Nonprofits in Connecticut

Words aren't enough to thank Save The Kid Fund and Robbie’s Riders for granting Greyson his custom adaptive bike! The entire process was seamless, and we are especially grateful to Trudy for her constant support, kindness, and communication every step of the way. Greyson absolutely loves his new bike and can now fully participate in family bike rides together. Thank you to everyone at Save The Kid Fund for giving our son the gift of inclusion and joy

USAP Community School was not just a school to me, but also a place where I grew. I saw myself evolving into a daring and fearless individual; who saw challenges as a stepping stone. It showed me that in life there are people who are willing to see you rise and be the best version of yourself. I'd acreddit this to the wonderful faculty that was involved in our lives, giving us guidance and mentorship.

I cannot thank Pet Assistance, Inc. enough for their incredible kindness. When my 10-year-old dog, Oreo, needed urgent dental surgery, I was overwhelmed and unsure of how I would manage the care he desperately needed to get out of pain. Pet Assistance, Inc. stepped in and provided the financial support that made his procedure possible. Thanks to them, Oreo has successfully navigated his 15-day recovery period and is like a new dog! He is back to his old self full of energy, happy, and finally pain-free. The entire process was so stressful, but having their support allowed me to focus entirely on his recovery. If you are looking to donate to a charity that truly cares about pets and their families, I cannot recommend Pet Assistance, Inc. highly enough. They are amazing, and I am so grateful to have had them in our corner. Thank you for everything you do!

I am an intern with Make-A-Wish Connecticut, and I can say confidently that that this organization has far exceeded my expectations. I feel very blessed to be able to contribute any and all of my ideas towards this nonprofit, if it means I get to help a wish child's and family's life grow for the better. I work with digital marketing as well as creating stories for wish children, and I am signed up for many of Make-A-Wish CT's various events. Everyone can do their part to contribute; each and every event and fundraiser holds special meaning to multiple families, and not a day goes by where I don't feel fulfillment for anything I can do to help. I feel as though I have become a part of a family here at Make-A-Wish during my time as an intern, and I only hope to continue to volunteer in the future for as long as I can, so that I can continue to bring meaning to the families that are a part of this organization.

It is with immense enthusiasm and profound respect that I write this letter of recommendation for Chastity Chyld Incorporated. Over the years, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact this organization has on at-risk youth and young adults transitioning out of the foster care system.Under the visionary leadership of its CEO, Northern Star, MPH, DHSc, Chastity Chyld Incorporated has become a vital lifeline for a population that is highly vulnerable to homelessness, unemployment, and systemic instability. Their dedicated team provides much more than just transitional housing; they offer a comprehensive safety net that empowers young individuals to heal, grow, and achieve independence.What distinguishes Chastity Chyld Incorporated is their holistic approach. By combining safe, stable housing with essential life-skills education, coaching, and mentoring, they actively guide participants toward achieving long-term personal and academic success.

I began volunteering at Enfield Loaves and Fishes when I retired 3 years ago. I started with prepping food for nightly dinners. I then decided to try the van driver position. I absolutely love it. It always amazes me how our local community, Costco, Stop and Shop, Target, Walmart, Panera Bread and many others step up on a weekly basis to make sure no one is hungry in Enfield. It's a total honor to be a part of Enfield Loaves and Fishes. And a proud life long resident of Enfield. Thank you Maya, David, Mary and every volunteer for what you do each and every week. It's is a village.

Absolutely incredible nonprofit for animals in need! So proud to work side by side with them in this community.

I am a former high school counselor and have acted as a college counselor for future 5 since 2019. This is unquestionably the best "work" I have ever done! All of the students I have helped with future plans ( college) have been a joy to share their hopes, dreams and college plans. From helping them with creating a list of colleges, choosing majors, reviewing their essays and making lists of the pros and cons of each offer, they have brought their joy into a process that is daunting for all students. Future 5 really cares about these young people and I am thankful for the joy this organization has given me.

As a swim school owner and fundraiser, my experience with Hope Floats has been extremely positive. Their scholarship program allows us to provide life-saving swim lessons to children who otherwise wouldn’t have access. Their team is incredibly supportive, responsive to our needs, and truly aligned with the mission of preventing tragic childhood drownings. The partnership has made a real, measurable impact on the families we serve.

