Family & Children's Agency 2009-2010 Annual Report by Janina Castiglia

2009â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2010 annual report

Making an Impact: Realizing Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Possibilities

Since 1942, the mission of Family & Children’s Agency (FCA) is to partner with individuals, families, organizations, and communities to successfully meet life’s challenges and opportunities. Family & Children’s Agency has grown to become one of the largest human service agencies in the greater Norwalk area, annually serving over 10,000 residents in Fairfield County and beyond.

Boa rd of D i r ec tor s

A dv i s o ry B oa r d

William O. Murphy Chairman

Andy Alcosser Susan McCarthy Bates Anne Cary Anne Cooling Ginger Craft Senator Bob Duff Kristine Granetz Margaret Harrington Sheldon Hearst Lt. Thomas E. Kulhawik Curtis O. Law David Levinson Mary Peniston Representative Chris Perone James Randel Mary Roman Pamela Stark-Guyer William O. Webster

Sharon Sullivan Vice Chair Charles Pieterse Vice Chair Sheryl Williams Secretary Donna Walker Treasurer Wenton Camporin Assistant Treasurer Stephen Beck Todd Bickmeyer Mark Brown Mary-Pat Cottrell Susan Cugliari

Deborah Davenport Ana Goizueta Dianne Green Julene Greenshields Stacy Holmén William Krivoshik Rachel Lieberman Mark Lux Rita Marber Virginia Martin Lisa Moseley Kathleen P. Murphy Dana Nickel Daniel O’Connor Karen Scappaticci Denise Walsh Patricia Weber Maria Wilcox Joe Zakowski Robert F. Cashel, LCSW President & CEO

On the Cover: On the front cover of this Annual Report you will see the new logo of Family & Children’s Agency. This logo embodies the Agency’s client-centric approach. Its teal icon symbolizes those whom we serve and its lines are jagged in order to depict the rough edges that we all encounter from time to time throughout our lives. The green circle represents the Agency’s embracing presence in the lives of our clients.

Making an Impact Dear Friends, This past year we continued to respond to the growing needs of our clients despite the unprecedented economic downturn. Thanks to careful control of our expenses and the generosity of our donors, we have been able to continue to provide superior services to the adults, children, and families who need our help. Here are some of the key highlights of the past year: We completed a highly successful re-accreditation process with the Council on Accreditation (COA) receiving high marks for the quality and effectiveness of our services and for our overall management. We increased our specialized foster care and in-home psychiatric programs for children to meet the growing need for these services.

Left to right, Robert Cashel and William Murphy.

We developed alliances to enhance our ability to reach more children and families. For example, through our newly established Child FIRST program we have a unique partnership with the Child Guidance Center of Mid-Fairfield County and the Norwalk Community Health Center to provide services to high-risk children under the age of five. We secured pro bono consultation from the Harvard Business School Club of Connecticut Community Partners, which helped to refine our purpose and clarify our intended outcomes for our highly successful After School Program for high-risk middle school children in Norwalk.

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We developed a plan to respond to the growing desire of seniors to age safely at home. This plan includes expansion of our emergency response and live-in services. Finally, as you can see we developed a new logo for the Agency. We believe it conveys, along with this year’s theme, Making an Impact: Realizing Life’s Possibilities, a sense of what we are all about as an organization. As you read through this year’s report, you will read stories about some of the adults, children, and families who have been positively impacted by our work. Our clients continue to face extraordinary challenges now exacerbated by the uncertain economy. However, thanks to you, our donors and volunteers, Family & Children’s Agency is able to continue to respond to the more than 10,000 people who need our help. Once again, thank you for your involvement in helping our clients realize life’s possibilities.

William O. Murphy Robert F. Cashel, LCSW Chairman, Board of Directors President & CEO

Youth De ve lo p me n t

“ Our After School Program looks at each child holistically and asks…‘what does this child need in order to succeed.’” Patricia Marsden-Kish, Vice-President, Family & Children’s Agency

Youth Development Defining Elements The After School Program is unique in that it offers a comprehensive social service element that addresses student/family needs, along with its academic and enrichment opportunities. It also offers the only comprehensive gender based-leadership program in the Norwalk area. Project Friendship is one of the oldest community-based mentoring programs that exclusively covers the Greater Norwalk area and has been in operation since 1974. Junior Project Friendship is the only community-based mentoring program in the Greater Norwalk area that offers high school students the opportunity to mentor a child.

Left: Marc and his mother, Wendy, at an After School Program holiday gathering. Right: Marc at an Animal Embassy life skills class.

Opening Doors to Future Success

or incoming students, the start of high school is a time of new beginnings: new teachers, new classes, new friends, and new opportunities. For some, these new experiences are a time of trepidation, for others, a time of great anticipation. For Marc, a recent graduate of the After School Program, it is a time of excitement. Since last spring he has been looking forward to the opportunities that await him. “I’m excited about high school; there are going to be a lot more people and a lot more opportunities,” says Marc. As a recent graduate of the After School Program at Family & Children’s Agency, Marc’s preparation for high school started three years ago when he first entered the program. Life was much different for him then. His family was in a period of transition and loss, his grades were below average, and he had emotionally retreated inward. After spending a summer alone with his grandfather, his mother, Wendy, knew she had to find a place for him during the school year while she worked. She needed a place where he would be safe, where he could get help with his homework, and where he could meet some friends. “When I first started in the After School Program I was really shy,” recalls Marc. “I wouldn’t talk a lot. I wouldn’t talk to anyone.” Although most sixth graders start out a little shy, staff noted that Marc’s behavior was more exaggerated than

normal. “Marc was very introverted. He would come to the After School Program, put his nose in a book, and not interact with his peers,” recalls Jennifer Barahona, Director of the Youth Development programs. “Our After School Program looks at each child holistically and asks…‘what does this child need in order to succeed,’” said Patricia Marsden-Kish, Vice-President. “For Marc, we really worked to help him become more comfortable interacting with others.” Similarly, as part of the After School Program, staff assessed the immediate needs of his family and whether additional assistance was needed. “The van to and from Norwalk Community College was a big piece of the puzzle,” says Wendy. “Had it not been for that, Marc would not have been able to be a part of the program.” Wendy also recalls how a staff member from the After School Program attended a parent conference with her. “They came to support me in communicating with the school. I felt that it was really helpful.” Additionally, through Family & Children’s Agency’s Behavioral Health department, Wendy and her two sons received family counseling to deal with some of their recent challenges. During the next three years, Marc continued attending the After School Program. With each month, he grew more and more confident and started interacting with his peers. “Being in the program allowed me to spend more time with other people,” said Marc. “Through all the

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group activities, I learned to socialize and communicate with others. It definitely helped a lot. Today I’m a lot more social, not only with the people inside the program but also outside of the program.” In addition to helping Marc become more confident socially, the program also helped him focus on his school work. “Marc is an intellectually smart kid,” said Jennifer. “He’s the type of kid who can pick and choose where he wants to excel. The trick was helping him learn to apply himself.” “I’m much more confident,” says Marc. “I always knew I could do it, I just never knew how.” By working with After School Program staff, Marc learned some simple techniques that helped him complete his homework. As he learned to focus more on his school work, Marc began to notice a difference in the way he was treated at school. “Teachers have more respect for me now,” commented Marc. Last year, he was chosen as one of 10 students to participate in U Pals, a two week college preparation camp at UConn. His grades have also improved. “Looking at his report cards for the past three years, we can see that Marc has improved his grades by an entire grade level,” said Jennifer. “He is now earning above average grades in science and math.” His most recent CMT scores also show that he is now advanced in both math and reading and at goal for writing. One of Marc’s favorite aspects about the After School Program is its life skills classes. Having dreamt about being a veterinarian, he especially enjoyed the Animal Embassy visits. “Since I was a little kid, I was interested in animals,” said Marc. “It was cool to see animals that I didn’t have at home.” As he looked back over the last three years, Marc reflected on his experience. “When I first started, I didn’t really realize how much it would help me in the long run. Now I can definitely see how it helped me though.” Marc also attributes the After School Program with

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making him feel more connected, like he is part of a bigger family. From her perspective, Wendy sees not only the impact of the After School Program on Marc but also on herself. “It gave me the ability to rest from worries and concerns,” stated Wendy. “I knew there was a partner; someone who was watching over him when I wasn’t there, someone who was there to communicate with me. They would tell me things I needed to know about Marc. It was a relief.” Jennifer sees a big difference in Marc’s level of motivation and in his social interactions. She chuckled as she remembered a time right before the end of the school year when Marc, acting like a typical teenager, responded to a question with a level of assertiveness she had not seen before. “Publicly we had to respond to his assertiveness, but inside we were all saying ‘way to go Marc.’ To see him come out of his shell and to grow academically has been very exciting for all of us.” Marc’s mother, Wendy, is confident about his future success. “This was a big step for him. Marc is going to do something big in his life,” said Wendy. “This place and these people made a big change in our lives.”

