$80,500 Awarded for Northwest Corner Critical Needs

The Northwest CT Community Foundation Roberta Lee August Fund, Draper Foundation Fund, The Making Cents Fund, Marion Wm. and Alice Edwards Fund, PLK Fund, Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund and Anson and Caroline Catlin Hungerford Trust, have awarded grants totaling $80,500 to 42 organizations serving some of the area’s most economically distressed residents. Grants will help provide the most basic of necessities–food, warm clothing and shelter. 

"The monies received from this grant will provide Friendly Hands Food Bank families with holiday hams, turkeys, and gifts during these difficult economic times. NCCF [Donors] are an integral part of our agency's success, and we appreciate their continued support as we feed over 11,000 individuals each month," said Karen Thomas, Executive Director of Friendly Hands Food Bank.

"The families of the Canaan Child Care Center greatly appreciate the winter outerwear they received for their children through the Northwest CT Community Foundation Critical Needs Grant. Twenty-five children benefited from the funds, and I was so pleased to be able to help so many families," said Ms. Fran Chapell, Director of the Canaan Child Care Center.

The following nonprofits received critical needs grants: 

Canaan Child Care Center

Caring For Bethlehem

Church of Christ Congregational (Norfolk)

City of Torrington - Sullivan Senior Center

Community Kitchen of Torrington

EdAdvance (Parents As Teachers)

EdAdvance (STEPS at East School, Torrington)

EdAdvance (Vogel-Wetmore School, Torrington)

Family & Children's Aid

First Congregational Church (Torrington)

FISH of Northwestern Connecticut

Friendly Hands Food Bank, Inc.

Goshen Community Care

Goshen Good Neighbor Fund, Inc.

Hands of Grace

Helping Hands Chore Service

Housatonic Child Care Center

Iglesia Ebenezer Piedra de Esperanza

Maria Seymour Brooker Memorial

McCall Center for Behavioral Health

North Canaan Social Services

Prime Time House

Project SAGE

Riverton Congregational Church

Riverton Theatre

Salvation Army - Torrington

Sharon Community Foundation

Sharon Day Care Center

St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church

Susan B. Anthony Project

Torrington Youth Service Bureau

Town of Colebrook

Town of Falls Village (Emergency Fuel/Basic Needs)

Town of Falls Village (Senior Center)

Town of Harwinton

Town of Kent Social Services

Town of Warren

United Church of Christ (Cornwall)

Winchester Center Congregational Church

Winchester Public Schools

Winchester Youth Service Bureau

Winsted Area Child Care Center

About NCCF 

Established in 1969, the Northwest CT Community Foundation serves 20 towns in Northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 280 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to approximately $150 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships, totaled in excess of $5 million. 

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$205,700 Awarded to Northwest CT Nonprofits in NCCF's Late Fall Grants

Northwest CT Community Foundation (NCCF) has awarded grants to 28 nonprofit organizations, totaling $205,700 during its third and final grant cycle of 2024. NCCF awards discretionary grants to Northwest Connecticut charities three times a year: early spring, late June, and November. 
 
These grants benefit residents throughout NCCF's 20-town service area by championing local philanthropy and empowering nonprofits to create lasting change through strategic giving for arts and culture, civic engagement, education, health, social services, and environmental stewardship. 

Noteworthy among the recent awards: 

  • Chore Service, Inc. received $22,000 to support increased general operating expenses incurred as a result of the merger with Litchfield Hills Chore Service (from the Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards Fund, Karen M. O’Connor Fund, Winter Trillium Fund, and the Northwest CT Philanthropy Fund); 

“Chore Service is most grateful for this generous financial support, which will allow Chore to significantly increase its impact on the broader community. Chore's mission is to ensure that the most vulnerable in our community can remain in their homes independently and with dignity, and this funding will allow more people to be served across the 13 towns we now serve,” said Jane MacLaren, Executive Director of Chore Service, Inc. 

  • Housatonic Child Care Center received $15,000 to support general operating expenses (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund); 

"We are so grateful for the support of Northwest CT Community Foundation and its funders for the incredible grant that we received. The grant supports our mission to provide the highest standard of care for the children we serve," said Tonya Roussis, M.Ed, Executive Director, Housatonic Child Care Center. 

  • Iglesia Ebenezer Piedra de Esperanza received $6,700 to support the Warm Heart Project, providing physical and emotional warmth to homeless individuals (from the Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards Fund);

“This grant from the Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards Fund means so much to us. We’re excited to bring hope and comfort to people experiencing homelessness and show them they’re not forgotten,” said Wilmarie Velez-Ramos, Administrative Assistant at Iglesia Ebenezer Piedra de Esperanza, Inc. 

These highlighted grants reflect just a portion of the Northwest CT Community Foundation donor commitment to fortifying and enriching the community through strategic philanthropy.   
 
The following is a comprehensive list of the 2024 Cycle 3 Grants: 