As an employee at Sound Community Services, Inc. I can confidently say that I have never worked in a place that is so for its community. I see the efforts that Sound Community Services has put into ensuring that each and every one of our clients served feel secure, confident, and save. During this time of need, my fellow co-workers at Oasis have taken the initiative to prepare meals to go for any and all clients we serve. This showed our clients that they can count on Sound Community to meet their needs during moments when the world feels overwhelming. We also get to celebrate the holidays with our clients to make them feel included and special as many may not have the opportunity to spend these with loved ones. Sound Community truly stand on their core values of Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence (or CARE for short). It teaches all of us, clients and staff alike, to treat each other with respect and compassion at all times.

We were looking to find a friend for our 7.5 year old cat and entered into a foster-to-adopt situation. At times the new cat was having soft stools. The owner asked that we bring the cat back to the rescue to have some tests done. We did as requested and despite attempts to get updates on the cat were given nothing but vague responses. I gave constructive criticism about the poor communication. Later that night we got a definitive response. The owner said that the cat was fine and they did not want to "put him back in the same position" while they "reassess." I offered to have a phone call to discuss further, at which point we received no response. There are emails, texts, photos, and videos that all prove the cat we had hoped to adopt was loved and being well taken care of.

I was introduced to Roberta and Infinite Strength back in 2022. Roberta is one of a kind. She cares about the patients and families like they are her own. Through Roberta’s leadership, Infinite Strength provides six months of financial assistance to families, and I’ve witnessed firsthand how this relief brings comfort and stability during an otherwise overwhelming time. Infinite Strength is an organization I deeply believe in, and I remain committed to supporting its mission well into the future.

I recently moved to CT with my two old GSDs. Ark's stories started cropping up on FB and I followed them and talked to Tina (boss lady) who was very sweet and helpful giving local resource tips. When I was ready after losing my two old boys, I went to a function in Newtown and met the Ark crew, which included "Super" Edwin, Tina's amazing husband, and a bunch of their dogs. Tango, originally named Gustav, was immediately all over me the second we met prompting an onlooker to make the comment "awww, it looks like he's adopted you!". And that was it. Tina had him neutered and all his shots - the application process was simple as was the rest of the adoption process. He came home with a bag of goodies from Tina like it was Christmas! I cannot thank Tina and Edwin enough and am having a blast with my new best buddy Tango! These people truly care about, and know shepherds and couldn't be nicer! I'll be coming back soon for a brother or sister for Tango!

The reason I chose corem deyo says it all in the name 2nd chances <br>This my second chance to rebuild my life the clean, sober and Christian way. There’s def a lot of recovery in New Britain from meetings to therapy and iop. Which are all on the bus line and walking distance to them and stores, we have dollar general right down the street next to bus stop that can take u to fast track where u can take a bus anywhere u want. MWhich is great because you can get to work anywhere. When u come in for your intake you get a case manager to you which you meet once a week while on basic needs which is great ur housing is taken care of so your case manager can help you get what you need done like get ids birth certificate everything you need to make your life better. We also have our own nurses that helps with our meds so we can get better, when u arrive they give u clean sheets and blankets with new pillows and tollitries the house gets garbagebags, floor cleaner and hand soap which is provided every month which is one less thing we have to worry about, Also we are made to stay accountable for staying sober we get tested randomly and if we relapse they’ll help u to get back up and into a program. Yes we live with a lot of females but it’s great you get a mini family that understands and can help guide you In the right direction. This is definitely a safe and homey environment to learn how to live life sonar so we can get strong enough to get out on our own.