“ Today I’m a lot more social, not only with the people inside the program but also outside of the program.” Marc

Top: Marc with friends at an After School Program holiday party. Bottom: Marc and his mother, Wendy.

Fa mily Str e n gthe n i n g 05

“ Our goal is to keep children unified with their families by helping them secure safe, stable, and affordable housing.” Yubany Cruz, Supportive Housing for Families Case Manager, Family & Children’s Agency

Family Str engthening Defining Elements Family & Children’s Agency, in partnership with The Connection, Inc., operates the only supportive housing program in Fairfield County which reunites children and families while providing safe, permanent, subsidized housing, and intensive case management. The Family Strengthening Intensive Family Preservation Services is the only program in lower Fairfield County that helps prevent removal of children from their homes due to unresolved issues of child abuse and neglect. The Family Strengthening Prevention programs meet the multiple needs of families by offering classes in parenting, English as a second language, infant massage, and music and art for families with young children.

Getting a Second Chance on Life

hen you walk into Karen’s two bedroom apartment in Stamford, the first thing you notice is how happy she is to be there. “This is a good place; it’s very secure,” said Karen. The second thing you notice is Julianna, her two-year-old daughter, with long, dark curly hair and a lot of energy. She is very verbal and eager to show off her small pile of books. Karen and Julianna have been living in their apartment just over a year. They have made friends in the building and enjoy living close to downtown Stamford. “From where I was, to where I am now, I would have never guessed it. I would have never believed it was possible,” said Karen. “I have my own place, my own bills. It’s been a blessing to live here. Everything is getting better.” What’s not obvious when you meet Karen and Julianna is the long journey they have taken to get to where they are— being together in a safe, stable, and healthy environment. Just two years earlier, Julianna had been placed through the Connecticut state child protection agency, the Department of Children and Families (DCF), into foster care, and a judge had told Karen she needed to enter a drug detoxification program before she could get her back. Rather than seeing her situation as one of loss and defeat, Karen saw it as a ray of hope and support. “After years of using, I was done,” said Karen. “It wasn’t fun anymore. I had Julianna. I was done. I surrendered.” Karen’s struggle with addiction first began with alcohol when she was in junior high school. Karen, who will soon turn 42, was born and raised in Fairfield, CT. Her mother was a school teacher and her father owned a shoe store. “Dad was very ‘old school’ and hard on his kids. I rebelled,” she said. “I was very social and hung out with older kids who liked to party. I started to smoke marijuana.

I loved the feeling of not feeling.” In high school she found cocaine. “We used to sneak into bars,” said Karen. “That is when I found cocaine. Every weekend I’d use alcohol and cocaine.” After graduating from high school and realizing that college was no longer an option, she started to work. “Everything was drug-related,” she recalls. “I worked in bars and became addicted to the lifestyle. Doing cocaine and clubbing was the thing.” She soon landed a job working in retail and found a boyfriend. “I always had a boyfriend; I went from one boyfriend to the other. It was a fast lifestyle.”

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In 1995, at age 28, Karen decided it was time to make a change and moved to California. “I got sick of everything. I thought I was going to turn over a new leaf.” Her break from drugs lasted only seven months. Over the next couple of years, she met her husband and got married. “He didn’t know that I was an addict. I’d use it at work,” she said. Her career then took off. “I was doing very well at my job; I made record sales, I landed huge clients and made a lot of money.” However, as a result of her chronic drug use, her marriage ultimately broke up. “I lost everything. I lost my job. I spent my 401(k) and my inheritance on attorney’s fees.” In 2004, she decided it was time to get help. “I went into an extensive outpatient program. It cost $10,000,” she said. “I did this for one-and-a-half years and couldn’t understand why everyone else’s life was getting better and not mine. It was because I was still using. I thought I could buy my way to recovery.” In 2006, she was homeless and with a new boyfriend when she learned she was pregnant. “One day I called home. I told them I was pregnant and I wanted to come home. They said I could come home and take care of my mother who had been diagnosed with cancer.” In 2007, she returned to Connecticut. “I was five months pregnant and became my mom’s primary care giver.” In December her mother passed away. Four days later, Karen gave birth to Julianna. It was then that Karen realized that she needed to surrender and put her life into someone else’s hands. She says that she was blessed with a “phenomenal” DCF worker who helped her get into the Liberation program, a nonprofit substance abuse program in Stamford. “People there really cared,” said Karen. “I spent my 40th birthday in rehab. It’s not what you aspire to when you are young,

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“ From where I was, to where I am now, I would have never guessed it. I would have never believed it was possible.” Karen

but it was reality. Life wasn’t how it was supposed to be.” While in the program, she became substance free and regained custody of Julianna but had nowhere to live. “Finding a home was really hard,” said Karen. Her DCF caseworker finally connected her to Family & Children’s Agency’s Supportive Housing for Families program in Bridgeport. “Our goal is to keep children unified with their families by helping them secure safe, stable, and affordable housing,” said Yubany Cruz, a case manager for Family & Children’s Agency. “When Karen came in, we did an assessment, talked about her life, and her goals while in the program. In Karen’s case, those goals were to obtain housing, continue her substance abuse treatment, and keep her daughter.” Since moving into her home, Karen’s life has stabilized, and she has remained drug free. “Karen and Julianna have made a lot of progress since I’ve know them,” said Yubany, who continues to visit Karen weekly. “Her case with DCF was closed shortly after she received housing. She continues to be compliant with her recovery program; she helps other women who are in recovery, and Julianna has blossomed into a very adorable little girl.” “I have no regrets; it’s what’s got me to this point,” said Karen. I’ve learned how to live. I’ve learned how to be a mother and a friend. I’ve learned that I can live without drugs. I’ve been given a second chance on life.”

Karen and Julianna share time together at their Stamford apartment.

foste r ca r e

“ Together we worked to get Amiya the proper medical equipment and care she needs, to get her into school, and to set her up so that she can start living as close to a normal life as possible.” Anne Schneider, Foster Care Social Worker, Family & Children’s Agency

Foster Car e Defining Elements The Foster Care program at Family & Children’s Agency has the highest number of cases achieving permanency for children, including adoption and reunification, in Fairfield County. The Foster Care program is the largest provider of therapeutic foster care in Fairfield County. The Foster Care program is the sole provider of community life skills training in Norwalk and Stamford that helps prepare Department of Children and Families (DCF) teens for independent living.

Creating a Permanent Home for Amiya

n June 8, a small group started to form outside a probate judge’s office at Norwalk’s City Hall. As the group waited, a sense of anticipation and excitement began to grow. Then as Judge DePanfilis called everyone into his office, the excitement turned to joy as six-year-old Amiya was adopted by her foster mom, Dinette. “Anytime a foster parent adopts a foster child, it’s a wonderful occasion,” said Anne Schneider, Amiya’s foster care social worker. “However, Amiya’s adoption was truly remarkable.” What makes Amiya’s adoption so extraordinary is her six-year journey that removed her from her biological parents, placed her in a hospital for four years, and finally moved her into a loving foster home that has now become permanent. Amiya’s story begins when she was born prematurely at 26 weeks. As a result, she suffers from a long list of chronic medical conditions including chronic lung disease, chronic intermittent airway obstruction, tracheal disease, and asthma. Early on, Amiya had a tracheotomy, and continues to require constant medical monitoring and suctioning. For the first four years of her life, Amiya lived mostly in hospitals. When she was an infant, her biological parents took her home briefly, but after an incident where she had to be airlifted to Yale/New Haven Hospital and then transferred to the Hospital for Special Care in New Britain, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) determined that her parents could not meet her medical needs. Although Amiya flourished at the hospital, the nurses feared that she would end up living her life there.

Amiya with Judge DePanfilis on the day of her adoption.

“DCF usually can’t find homes for kids with severe medical needs,” said Anne. “They usually end up living most of their lives in a medical facility.” Dinette’s not exactly sure what prompted her to take the Foster Care training for a medically complex child at Family & Children’s Agency, but she is glad she did. “I guess you don’t know what is in your future,” she said.

2009–2010 Annual Report

Amiya at home with her mom, Dinette. Amiya at the Hospital for Special Care in New Britain.