  • ALS United Connecticut received $5,000 to support no-cost critical care services for people living with ALS and their families in Northwest CT (from the Karen M. O’Connor Fund); 
  • Chore Service, Inc. was awarded $22,000 to support increased general operating expenses incurred as a result of the merger with Litchfield Hills Chore Service (from the Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards Fund, Karen M. O’Connor Fund, Winter Trillium Fund, and the Northwest CT Philanthropy Fund); 
  • Covenant to Care for Children received $5,500 to support the purchase of basic essential goods for children to keep families intact (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund and the Milewski & Masisak Families Fund); 
  • Falls Village Day Care Center received $15,450 to support building upgrades, license renewal, and program enhancements (from the Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards Fund); 
  • Family & Children's Aid was awarded $5,000 for the Torrington In-Home Intensive Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Services program (from the Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards Fund, and the Friends Helping Children Fund); 
  • Fermata Arts Foundation was awarded $3,000 for the continuation and expansion of an arts and global exchange program for Hartland, Litchfield, New Hartford, Torrington, and Winsted elementary students (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund); 
  • Greenwoods Counseling & Referrals received $10,000 to support financial aid for uninsured and underinsured clients to access necessary mental health services (from the Keroden Endowed Fund, Estelle A. and David A. MacKenzie Fund, and the Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund); 
  • Hands of Grace in Barkhamsted received $12,000 to support general operating expenses (from the Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund); 
  • Healing Meals Foundation Corporation received $2,500 to support the cost of providing 100% organic free or discounted meals for 12 weeks to income-eligible families in a health crisis (from the Northwest CT Philanthropy Fund); 
  • Hotchkiss Library of Sharon received $3,000 to support a series of Lunch and Learn programs for seniors (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund); 
  • Housatonic Child Care Center received $15,000 for general operating expenses (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund); 
  • Housatonic Youth Service Bureau was awarded $5,000 for a rebranding initiative to reflect the current mission of the organization (from the Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards Fund and the Northwest CT Philanthropy Fund); 
  • Iglesia Ebenezer Piedra de Esperanza received $6,700 to support the Warm Heart Project, providing physical and emotional warmth to homeless individuals in the Torrington region (from the Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards Fund); 
  • Litchfield Performing Arts received $6,500 to support the Litchfield Jazz Camp Talent Search, a talent competition for musicians ages 13–17 on March 8, 2025 (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund); 
  • Little Guild of Saint Francis received $10,000 for spay/neuter vouchers for low-income clients attending a free dog vaccine and wellness clinic in Torrington (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund, Cynthia Conklin & Family Fund for Pets in Need, and the Critter Fund); 
  • McCall Behavioral Health Network received $3,000 to support Adventure Recovery, providing guided outdoor activities for those seeking support for substance use and mental health disorders. (from the Ruth and Robert Cron Endowment Fund, Marion Isabell Coe Fund, and the Torrington Savings Fund); 
  • North Canaan Education Foundation was awarded $10,000 to support general operating expenses for the AHA program (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund); 
  • Nutmeg Symphony Orchestra received $5,000 to support three educational concerts serving approximately 1,400 elementary school students in Torrington, New Hartford, Harwinton, and surrounding communities (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund); 
  • Oliver Wolcott Library received $15,000 for early literacy and numeracy programs for Region 20 students (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund and an anonymous donor); 
  • Pleasant Valley UMC as fiscal sponsor for the Community Food Bank was awarded $5,000 for the purchase of perishable food for the food pantry (from the Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund); 
  • Riverton Theatre received $6,950 to support the purchase of a lighting system (from the Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund); 
  • School on the Green received $1,500 to support general operating expenses (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund); 
  • Steep Rock Association, Inc. was awarded $2,000 for printing, mailing, and event costs for "100 Years of Protecting What You Love: Celebrating Steep Rock Association’s Centennial" in 2025 (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund); 
  • The American Mural Project received $3,000 to support the cost of Spanish translation of audio stories and an exhibit guide (from the Keroden Endowed Fund); 
  • The Health Collective was awarded $8,600 for the transportation and registration fees for 80 youth to attend the True Colors Conference in March 2025 (from the Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards Fund, T.J. Zappulla Fund, and the Youth Fund); 
  • Torrington Area Parkinson’s Support Group received $4,000 to support the Beyond Words program for one year to raise awareness of speech and swallowing issues and engage participants in activities that challenge cognitive performance (from the Miriam Mason Cable Trust Fund and the Pierpont Chapter #49 Order of the Eastern Star Fund); 
  • Tri-State Center for the Arts, Inc. (Sharon Playhouse) was awarded $10,000 for general operating expenses (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund); 
  • Winchester Center Historical Association received $5,000 to support roof replacement for the historic Chapel, the location of the local history museum in Winchester Center (from the Khurshed Bhumgara Fund).

To learn more about the Northwest CT Community Foundation and upcoming grant opportunities, visit our website at yournccf.org. Detailed application guidelines, funding priorities, and deadlines are available to help you get started. 

About NCCF  
Established in 1969, the Northwest CT Community Foundation serves 20 towns in Northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 280 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to approximately $150 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships, totaled in excess of $5 million.  

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Photo: TAFA's teen and young adult summer program group on a community outing to a local grocery store.

$281,450 Boost To Local Nonprofits
from Northwest CT Community Foundation
Draper Foundation Fund

The Northwest CT Community Foundation Draper Foundation Fund recently awarded $281,450 to 12 nonprofit organizations serving Northwest CT. Established by Jim and Shirley Draper, the fund continues to impact the region with grants awarded annually to a selection of area nonprofits, along with competitive grants to additional organizations and projects that address community needs.

Notable Competitive Grants: 

• $50,000 to Torrington Area Families with Autism (TAFA) to support capacity building and operating costs in 2025.  

"As a grassroots nonprofit, we rely on grants to expand our programs without placing an extra financial burden on families. This funding enables us to continue adaptive recreation and community inclusion initiatives while working toward our ultimate goal: establishing a specialized outplacement school for students with autism and intellectual disabilities in Torrington. We are deeply grateful for this monumental support."—Christina Augliera, Founder & Executive Director

• $32,200 to Charlotte Hungerford Hospital to fund the Diaper Connections Program, which provides a monthly supply of diapers for one year to 100 children in need. This support will aid families facing financial challenges by ensuring consistent access to essential health and hygiene resources.

“We are so grateful to the Northwest CT Community Foundation Draper Foundation Fund for awarding Charlotte Hungerford Hospital a generous $32,200 grant for our Diaper Connections Program,” said Debbie Bender, Director of Philanthropy at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital. “In addition to providing our communities with the best and most accessible and equitable care, it’s imperative to Hartford HealthCare and Charlotte Hungerford Hospital that we also provide our underserved patients and their loved ones with the resources needed to remain healthy and safe. Diapers can be a burdensome expense for young families, and we are so pleased to be able to assist 100 children over the next year.”

