Wednesday, November 26, 2008

City of Shelton Studying Childhood Capacity

Here is your chance to make a difference for the next generation of children in Shelton. The Shelton Early Childhood Capacity Development Project has started a data collection campaign this fall and they need your help by taking this five-minute survey.

Click here to take the survey.

Leadership Greater Valley 2008 Graduates Class


The 2008 Graduates
Name & Affiliation

Colleen Bike - People's United Bank
Dorothy Bratchell - Womens Business Development Center
Youssef Boutros - People's United Bank
Robert Campbell - Paradigm Fox LLC
Mike Chaffee - Echo Hose Ambulance
Donna DiGianvittorio - Regional Water Authority
Olivier Gressier - Gexpro
Joe Laucella - Echo Hose Ambulance
Eileen Lopez-Cordone - United Illuminating Company
Sharon Massafra - Home Instead Senior Care
Erin Mitchell - PerkinElmer Life & Analytical Sciences
Bonnie Sinclair - NEC
Karynn Weinstein - The Heart of Aerobics & Conditioning



Course Outline



Session 1) History of the Valley

In order to understand where we are going, we must first learn where we have been. This session will open your eyes to the reasons why the Valley has played a key role in manufacturing in the United States and how important leaders such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were linked to some of the towns in the Valley.



Session 2) Qualities of Leadership

At the core of many current leadership models is the concept of change – how to foster and manage it. This hands-on workshop presents models and practices associated with establishing an innovative environment and specific leadership tools to maximize performance levels and the ability to operate as change leaders.




Session 3) Ethics

Lack of ethics is what most of the media blitz is about nowadays. Government and business scandals are the buzz on the air. This session will prepare the participants to address their unique responsibilities, while creating and sustaining an effective ethical standard to live by.



Session 4) Diversity & Inclusion

Diversity is a strategic competitive advantage in today’s global economy. In this session you will learn about diversity and inclusion, how to power-up your self-awareness and capitalize on the experiences and ideas of others to increase productivity, achieve organizational goals and improve overall business results.


Session 5) Government, Education and Public Services

This session will explore the roles and responsibilities of our federal, state and local officials and will engage participants in a discussion on the important issues that are shaping the future of our communities.

Session 6) Economic Development ant the Region

What are the forces driving the region’s economy? In this session, participants will interact with a diverse mix of private and public sector leaders that are shaping the Valley’s economy for the 21st century.




Session 7) Health and Human Services

Non-profits…what are they? How do they run? What is their value to the community? This session will introduce participants to the Valley’s health and human service community and the role of an effective board member.



Session 8) Life & Leisure in the Valley

There is much to see and do in the Valley. Whether it’s a experiencing a new culinary experience or taking a scenic hike, the area offers numerous options for everyone. This session will explore and celebrate the individuals, organizations and venues that provide a vital dimension to life and leisure in the Valley.



Session 9) Graduation


Congratulations to all of the graduates!

"Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other." - John F. Kennedy

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Spooner House Rebuilds Hope


“Without the help of the Spooner House staff I don’t know what I would have done.” – John H.

When John was evicted from his apartment earlier in July of this year, he didn’t know where to turn. “I thought I had no place to go,” John said. “I thought I was going to be sleeping in my car for a while.” Fortunately John came across the Spooner House – an emergency assistance and homeless shelter that gave him regular meals and a place to stay for four months.

John Trovarelli, a Spooner House counselor, was able to assist in finding John a steady job, which he has since maintained. Because John was working, he could not qualify for state insurance or low income housing. After speaking with his case manager, she was able to find him a transition apartment that he could move into while readjusting himself to an independent lifestyle.

John feels his time spent with the Spooner House was learning experience and believes that everything is working out. “I don’t know where I would be right now if it wasn’t for all the help the Spooner House gave me,” John said. “I think this is one of the best things that has ever happened to me because I was able to concentrate on myself without all those pressures and worries hanging over my head. It’s a work in progress but so far, so good.”

Watch John's full video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eaGgpc7uGm8

Umbrella Helps Bring Light at the End of the Tunnel

“I don’t think I’d be where I am today if it wasn’t for all of the kind people at Umbrella.” – Judy T.