“ I learned to suction her; I learned CPR; I learned the signs of distress, to monitor her when she is asleep. It was a lot, but it comes easy now.” Dinette

Shortly after taking the training, Dinette’s social worker called and told her about a four-year old girl in the Hospital for Special Care in New Britain. “I was just going up to see her and check out the situation; I hadn’t made up my mind,” recalls Dinette of the first visit. “When I first saw her, I knew I had to do it.” For the next five months Dinette traveled from Norwalk to New Britain to see Amiya once or twice a week. “I learned to suction her; I learned CPR; I learned the signs of distress, to monitor her when she is asleep. It was a lot, but it comes easy now.” On June 5, 2008, Dinette was finally able to bring Amiya home. “The closer the time got to take her home, I would ask her, ‘do you want to come to my house?’ The day I went to get her, sure enough, she was ready to go.” “Over the past two years, Amiya has done exceptionally well with Dinette,” said Anne. “Together we worked to get Amiya the proper medical equipment and care she

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needs, to get her into school, and to set her up so that she can start living as close to a normal life as possible.” Amiya is currently attending first grade and is taking piano lessons. Her cognitive ability is normal and she enjoys learning to read and write. While her life is starting to resemble that of other children her age, Amiya still requires constant medical monitoring and has a nurse that accompanies her to school each day. She also has a nurse that monitors her from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., seven days a week. As she has grown, Amiya has learned to cough in a certain way so that she doesn’t require as much suctioning as she once did. She has also stopped using sign language and is learning to speak in a soft voice. “She has a voice, just a weak one,” says Dinette. “You just have to listen and watch her lips.” In spite of all the changes and health challenges she has gone through, Amiya remains positive and happy. “Amiya has a wonderful personality and is very social,” said Dinette. “She makes you fall in love with her. She has quite a few friends at church, and we are just starting to have kids come over to play with her.” Although times have not always been easy, Dinette says the rewards of being with Amiya far outweigh the challenges. “It’s been great. There have been some rough times; but I don’t regret it.” She especially enjoys seeing Amiya’s smile. “When I go into her room in the morning to wake her up, she always meets me with a smile. There are days that she says she can’t stop smiling. And that makes you feel good because it lets you know that she is happy.”

“ IVF worked the first time and we were able to have Zack. We were lucky. The next five times we were not.”

ad o p tio n

LeeAnn

adoption Defining Elements The Adoption program is one of the largest private adoption programs serving the entire state of Connecticut. The Adoption program is the sole provider of post-adoption services in Fairfield County and works in collaboration with the University of Connecticut Health Center’s Adoption Assistance Program. The Adoption Program has developed a unique partnership with the Department of Children and Families to help place foster care children with adoptive families.

Bringing Charlie Home “

e love each other. We are both from close families, and we have good relationships with our siblings,” said LeeAnn of herself and her husband Jeff, when discussing the reasons for expanding their family. Their only child, Zack, was born using in vitro fertilization (IVF). “IVF worked the first time and we were able to have Zack,” said LeeAnn. “We were lucky. The next five times we were not.” They then started to consider adoption as a way of building their family. “We started the adoption process a year ago last October,” said Jeff. “I was starting to think, I’m 46; if we don’t have a child by the time I’m 47, I might have to call it quits.” In early June, he and LeeAnn received the call. Dawn Overholser, their adoption social worker at Family & Children’s Agency, told them that a baby boy had just been born in Connecticut and the birth mother was interested in them as adoptive parents. Just one day before Jeff and LeeAnn received their call, Jane Coughlin, a birth parent counselor at Family & Children’s Agency, received a call from a hospital social worker who told her about a woman who had recently given birth. “When a birth mother is thinking about placing her child for adoption, I meet with her to talk about where she is in her life,” said Jane. “It’s really a process of exploring all the possibilities to see what she thinks is best for her child.” As Jane made arrangements to place the baby in a foster home, she also worked with the birth mother on a final plan for the baby. “I honestly think her decision had been made before giving birth,” commented Jane. “She knew that she couldn’t take care of her child.” Jane also started talking with her about possible families and showing their

profiles. The birth mother chose Jeff and LeeAnn. “She thought the world of Jeff and LeeAnn,” said Jane. “She had wanted her son to have a big brother. This is a little unusual, since many birth parents want their child to be the first in a family. However, this birth mother had come from a large family and having other siblings was important to her.” When Jeff and LeeAnn first received the call, they had anticipated hearing about a mother who had several months to go, not one who had just given birth. “We took a couple days to think about it,” recalls Jeff. “We were counseled by Dawn to consider all the information very seriously, and we did.”

2009–2010 Annual Report

Charlie at home with his new family.

“One of the wonderful things about working with Jeff and LeeAnn,” said Dawn, “is that they were not acting on impulse. I knew they would think things through, talk to their doctors, and to other people; they were solid.” On June 17, nine days after Jeff and LeeAnn first received the call, they brought Charlie home. “In that time, we had to explain everything to our four-year-old, Zack,” says LeeAnn. “We explained that Charlie would be coming into our lives and that he would be coming into our house as his little brother. We also said that his parents couldn’t take care of him and that they wanted to give him the best home possible. That’s how we’ll tell Charlie about his adoption when he is old enough to understand.” Although Jeff and LeeAnn never met Charlie’s birth mother, they do know a little about her. “We know her first name and where she lives,” explained Jeff. They also learned she is originally from Puerto Rico and that she grew up on a farm—which, they found out, she considered to be the best part of her life. In honor of her cultural heritage, Jeff and LeeAnn gave Charlie the middle name of Jorge. “Jorge, means ‘one who farms’ in Spanish,” explained LeeAnn. When Jeff and LeeAnn first thought about adopting a child, they decided to be open to adopting a child of another race. “Jeff and I were both raised in very open families,” said LeeAnn. “Two of our best friends have a bi-racial child. A lot of people we know have adopted children from different places.” Jeff and LeeAnn were excited to bring Charlie into their family. Zack now says, “I have a baby brother now; his name is Charlie.” Jeff explained how they have given Zack jobs so that he can be more involved with Charlie. Zack listed his jobs as helping with the “binky”, picking

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out the diapers, doing artwork for Charlie, and putting the magical sprinkles (formula powder) into his bottle. Jeff and LeeAnn’s love for Charlie is tangible. “They just adore him,” says Dawn. “From every way we looked at this match, we felt it was a very good fit for this child. I have visited with them several times since the placement, and this little guy is thriving.” As a proud new father, Jeff pronounced, “He is wise beyond his weeks. He is so happy. He is a great baby!” LeeAnn chimed in, “He is like a little old soul. It feels like he has been on a long journey already. He laughs all the time; look at how happy he is.” Big brother Zack said simply, “I love him.”

“ From every way we looked at this match, we felt it was a very good fit for this child. I have visited with them several times since the placement, and this little guy is thriving.” Dawn Overholser, Adoption Social Worker, Family & Children’s Agency

b e havio r a l he a lt h 11

“ I wanted to be a great mom for my son. My mother didn’t raise me, and I was determined that I was going to raise my son.” Tiffany

Behavior al Health D efining Elements Project Reward is the only comprehensive gender-based substance abuse program for women seeking recovery in lower Fairfield County. The Counseling department is one of a few programs in the greater Norwalk area that offers strength-based treatment for both children and adults. This is unique, as many other organizations provide counseling services only for adults or only for children. Family & Children’s Agency is one of only three agencies in Fairfield County which offers Intensive In-Home Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Services (IICAPS). IICAPS is a unique program overseen by the Yale Child Study Center that treats seriously emotionally disturbed children, adolescents, and their families.

Overcoming the Past, Equipped for the Future

oday Tiffany is enrolled in college courses and focused on a future filled with plans and dreams for herself and her young son. It’s hard to believe that just a few years ago her life was dramatically different. The daughter of a crack addict, Tiffany became suicidal as a teenager, and then turned to marijuana to deal with her anger and depression. Since completing the Project REWARD program at Family & Children’s Agency, she approaches challenges and opportunities with a new outlook. The program’s effectiveness is obvious from the fact that 78% of the women graduate from the program substancefree. Katy Alicata, Manager of Project REWARD, believes that the reasons for their success are clear. “We work with women only,” she noted, “because that promotes more openness, sharing, and bonding (than in a mixed group of men and women).” She continued, “The fact that the program is gender-based means that we can accomplish a lot more with our clients. They have to come to accept themselves, and it’s a lot easier for women to do that when men aren’t around. Self-acceptance is a very big part of dealing with addictions.” The program also provides doorto-door transportation for the women and their children, along with on-site child care, two more unique features that help the participants stay with the program long enough to change their lives. Despite the support offered to the women in Project REWARD, successful completion of the program is challenging, as illustrated by Tiffany’s journey. Growing up, she was subjected to physical, psychological, and sexual abuse by the relatives in whose homes she lived.