• $30,000 to Winchester Housing Partners to support predevelopment costs for converting the Batcheller School into 37 affordable housing units.

“We are quite excited with this affordable housing project, which we believe will impact lives for the better and improve our community.”—Deirdre DiCara, Executive Director FISH/Friends in Service to Humanity of Northwestern Connecticut, Inc.

Other competitive grants include: 

  • American Mural Project - $18,000 to support roof replacement for the second historic mill building.
  • CAFTA (Connecticut Academy for the Arts) - $45,000 to support three arts education programs, benefiting special needs students, Italian arts and cultural outreach, and stop-motion animation/video.
  • Connecticut Democracy Center - $30,000 ($10,000/year for 3 years) to support the Torrington Region Connecticut History Day Contest and funding for an outreach educator to increase participation by Northwest CT schools.
  • New England Air Museum - $5,000 to support the participation of fourth-grade students from Torrington Public Schools in the SOAR for STEM program.
  • Troutbeck Symposium - $10,000 to support the 2025 Troutbeck Symposium.
  • $40,000 to McCall Center for Behavioral Health to bridge funding for the Litchfield County Opiate Task Force Coordinator, enabling continuity of services.
  • St. John's Church (New Hartford) - $15,000 to support repairs to the church steeple.
  • Sharon Hospital - $10,000 to support the Diaper Connections Program, providing a monthly supply of diapers for one year to 200 children in need.
  • Torrington Youth Service Bureau - $16,250 to fund the Executive Director’s salary and benefits due to unexpected state funding cuts impacting youth service bureaus.

The following nonprofits receive grants annually: 

  • Beardsley & Memorial Library 
  • Colebrook Associates, Inc. 
  • Colebrook Congregational Church 
  • Colebrook Historical Society, Inc.  
  • Cornell University for the Cornell Feline Health Center College of Veterinary Medicine 
  • CT State Community College Northwestern  
  • W. L. Gilbert Trust Corporation 
  • Greenwoods Scholarship Foundation, Inc. 
  • Little Guild of St. Francis 
  • Northwest Connecticut YMCA 
  • The Salvation Army 
  • Tufts University, School of Veterinarian Medicine 
  • The University of CT Foundation, Inc. 
  • Vivisection Investigation League, a/k/a The Last Post 
  • We Adopt Greyhounds, Inc. 
  • Winchester Youth Service Bureau 
  • Winsted Area Child Care Center, Inc. 
  • Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue, Inc. 

Jim and Shirley Draper of Colebrook, known for their unwavering commitment to community and humility, chose a life of modest means with a focus on substantial philanthropy. In 2010, their final act of generosity—a $30 million endowment—established the Northwest CT Community Foundation Draper Foundation Fund. More than a decade later, this visionary gift continues to expand, bringing significant support to area nonprofits.

Managed with care and foresight by NCCF, the Drapers' endowment has not only been preserved but has thrived, magnifying their legacy. Over the past decade, the Draper Foundation Fund has made a profound impact on the community, distributing nearly $18 million to various local nonprofits. NCCF stewardship ensures a continual and impactful source of funding for community services, aiming to benefit the region in perpetuity. The strategic allocation of these funds demonstrates a deep understanding of local needs and a commitment to fostering long-term community development.

For more information about the Northwest CT Community Foundation Draper Foundation Fund or to learn more about establishing your own Legacy Fund, please visit yournccf.org.  

Jim and Shirley Draper

About NCCF  
Established in 1969, the Northwest CT Community Foundation serves 20 towns in Northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 280 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to more than $150 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships, totaled in excess of $5 million.  

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Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund Provides $155,250 in Support of Barkhamsted Nonprofits

The Northwest CT Community Foundation Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund recently awarded $155,250 to nonprofits in Barkhamsted. 

Noteworthy donor-advised grants include: 

$38,000 to the Barkhamsted Housing Trust to support carrying costs for one year for the Mallory View housing project, and the cost of a sewer pump station and generator to connect to existing sewer lines. 

“The Barkhamsted Housing Trust Board is very pleased with the generous grant from the Northwest CT Community Foundation Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund. We are almost ready to break ground on our twenty-unit affordable housing project. Without donations of this kind, our work would be much harder,” said Christina Lavieri, Barkhamsted Housing Trust President. 

Barkhamsted Youth Baseball League received $25,000 to support new baseball and softball batting cages at the Riverton Ballfield. 

“With the Northwest CT Community Foundation Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund's continued generosity, support from the town of Barkhamsted, and community donations, the league will be able to construct three new batting cages. This project aims to improve the experience for players and families who frequent the fields,” said Marc Pericolosi, President, Barkhamsted Youth Baseball & Softball. 

The following is a complete list of nonprofit organizations that received grants in August from the Northwest CT Community Foundation Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund: 
 
Barkhamsted Center Cemetery Association received $15,000 to support cemetery wall cap repairs and replacement (Phase 1). 

Barkhamsted Historical Society received $23,000 to support repairs and maintenance for Merrill Tavern and Center Schoolhouse (shutters, heat pumps, reroofing an outbuilding). 

Barkhamsted Housing Trust received $38,000 to support carrying costs for one year for the Mallory View housing project and the cost of a sewer pump station and generator to connect to existing sewer lines. 

Barkhamsted Youth Baseball League received $25,000 to support new baseball and softball batting cages at the Riverton Ballfield. 

CT State Community College Northwestern received $6,750 to support a documentary film showcasing student research on Lighthouse Community resident James Chaugham, a Narragansett man who escaped servitude in Rhode Island to make a home in Barkhamsted. 

First Congregational Church of Barkhamsted received $20,000 to support site work and building improvements to mitigate exterior water drainage issues. 