Only a few years into her marriage, Judy found herself being abused both physically and mentally by her husband. Worst of all, her four year old son regularly witnessed the attacks. Fearing for their well-being, Judy began to look for help.

Judy spoke with close friends and began to privately investigate the Umbrella agency. The Umbrella counselors scheduled a confidential meeting to review her case, but Judy was concerned about her financial situation. Money was already tight and she didn’t know what type of help she could obtain on a constricted budget.

Judy was able to receive continued counseling for herself and her son free of charge at Umbrella. Services offered in the Umbrella Program are provided at no cost to the individual. Judy’s legal fees were differed and a legal counsel was also appointed to properly represent her in court. Despite taking about three years in the court system, she was able to stop the abuse, remove her husband from the home and regain control of her life.

“I was able to feel better about myself because the counselors at Umbrella helped me understand this was not my fault and that there will always be options,” Judy said. “I don’t think I’d be where I am today if it wasn’t for all of the kind people at Umbrella.”

Many victims of domestic violence need a place to go that can be considered a safe haven after removing themselves from a dangerous and potentially escalating situation. Umbrella provided that place of refuge for not only Judy, but her son as well. Judy’s son is now in his early 20’s and just received his bachelor’s degree in Finance earlier this year.

“Umbrella supplied food, provided shelter, clothing, and during the holidays even hosted Christmas parties and gift exchange programs,” Judy said. “I hope my story can help any women who may be victims of domestic violence and show that there really is a light at the end of the tunnel.”

The basic premise of the Umbrella Program is that all persons have the right to live free of violence and fear, especially within their own homes. Umbrella works towards the elimination of domestic violence and provides practical assistance and support to victims. The Umbrella Program operates on the principle that all persons who utilize their services are in charge of their own lives and have the right to make their own decisions.

Umbrella is located at 435 East Main Street Ansonia, CT 06401. The office can be contacted directly by calling (203) 736-2601 while the 24-hour crisis hotline can be reached at (203) 736-9944. Umbrella can also be visited online at http://www.bghealth.org/umbrella_domestic_violence_services.htm.

Judy's full video can be seen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-cDvmFSg9E

Morris Foundation Changes Outlook on Life

"I can honestly say it's been extremely educational." - Ken

Ken has an MBA and a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Sacred Heart University. As Vice President of an executive company, shoreline homeowner, with a wife and kids, Ken had the life. Then one day it all fell apart. He was let go from his job after 13 years.

Unsure of what to do or where to go, he turned to drinking. Ken was arrested for a DUI with a six month suspended sentence. He was sentenced to 18 months of probation and had his license suspended for a year.

He was ordered to take 15 classes with the Morris Foundation. There he began learning the important skills toward recovery, coping skills, and how to deal with personal problems. Still suffering from alcoholism he was sent to 25 days of rehab and then returned to the Morris Foundation for continued once a week classes. Ken likes going to Morris Foundation because he gets the support he needs and learns from others in similar situations. "I can honestly say it's been extremely educational." says Ken. Today, he shows up for classes he doesn’t even need to be at.

Ken is a success of the Morris Foundation and recommends the program to anyone who needs it. He has learned his lesson. Today unemployed and still without a license, Ken finds it difficult to receive income. When you pull up to an interview in someone else’s car you’re always asked what's wrong.

Ken's situation had cost him his marriage, seeing his children, and being employed once again. Ken regrets ever having driven drunk and admits it wasn't worth it.. Thanks to the Morris Foundation Ken has learned better ways to cope with life’s problems. He will regain control of his vehicle at the beginning of 2009 and is looking forward to a brighter future.

Watch Ken's full video by clicking here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUVeC3CdhPg

Boys & Girls Club Meets Many Needs

"I thought I would end up in jail. Now I’m on the road to success." – Michael Blanco

Life wasn’t easy for Michael growing up in Bridgeport. He frequently found himself getting into trouble and having a difficult time maintaining a positive family life. One afternoon Michael accepted a friend’s invitation to visit the Boys & Girls Club of Bridgeport and was instantly hooked. He became a regular and started visiting the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley in Shelton with another childhood friend.