Katy noted that Tiffany’s experience is common. She explained, “Many women are victims of trauma that has never been treated.” As a kind of escape, Tiffany began smoking marijuana with her friends at the age of 14. Then, she said, “Somewhere along the line, I started to smoke (it) every time I was mad.” At 16, she started living on her own, but she finished high school and supported herself,

2009–2010 Annual Report

Tiffany performing a “Praise Dance” at her church.

always holding multiple jobs simultaneously. Although she appeared to be a capable young adult, Tiffany was suffering emotionally. As she said, “I would be on the street and see families walking together, and I would just start to cry.” At 23, Tiffany gave birth to a baby boy. She explained, “I wanted to be a great mom for my son. My mother didn’t raise me, and I was determined that I was going to raise my son.” But Tiffany soon realized that being a single parent can be a struggle and, she said, “I felt like I wasn’t going to make it.” A friend and mentor suggested that she contact Family & Children’s Agency. Initially, Tiffany began working with a counselor in Family & Children’s Agency’s Counseling department. It then became clear that Tiffany’s substance use was a major factor in her difficulties, and it was determined that Project Reward was the program best equipped to help her achieve her goals, which included going back to school and being the best mother to her son that she could be.

“ It’s our philosophy that anyone can become a substance abuser, and we don’t fault or blame these women.”

Katy noted that many of her clients struggle with parenting in the context of their substance abuse. “Our response is ‘this is about you. If you do the work required to stop your substance abuse, you’ll be a better parent.’” Project REWARD’s treatment model is based on the premise that substance abuse is a disease. According to Katy, “It’s our philosophy that anyone can become a substance abuser, and we don’t fault or blame these women. What’s important is they have come forward to seek treatment, and we support them fully in that effort.” In addition to two full-time counselors, Family & Children’s Agency has a psychiatrist on staff who treats related issues such as depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric disorders. Katy noted that they also can provide case management services to help participants find vocational training programs, assistance with job searches, and housing resources. Tiffany has completed the program, but she returns weekly for counseling with Katy and participates in a group. Explaining the value of the program on a personal level, Tiffany said, “I’ve seen Katy really be there for me. She was always there when I needed her, and that meant a lot to me.” Looking around the facility at the other program participants and staff, she concluded, “I feel like they’re genuine here. They try to make a difference, and they really want to see you succeed.”

Katy Alicata, Manager of Project REWARD, Family & Children’s Agency

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Katy, left, and Tiffany, right, catch up on a conversation after a group meeting.

Ho m el ess Se rvic es 13

“ The Drop-In Center is the first step in engaging people who are homeless and in need of treatment and rehabilitation.” Chris Jachino, Director of Homeless Services, Family & Children’s Agency

Homeless Services Defining Elements The Homeless Services program is the only “one stop” provider for adults experiencing homelessness in the Greater Norwalk area providing prevention services, vocational counseling, case management, and supportive housing. The Homeless Services’ Supportive Housing program is distinctive in providing supportive housing in Wilton, Westport, New Canaan, Norwalk, and Stamford for adults who have experienced homelessness.

Anita outside her apartment door.

Maintaining Perspective When All Seemed Lost

t 27, Anita’s life is just beginning to blossom. “I’m happy!” said Anita with a bright and contagious smile. “I wouldn’t have been able to say that five years ago. I thought my life was over at 22. I thought it was too late.” In August 2005, Anita moved from Bridgeport to Norwalk and suddenly found herself homeless. Unable to return to Bridgeport and live with her grandmother, her only option was to stay at Norwalk’s Emergency Shelter. “I was scared when I first came to the shelter. I was very naïve about a lot of things,” said Anita. “People would say to me, ‘You don’t belong here.’” Each morning after the shelter closed for the day, Anita joined other shelter residents who walked to Family & Children’s Agency’s Community Connections Drop-In Center on Concord Street. “The Drop-In Center is the first step in engaging people who are homeless and in need of treatment and rehabilitation,” says Chris Jachino, Director of Homeless Services at Family & Children’s Agency. “Clients can ‘drop in’ and talk with a case manager, use the phone, or visit with others seven days a week. Case managers also help clients establish and maintain basic essentials for daily living and explore housing options.” Charlise Sellers, a case manager at the Drop-In Center, recalls when Anita first came in. “Anita was very quiet,

very sheltered. She didn’t want to be bothered and was very much in her own shell.” Over time, staff developed a relationship with Anita and discovered she was suffering from depression. “I first had to deal with the depression,” said Anita thinking back to the first step on her five-year journey. Anita’s struggle with depression started as teenager but went undiagnosed until she came to the Drop-In Center. “I always stayed isolated in my room and never came out,” recalled Anita of her teenage years. Further exacerbating her situation was the fact that Anita was still dealing with the death of her aunt, who had cared for her most of her life, as well as the death of her mom, who died of AIDS when Anita was 19. Just as Anita’s life appeared to stabilize, the stress of living at the shelter overwhelmed her. “Anita was used to working and to having her own home,” said Charlise. “At the shelter your room is not your room, especially when you are sharing it with 30 other people. People are always asking you for something, trying to steal your toothbrush or your clothes.” “I used to cry every single day,” recalls Anita of that time. Then Anita hit rock bottom. “One day I took all of my meds and tried suicide. I thought my life was over,” she explained. “Anita came in one morning and told staff that she had swallowed all her anti-depressants,” said Charlise. We took

2009–2010 Annual Report

her to Norwalk Hospital and she was admitted to their mental health unit. “After that, I realized I made a huge mistake,” says Anita. “While I was there, I realized I love my privacy. I was able to think about a lot of things. I started to feel more positive.” After being discharged, Anita continued her mental health treatment and her daily visits to the Drop-In Center. Working with various staff members, she signed up for health insurance, food stamps, and took refresher courses in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Acting on the advice of one of the Drop-In Center’s vocational counselors, Anita secured part-time employment at a local movie theater. It was then that her life started to get back on track. Soon after Anita started working at the theater, Charlise learned that she was accumulating paychecks in her purse. Rather than just recommending a solution, Charlise drove Anita to a local bank and helped her set up an account. She recalls “the continuous smile on her face” after Anita completed that new step toward independence. It wasn’t long before Anita started thinking about moving out of the shelter and once again, the Drop-In Center staff played a pivotal role. They showed her various housing options and together started filling out applications. After living in the shelter for 15 months, Anita moved into an efficiency apartment at 40 South Main, a supportive housing building where Family & Children’s Agency provides resident support services. “I moved in and never left my room that day. It was my place. I could make it as quiet as I wanted. It was a great feeling.” Charlise recalls Anita feeling a little frightened by the responsibilities of having her own place but she

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remembers, “it turned out that she did a really terrific job. Being able to call it her own was a big catalyst; she was able to say ‘this is mine and I can do this.’ Once she got that house, everything else was able to fall into place for her.” Anita got a new car and secured more employment as a part-time home health aide. Now, three-and-a-half years later, Anita is ready to take her next big step. She has enrolled in the medical assistant program at Lincoln Tech in Shelton. “I’m very excited about going back to school. I’m very hands on,” said Anita. “A friend recently told me I motivate her.” Looking back over the last five years, Anita admits that asking for help was one of the hardest things she did. “You’ve got to want it,” she exclaimed. “I had to practice being positive; it was hard. I practiced in front of a mirror.” For Anita, maintaining that perspective and focusing on the positive really helped turn her life around. “From when she came in until where she is now, I can only see progress,” said Charlise. “There is no place but up for her.”

