CCM Establishes New Foundation

Foundation for Youth Plans to Address Education Challenges in Connecticut

By Joseph Thornton, Director of Communications & Member Relations

The Connecticut Conference of Municipalities (CCM) announces the establishment of the CCM Foundation for Youth, a new entity aimed at addressing the critical challenges facing public education in Connecticut. The Foundation is dedicated to improving educational opportunities for all young people across the state, with a particular focus on equitable funding, access to resources, and community-driven solutions to the disparities that persist in Connecticut’s school systems.

The Foundation was developed in response to the “Young People First: A Bold Plan to Address Connecticut’s Statewide Crisis” report, which is a strong call to action to remedy the challenges faced by young people who are disconnected from education and employment. It is the Foundation’s mission to support our state’s youth with resources, mentorship, and advocacy for state and community support that will foster opportunities where young people can develop skills and connections to navigate life’s challenges and achieve their aspirations.

Further, the Foundation was created with a mind to address systemic challenges and a mission to advocate for a more equitable, sustainable, and student-centered approach to public education. The discrepancies in education funding are not just an issue of dollars and cents. It has real-life consequences for students,

“The establishment of the Foundation for Youth is an exciting moment for CCM and for the future of education in Connecticut,” said CCM Executive Director and CEO Joe DeLong. “Our mission is to create a brighter future for young people through collaboration to provide the tools and support they need to thrive. We understand that empowering youth requires a collective effort, and we are committed to fostering partnerships that drive meaningful change.”

The CCM Foundation for Youth is poised to transform the landscape of youth development by providing comprehensive support, opportunities, and resources for young people throughout the State. The foundation is dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering leadership, and promoting positive social change through targeted programs and initiatives.

Made up of a Board of nine directors from various disciplines, the Foundation for Youth begins its journey with optimism and dedication about its potential to create lasting change. With its focus on empowerment, education, and community, the foundation is set to become a beacon of hope and opportunity for young people throughout our great state.