According to Michael, counselors Shaye and Jeff along with Mike, the program director, provided great programs and a positive family atmosphere. The counselors checked in on him by calling his cell phone and house regularly, making sure he was doing well and staying out of trouble. They continued to keep in touch outside of club hours, which led to Michael participating in more club activities.

"The Boys & Girls Club gave me a new, positive environment, and I took advantage of it," Michael said smiling. "The club got me into college and improved my social skills."

Michael was offered a job at the new Milford Boys and Girls Club after his continuous dedication. He believes the Boys & Girls Club programs and counselors stopped him from traveling further down a bad road and straightened him out. The Boys and Girls Club also rewarded Michael with a scholarship to attend college and provided him with a place to work, flexing his schedule around his academic hours.

"I really get to relate to these kids, and I love doing it. I get to talk to them about my past and allow the kids to take my experiences and use it to help them in their future. I’m the type of guy where if I had two dollars in my pocket, you better believe I’d be splitting it with a kid who wanted something from the vending machine."

Watch Michael's full video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yPw4R1Uf18

Project Graduation Benefits Many

Tracy Gigliotti (Social Worker/Case Manager), Mary Wieczorkowski and Reina Marasco (Director, Valley Regional Adult Education) are pictured at Shelton High School.

For some, the road to a high school diploma is direct and seemingly effortless. For others, the road can have a few curves and bumps along the way, but the destination is the same. The importance of a high school diploma in today’s rapidly evolving economy is critical. Sikorsky Aircraft recognizes that a competitive workforce starts with and builds on a high school diploma as does Valley United Way. That’s one of the reasons that they are working together through a new initiative – Project Graduation.

Mary Wieczorkowski of Shelton is a good example of a student who is finding an alternative path to her high school diploma through an adult education program offered through Valley Regional Adult Education (VRAE). Mary left high school and eventually started working at Stop & Shop. Though the traditional high school program didn’t fit her needs at the time, she recognized the void in her educational background and determined to find a way to earn her diploma. Now age 18 and with the pressure of work, Mary stayed in touch with Patty Stanchfield who was a Housemaster at Shelton High School and also worked as a coordinator with Valley Regional Adult Education. Stanchfield told her about the Adult High School Credit Diploma program which brings students back to the classrooms at Valley Adult Regional Education to earn the credits that they need to complete the requirements for their diploma. The program is open to students (age 16 and older) who have officially withdrawn from school.

Mary wanted the experience of taking classes that she had missed in a classroom setting and decided that the Adult High School Credit Diploma program was best for her. Mrs. Stanchfield reviewed Mary’s high school transcripts and determined that she was eligible for the program. Mary now attends classes four nights a week from 5:45 to 9:45 PM while continuing to hold down her job at Stop & Shop. She is determined to complete her work and eventually to go on to college to pursue a career as a nurse. Valley Regional Adult Education has enhanced the learning opportunities to include some on-line classes which allow students more flexibility with their time schedules.

Valley Regional Adult Education identified 89 students from the Valley and Monroe who were eligible and enrolled in this high school completion program. They also recognized that students returning to school while juggling work and family obligations sometimes need additional support services. That’s where Project Graduation funding came in. Tracy Gigliotti, a social worker in the Shelton school system, was hired as a social worker/case manager to work with the students to help them navigate through whatever issues may arise that would hinder their completion of the class work. Funding given to the program allowed for the expansion of hours available for counseling services and has a direct impact on the retention and graduation rates of students participating in the program.

Mary is pleased with the programs offered at VRAE, and also with the treatment that she receives from everyone involved. She praised the staff for their support and also for the way that they treat the students. Though the requirements are very strict, and it is sometimes difficult to juggle her work and class obligations, she finds that she is treated fairly as an adult, and the knowledge that she is gaining will serve her well on her career path. She is looking forward to earning her high school diploma and moving on to take college courses.