“ I was scared when I first came to the shelter. I was very naïve about a lot of things. People would say to me, ‘You don’t belong here.’” Anita

Se rvices fo r Se n i o rs 15

“ Each individual has his or her distinct needs as they age. At some point, regardless of their prior level of independence, they will need assistance.” Irene Cronkright, Vice President, Family & Children’s Agency

Services for Senior s Defining Elements Family & Children’s Agency’s Services for Seniors program is one of a few Home Care Agencies that is able to provide low-income seniors with the home care services they need free of charge through state and federal grants. The Services for Seniors program is one of a few licensed Homemaker and Home Health Aide Agencies able to provide personal care under the direction and supervision of a registered nurse, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Aging Successfully at Home

very morning Leonard enjoys reading The New York Times at his kitchen table in his Norwalk condo. At age 96, Leonard is part of a growing trend of people who have chosen to age in their own homes. “It takes a commitment from the whole community to help seniors stay in their own homes,” said Irene Cronkright, a Vice President at Family & Children’s Agency. “Each individual has his or her distinct needs as they age. At some point, regardless of their prior level of independence, they will need assistance.” For Leonard, the equation that has allowed him to age successfully at home includes a fair amount of good health, a strong and active mind, regular social interaction, and the support of Family & Children’s Agency. “When Leonard first started using our services, we just provided transportation,” said Randi Ederle, RN, Director of HomeCare Services. “As he has gotten older, we’ve begun helping him with his grocery shopping and providing housekeeping services for him.” “I wasn’t driving anymore,” recalls Leonard of when he first started receiving services. “There was a time I didn’t need anybody, but I have to have someone now.” For many older adults, the decision to move from occasional to full-time help is a hard one. Even more difficult is the realization that if you don’t have a fulltime care provider, you will need to move into an assisted living facility or a family member’s home. Complicating the matter is the fact that the decision may involve several people beyond yourself. “A little over a year ago, it became apparent that it was unsafe for Leonard to live alone,” stated Irene. “He wasn’t eating properly; he wasn’t active enough; and he started to have frequent falls. After meeting with Leonard and his

two sons, Jeffrey and Charles, we all came to the conclusion that either Leonard needed full-time live-in care or he needed to move to an assisted living facility. Leonard chose to have a full-time live-in caregiver.” “Leonard is very independent and loves his privacy,” says Randi. “By working with Family & Children’s Agency, he has been able to continue living at home, maintain his independence, and receive the help he needs each day.” Since September 2009, Leonard has enjoyed the assistance and companionship of a full-time live-in

2009–2010 Annual Report

caregiver. While he has enjoyed the different homemakers and drivers who have helped him over the years, Leonard is especially fond of Bismark, his current caregiver. “Oh, he’s excellent,” commented Leonard. As a full-time caregiver, Bismark is responsible for the care and well-being of Leonard. “I help him in the morning when he wakes up; I help him bathe and dress. I bring him into the kitchen and put together his breakfast for him. I help him with his exercises and make sure the house is well kept, his clothes are clean, and that he has healthy meals,” said Bismark. Additionally, he sees that Leonard gets to his doctors’ appointments and that his medications are taken properly. “Having healthy meals that meet the dietary restrictions of our clients is really important to us,” said Randi. “Bismark has been instrumental in helping us lower Leonard’s sodium level. He is a good cook and makes Leonard’s meals by using fresh, healthy ingredients.” Besides caring for his physical needs, Bismark also provides Leonard with companionship. “While his sons play a huge part in his life, they have their own lives, families, and careers in Virginia and Texas,” says Randi. “Leonard and Bismark get along really well with each other. They enjoy having meals together and watching sports on television, even if they are not cheering for the same team. Leonard is always telling us, ‘Bismark and I did this; Bismark and I did that.’ It’s a nice fit for both of them.” In addition to receiving care from Bismark, he also receives nursing visits from Randi, who is a registered nurse. Every 60 days, or more often if necessary, Randi performs a comprehensive nursing assessment, and a care plan update to ensure Leonard is receiving the care he needs to safely remain at home. She also ensures that he is going to the doctors regularly and speaks with Leonard’s physicians on a regular basis. She is also on call day or night should Bismark need medical advice or if there is a change in Leonard’s condition.

www.FamilyandChildrensAgency.org

Several months ago, Leonard’s sons wanted to move him to Virginia into an assisted living facility. “My son wanted me to be close to him,” said Leonard. “We were really involved in the process of helping Leonard move,” recalls Randi. “I had several meetings with his sons and we spoke with the nurses at the assisted living facility.” Along the way Leonard would say “I don’t want to go” but his sons felt like it was in his best interest to be closer to family. In the end, Leonard says, “I turned them down.” Having built a lifetime of memories and connections in “ There was a time I Norwalk, Leonard didn’t need anybody, is happy to still be living at home. He but I have to have and his late wife, someone now.” Maxine, raised their Leonard two sons in Stamford and Ridgefield. Although his sons no longer live nearby, he stays in close contact with them and proudly displays pictures of his four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren on his kitchen table. Leonard also built his career working in the area for New York Life Insurance. However, his love of being in his own home is the most evident reason for staying. “This place has been my home since it was built over 40 years ago. My wife picked it out. She was brilliant; she was a wonderful person,” recalled Leonard. “She had blue eyes.” For the time being, Leonard says, “I feel good. I walk with the assistance of a walker. I do exercises every day. I do foot exercises; I stretch my arms. As you can see, I read every day. I got all my wits about me.” “Leonard is very happy; he has recuperated nicely from his falls, and has become very strong. He is now able Top: Randi checking in with to remain in his own home due to the live-in care he is Leonard. Middle: receiving,” said Randi. “He’s leading a comfortable and Bismark cleaning Leonard’s living happy life.” room. Bottom: Leonard in his kitchen.

FOUNDER’S CIRCLE

D ONORS

Donors of $25,000 & above

Mr. & Mrs. Mark A. Brown Mrs. Anne Cary Children’s Aid, Inc. of Darien The Chilton Foundation The Community Fund of Darien Fairfield County Community Foundation Graham Capital Management Mr. & Mrs. Simon Greenshields Lone Pine Foundation, Inc. Mr. James J. Mecca & Ms. Vae L. Champagne Minks to Sinks, Wilton Edward S. Moore Family Foundation, Inc. The Serenbetz Family Foundation, Inc. Ms. Sharon Sullivan & Mr. Jeffrey B. Kindler The Tudor Foundation, Inc. United Way of Coastal Fairfield County

BENEFACTOR’S CIRCLE Donors of $10,000 - $24,999

Mr. & Mrs. David C. Basile Mary Pat & Robert Brody The Daphne Seybolt Culpeper Memorial Foundation, Inc. DIRECTV, Inc. First County Bank Foundation, Inc. GE Capital Jane Hope Hastings Philanthropic Trust The Per & Astrid Heidenreich Family Foundation Mr. & Mrs. William Krivoshik *** Mr. & Mrs. Mark D. Lux Media Storm Morgan Stanley Foundation Muehlstein Mr. & Mrs. William O. Murphy New Canaan Community Foundation Newman’s Own Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Al Nickel City of Norwalk, Community Block Grant The Perrin Family Foundation Pfizer Foundation Matching Gifts Program Pfizer Inc

Adolph and Ruth Schnurmacher Foundation, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Peter K. Seldin Mr. & Mrs. Peter Sherk Thomson Reuters United Church of Rowayton Rev. & Mrs. Robert Walker Whitman Breed Abbott & Morgan LLC Mr. & Mrs. Tom Wilcox The Windmill Foundation, Inc.

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE Donors of $5,000 - $9,999

The Elizabeth Raymond Ambler Trust Bank of America Foundation Mr. Brian Baxendale Mr. & Mrs. Todd Bickmeyer Bloomberg Tradebook Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Buthorn, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Coe DLB Capital General Re Corporation Ms. Ana Goizueta & Mr. Peter Clark Goldman Sachs Jarden Corporation JetBlue Airways Mr. Levon Kazarian & Ms. Maya Belubekian Ms. Marta Jo Lawrence Marsh & McLennan Companies, Inc. Kathleen & Peter Murphy *** People’s United Bank People’s United Community Foundation The Scappaticci Steinberg Foundation The TJX Companies, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Tim A. Williams

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE Donors of $2,500 - $4,999

Allianz of America, Inc. Ann Taylor Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Beck Ann & Jonathan Bell The Bishop’s Fund for Children Mr. John Brett Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. Campbell

Mr. & Mrs. Wenton Camporin Mr. & Mrs. Frank J. Carroll, III Mr. & Mrs. Gregg Castano Mr. Bob Cenci & Ms. Marjorie Peterson Ms. Anne C. Cooling Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Corrigan Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Coyle Diageo North America Foundation, Inc. FactSet Research Systems Inc. Charles A. Frueauff Foundation, Inc. Dr. & Mrs. William L. Green Mr. & Mrs. William G. Haljun Mary Ellen & Bill Hass HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Robert Jachino Ms. Heather James Knight Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Legan, Jr. Mr. James Leitner & Ms. Tracy Higgins Mr. & Mrs. James Lillie Mr. & Mrs. Brian E. Lynch Mr. & Mrs. Denis J. Nayden Near & Far Aid Association, Inc. NewAlliance Foundation Ms. Catherine Orme Mr. & Mrs. Christopher C. Smith Société Générale Corporate & Investment Banking UBS Investment Bank UBS Matching Gift Program Mr. & Mrs. George C. Voss Weeden & Co. LP Mr. & Mrs. Fabrizio Zichichi

STEWARD’S CIRCLE Donors of $1,000 - $2,499

Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. Charlie Adams Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Auriemma Beardsley, Brown, & Bassett Mr. & Mrs. Jamie Bergin Mr. & Mrs. David Bigelow BlumShapiro The Bulkley Foundation Peggy & John Burgess Mr. Judd Burstein & Ms. Laurie Lister Andrea & Fred Busk