Pleasant Valley United Methodist Church received $12,500 to support repairs and renovation of the Community Food Bank. 

Union Agricultural Society of Barkhamsted, Colebrook and Hartland received $15,000 to support repairs and maintenance of the Riverton Fair grounds (tree removal, gutter installation, painting).  

About the Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund 
The Northwest CT Community Foundation Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund was established through the estate planning of Douglas E. Roberts, a resident of Riverton for more than 80 years. The Northwest CT Community Foundation Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund supports the Barkhamsted Historical Society, educational enrichment for Barkhamsted residents, and regional nonprofit programming that benefits the residents of Barkhamsted. 

About NCCF    
Established in 1969, the Northwest CT Community Foundation serves 20 towns in Northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 280 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to more than $150 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships totaled in excess of $5 million. 

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NCCF Matches Donations: Nonprofits Raise $567,076

TORRINGTON, CT --- The Northwest CT Community Foundation (NCCF) is thrilled to announce the conclusion of Northwest Corner Gives 2024, an online giving program designed to empower local nonprofit fundraising through digital engagement. 

The effort, which saw participation from 32 local nonprofits, collected donations throughout the month of July, offering a vital opportunity for community members to support a diverse array of local causes. *NCCF Fundholders matched the donations, dollar-for-dollar, bringing the total to $567,076 – an incredible impact for the participating nonprofits and the people in Northwest CT. 

"Thank you to everyone who donated and shared the Northwest Corner Gives campaign!” said Ali Psomas, ASAP! Program & Camp Director. “We beat our goal to support our summer campers! 42 children are now attending camp on full or partial scholarships. We couldn’t have done it without our generous community. Thank you to the Northwest CT Community Foundation.” 

"We are so grateful for the challenge match opportunity provided by the Northwest CT Community Foundation,” said Amy Wynn, Executive Director of The American Mural Project. “Not only for the game-changing funds supporting our education programs, but also for the chance to be introduced to new donors in Northwest CT through the challenge match platform, which promotes so many worthy sister nonprofits in our area." 

“Thanks to the incredible generosity of our Northwest Corner Gives donors, we've not only met but exceeded our goal, reaching 104%,” said Kelly Parker, Housatonic Youth Service Bureau Executive Director. “Your support has made it possible for us to create a new family/group counseling room, where countless lives will be positively impacted. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier community. Thank you!” 
 

“We extend our sincere gratitude to the Northwest CT Community Foundation and the Sharon Hospital community,” said Christina McCulloch, Nuvance Health President. “The support received has contributed to a successful fundraising effort, allowing us to provide healthy meals for more than 2,500 seniors in the comfort and good company of our café at Sharon Hospital.” 
 

Northwest Corner Gives 2024 Participating Nonprofits and their totals: 
 

  • American Mural Project $32,455
  • ASAP! $21,046
  • Bantam Cinema & Arts Center $15,805
  • Bantam Civic Association $3,210
  • Bethlehem Ambulance Association $2,950
  • Brooker Memorial $6,880
  • Caring for Bethlehem $6,513
  • Charlotte Hungerford Hospital $10,820
  • Chime In! Music with a Mission $3,730
  • FISH/Friends in Service to Humanity $55,552
  • Friends of Topsmead State Forest $1,180
  • Goshen Community Care $3,000
  • Goshen Players $8,030
  • Greenwoods Counseling & Referrals $49,805
  • Grumbling Gryphons Children’s Theatre $10,460
  • Healing Hoofbeats $1,255
  • Housatonic Child Care Center $4,000
  • Housatonic Youth Service Bureau $10,405
  • The Housing Collective $40,105
  • Kidsplay Children’s Museum $52,560
  • Little Britches Therapeutic Riding $8,530
  • Little Guild $31,930
  • McCall Behavioral Health Network $32,210
  • NWCT Arts Council $10,460
  • Northwest CT Food Hub $20,330
  • Northwest Connecticut YMCA $44,340
  • Primetime House $10,280
  • Sharon Hospital $20,230
  • SOAR Educational Enrichment $5,400
  • Summit Adaptive Sports $4,710
  • Susan B. Anthony Project $18,080
  • Torrington Area Families for Autism $20,815

*Northwest Corner Gives dollar-for-dollar matches were made possible by generous gifts from the Northwest CT Community Foundation’s Draper Foundation Fund, Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund, Marion Wm. & Alice Edwards Fund, Carlton D. Fyler and Jenny R. Fyler Fund, Khurshed Bhumgara Fund, Eva M. Coty Fund, 1421 Opportunity Fund, Karen M. O’Connor Fund, Northwest CT Philanthropy Fund, Edwin M. Stone and Edith H. Stone Fund, and an Anonymous NCCF Fund. 

NCCF created NorthwestCornerGives.org to help local nonprofits build awareness and raise matching funds for essential expenses. Launched in 2020 in response to urgent needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, Northwest Corner Gives has now raised more than $1.5 million for local nonprofits. 

"This year’s success is a testament to the generosity and community spirit of Northwest Connecticut,” said Guy Rovezzi, NCCF President and CEO. “It is heartening to see so many friends and neighbors come together in partnership with NCCF Fundholders to support essential services and programs that directly impact the wellbeing of our communities.” 
 