Project Graduation is made possible by funding from Sikorsky and from each of the regional United Ways participating in the program who identify programs in their regions that foster the goal of ensuring that every student earns a high school diploma. Valley United Way has identified the Adult High School Credit Diploma Program as an ideal match in the Valley and is working with VRAE to make the program successful.

A New Start As a Volunteer


My name is Joyce Saltes. I am a recent retiree with dreams and aspirations of helping others and making a difference. While recovering from a broken wrist, I realized that I still have the energy to do many things and the enthusiasm to meet and help people. Thus, I contacted the Valley United Way. I grew to admire the staff who worked for the organization and saw firsthand their dedication and commitment to the community.

Collaborating with the Valley United Way has given me the opportunity to accomplish my personal and social objectives on an ongoing basis. I consider myself lucky living in the United States, "the land of opportunity", and for having the opportunity to give back to my community for all that I have received. Of course, I am responsible for looking for those opportunities.

The value I bring to my volunteer work with the Valley United Way is associated with applying my extensive administrative, people and computer skills to each project. The welcoming environment and the professionalism of the staff support me in all those endeavors. I never imagined how large an impact on the community can be made with each small action. I am very grateful to be able to give my time, knowledge, and experience to everyone. I feel helpful and useful, which is so important to me.

My personal objective is to help the Valley United Way maintain their excellent standing in the Valley -- satisfying the biological, psychological, and social needs of each person.

I would like to say thank you to the staff of the Valley United Way for the opportunity to help and invite everyone to help others in any way.

I'd like to share these quotations with you:

"Volunteering is an act of heroism on a grand scale. And it matters profoundly. It does more than help people beat the odds; it changes the odds." -- President Bill Clinton

"There are two ways of spreading light - to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it." -- Edith Wharton

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. Joins the United Way Family


Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. of Shelton is the latest company to LIVE UNITED. The company kicked off its first Valley United Way campaign with employee meetings on November 18. Though new to Valley United Way, the company had been a long time supporter of United Way before their recent move to Shelton. Campaign Coordinators Kim Boveri and Paula Scinto welcomed Jack Walsh and Laurel Vicidomino to speak to Vishay employees about the mission of the United Way and the myriad of resources and services we support. Joining Jack and Laurel was Todd Kipperman, who spoke about Safe Homes, one of the 23 local agencies that benefit from campaign dollars.

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. is one of the worlds’ largest manufacturers of discrete semiconductors and passive electronic components. These components are used in virtually all types of electronic devices and equipment in the industrial, computing, automotive, consumer, telecommunications, military, aerospace, and medical markets.

As an incentive, employees who pledge one dollar or more per week are eligible for a raffle drawing for one paid vacation day. They also can take advantage of the convenience of payroll deductions. Best of all, as new donors, all Vishay campaign contributions are eligible for the 2-for-1 matching grant program provided by Community Foundation of Greater New Haven and Valley Community Foundation. The Valley United Way welcomes Vishay and thanks them for their support.

People's United "Invests" in Campaign


Youssef Boutros and his associates at the Shelton Financial Center joined People's "people" from all over the region in supporting United Way.

United Way President and C.O.O. Jack Walsh and Director of Development Laurel Vicidomino have been very busy recently visiting People's Untied Bank branches all over the Valley area to speak to People's employees. The Bank runs an outstanding campaign throughout its service area, and the branches in the Valley are long time supporters of Valley United Way. Thank you People's!

GE Warms Up Campaign With Pizza

Bob Smits, Kathy Amann, Michelle Fabozzi, Maureen Spencer-Butler, Kristen Urso-Rio are all smiles at the GE campaign kick-off luncheon. Click here for more pictures.
It was a crisp autumn day outside, but the atmosphere was warm and comfy inside as GE kicked off their campaign with brick oven pizza from "The Big Green Truck" parked right outside the door. Employees were treated to a dizzying array of pizzas to suit every taste. United Way President & C.O.O. and Bob Smits, General Manager - GBS Americas, spoke briefly at the event.
GE annually runs one of the most successful United Way campaigns not only for Valley United Way, but for United Ways all across the country. They always make their campaigns fun and educational for employees, and United Way greatly appreciates their ongoing support!

