing literacy outcomes.

Since launching in 2022, the program has grown rapidly. What began with just 17 students has expanded to serve 89 unique participants, with students returning for multiple summers. This steady growth reflects the trust families place in the experience and the profound impact students bring home.

At The Ecology School, students learn to paddle rivers, investigate ecosystems, work collaboratively, solve problems, and challenge themselves in new ways. For many, it is their first experience living away from home, sharing responsibilities with peers, and seeing a different part of New England. These moments build independence, resilience, curiosity, and leadership—qualities that support success both inside and outside the classroom.

Carver believes that education happens everywhere. Through the New England Ecology Camp Initiative, students gain not only unforgettable summer memories, but also the confidence, skills, and experiences that help prepare them for a bright future.

Because sometimes the most important classroom has no walls at all.

Carver Awards $168,500 in Scholarships to 58 Students at 2026 Testimonial Dinner

For generations, Carver’s Annual Testimonial Dinner has been one of the organization’s most meaningful traditions—a celebration of achievement, perseverance, and the limitless potential of young people. This year, Carver proudly awarded $168,500 in scholarships to 58 high school graduates and continuing college students, reaffirming its commitment to helping students pursue higher education and build successful futures.

Behind every scholarship awarded is a story of generosity and a commitment to future generations. Carver's named scholarship funds honor individuals whose legacies continue to inspire young people to pursue higher education and achieve their goals. Learn more about each scholarship fund and the remarkable people behind them here.

Held at CT State Community College Norwalk due to ongoing renovations at the Carver Community Center, the 2026 Testimonial Dinner brought together students, families, staff, supporters, and community partners for an evening of recognition and inspiration. Carver extends its sincere gratitude to CT State Community College Norwalk and its president for generously making the campus available for this special occasion.

More than a scholarship ceremony, the Testimonial Dinner is a declaration of belief in the power of young people. At a time when access to education and opportunity can feel uncertain, Carver’s community continues to stand firmly behind every student, investing in their dreams and helping them reach their full potential.

The evening celebrated graduates from middle school, high school, and college, including 42 graduating high school seniors:

• 25 graduates from Norwalk High School

• 17 graduates from Brien McMahon High School

Families enjoyed a catered dinner while reflecting on the accomplishments of the past year and the exciting journeys that lie ahead. The program featured inspiring remarks from two outstanding Carver students whose stories exemplify the impact of the Youth Development Program (YDP).

Recent YDP graduate John Akbar shared how Carver supported his academic and personal growth through college tours, internships, tutoring, enrichment opportunities, and mentorship. John was named Student of the Year in the Brien McMahon YDP program and received the prestigious De’Andre Parks Scholarship, awarded annually to the graduating senior or continuing college student with the highest GPA. This fall, John will attend the University of Connecticut to study Biophysics.

The audience also heard from Darmarly Mendez, a former participant in Carver’s workforce development program. During high school, Darmarly completed a paid internship at Norwalk Hospital through Carver’s Earn & Learn initiative. Today, she attends Quinnipiac University and works at Norwalk Hospital as a Patient Care Technician. Upon completing her nursing degree during the 2026-27 academic year, she has already been offered a permanent position at the hospital—a powerful example of how early career experiences can open doors to lifelong opportunities.

Scholarship awards ranged from $2,000 to $5,000 and were based on academic achievement, longevity in Carver programs, and essay evaluations. This year’s scholarship recipients will attend an impressive range of colleges and universities, including:

• CT State Community College Norwalk

• University of Connecticut (Storrs and Stamford campuses)

• Southern Connecticut State University

• Morgan State University

• New England College

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Pace University

• Penn State University

• Western Connecticut State University

• Fordham University

• Denison University

• University of Rhode Island

• Central Connecticut State University

• University of North Carolina Charlotte

• University of South Florida

• Winston-Salem State University

• Tulane University

As Carver celebrates the accomplishments of its students, the organization also celebrates the families, educators, donors, staff members, and community partners who help make these achievements possible.

Congratulations to all of our scholarship recipients, graduates, and continuing college students. We are incredibly proud of your accomplishments and look forward to seeing the many ways you will shape a brighter future for yourselves, your communities, and the world.

An Evening of Connection and Opportunity: Darien Community Rallies Behind Carver's Scholars Program

L-R: Carver board member and Connecticut Assistant Attorney General Diaghilev “Gigi” Lubin-Farnell, Darien Connections host Deb Brennan, and Carver Chief Advancement Officer Kailee Scales

On a beautiful summer evening overlooking Holly Pond in Darien, friends and supporters of Carver gathered at the home of Deb and Mike Brennan yesterday evening for an inspiring celebration of community, opportunity, and the power of investing in young people.