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Northwest CT Students Awarded 
$456,000 in Scholarships

The Northwest CT Community Foundation (NCCF) has awarded more than $456,000 in scholarships and awards to local students for the 2024-2025 academic year. Scholarships and awards are made possible by NCCF funds established by generous individuals and families. The following students have been awarded scholarships:

ANTHONY “FRANK” AMICONE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Abigail Foulds (Torrington)

ELIZABETH LONG ANDERSON SCHOLARSHIP
Elise Petro (Torrington)

RUSSELL ANDERSON, CARMEN BROOKS ANDERSON, AND HENRY VAIL BROOKS SCHOLARSHIP
Atticus Anderson (Torrington)
Isabelle Dangonini (Torrington)
Sabrina He (Torrington)
Mueez Mahmood (Torrington)
Shae Pillar (Torrington)
Lindsay Pramono (Torrington)
Rayat Siddique (Torrington)
Emily Tacuri Penaranda (Torrington)
Julian Vinuelas (Torrington)
Lucas Whalen (Torrington)

STEPHEN G. ANDRE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Patrick Minnerly (Torrington)

JOYCE ALBERTA BAGNASCHI O'HERON AWARD
Makayla Farrington (Torrington)

REGINA TATE BALFE MEMORIAL NURSING SCHOLARSHIP
Angelica Williams (Torrington)

MAE CASALI BONVICINI SCHOLARSHIP
Elise Petro (Torrington)

RUSSELL F. BRUNO SCHOLARSHIP
Sloan Richardson (Torrington)

JACK & RUTH CALDER SCHOLARSHIP
Jolie McTamney (Goshen)

ERMAN CAVAGNERO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Hailey Lynn Gillotti (Torrington)

STEVEN A. CHUPKA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Maia Blauvelt

FRED J. COFFIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Leah Fosbrook (Torrington)

SHAWN COLLINS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Chelsea Cliff (Torrington)

TIM CONSIDINE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Luke Maver (Torrington)
Anthony Samele (Torrington)

DICK COOKE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Braden O’Marra (Torrington)

EVA M. COTY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Freyja Harrel (Torrington)

HELEN H. DAUTRICH SCHOLARSHIP
Morgan Young (Torrington)

EDWARD W. DISKAVICH SCHOLARSHIP
Maia Blauvelt (Torrington)
Zoie Matava (Torrington)
Zoe Orie (Torrington)

CORNELIUS DONAHUE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Casey Young (Torrington)

ROBERT G. DOYLE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Leah Fosbrook (Torrington)

FRANCES H. DUCCI SCHOLARSHIP
Leonid Clayton (Lakeville)
Anne Moran (Norfolk)

EAST SCHOOL ROBERT KELLY SCHOLARSHIP
Patrick Minnerly (Torrington)

MARION WM. EDWARDS SCHOLARSHIP
Ruby Leonard (Torrington)

ELIZABETH & SANTO FAINELLI SCHOLARSHIP
Elizabeth Rose Campus-Hathaway (Torrington)

KATHLEEN T. FINN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Lindsey Horn (Torrington)

CHARLES AND PIERINA FOSSATI SCHOLARSHIP
Nicole Luba (Torrington)

HELEN AND MARIO GARBIN SCHOLARSHIP
Baylie Pesce (Northfield)

BOB AND RAY GOOD SCHOLARSHIP
Finn Murphy (Torrington)

FLORENCE HAKALSKI SCHOLARSHIP
Luis Alvarez (Torrington)

MICHAEL G. HASCHAK SCHOLARSHIP
Alex Rapuano (Torrington)

HEALTH CARE AUXILIARY SCHOLARSHIP
Kara Franks (Kent) 
Helen Sanders (West Cornwall)

DIANE AND JEFF JOHNSON SCHOLARSHIP
Aidan Briatico (Goshen)
Kaleigh Lynch (Goshen)

ROBERT C. & MARGARET G. LIZOTTE ART SCHOLARSHIP
Caroline Sienkiewicz (Torrington)

JULIA MCDONNELL/HENRY FRIES SCHOLARSHIP
Klaudia Roman (Torrington)

FRANK “FRANKIE” J. MCGOWAN, JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Rayat Siddique (Torrington)

JOHN A. AND ANN K. METTLING SCHOLARSHIP
Jonah Merriam (Torrington)

JOHN J. AND ANNE M. MILEWSKI SCHOLARSHIP
Haley Burger (Torrington)
Hayley Phelps (Torrington)

DONALD F. AND NORMA K. MOUGENOT SCHOLARSHIP
Sandra Carfiro (Colebrook)
Abigail Curtiss (Northfield)
Julia Fischer (Warren)
Jocelyn Lariccia (Torrington)
Ruby Leonard (Torrington)
Brooke Maloney (New Hartford)
Michael Pasquariello (Torrington)

VICTOR MUSCHELL, SR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Celmi Prisila Chimbo (Torrington)

NORTH SCHOOL PTO SCHOLARSHIP
Caroline Sienkiewicz (Torrington)

PIEMONTESE CLUB MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Luis Alvarez (Torrington)

MICHELE FARLEY PITTLER SCHOLARSHIP
Natallie Cox (Torrington)

FRIENDS OF JOHN PONTE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Aiden Carrano (Burlington) 
Olivier Dubois (Torrington) 
Ginny Mullen (Burlington)

LEONARD RENDINO SCHOLARSHIP
Braden O’Marra (Torrington)

JOSEPH AND BERNICE REPAS SCHOLARSHIP
Patrick Minnerly (Torrington)

MARGARET RINGSTAD RIEFE SCHOLARSHIP
Sofia Calabrese (Torrington)

DOUGLAS AND JANET ROBERTS SCHOLARSHIP
Alexa Ayers (Barkhamsted)
Nikolas Bodnar (Barkhamsted)
Nina Bodnar (Barkhamsted)
Jacob Brodnitzki (Barkhamsted)
Natalie Brodnitzki (Barkhamsted)
Allyson Danila (Barkhamsted)
Janessa Green (Barkhamsted)
Kaylie Langer (Barkhamsted)
Siena Nguyen (Barkhamsted)
Meghan North (Barkhamsted)
Brayden Stapleton (Barkhamsted)
Madison Thibault (Barkhamsted)
Meredith Zematis (Barkhamsted)

DR. SHENOI & FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP
Celmi Prisila Chimbo (Torrington)