I’ve been collaborating with NBFA on and off for several years now in my capacity as a math coach and professional development facilitator. New Beginnings Family Academy is a place that truly values students and families. It is a school that is continuously striving to be better and do better. School leadership demonstrates a learning stance and is always looking for ways to continue to support colleagues, students, and teachers. It’s been a pleasure working with this dedicated team. <br>

I’m a proud Girls With Impact graduate and a Howard University alum. I joined GWI at the start of high school through REACH Prep, a community program that connects students with educational opportunities. I didn’t know what I wanted to do back then, but GWI gave me confidence, business skills, and a clear direction. By the end of the program, I helped my family launch *Thomas Family Taste*, a hot sauce business based on my grandmother’s Trinidadian recipe. My little sister even followed in my footsteps—she joined GWI, launched her own bakery business, and is now heading to Hampton University. GWI didn’t just boost my skills—it helped me land full-ride scholarships to two colleges. It’s truly the gift that keeps on giving. I returned to GWI for their mentorship programs as a college graduate.

Our child has been using the services from Study Hall for the past year, and they have been nothing but remarkable. Her tutor, Sophia, is knowledgeable in many different subjects, which eliminates the need for multiple tutors. Our child needed help in algebra and biology, and Sophia was able to tutor her in both subjects. In addition, the program is very flexible with our schedule and offers different ways to meet if we cannot meet in person. We noticed a significant improvement in our child's grades after we started attending Study Hall. Would highly recommend their services.

Cheshire Pollinator Pathway creates native plant gardens in neglected spaces to sustain pollinators and local wildlife; support healthy ecosystems and watersheds, and educate the community on environmental best practices.<br><br>We host weekly work parties at each of our four gardens. The gardens are located along the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail in Cheshire. <br><br>CPP hosts nationally known authors from the native plant movement. Past author talks have included Doug Tallamy, Nancy Lawson and Heather Holm. We hold educational presentations with local experts in the fields of entomology, native plants, watershed health, biodiversity, etc. Several times a year we have native plant giveaways at our gardens. The mission is to educate the community and to get straight-species native plants into the ground!<br>

I grew up as a daughter of a Veterinarian, we owned our own small animal hospital & kennel where I worked as a kid into young adulthood. I consider myself knowledgeable, known about & seen much having to do with shelter, rescue, & purebred dogs, etc. After loosing our beloved ridgeback, the family dog raised alongside our 2 young boys, we finally decided to seek another pup. This time, I didn't know where to start. We did know we wanted to try to rescue a pup from a reputable & caring organization & we are beyond pleased.<br>Dogstar Rescue EXCEEDED ALL expectations & most important their foster families & lovingly knowledgeable staff of volunteers actually care for each animal & look out for their overall well being. To find a good match matters on both sides.<br>Our adoption process was smooth & natural, it felt like it was meant to be. I believe in the famous words from Cesar Milan, when he states that all too often "you don't get the dog you want, you get the dog you need". We have welcomed a new member to our family & he is so wonderful. This process was educational & more rewarding than we imagined it to be. We are so in love & forever greatful to all who volunteer tirelessly to help make Dogstar Rescue a success. Thank you to Ira, Brendan, & Emma in particular, our pups foster family.<br>This organization sets a high bar, a standard most should aspire to in the doggie-rescue world. Thank you, we appreciate you all. FurEver Greatful ??????<br>The Indorf Family - Orange, CT

I stayed there and the staff was mean, I also contracted athletes foot from their shower. I had to sleep in a chair because there were not enough cots. Also, their bathroom's were disgusting usually without toilet paper. I need to emphasize how mean and nasty the staff was towards me.

Star relief has been around a long time, I'm not sure how they decide who to help but I applied in January 2014 and heard absolutely nothing from them until September 2015 and only to say sorry can't help.

Litchfield Land Trust became an accredited land trust February 2025, a status that can be renewed every five years. Accreditation means Litchfield Land Trust meets national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. Litchfield Land Trust demonstrated to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission its commitment to excellence. Accredited land trusts meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. These land trusts demonstrate the commitment to excellence by adopting Land Trust Standards and Practices, the ethical and technical guidelines for the responsible operation of a land trust, and meeting the accreditation requirements drawn from them. To learn more about land trust accreditation and the current accreditation status of Litchfield Land Trust, visit http//www.landtrustaccreditation.org/about.