The evening brought together longtime supporters, new friends, and advocates who share a belief in Carver's mission to help students learn, grow, and thrive.

Carver Board member Deb Brennan reflected on her unique perspective as someone who has served on the Board during two different eras of the organization's history—first more than twenty years ago and again today. She spoke about the remarkable growth and transformation she has witnessed over the years, while emphasizing what has remained unchanged: Carver's heart.

Deb shared how Carver continues to surround young people with caring adults, meaningful opportunities, and a true sense of belonging. Whether through partnerships with local schools, the leadership of certified teachers, or programs designed to meet students where they are, Carver remains deeply committed to helping every child succeed.

Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin highlighted the origins and growth of the Scholars Program, which began through a partnership with two visionary school principals who recognized the need to better support students as they prepare for the transition to middle school. What started as a pilot initiative has quickly demonstrated strong results and growing demand among students, families, and schools.

Novelette shared the story of Elijah, a Scholars Program participant, whose mother expressed gratitude for the quality time she now enjoys with her son each evening because he comes home with his homework completed and greater confidence in his abilities. Stories like Elijah's illustrate the program's impact not only on students but on entire families.

One of the evening's most moving moments came when Carver alumna, board member, and Connecticut Assistant Attorney General Diaghilev “Gege” Farnell-Lubin shared her family's story. The daughter of first-generation immigrant parents who worked multiple jobs to provide opportunities for their children, Gege described how her family recognized the challenges that awaited them as she and her sister approached middle school and sought the academic support, caring mentors, and sense of community they could not provide on their own. Through Carver's programs and community, Gege and her sister found far more than homework help—trusted adults who encouraged them to dream big and pursue ambitious goals. Her sister went on to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design and is now an art teacher, while Gege earned a degree in criminal justice and, with Carver's continued support years later through LSAT preparation, ultimately received a full law school scholarship. Today, she serves as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Connecticut. Looking back, Gege reflected that Carver gave her not only academic support, but also exposure, confidence, curiosity, and a community that believed in her potential. Her story served as a powerful reminder that when young people are surrounded by caring adults and meaningful opportunities, they can achieve dreams that once seemed beyond reach.

A goal of the evening was to raise new funds to enable Carver to expand the Scholars Program this fall to prepare more students for a successful transition to middle school. The enthusiasm shown throughout the evening for this program was inspiring.

Carver extends heartfelt thanks to our gracious hosts, Deb and Mike Brennan, for opening their home and bringing together friends who care deeply about the future of our community's children.

We are also grateful to the dedicated Connections Party Committee—Robin Ackerman, Betsy Bigler, Jeni Chapman, Marcia Cleary, Jillian Kaminski, Sue Okie, and Liz and Chris Whitney—for their leadership and hard work in making the evening such a success.

Most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended and supported the event. Because of your generosity, more students will have access to the guidance, confidence, academic support, and sense of belonging that define the Scholars Program and help young people build a strong foundation for future success.

Together, we are creating opportunities that change lives.

Free Summer Meals and Family Resources Available Across Connecticut

As summer begins, families across Connecticut have access to important resources designed to help children stay healthy, connected, and supported while school is out.

Through the USDA's Summer Nutrition Programs, children and teens ages 18 and younger can receive free, nutritious meals at hundreds of locations throughout Connecticut this summer. No registration, application, income verification, or identification is required. Children simply show up and enjoy a healthy meal at no cost to their families.

The Connecticut State Department of Education encourages families to use the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder beginning in late June to locate participating meal sites near them. Because locations and schedules may change during the summer, families should check site information before visiting.

Many eligible families will also automatically receive Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (S-EBT) benefits, which help cover the cost of groceries when school is not in session. Families who believe they may qualify but have not received benefits can learn more and apply through the State of Connecticut's S-EBT program.

In addition to meeting children's nutritional needs, Connecticut is reminding families that summer is also an important time to support children's emotional well-being. The state's "Connection Is the Key to a Healthy Summer" campaign encourages families to help children stay connected to family, friends, community activities, and trusted support systems. Research consistently shows that young people who feel connected are more likely to thrive both now and in the future.

Families can strengthen these connections by spending time together, participating in community programs, visiting libraries and parks, exploring summer employment opportunities, and checking in regularly about how children are feeling. The campaign also reminds parents that sudden changes in mood or behavior may be signs that a child needs additional support.

Immediate mental health assistance is available statewide. Families can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, call 211 (Option 1, then Option 1 again) to reach Youth Mobile Crisis services, or visit Connecticut's Urgent Crisis Centers for in-person support. Additional mental and behavioral health resources are available through Connecting to Care Connecticut.