THE SHEPARD FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP
Fhasal Alam (Torrington)
Amit Banik (Torrington)
Wade Barillaro (Lakeville)
Miranda Bossi (New Hartford)
Riley Bossi (New Hartford)
Olivia Boyan (New Hartford)
Evan Briatico (Goshen)
Sydney Cardello (Goshen)
Tristan Coolbeth (Bantam)
Madelyn Curtiss (Litchfield)
Erin Daley (Norfolk)
Kaiden Esteves (Goshen)
Kip Faison (Washington)
Lane Faison (Washington)
Lindsay Faveau (Lakeville)
Kara Franks (Kent)
Ashley Hamel (Harwinton)
Natalie Hudson (Sharon)
Danielle Jacquemin (Torrington)
Honor King (Warren)
Quinn King (Warren)
Leo Laure (Litchfield)
Max Laure (Litchfield)
Matthew Leifert (Torrington)
Luke Maver (Torrington)
Colin McAuliffe (Lakeville)
Faith McKenzie-Thomas (Torrington)
Addie Mehl (Winsted)
Emily Migliorisi (Litchfield)
Benjamin Nordland (Litchfield)
Grace Pagano (New Hartford)
Herbert Pramono (Torrington)
Grace Riva (Canaan)
Anna Saltourides (Northfield)
Anthony Samele (Torrington)
Helen Sanders (West Cornwall)
Gabriel Stradtman (Bantam)
Cooper Suminski (Torrington)
Matteo Taraba (Kent)
Isabelle Terhune (Litchfield)
Sarah Upson (Lakeville)
Ashley Wilkins (Kent)
Brennan Wilkins (Kent)
Bryanna Zuccaro (New Hartford)

SOUTHWEST SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP IN MEMORY OF MARION WM. EDWARDS
Vanderee Fritch (Torrington)

JEFF STANNARD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Mason Stannard (Torrington)

APOLONIA STANULIS SCHOLARSHIP
Alexis Arthur (New Hartford)
JessaRose Beeman (Goshen)
Beth Christensen (Winsted)
Kadija Crapo (Litchfield)
Zajans Crapo (Litchfield)
Grace Crispino (New Preston)
Rebecca Dowling (Winsted)
Avery Dube (Harwinton)
Noah Dube (Harwinton)
Emma Fallon (Harwinton)
Julia Fischer (Warren)
Mackenzie Fischer (Litchfield)
Natalie Hamel (Harwinton)
Mohammed Kabir (Torrington)
Cooper Laure (Litchfield)
Kaitlyn Luba (Torrington)
Jolie McTamney (Goshen)
Shalyn Neary (Torrington)
Jaden Spangenberg Grasmere (Harwinton)
Peyton Weik (Bantam)

NELLIE J. SULLIVAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Casey Young (Torrington)

SVNA EDUCATIONAL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM SCHOLARSHIP

Myah Baird (Cornwall Bridge)

Brooke Neller (Goshen)

Avery Tripp (Falls Village)

SVNA HEALTH CARE RELATED EDUCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP

Catherine Bushey (Lakeville)

Emma Colley (Sharon)

Finn Cousins (Sharon)

Erin Daley (Norfolk)

Kara Franks (Kent)

Zoe Gillette (Lakeville)

Madelyn Krasowski (Warren)

Micah Matsudaira (Cornwall)

Olivia Olsen (Norfolk)

Helen Sanders (West Cornwall)

 

TAPSG MARION AND VICTOR M. MUSCHELL AWARD
Lilly Hardee (Torrington)
John Pergola (Torrington) 

MARIANTONIA TATE MEMORIAL ALLIED HEALTH SCHOLARSHIP
Megan Tanner (Torrington)

JILL PUDLINSKI TAVANO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Brandon Alvarez (Torrington)
Shaswot Pokharel (Torrington) 

TEMKIN FAMILY VALEDICTORY AWARD
Matthew McCarthy (Torrington)

THS STUDENT COUNCIL SCHOLARSHIP
Isabelle Dangonini (Torrington)

TORRINGTON HIGH SCHOOL POOLED SCHOLARSHIP
Rosa Maita (Torrington)

TORRINGTON LITHUANIAN MUTUAL BENEFIT CLUB SCHOLARSHIP
Jonah Merriam (Torrington)

TORRINGTON UNICO THOMAS M. ACERBI SCHOLARSHIP
Hayley Skutt (Torrington)

TORRINGTON UNICO FRANCIS J. AND DONALD G. ALBREDA SCHOLARSHIP
Carena Fechteler (Falls Village)

TORRINGTON UNICO RT. REVEREND MONSIGNOR WILLIAM BOTTICELLI SCHOLARSHIP
Ruby Leonard (Torrington)

TORRINGTON UNICO DICK’S RESTAURANT SCHOLARSHIP
Daley Curry (Torrington)
Ruby Leonard (Torrington)
Zoie Matava (Torrington)
Sam Maver (Torrington)
Zoe Orie (Torrington)
Emily Penaranda (Torrington)
Brandy Quichimbo (Torrington)
Emily Zarcone (Torrington)

TORRINGTON UNICO FOUNDERS SCHOLARSHIP IN HONOR OF TOMMASO DANIELE RENDINO
Mehar Bhasin (New Rochelle)
Bryanni Fana (Torrington)
Cooper Laure (Litchfield)
Sage Sobek (Litchfield)

TORRINGTON UNICO ANTONIO GIOIA SCHOLARSHIP
Jillian Jones (Torrington)
Molly Jones (Torrington)
Lindsey Veneziano (Torrington)
Lucas Whalen (Torrington)

TORRINGTON UNICO ITALIAN HERITAGE SCHOLARSHIP
Audrey Chairvolotti (New Hartford)
Jolie McTamney (Goshen)
Emily Migliorisi (Litchfield)
Madison Perry (Winsted)