Iroquois "Hula" Campaign a Success

Click here for more pictures from photo album.
When it comes to running effective and fun United Way campaigns, it's almost impossible to top Iroquois Gas Transmission Systems! Everyone at Iroquois really gets into the spirit including CEO Jay Holm pictured at left demonstrating the fine art of the hula hoop at the campaign wrap-up celebration. The campaign began a week earlier with an ice cream social and culminated with a "luau" under a "tropical" tent on the basketball court withing the Corporate Park complex in Shelton.
Campaign Chair Adrienne Cabral and committee members Darlene Benham, Susan DeLeon, Jeff Galdenzi, Alan Grassia, Sue Millican, Lorraine Milone, Michelle Wieler, and Samantha Woodward were busy throughout the week with an ambitious list of special events designed to raise awareness of the campaign and raise additional funds for United Way. The special events included:

Book Sale
Candy Corn Count
Chinese Auction
Wii Boxing Tournament
Health Fair
Wii Hula Hop

Blue Jeans & Fan AppreciationThe final outcome of the campaign was an increase in giving, a healthier staff and a lot of smiling faces. Thank you Iroquois for once again showing us all how to run an incredible employee campaign!

Health Net Campaigns for Valley United Way

It was another great year for Health Net's United Way campaign as you can see from the thermometer above and the picture of Paul Lambdin, President of Health Net of the Northeast presenting United Way President & C.O.O. Jack Walsh a rather large check for $59,170 on the left. Health Net had set a goal of $50,000 for their campaign, but they have gone way past!! Debbie Lewis and her campaign team at Health Net conducted a wide variety of special events to go along with the annual campaign and helped to push the final total well over goal. Health Net is also a very active member of United Way's Corporate Volunteer Council and is famous for the incredible work that they have done in collecting food for the Harvest House projects. Thank you Health Net!

BIC Hosts Fabulous Kickoff

BIC Headquarters in Shelton (Click here for photo album from event)

Valley United Way's 2008-2009 Community Fundraising Campaign got off to an incredible start on Monday, September 22 at a reception held at the US Headquarters of BIC in Shelton. A large crowd was on hand in the atrium of the newly re-designed building to celebrate community and to learn how to "Live United" for the benefit of the entire community.

BIC Consumer Products USA is a leading distributor of stationery products, lighters and shavers. Since its founding more than 50 years ago, BIC has honored the tradition of providing high-quality, affordable products. Through this unwavering dedication, BIC has become one of the most recognized brands in the world today.

Mike Marcinek, Chairman of the Board at Valley United Way and a four time campaign chair, served as master of ceremonies for the evening. He welcomed the crowd and thanked BIC for their generosity in hosting the event. Paul Russo, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at BIC, then addressed the crowd giving a brief history of BIC and its products as well as describing the "Green" building techniques used in the new facility. he then re-iterated BIC's strong sense of corporate citizenship and their long history of support for United Way.

Shelton Mayor Mark Lauretti gave the greetings of the city and thanked BIC and everyone in attendance for their support of the Valley's nonprofit community for the important work that they do in the Valley.

Campaign Chairman Dave Grant then took over the podium. Before his formal remarks, he introduced Inez D'Alessio of Derby and led the audience in singing Happy Birthday on the occasion of Inez's 99th Birthday!

Grant then spoke of the importance of the campaign and the Valley's long tradition of working together to take care of the needs of the community. He noted the precarious situation in the U.S. economy and the current bailout efforts, but noted in the Valley the community always comes together to meet its local challenges. He then introduced his cabinet members who will lead this year's campaign effort. Joe Andreana, a member of the cabinet and member of United Way's Board of Directors,gave the first campaign report of the year noting that United Way's Board of Directors was 100% behind this year's campaign, and that the 25 Board members had pledged a total of $32,750 to this year's campaign - an increase of 12% over a year ago.

Dave then introduced Liz Kennard, Vice Chair of the Valley Community Foundation, and Anna Arroyo, program officer at the Community Foundation for greater New Haven. They shared the good news of $40,000 in two challenge grants for this campaign. For every $2 in new and increased giving, they will add an additional $1 up to a total of $40,000! (Click here to see video).