At Carver, we know that summer learning, enrichment, nutrition, and positive relationships all work together to help young people succeed. We encourage families to take advantage of these valuable statewide resources while enjoying a safe, healthy, and connected summer.

For more information about Carver's summer programs, including camps, summer transition programs, and academic enrichment opportunities serving more than 1,000 local youth this summer, visit our website or contact our team.

First County Bank Invests in Summer Learning and Fun with $5,000 Grant to The Carver

L-R: Aitza Cabrera, Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager of First County Bank’s Norwalk branch, and Chris Whitney, Chief Financial Officer, Patrice Sarna, Finance Manager, and Nursen Dormez, Accounts Receivable, of The Carver Finance Department

As summer approaches, The Carver is pleased to announce a generous $5,000 grant from First County Bank Foundation, a longtime supporter of Carver kids, to support Carver’s 2026 Summer Camp programs and help ensure local children have access to a safe, engaging, and enriching summer experience.

The grant was recently presented by Aitza Cabrera, Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager of First County Bank’s Norwalk branch, to Chris Whitney, Chief Financial Officer of The Carver. The gift reflects First County Bank’s longstanding commitment to strengthening the Norwalk community and investing in opportunities that help young people learn, grow, and thrive.

This summer, Carver’s popular day camps will welcome children ages 5 to 13 from July 6 through August 7, 2026, operating Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with an extended-day option available until 5:30 p.m.

While renovations are underway at the Carver Community Center, this year’s camps will be held at the newly opened Ruby Shaw Elementary School, providing campers with a modern, welcoming environment for a summer filled with discovery, friendship, and fun.

Carver’s summer programs are designed and led by a dedicated team of Program Directors, Managers, Camp Directors, Coordinators, and Counselors who create memorable experiences that blend academics, enrichment activities, recreation, and hands-on learning. From STEM projects and creative arts to sports, team-building activities, and educational field trips and adventures, campers are encouraged to explore new interests while building confidence and skills that support success during the school year and beyond.

“We are incredibly thankful to First County Bank for their continued support of our mission,” said Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin. “This grant helps make it possible for more children to enjoy a high-quality summer experience that keeps them engaged, learning, and connected throughout the summer months.”

The Carver extends its sincere appreciation to Aitza Cabrera and First County Bank for helping create opportunities that will positively impact local children and families this summer.

For more information about Carver Summer Camps, visit The Carver Summer Programs.

A Record-Setting Day on the Links: Carver’s 12th Annual Golf Classic Raises More Than $180,000 for Students

Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin standing with the Presenting Sponsor, Paul, Weiss foursome. Kevin Gomez of Paul, Weiss, second from right.

Under picture-perfect skies at Shorehaven Golf Club, supporters of The Carver gathered on Monday, June 15, for the 12th Annual Carver Golf Classic—and delivered a record-setting day for local youth.

More than 100 golfers representing 27 foursomes joined us for a day of friendly competition, networking, and philanthropy, helping generate more than $180,000 to support Carver programs that serve thousands of students across Greater Norwalk and beyond.

From the opening tee shot to the evening awards celebration, participants enjoyed a memorable day that included:

Michael Gregorich Silver Sponsor foursome: L-R: David Bell, Mike Gregorich, Dom Napolitano, Scott Brooks

• 18 holes of golf at Shorehaven Golf Club

• The BackSwing Golf Events “Beat the Pro” Challenge

• A BMW of Darien-sponsored Hole-in-One Contest

• Putting Green Competition

• Silent Auction and 50/50 Raffle

• Cocktails, dinner, awards, and fellowship

The event was made possible by the generosity of our sponsors, led by Presenting Sponsor Paul, Weiss, Gold Sponsor Ironview Capital Management, and dozens of businesses, foundations, and individuals who contributed to the event's success. We also thank Moffly Media, our media sponsor, for helping share the story of Carver's impact throughout the community.

A special thank you goes to our dedicated Golf Classic Committee:

John Arredondo and Skip Dunphy

• Bill Gallagher, Co-Chair

• Drew Seath, Co-Chair

• Jonathan Adelman

• Deirdre Cavanagh

• Ryan Griswald

• Jay Hinton

• Brad Jordan

• Adam Sorensen

• Griffin Thrush

• Oscar Villalonga

• Matt Vodicka

• Jonathan Whitcomb

Their leadership, planning, and commitment helped make this year's tournament our most successful yet.

We are also grateful to Shorehaven Golf Club for hosting the event and providing a wonderful setting for a day that brought together longtime supporters, new friends of Carver, business leaders, and community advocates united around a common goal: investing in young people.