TORRINGTON UNICO CARMELA, R.N., AND VITA “JENNIE” LOPARDO SCHOLARSHIP
Kayleigh Smith (Harwinton)

TORRINGTON UNICO ERICO MAROLA SCHOLARSHIP
Adon Burrell (Barkhamsted)

TORRINGTON UNICO ANDREW J. ONEGLIA SCHOLARSHIP
Jenna Sobek (Litchfield)

TORRINGTON UNICO RAYMOND A. AND GLORIA ONEGLIA SCHOLARSHIP
Andrew Wright (Harwinton)

TORRINGTON UNICO FIORE & EDITH PETRICONE SCHOLARSHIP, K.S.G.
Atticus Anderson (Torrington)

TORRINGTON UNICO BRIAN PICCOLO MEMORIAL AWARD
Gabriella Ford (Naugatuck)

TORRINGTON UNICO WILLIAM ROMANI SCHOLARSHIP
Hailey Lynn Gillotti (Torrington)

TORRINGTON UNICO JOSEPH SCLAFANI SCHOLARSHIP
Chloe Bayat (Torrington)

TORRINGTON UNICO RALPH SABIA / ADDO BONETTI SCHOLARSHIP
Luke Maver (Torrington) 

TORRINGTON UNICO JOHN SULLO FOUNDERS SCHOLARSHIP
Mattea Young (Colebrook)

ALBERT C. AND ROSE TURRI SCHOLARSHIP
Madison Norton (New Hartford) 
Stephanie You (Torrington)

THE UNITED NATIONS ASSOCIATION OF CONNECTICUT SCHOLARSHIP
Mattea Young (Colebrook)

WILLIAM AND SALLY VAUN SCHOLARSHIP
Mallory McCarthy (New Hartford)
Samantha Seger (Torrington)

FREDERICK J. WILCOX SPORTSMANSHIP SCHOLARSHIP
Klaudia Roman (Torrington)

JAMES P. & MILDRED GREGG ZUCCO SCHOLARSHIP
Amelia Ficalora (New Hartford)
Amber Madrak (New Hartford)
Brooke Nelson (New Hartford)
Isabella Roepke (New Hartford)
Tristan Trang (New Hartford)
Janessa Webb (Winsted)
Mattea Young (Colebrook)

2024-2025 Scholarship information will be available at https://www.yournccf.org/scholarships.

About NCCF
Established in 1969, the Northwest CT Community Foundation serves 20 towns in Northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 280 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to more than $150 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships, totaled in excess of $5 million. 

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Northwest Corner Gives 2024 Launches–Donations Matched-Dollar-for-Dollar 
for Local Nonprofits

TORRINGTON, CT --- The Northwest CT Community Foundation (NCCF) is thrilled to announce the launch of Northwest Corner Gives 2024, an online giving program designed to empower local nonprofit fundraising through digital engagement. 

Northwest Corner Gives will run from July 8th to July 28th, offering a vital opportunity for community members to support a diverse array of local causes. 

*NCCF will match donations to nonprofit campaigns dollar-for-dollar up to campaign goals. 

Northwest Corner Gives Campaigns 
American Mural Project 
ASAP 
Bantam Cinema & Arts Center 
Bantam Civic Association 
Bethlehem Ambulance Association 
Brooker Memorial 
Caring for Bethlehem 
Charlotte Hungerford Hospital 
Chime In! Music with a Mission 
FISH/Friends in Service to Humanity 
Friends of Topsmead State Forest 
Goshen Community Care 
Goshen Players 
Greenwoods Counseling & Referrals 
Grumbling Gryphons Children’s Theatre 
Healing Hoofbeats 
Housatonic Child Care Center 
Housatonic Youth Service Bureau 
The Housing Collective 
Kidsplay Children’s Museum 
Little Britches Therapeutic Riding 
Little Guild 
McCall Behavioral Health Network 
NWCT Arts Council 
Northwest CT Food Hub 
Northwest Connecticut YMCA 
Primetime House 
Sharon Hospital 
SOAR Educational Enrichment 
Summit Adaptive Sports 
Susan B. Anthony Project 
|Torrington Area Families for Autism

Dollar-for-dollar matches are made possible by the Northwest CT Community Foundation: Draper Foundation Fund, Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund, Marion Wm. Alice Edwards Fund, Carlton D. Fyler and Jenny R. Fyler Fund, Khurshed Bhumgara Fund, Eva M. Coty Fund, 1421 Opportunity Fund, Karen M. O’Connor Fund, Northwest CT Philanthropy Fund, Edwin M. Stone Fund and Edith H. Stone Fund, and An Anonymous NCCF Fund.

Beginning July 8th, community members are encouraged to view and support nonprofit campaigns at www.northwestcornergives.org.

NCCF created Northwest Corner Gives to help local nonprofits build awareness and raise matching funds for essential expenses. Launched in 2020 in response to urgent needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, Northwest Corner Gives has raised more than $1 million for local nonprofits.
 

About NCCF   
Established in 1969, the Northwest CT Community Foundation serves 20 towns in Northwest Connecticut. Its total endowment, comprised of more than 280 funds, has grown from initial assets of $15,000 to more than $150 million. Last year, combined grants and scholarships, totaled in excess of $5 million.

NCCF Honored with 2024 Quality of Life Award 🏆

TORRINGTON, CT — Northwest CT Community Foundation (NCCF) is honored to announce that we have been selected to receive the 2024 Quality of Life Award from the Northwest CT Chamber of Commerce. This award is a testament to NCCF’s ongoing commitment to enriching the quality of life for residents of Connecticut’s Northwest Corner through the generosity of fundholders by inspiring local philanthropy, convening stakeholders in community welfare, strengthening the regional nonprofit network, and fostering collaborative funding partnerships. 