Dave pledged his best efforts to make the campaign successful, and invited people to the annual meeting in the spring when the results of a successful campaign will be announced!

Mike Marcinek then brought up a variety of agency representatives who gave quick glimpses of how their agencies Live United every day by providing needed services in the Valley throughout the Valley.

Everyone in attendance was provided a gift bag courtesy of BIC on their way home.

The Newton Savings Bank pledges $1,000 to the 2008 – 2009 Valley United Way Fundraising Campaign

The Valley United Way is pleased to announce a generous pledge of $1,000 by The Newtown Savings Bank to the Valley United Way’s 2008 – 2009 Fundraising Campaign. “As a community bank, Newtown Savings is proud to support the Valley United Way and the good work that they do to improve lives in the Greater Valley,” said Lynn Kieley, AVP & Branch Manager of the White Hills branch office.

Each year, the Valley United Way appeals to Valley businesses, municipalities and individual community members to support their annual fundraising endeavors. LIVE UNITED is the theme of this year’s campaign. Living United means working together as a community to improve the quality of life for everyone. Contributions made to the Valley United Way help fund 23 local agencies focused on strengthening families, helping youth to succeed and assisting people in crisis. Donations received during the 2007 – 2008 campaign help to fund:

Quality, safe, before - and after-school programs for more than 15,000 children through organizations like the Boys &Girls Club of Lower Naugatuck Valley, the Seymour-Oxford Nursery and Child Care Association (SONCCA) and the Valley YMCA

Addiction and mental health rehabilitation services for more than 4,000 Valley residents through the Morris Foundation

Hot, nutritious meals to 454 homebound senior citizens through TEAM, Inc.’s Meals On Wheels program

Transition housing for 290 homeless individuals at Spooner House, managed by Area Congregations Together

This year, the Valley United Way has set a fundraising goal of $1.2 million dollars. Their fundraising efforts will be assisted by The Community Foundation of Greater New Haven and The Valley Community Foundation, who have each awarded 2-to-1 challenge grants for up to $40,000 for all new and increased dollars raised. That means that The Newtown Savings Bank’s pledge of $1,000 will be matched with $500 in foundation grants.

Jack Walsh, Valley United Way President & C.O.O., said, "This is a strong incentive for many new businesses who have moved into the Valley, but have not yet been involved with campaign – like Newtown Savings Bank -- to see the value of their donations multiplied because of this grant. During difficult economic times, the community needs support more than ever."

The Newtown Savings Bank is a mutual community bank headquartered in Newtown, CT with over $945 million in assets. Established in 1855, the Bank has thirteen branches in Bethel, Brookfield, Danbury, Monroe, Newtown, Shelton, Southbury, Trumbull and Woodbury. For more information visit nsbonline.com or call 800-461-0672.

Kerite Company Campaign Begins


Kerite Company in Seymour kicked off its United Way campaign on November 21 with employee meetings hosted by John DeGray, company president and VUW board member. A strong supporter of the United Way, Mr. DeGray encouraged his employees to be as generous as possible and offered LIVE UNITED tee shirts to all first-time givers and employees who increase their donations from last year. The company also matches all employee donations dollar-for-dollar through the matching gift program of Kerite’s owner, The Marmon Group.
Jack Walsh and Laurel Vicidomino of the Valley United Way spoke at the campaign meetings, along with Laurel Anderson from 2-1-1 Info Line. 2-1-1 Info Line provides information and confidential referrals to health and social service programs and crisis intervention counseling for those in need. It can be accessed toll-free from anywhere in Connecticut by simply dialing 2-1-1 and operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Multilingual call specialists and TDD access is available. “It’s important to show our employees where their donation dollars go,” said Alicia Gsell, HR Director and member of the committee who coordinates campaign activities for the company. “We are especially excited to have Laurel speak to the group about the resources available to our employees and their families by dialing 2-1-1.”
In addition to its annual campaign, Alicia and fellow committee members Erica Byrd, Tim Murray and Frank Giusto plan a number of other employee activities to support the community. They recently completed a very successful food drive for Spooner House. In October, the company held an Employee Appreciation Day that included a dunk tank for charity. Employees paid $5 a ticket to dunk their bosses and raised a total of $540 for Valley United Way. “It was a fun and easy way to raise money,” said Alicia. “Our committee is planning more activities like this one in the coming months.”