The funds raised through the Golf Classic will support Carver's year-round educational and enrichment programs serving more than 3,300 students. Carver operates before- and after-school programs in every Norwalk public elementary, middle, and high school, as well as Side by Side Charter School, the Classical Studies Magnet Academy, and five elementary schools in Bridgeport, and the Carver Community Center. Led by certified teachers and developed in partnership with schools, families, and community organizations, these programs help students improve academic achievement, strengthen social-emotional well-being, build confidence and leadership skills, and explore new interests through hands-on learning, STEAM projects, arts, recreation, wellness activities, and cultural enrichment. By removing barriers such as transportation and cost, Carver ensures that every child has access to opportunities that support success in school and in life.

The impact of this support will be felt immediately this summer as Carver welcomes more than 1,000 children and teens into enriching, educational, and memorable summer experiences, including:

• Kick-Off to Kindergarten – Preparing 90 Bridgeport children across six sites for a successful start to their school journey.

• Summer Transition Programs – Helping rising 6th and 9th graders build confidence, make connections, and prepare for the transition to middle and high school.

• Full-Day Enrichment Camps – Serving more than 500 youth at Ruby Shaw Elementary School with hands-on learning, recreation, arts, wellness activities, and summer fun.

• After the Summer Bell – Providing full-day programming and care for 150 Kendall School students throughout the summer.

• Basketball Leadership & Mentorship – Engaging 120 youth through Summer Run and LOVE Unit programs that promote teamwork, leadership, character development, and healthy lifestyles.

• Ecology School in Maine – Offering students a unique week-long outdoor adventure where they explore tide pools, canoe, hike, learn about the natural world, and build lifelong memories.

Together, these programs help young people learn, grow, build friendships, discover new interests, and enjoy a safe, supportive summer filled with opportunity and adventure.

To every golfer, sponsor, volunteer, donor, auction participant, and committee member: thank you for helping make the 12th Annual Carver Golf Classic a record-breaking success.

Because of your generosity, more young people will have access to the opportunities, experiences, and support they need to learn, grow, and thrive.

Why So Many Schools, Museums, and Community Centers Bear George Washington Carver’s Name on Juneteenth

As communities across America celebrate Juneteenth, many gather in places that carry a familiar name: Carver.

From schools and community centers to museums, libraries, parks, and streets, countless institutions across the country are named in honor of George Washington Carver. Among them is The Carver in Norwalk, founded in 1938 (five years before his death), named for one of America's most influential educators, scientists, and champions of opportunity.

While George Washington Carver did not create Juneteenth, his life and legacy embody many of the ideals the holiday celebrates: freedom, education, resilience, innovation, and the ongoing pursuit of opportunity.

Born into slavery in Missouri during the Civil War, Carver rose to become one of the nation's most respected scientists and educators. Through his work at Tuskegee Institute, he helped farmers improve depleted soil, increase crop yields, and build economic independence. More importantly, he demonstrated to a nation still struggling with racial inequality that Black excellence, scholarship, and leadership could flourish despite enormous barriers.

Carver lived during the era when Juneteenth was emerging as an annual celebration of freedom in Black communities across the South. Although there is no record of him organizing Juneteenth events himself, he witnessed the growth of these early observances and devoted his life to advancing the promise of freedom that emancipation made possible.

Today, that connection remains visible nationwide, including in Norwalk.

This Juneteenth, visitors to the George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center in Austin, Texas, are exploring exhibits that trace the journey from slavery to freedom and the continuing meaning of liberation. The museum's Juneteenth programming highlights both historical remembrance and contemporary celebrations of Black achievement and culture.

Similarly, the George Washington Carver National Monument and numerous schools, museums, libraries, and community organizations bearing Carver's name host Juneteenth events that honor the progress made since emancipation while recognizing the work that remains.

That is why George Washington Carver's legacy remains so relevant to Juneteenth. He represents not only what freedom means, but what people can accomplish when freedom is paired with education, opportunity, perseverance, and community support.

At The Carver, that legacy continues every day. Since 1938, The Carver has worked to ensure that young people have access to the educational opportunities, mentorship, enrichment, and support needed to reach their full potential. Today, more than 3,300 students annually participate in Carver programs that prepare them for success in school, careers, and life.

Juneteenth reminds us that freedom is not simply a historical event. It is an ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for future generations. George Washington Carver understood that truth. His life's work was dedicated to helping others build better futures through knowledge, hard work, and service.

As we celebrate Juneteenth, we also celebrate the enduring legacy of a man whose name continues to inspire communities across America—and whose vision continues to guide The Carver nearly nine decades after its founding.

"We are our ancestors' wildest dreams." On Juneteenth, George Washington Carver's story reminds us that freedom's greatest promise is not only what was achieved in the past, but what is still possible for the future.