Mr. & Mrs. Robert F. Cashel Mr. & Mrs. Peter J. Collins Mr. & Mrs. Paul Colonna Mr. Gavin Coman Mr. & Mrs. Stephen P. Costa Ms. Irene Cronkright Georgia & George Davala Mr. & Mrs. Marcus De Baise Mr. Matthew L. DeGarmo Mr. & Mrs. Peter L. Denious Mr. & Mrs. Alexander Dimitrief Mr. & Mrs. Ken Dougherty Mr. David Downie & Ms. Laura Whitman Ms. Lois Fahey Robin & John Fields First Presbyterian Church of New Canaan Pauline E. Fitzpatrick Trust Mr. David Geronemus & Ms. Mitzi Lyman Glen Gate Company The Goodnow Fund Mr. & Mrs. Marc Granetz Mr. & Mrs. Charles Grodin Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Hackett Mr. & Mrs. Peter Hermann Mr. & Mrs. Mike Hess Mr. & Mrs. Frederick W. Hinkley Mr. & Mrs. Mark E. Holmén Mr. & Mrs. Tom M. Jamison Mr. & Mrs. Eric P. Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Thomas M. Joyce Mr. & Mrs. Christopher J. LaCroix Mr. & Mrs. Richard Lavoie Mr. & Mrs. Gerard W. Lillis M.P. Agency/Total Management Corp. Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Mahon Mrs. Ann Mandel Ms. Rita Marber Mr. & Mrs. Kelvin Marsden-Kish Ginny & Bob Martin Mr. & Mrs. Paul McErlain McMahon Ford Mrs. Nicole Meek * Mr. & Mrs. Earl Mix Mr. & Mrs. Timothy A. Moore Morgan Stanley Town of New Canaan NRG Energy, Inc. Mr. Randel Orzano & Ms. Gretchen Hachmeister

Pepperidge Farm, Inc. Ms. Maureen Pierpont Plainfield Asset Management Mr. & Mrs. William F. Reighley *** Ridgefield Thrift Shop, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Anthony R. Roberto, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Charles W. Robertson, II Ms. Maureen Rog Mr. & Mrs. Rocky Rossetti, III Mr. & Mrs. Leif Setter Mr. & Mrs. Thomas M. Sinchak Mr. & Mrs. Gregory C. Sinnott Ms. Roberta Smith Mr. & Mrs. Timothy J. Stuart Mr. & Mrs. Paul T. Tuzinkiewicz Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Ulehla Mr. & Mrs. Peter von Euler Wachovia Foundation Matching Gifts Program Mr. & Mrs. William W. Walbert, Jr. Jeffrey C. & Suzanne C. Walker Mr. Ralph Walker & Ms. Jamie E. Hewitt Mr. & Mrs. Thomas J. Walsh, III Mr. & Mrs. Scott Weber Mr. & Mrs. William O. Webster, Jr. Webster Bank Mr. & Mrs. Carl Weinberg Westport Woman’s Club Westport Young Woman’s League The Whitman Family Foundation

FAMILY CIRCLE Donors of $500 - $999

Anonymous Ms. Corrine Andrade Mr. & Mrs. William Bishop Mr. & Mrs. John Blackman Mr. & Mrs. Peter Brooke Mr. & Mrs. Douglas L. Brown Mr. & Mrs. Christopher F. Buse Café Madeline Campbell Soup Company Mr. & Mrs. Michael J. Chapey Mr. & Mrs. James Clamage Mr. & Mrs. Christopher B. Combe Ms. Mary-Pat Cottrell The County Assemblies 2009–2010 Annual Report

Mrs. Susan Bartush Cugliari Mr. & Mrs. Tony B. Davidow Mr. & Mrs. Charles Dillehay Mr. & Mrs. John Doggett Harry Donenfeld Foundation Inc. Ms. Lucie Y. DuHamel Mr. & Mrs. David Durkin Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Ellenthal Mr. & Mrs. Jesse Fink *** Ms. Ann Gilmartin Mr. & Mrs. Ward Glassmeyer Global Impact Goldman Sachs Matching Gift Program (CF) Mr. & Mrs. Sydney Gordon Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Hanson Mr. & Mrs. Douglas S. Harned Mr. & Mrs. Larry Hawkins Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Heckel Mr. Joseph G. Henn & Ms. Marie Gallagher Henn Mr. & Mrs. Michael F. Hoben Mr. & Mrs. Timothy D. Jensen Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Jones Mr. Thomas Juterbock Ms. Iris Kishimoto Knights of Columbus, St. Matthew Council #14360 Mr. & Mrs. Mark Kolier Mr. & Mrs. Robert Krass Mr. & Mrs. Paul A. Leff Mr. & Mrs. John M. Lewis Mr. & Mrs. Frank R. Lyon Mr. Aaron R. Marcu & Ms. Mary Lu Bilek Mr. & Mrs. David G. McCollum Mr. & Mrs. Philip K. Meyer Mr. & Mrs. Peter Moseley Mr. & Mrs. David S. Musen Mr. & Mrs. Gregory D. Myers Basam & Kim Nabulsi *** Ms. Leslie M. Noordyk-Cenci Mr. & Mrs. G. Peter O’Brien Mr. & Mrs. Edward O’Connor Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Pagliaro Mr. & Mrs. James A. Perakis Mr. & Mrs. Andy Pforzheimer Polyflon Company Mr. & Mrs. David Quigley Mr. & Mrs. Randy Quinn www.FamilyandChildrensAgency.org

Mr. & Mrs. James A. Randel Mr. & Mrs. Ronald J. Restivo Mr. Romeo Reyes & Ms. Jane Mitchell Mr. & Mrs. Gregory J. Rohde Mr. & Mrs. Edmond Rondepierre Russell Investments Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Salguero Mr. & Mrs. Gary Schuler Mr. & Mrs. David A. Semple Mr. & Mrs. Robert Sheldon Mr. & Mrs. David B. Shepherd Smith Richardson Foundation, Inc. Sotheby’s Mr. Robert Spangler & Ms. Joanne Powell Mr. & Mrs. Tyler Thors Mr. Robert J. Tomasetti & Ms. Kathleen S. Fanning United Methodist Church of Darien Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Walsh Mr. & Mrs. Robert Winsor Xerox Corporation Mr. Alexander Zaharoff & Ms. Karen Krupnik Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Zakowski

FRIEND’S CIRCLE Donors of $100 - $499

Anonymous (9) Mr. & Mrs. Frank B. Ackerman Mr. & Mrs. Moses Alexander AllianceBernstein Mr. & Mrs. Richards Aquan Mr. & Mrs. Bob Arnold Mr. & Mrs. Geoffrey H. Ashworth *** Mr. & Mrs. Richard C. Bain, Jr. Barnes Group Foundation, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Joe Bart & Family Ms. Laura Belford *** Mr. & Mrs. David P. Bell Ms. Emilie Betts Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Blain Mr. & Mrs. David L. Boudreau Mr. & Mrs. Paul Breitenbach Mr. & Mrs. Marty Brennan, III Mr. & Mrs. James Brewer Mr. & Mrs. Adrian Brody

Mr. & Mrs. Ned Brokaw Ms. Barbara Brown Mr. & Mrs. Norris Browne Ms. Carol H. Bullard Ms. Amy R. Burger Mr. & Mrs. Steven T. Cannon Ms. Michele Caporizzo Mr. & Mrs. David Carlucci Mr. & Mrs. Charles E. Carpenter The Carroll Family Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Castle *** Catalano 19 @ Silvermine Golf Club Ms. Beth W. Chase & Ms. Elizabeth W. Saunders Mr. & Mrs. Stephen B. Chase Mr. & Mrs. Richard Chilton Mr. & Mrs. James Clark Mr. & Mrs. Dave Cole Mr. Stirling Collins Ms. Martha Cook Mr. & Mrs. Daniel R. Cooney Mr. & Mrs. Gary Cott *** Ms. Jeannette Cotter Mr. & Mrs. Edward Craig The Crisp Family Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Crohan Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Curtin Ms. Christine D’Alessandro Mr. & Mrs. Eric Dalrymple Dr. & Mrs. Robert B. Daly Mr. & Mrs. Frank G. D’Angelo Col. & Mrs. Jack Daniels Mr. Anthony Day *** Mr. & Mrs. William J. Del Vecchio Mr. Jeffrey S. DeMond & Ms. Helene Sullivan Mr. & Mrs. Stephen DesRochers Mr. & Mrs. Joseph DeTullio Mr. & Mrs. Randall A. Dominick Susan & Jan Dorenbosch Mr. & Mrs. Thomas S. Doyle Senator & Mrs. Robert B. Duff Mr. & Mrs. Matt Duffy Mr. & Mrs. Donald Edgerton Mr. & Mrs. Frank Z. Elmasry Mr. & Mrs. Grosvenor Ely Ms. Elizabeth English Mr. & Mrs. Edward N. Everett Mr. & Mrs. James M. Feigenbaum

Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Fennessey Mr. Joseph Ferraro & Dr. Jennifer Henkind Mr. & Mrs. Scott A. Fine Mrs. Sally Finger Mr. & Mrs. John C. Fisher Mr. & Mrs. Steve Flanagan Mrs. Suzanne Fleisher Ms. Nanette C. Franco Mr. & Mrs. David Frear Mr. & Mrs. Peter C. Gambee Mr. & Mrs. John E. Gardner Gartner GE Foundation Mr. & Mrs. John Geissinger General Atlantic Service Company, LLC Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Giannos Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Gibbons Mr. & Mrs. Roger Gilbert, Jr. Ms. Gretchen Gingo Girl Scout Troup #50256 Mr. & Mrs. Michael Gordon Dr. & Mrs. Neil Gordon Got Gold LLC Mr. & Mrs. Peter Grambs Mr. & Mrs. Michael Grant Mr. & Mrs. Philip D. Grant Greenwich Academy, Lower School Community Service Group Mr. & Mrs. Edward B. Griswold Ms. Monique Guesnon Mr. & Mrs. Bucky Gunts *** Mr. & Mrs. Jim Haffner Mr. & Mrs. William E. Harrington Mr. & Mrs. John W. Hartigan Mr. & Mrs. Donald J. Hautman Heidmar Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Kurt H. Heinemann Mr. & Mrs. Edward T. Henderson Mr. & Mrs. Gayle W. Herndon Mr. & Mrs. Ira Hersh Sandra & John Heyd Mr. & Mrs. James Hicks * Mr. & Mrs. Richard N. Hoag Mr. & Mrs. William Hollingsworth *** Mrs. Jody Holmes Mr. & Mrs. Bill Horowitz Mr. & Mrs. Glen Houck Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Houk

IMAGINE 2010: The FCA Benefit Co-Chairs, from left, Sheryl Williams, Lisa Moseley, Denise Walsh, Julene Greenshields, and Rose Krivoshik at Rolling Hills Country Club.

“ It has been my pleasure to serve as a volunteer for Family & Children’s Agency for 23 years. From the beginning, as a member of the Finance and Endowment Committees, I was impressed with how Family & Children’s Agency managed its budget and has always been a good steward of donors’ contributions. Under past and current leadership, the Agency has been extremely proactive in cutting costs or monitoring situations to safeguard its financial health, all while taking care of the neediest in our community. I have derived great satisfaction from giving time to an agency where you feel like you are making a difference.” Donna H. Walker, Treasurer, Family & Children’s Agency Board of Directors

From left, Peter and Kathleen Murphy, with Jon and Ann Bell, and Patti and Doug Brown at IMAGINE 2010: The FCA Benefit.

Tennis players with President & CEO, Rob Cashel, at the FCA 2010 Golf & Tennis Classic at Brooklawn Country Club.

“ The Adolph and Ruth Schnurmacher Foundation has proudly supported Family & Children’s Agency for 15 years. The broad range of services which the Agency offers to the community is crucial in meeting the needs of individuals and families, especially now with local and state governments cutting services and budgets. Even in Fairfield County, an affluent community, the needs are real and ever-increasing. Family & Children’s Agency is a responsible and responsive organization, and it deserves the support of individuals, foundations, and corporations to help advance its mission.” Janet and Fred Plotkin, Adolph and Ruth Schnurmacher Foundation

Kris and Marc Granetz with President & CEO, Rob Cashel, far right, at an event hosted in their home.

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Huber I. Weiss Mr. Peter A. Igoe Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin James Mr. Craig E. Johnson & Ms. Kimberly E. Young Mr. & Mrs. Darryl Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Harold Kamins Mr. & Mrs. John Kelly Mr. & Mrs. Philip Kennedy Mr. Tony Kiniry Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Klaffky Donald & Julianne Kleber Mr. Richard Kochanski & Ms. Barbara Arnold Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Koe Mr. Michael S. Komar & Ms. Cheryl L. Bryant Mr. & Mrs. James M. Kostell Mr. & Mrs. Kelvin Kostohryz Mr. & Mrs. Juergen Kremer Ms. Julia Kremer Mr. & Mrs. John D. Krueger Mr. Richard Lacomis Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. Lane Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Lash Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas F. Lee Mr. & Mrs. Charles Leitner Ms. Frances L. Len Ms. Loretta Lesko Mr. & Mrs. Peter Levin Dr. & Mrs. David Levinson Mr. & Mrs. William Lilling Mr. & Mrs. James Liptrot Mr. & Mrs. Hugh Lloyd-Thomas Mr. & Mrs. Richard Lyons Mr. & Mrs. David Mace Ms. Heather L. Mackenzie Mr. & Mrs. Jack Majesky Mr. Paul Maltais & Mr. Gary OIson Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Markowski Ms. Katherine A. Maxwell Mr. & Mrs. John W. Mc Near, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. John H. McClutchy, Jr. Mr. Jim McGimsey Mr. & Mrs. Christopher McMahon Mr. & Mrs. Brian M. Meany Mr. & Mrs. Gregory A. Mecca Mr. & Mrs. Robert L. Mecca

Mr. & Mrs. Dale Miller Mr. & Mrs. Gary L. Moore Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Morello Mr. & Mrs. Joseph W. Morledge Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth F. Mountcastle, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Michael K. Murdoch Mr. & Mrs. David J. Murphy Mr. & Mrs. Francis X. Murphy Ms. Maureen Murphy Mr. & Mrs. Michael B. Murray Mr. & Mrs. Lew Nash Mr. & Mrs. Jacob Navon Mr. & Mrs. Jack Neafsey Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Nelson Mr. Richard Newman & Ms. Amy Pollack Mr. & Mrs. Steve Nezas Mr. & Mrs. Edward Nicholls Eliot Noyes Foundation Mrs. Barbara Oakford Mr. Daniel F. O’Connor Mr. Kyle Odin Mr. & Mrs. William Oppenheim Mr. & Mrs. James R. Overby Mr. & Mrs. D.M. Owen Mr. & Mrs. Morgan L. Pape Mr. & Mrs. Hervey Parke *** Mr. Peter Peirce & Ms. Jill Esterson Mr. & Mrs. W.C. Brian Peoples The Pershing Square Foundation Mr. Mark Pizzi & Ms. Rachel Dalton Mr. & Mrs. Bill Poudrier Mr. & Mrs. Theodore A. Prospect The Prudential Foundation Ms. Jessica A. Rascionato Mr. Paul Retter Mr. & Mrs. Chad Rhodes Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Rich Mr. & Mrs. Peter J. Richards Mr. & Mrs. Paul Richardson Mr. & Mrs. Michael Robertson Mr. & Mrs. Mark Root Mr. & Mrs. Peter Schattenfield Mr. Albert H. Schilling Ms. Mary Kate Schneider Mr. & Mrs. Robert Schneider Mr. & Mrs. Mark Schwarzmann Mr. & Mrs. Louis Sciarretta Mr. & Mrs. Warren Serenbetz Mr. & Mrs. Ervin R. Shames

Mr. Neal Shapiro & Ms. JuJu Chang Mr. & Mrs. Keith Shoemaker *** Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan C. Skipper Mr. & Mrs. Tad Smith Mr. & Mrs. Thomas L. Smith Mr. Thomas Sofyanos & Ms. Margun Tepstad Mr. & Mrs. Stephen A. Steglitz ** Mr. & Mrs. Eric Stein Mr. Michael S. Stein Mr. & Mrs. Phil Steinberg *** Mr. & Mrs. Brian E. Stern Mrs. Melinda Stewart Mr. Donald Strait & Ms. Deborah Fins Ms. Jean Strom The Stroup Family *** The Suitor Family Mr. & Mrs. John S. Swartley Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Swerdlick Mr. & Mrs. John T. Taverna Mr. Allen R. Thorpe & Ms. Meghan E. Mackay Mrs. Jennifer B. Toll Mr. & Mrs. Alton B. Tomlinson *** Mr. Norman Trepner & Ms. Susan Thomsen Mr. & Mrs. Mitchell L. Truwit Mr. & Mrs. Charles S. Tusa Ms. Louise A. Venezio Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Waldron Mr. & Mrs. Robert Wallstrom Mr. & Mrs. Roger Wanamaker Mr. & Mrs. Richard Wedemeyer Mr. Robert Weissman Ms. Stacey Williams Wilton Riding Club ***

Christine & Craig Woerz Jean, Richard, & William Wyland XL Global Services Inc. Mr. David Young & Ms. Elise Upton Young