Valley United Way President & Board Members Receive Community Awards

Valley United Way President & C.O.O. Jack Walsh and Board members Melissa Pucci and Bill Partington have recently been named as recipients of some very special community awards. Walsh and Partington were presented awards by the Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce at its 37th Annual Gold Seal Dinner on November 6 at Grassy Hill Lodge.

Walsh received the Platinum Award while Partington received a Gold Award. The purpose of the awards is to recognize and honor individuals for dedicated and outstanding community service. The Platinum Award is presented to former Gold seal Award recipients of at least ten years. Walsh was a Gold Seal Award winner in 1993. Win Oppel and Kathy Ramia also received Gold Awards that night while the Women in Networking Groups received the Silver Medal Award. The Silver Medal is presented to volunteer groups, partnerships or individuals that have made singular extraordinary contributions to the community.

Pucci was honored on October 2 at a luncheon at Grassy Hill Lodge as one of eight “Women Making a Difference in the Valley” by the Valley Women’s Health Initiative. The Valley Women's Health Initiative is comprised of members of the community working toward a common goal of addressing and improving women's health issues.

Foundations Challenge Boosts Campaign

The Annual Community Fundraising Campaign has received a major boost in the form of challenge grants from the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven and the Valley Community Foundation. Valley United Way will receive up to $30,000 and $10,000 respectively from each Foundation for a total of up to $40,000 if United Way successfully completes the challenge.

Under terms of the grants, United Way will receive $1.00 for every $2.00 in new and increased giving to this year's campaign. Past history with similar grants has shown that donors are excited by the chance to see their gifts matched and that giving increase as a result.

David Grant - Chairman of this year's campaign - said, "I would like to thank the Community Foundation of Greater New Haven and Valley Community Foundation for stepping up to the plate in these trying economic times and working hand and hand to help our current campaign which in turn helps all of our Valley associates to make the Valley a very special place to live."

Jack Walsh, Valley United Way President & C.O.O., said, "This is a strong incentive for many new businesses who have moved into the Valley, but have not yet been involved with campaign to see the value of their donations multiplied because of this grant. During difficult economic times, the community needs support more than ever."

Dave and his cabinet are already hard at work in planning this year's campaign which will officially kicked off at a reception hosted by BIC on September 22.

Since 1928, donors to The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven have built the community's endowment currently valued at over $300 million. In 2007, The Foundation’s Board of Directors distributed over $12 million in grants from approximately 640 different named charitable funds supporting a wide range of programs and projects. The Foundation’s service area encompasses: Ansonia, Bethany, Branford, Cheshire, Derby, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, Milford, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, Oxford, Seymour, Shelton, Wallingford, West Haven and Woodbridge.

Established in 2004, the Valley Community Foundation (VCF) is dedicated to making the Valley a better place to live and work by increasing philanthropy, especially permanent endowments; connecting donors to needs and opportunities; and providing leadership on critical community issues. It serves Ansonia, Derby, Oxford, Seymour and Shelton, Connecticut and is lcoated at 2 Enterprise Drive, Suite 303, in Shelton. VCF is affiliated with the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven which ensures that VCF funds will have the benefit of the authority and oversight of a local Board, and will be administered efficiently and effectively by one of the nation's oldest and largest community foundations.

The grant to Valley United Way was made as part of VCF's First Competitive Application Process which resulted in awards of $171,000. Click here to learn more.

Seymour Children Heading Back to School With Style and Encouragement

Click here for a complete photo album by Fred Ortoli

The prospect of ice cream can place many children on their best behavior. Throw in cookies, punch, face painting and a DJ and they become nearly too rambunctious to contain themselves. However despite all the snacks and fun, these children were particularly excited about going back to school in style.