The Quality of Life Award is one of three distinguished honors presented at the annual Celebration of Success event, hosted by the Northwest CT Chamber of Commerce. Each year, the Chamber recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the region's business environment, community involvement, and overall quality of life. This year's honorees include: 

Business Leader Award: Ted Murphy, E.J. Murphy Realty, LLC 
Community Leader Award: Joanne Borduas, Community Health & Wellness Center 
Quality of Life Award: Northwest CT Community Foundation 

Honorees are nominated by Chamber membership and selected by the Celebration of Success Committee based on their contributions to the community. NCCF is deeply honored to be recognized alongside such esteemed leaders and organizations. 

We invite the community to join us in celebrating this achievement at the Northwest CT Chamber of Commerce annual Celebration of Success event on June 27th, 5:00 p.m. at Fairview Farm Golf Course in Harwinton. The evening will feature a reception with bountiful hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, and entertainment by the SCSU Jazz Band. Tickets are $50 per person, and registration can be completed online at https://nwctchamberofcommerce.org 

As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Northwest CT Chamber of Commerce, our dedicated board members, and the generous donors and community partners who support our mission. Together, we are making a lasting impact on the lives of those in Northwest Connecticut. 

To learn more about NCCF, visit yournccf.org 
#northwestct #NCCF #community Northwest Connecticut Chamber of Commerce The Register Citizen Republican American

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Draper Foundation Fund Boosts Northwest CT with Over $800k in grants

The Northwest CT Community Foundation Draper Foundation Fund supports 19 area nonprofits, chosen by Jim and Shirley Draper, with grants awarded annually. Additionally, trustees award grants on a competitive basis to a broader range of projects and organizations in the region, further expanding the reach of the fund's impact.

Notable Competitive Grants:

  • $36,000 to Susan B. Anthony Project to support property repairs and upgrades for the Transitional Living Program building. “The project will create a more comfortable, home-like atmosphere for victims and their families, as they work to heal from their trauma and move towards independence,” said Ms. Jeanne Fusco, Executive Director of the Susan B. Anthony Project. “The [shelter] averages about 16 residents per year, including clients and their children; individuals of all races, ethnicities, ages, genders, and socio-economic backgrounds. The project is expected to impact residents for years to come.”
     
  • $21,500 to Winsted Area Child Care Center to support the replacement of security system equipment to comply with U.S. government regulations. "We are so grateful for the generosity of Northwest CT Community Foundation Draper Foundation Fund trustees for supporting our program, ensuring the security of our facility and the safety of the children in our care," said Shannan Kinsella, Executive Director of Winsted Area Child Care Center. 
     
  • $10,100 to Camp Rising Sun to improve access to the Camp Jewell waterfront for wheelchair-bound campers. "Through the generosity of the Northwest CT Community Foundation Draper Foundation Fund, we will now be able to provide kids with cancer better access to the waterfront at Camp Jewell with the purchase of two beach wheelchairs. This brings our kids one step further to forgetting about cancer for a week and just concentrate on having fun and being a kid," Shaun Heffernan, Executive Director, Camp Rising Sun.

Other competitive grants include:

  • $20,000 to EdAdvance (Head Start) for furnishings and technology in Torrington
  • $19,600 to FISH of Northwestern Connecticut for a heating system at Brooker House in Torrington
  • $15,000 to KidsPlay Children's Museum for roof replacement in Torrington
  • $14,500 to Church of Christ Congregational for fire door replacements to provide access to a food pantry in Goshen
  • $10,000 each to CT Foodshare and McCall Behavioral Health Network for service enhancements in Winsted and Torrington, respectively
  • $8,000 to Hands of Grace to support the purchase of food for the pantry in New Hartford
  • $16,800 to Winchester Youth Service Bureau to support a behavior specialist position for Rising Star Camp in Torrington for summer 2024 and 2025
  • $3,850 to New Beginnings for various essential upgrades and supplies for The Gathering Place in Torrington

The following nonprofits receive grants annually:
 

  • Beardsley & Memorial Library
  • Colebrook Associates, Inc.
  • Colebrook Congregational Church
  • Colebrook Historical Society, Inc.
  • Cornell University for the Cornell Feline Health Center College of Veterinary Medicine
  • CT State Community College Northwestern
  • W. L. Gilbert Trust Corporation
  • Greenwoods Scholarship Foundation, Inc.
  • Little Guild of St. Francis
  • Northwest Connecticut YMCA
  • The Salvation Army
  • Tufts University, School of Veterinarian Medicine
  • The University of CT Foundation, Inc.
  • Vivisection Investigation League, a/k/a The Last Post
  • We Adopt Greyhounds, Inc.
  • Winchester Youth Service Bureau
  • Winsted Area Child Care Center, Inc.
  • Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue, Inc.
Jim and Shirley Draper

Jim and Shirley Draper of Colebrook, known for their profound commitment to community and humility, chose a life of modest means with a focus on substantial philanthropy. In 2010, their final act of generosity—a $30 million endowment—established the Northwest CT Community Foundation Draper Foundation Fund under the stewardship of NCCF. More than a decade later, this visionary gift continues to expand, bringing significant support to area nonprofits. The first distributions of $812,750 for 2024 were awarded, reaffirming the enduring impact of the Drapers' generosity.

Managed with care and foresight by NCCF, the Drapers' endowment has not only been preserved but has thrived, magnifying their legacy. Over the past decade, the Northwest CT Community Foundation Draper Foundation Fund has made a profound impact on the community, distributing nearly $18 million to various local nonprofits. NCCF stewardship ensures a continual and impactful source of funding for community services, aiming to benefit the region in perpetuity. The strategic allocation of these funds demonstrates a deep understanding of local needs and a commitment to fostering long-term community development.

For more information about the Northwest CT Community Foundation Draper Foundation Fund or learning how to establish your own Legacy Fund, please visit yournccf.org. 
 

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