Awesome people to work . I volunteered for a project which is on going in Ghana_-Clinic for the less privileged in the deprived communities

Disgusting! The staff "Mel" is a perverted pedophile and likes to pray upon minors. She has a thing for pet calling the kids and a boy told her he wasn't comfortable with that and she said that's just what she's "use to." Thats absolutely weird. Respect people's boundaries ESPECIALLY CHILDREN. If that's so what you're use to doing make a switch because not everyone is the same person and interpret things differently. Everyone has a different background so ask people's preference before you start calling them anything other than their name.

My team, family, & I were excited to donate & participate in this tournament. Like many, we know someone affected by cancer, & we were eager to support the cause. We fundraised & traveled to Jacksonville for the event. The night before, we attended the weigh-in, where our daughter was already registered. At that time, there was only 1 other child in her division & weight class. Sarah, the Event Manager, instructed us to arrive by 8:30 AM the next day. Fast forward to 8:30 AM—my team, family, daughter, & I were all there. We spoke with Jon Thomas, the founder/director of the charity. He informed us that our daughter didn’t have anyone in her weight class & age bracket & suggested bumping her up to the 6-7-year-old white/grey belt division. I expressed hesitation because my daughter had just turned 5 & is a two-stripe white belt. I wasn’t comfortable with the idea, but Jon assured me the division would only include other white belts. I asked him 2x to confirm, & he replied, “Yes, ma’am. I made sure she’s in a class where her weight would be a slight advantage, as she’d otherwise be at a disadvantage. All the kids will have similar experience levels since they’re white belts. She’s 70 lbs, so the other kids are on the heavier side of the 60-pound bracket.” I repeated his explanation to ensure I understood correctly, & he confirmed it. Based on this assurance, I consented to have my 5-year-old compete in the 6-7-year-old white belt division. However, what was promised and what actually happened were entirely different. In her 1st match, she faced a 7-year-old, 4stripe grey belt. I immediately approached Jon & said, “This isn’t what we agreed to. I didn’t consent to this at all.” He shrugged & asked, “What do you want me to do?” Frustrated, I yelled at him to honor the agreement, then rushed to check on my daughter. The grey belt competitor hyperextended my daughter’s arm in an Americana lock. My daughter had no chance to tap, & the volunteer referee failed to intervene. I had to scream “TAP!” before anything was done. I returned to the promotional table & confronted Jon for putting my daughter in harm’s way. He claimed the girl had registered as a white belt. I pointed out, “She’s clearly wearing a grey belt with 4 stripes.” Jon responded that Tap Cancer Out relies on an honor system and doesn’t verify belts because it “takes too much time.” I was appalled & shouted, “You don’t check belts because it takes too much time?” I insisted Jon apologize to my daughter for the injury she sustained. His apology—“I apologize”—was hollow & lacked sincerity. I asked him to apologize again in a way a 5-year-old could understand, but he replied, “I already did.” I told him that if he genuinely cared, he’d make the effort to comfort her. After my daughter was cleared by medical staff, I informed Jon about her injury. His response was, “Oh, that’s fine.” I replied, “No, it’s not fine. She was placed in a dangerous situation without my consent. This will be the first & last time my child & team participate in this tournament. I also vowed to inform other teams about our experience so they could make informed decisions. His dismissive reply was, “So you’re going to tell other teams not to come to a charity tournament?” I responded, “If it’s associated with you, absolutely. I’ll make sure other parents know you prioritize convenience over children’s safety.” He responded “Okay.” The referees were inconsistent. Some showed no patience for nervous children, rolling their eyes or sighing loudly. Moving forward, I’ll take my team to better-organized events with trained referees & competent leadership. My advice to other parents: don’t trust this tournament especially when they offer to “bump your child up.”<br><br>Red Flag #1: The director will tell you 1 thing but allow something entirely different to happen under his watch.<br>Red Flag #2: The volunteer referees are either incompetent or indifferent, failing to recognize when a child is in danger.<br>Red Flag #3: The safety of children is not a top priority.<br>Red Flag #4: There’s no system in place to prevent parents from lying about their child’s rank.<br>Red Flag #5: There are no consequences for lying about rank or poor sportsmanship.<br>Red Flag #6: The medical tent was unmarked & difficult to locate, delaying care for my daughter’s injury<br>