The 13th annual Back to School Clothes-For-Kids Program was held at Anna LoPresti School in Seymour. This was the first time in Valley United Way’s history that an entire town’s school system has been selected.

Pat Gavin said, “My son Jaden is in the special needs program here at LoPresti School and I really can’t say enough about it.” Her daughter, Teagan, is heading into the fifth grade and is very excited to go back to school. “My favorite class is spelling,” Teagan said. “And I can’t wait to see Mr. G. He’s funny.”

Jake, a soon to be kindergartener, couldn’t wait to get some new school supplies while his older brother Michael, a second grader, confessed he was more excited about getting ice cream at the end of the event. Later, little Jake and Michael demonstrated excellent teamwork by each grabbing an end of their supply bins and carrying them outside one by one, which took the stress off their mother who was holding their baby sister.

While the families waited inside the cafeteria, various companies’ representatives were gathering in the gym by their sponsored children’s bins, eager to finally meet the families they voluntarily decided to help. Lizzie of McIntyre Group said, “We sponsored six kids and had a lot of fun shopping for them.”

The DJ began playing music just as the families walked up the stairs and through the gymnasium doors. Families then matched their children’s’ numbers with numbers on the bins. After greeting and thanking the company who sponsored their children, some families stayed for a while to mingle and enjoy the tunes while others immediately took their kids outside for ice cream.

Patricia Tarasovic, Director of the Volunteer Center at Valley United Way, along with the superintendent of Seymour Schools, Mary Anne Mascolo, spoke inside the gymnasium and provided words of encouragement for the children. They also thanked all the companies, especially Pitney Bowes, Prudential Financial and Sikorsky for sponsoring upwards of 37 children each. Before the majority of families departed Patricia, Mary Anne and the Corporate Volunteer Council were also able to wish the children success and the best of luck for the upcoming academic year.

On the way to get ice cream, Haley, a third grader, said, “I can’t wait to go back to school. It’s fun to meet all the new kids and teachers.” When asked what her favorite subject was, she jumped up and down while holding a handful of balloons and shouted, “Math!”

Valley United Way came together along with the Corporate Volunteer Council and several companies throughout the Valley to make this annual charitable event possible.


Leadership Greater Valley Alumni Association Formed


The Leadership Greater Valley Program now has an alumni association and a state proclamation recognizing its work following its first alumni reception held on September 10 at Scinto Towers in Shelton. Dozens of graduates attended the inaugural session with graduates coming from all classes dating back to the original 1996 group.

It was both a festive and inspiring night as state legislators Linda Gentile and Jason Perillo showed up with a proclamation from the State of Connecticut recognizing the program for its work down through the years for recruiting training and placing volunteer leaders throughout the Valley area.
Following opening remarks by Karen Spargo, Chairman of the Valley Council for Health & Human Services, Jack Walsh, President & C.O.O. of Valley United Way, and Bill Purcell, President of the Valley Greater Valley Chamber of Commerce detailed the history of the program which is presented each year through a collaborative effort of the three organizations.

The main speakers for the evening then took over and delighted the crowd with personal success stories based on their lives since participating in the program. John Esteves, Kimberly Supersano and Pam Mautte have all gone on to be very successful leaders on their own career paths. John is the founder and head of the Disability Resource Network, Pam is the Director of the Valley Substance Abuse Action Council, and Kimberly is Chief Operating Officer, International Retirement Prudential. They were followed by Shelton developer Bob Scinto who wowed the crowd with his own personal story of success stretching from his earliest days in the plumbing industry to his growth into the most recognized developer in Fairfield county. He not only shared his unique story, but also his advice not only for success in business, but also for success in life.

Pat Tarasovic, Director of United Way's Volunteer Center, served as MC for the event. She and her committee of Adrienne Cabral, Antonietta Hallet, Jason Bashura, Pam Mautte and Joyce Saltes put the event together.

It is expected that the new group will meet quarterly for networking and to plan for community projects. they are already looking at planning a holiday meal for people residing in the new Spooner House homeless facility in Shelton.

For further information about the alumni group, contact Pat at Valley United Way (203 926-9478) or e-mail.