Gifts In-Kind

Anonymous (2) Ms. Samantha Agosto Ancona’s Wines & Liquor Ann Taylor ANYTIME FITNESS - Wilton Mr. Peter F. Armstrong & Ms. Susanne Hall-Armstrong Aroma Beauty & Wellness Spa Assumption Church Avon Products, Inc. Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar Betteridge Jewelers Mr. & Mrs. Todd Bickmeyer Blackbird Yoga Ms. Catherine Bonnette Ms. Nancy-Jean Bono Brendan’s 101 Ms. Mindy Breva Mary Pat & Robert Brody Mr. & Mrs. Mark A. Brown Mr. & Mrs. William Budd Build On Cafe Manolo Campbell Soup Company Mr. & Mrs. Wenton Camporin Canine Training & Behavior Services, LLC The Carroll Family

Thank You for Your Support Individuals’ names reflect cumulative cash contributions of $100 or more and gifts in-kind between July 1, 2009 and June 30, 2010. We apologize if your name has been inadvertently omitted or misspelled in this report. Please contact the Development Office to make any corrections. * Contributor to the Robert M. Meek Memorial Fund ** Contributor to the Andrew C. Steglitz Memorial Fund for HomeCare Plus *** Contributor to the Andrew & Timothy Carey Memorial Fund

2009–2010 Annual Report

Carter’s Catapult Marketing Mr. Bob Cenci & Ms. Marjorie Peterson Children’s Aid Inc. of Darien The Children’s School Mr. & Mrs. Richard Chilton Chou Chou, LLC Church of the Assumption Cisco Systems, Inc. Coldwell Banker Coleytown Elementary School Confetti, LLC Connecticut Light & Power Co. Mr. & Mrs. Gary Cott Cross Roads Pizza 3 Ms. Christine D’Alessandro Darien YMCA Georgia & George Davala David Yurman Mr. John Deacy & Ms. Jennifer Gormley Deloitte Mr. & Mrs. Robert Depelteau Dermage Spa Mr. & Mrs. Steven Desloge Mr. & Mrs. Stephen DesRochers Diageo North America Dinner Party Chef, Jamie Sydney Ms. Annie Dino Mrs. Carol Donegan Ms. Kathy Drake Dunkin’ Donuts erika k Faces by Flavia FactSet Research Systems Inc. Faye Kim Designs Fido’s Food Bin Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Freimuth Mr. & Mrs. Peter C. Gambee Ms. Peggy Garbus The Gardener’s Center & Florist Gates Restaurant GE Commercial Finance General Re Corporation Georgetown Suites Girl Scout Troop #50310 Glen Gate Company Ms. Ana Goizueta & Mr. Peter Clark Good Morning Nails Grace Episcopal Church www.FamilyandChildrensAgency.org

Mr. & Mrs. Marc Granetz Mr. & Mrs. Philip D. Grant Green Moon Matthew & Margret Greene Mr. & Mrs. Simon Greenshields Mr. & Mrs. Alton D. Hall, III Mr. Justin Hall-Tipping & Ms. Patricia Morgan Hands on Pottery Mr. & Mrs. Skip Hansford Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Hanson Mr. & Mrs. John W. Hartigan Mr. & Mrs. Bill Hass Heidmar Inc. Dr. Jennifer Henkind Congressman Jim Himes Mr. & Mrs. Michael F. Hoben Mr. & Mrs. Mark E. Holmén Mr. & Mrs. David Holmes Mr. & Mrs. Neil Hopkins Hybrid Athletics Ina E. Driscoll School Jarden Corporation Jennifer Anderson Landscape Design JetBlue Airways Mr. & Mrs. Kevin C. Johnson Ms. Venisa Johnson Just Madras, LLC Mr. Thomas Juterbock k. madison Mr. & Mrs. David Kahal Knights of Columbus, St. Matthew Council #14360 Mr. & Mrs. Louis Kouvaris Mr. & Mrs. William Krivoshik La Paella Restaurant Mr. Giancarlo Laguzzo Lanphier Day Spa Mr. Joseph LaSala & Ms. Mary Evans Ms. Katya Lebrija Leifsdottir Ms. Heather Levy Lillian August LRC Photography Ms. Jennifer Lui lululemon athletica Mr. & Mrs. David Lummis Lyn Gaylord Designs M & M Cigar & Gifts

Mr. & Mrs. John F. Maloney Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk Mr. & Mrs. Kelvin Marsden-Kish Ginny & Bob Martin Matty-Matt & Blippity-Blat Mr. & Mrs. Edward J. McAree Ms. Melanie McGuire Ms. Kathy McKeon Mr. Peter McKnight Ms. Keenan McMahon Mr. & Mrs. Brian M. Meany Media Storm Mr. Richard A. Mika Mitchell’s of Westport Mr. & Mrs. Earl Mix Ms. Lucille Molloy Morgan Stanley Mr. & Mrs. Joseph W. Morledge Mr. & Mrs. Peter Moseley New Canaan Community YMCA New Canaan Outback Teen Center New Canaan Y-Guides & Y-Princesses Nicholas Roberts Fine Foods Mr. & Mrs. Al Nickel Nina McLemore Nina Pomeroy Photography LLC Norwalk Housing Authority Ms. Carolynn J. Olsen Ox Ridge Elementary School, Kids Care Club Pear Tree Point School Pepperidge Farm, Inc. Ms. China S. Perez-Brown Personal Image Salon Physiology Plainfield Asset Management Mr. Seymour Putterman Shwetha Raguraman The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Mr. & Mrs. George Ribellino Ms. Karen Rooney Rowayton Elementary School, Kids Care Rowayton Fire Department Rowayton Wine Shop Mr. & Mrs. John Ruane Mr. & Mrs. Bob Ryan

Sacred Heart University, Women’s Lacrosse Team Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Saldutti Saugatuck Elementary School Sea Beans Studio Mr. & Mrs. James Segelstein Service League of Boys (SLOBs) Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Shannon Shorehaven Golf Club Silver Hill Hospital Dr. Erik Slovin Smart Workout Speedy Doughnuts St. Matthew Church, Catechism Class Mr. & Mrs. Wililam Standwill Stepping Stones Museum for Children Sterling Investment Partners Steven Mancini Salon Strada 18 Ms. Sharon Sullivan & Mr. Jeffrey B. Kindler Super Duper Weenie Ms. Maria Swain Mr. & Mrs. John T. Taverna Teddy’s Transportation System, Inc. Ten Twenty Post Oyster Bar-Bistro Thomson Reuters Tools for School Tumble Bugs Day School U.S. Town Car, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Reid Vail Mr. & Mrs. Robert Wallstrom Mr. & Mrs. Thomas J. Walsh, III Kelly & Christopher Weldon Westport P.A.L. Rink at Longshore Mr. & Mrs. Celso White Ms. Marietta White Mr. & Mrs. Tom Wilcox Mr. & Mrs. Tim A. Williams Wilton Family YMCA Wilton Jewelers Wilton Pizza Wilton Sport Shop Wilton Wine Shoppe Witchy Poo Ms. Merrill Zaft Ms. Rebecca Zandstein

Ana and Peter Clark at IMAGINE 2010: The FCA Benefit.

“ We support Family & Children’s Agency for two reasons. The first is that their programs work. The Agency works at keeping families together, at improving maternal and child health and welfare, at keeping kids in school and learning, at finding homes for at-risk kids in the foster care system, at providing a place for the homeless to get vocational counseling, at making sure our seniors are safe and well cared for, and finally, at building new families through adoption. The second reason for our support is the Agency’s staff members are highly trained, dedicated, and committed individuals. With such a committed staff, Family & Children’s Agency will continue to promote the welfare of those less fortunate in Fairfield County for many years to come.” Ana Clark, Board Member, Family & Children’s Agency

Jeffrey Kindler and Sharon Sullivan, with friends, dressed in “Rat Pack chic” for IMAGINE 2010: The FCA Benefit.

vo lun te e rs

2010 Volunteer Awards Family Strengthening Volunteer Award

Family & Children’s Agency awarded long-term Board Member and Treasurer, Donna Walker, with the 2010 Anne C. Cary Volunteerism Award at its Annual Meeting on October 25 for her extraordinary commitment to Family & Children’s Agency. The Award is presented each year to an individual who has demonstrated the highest level of volunteerism on behalf of Family & Children’s Agency.

Curtis O. Law, the Executive Director of the Norwalk Housing Authority was honored as the 2010 Family Strengthening Award recipient. The Norwalk Housing Authority and Family & Children’s Agency have a strong history of working together on self-sufficiency initiatives. The Family Strengthening Award recognizes and celebrates individuals or organizations in the community whose outstanding contributions have dramatically impacted the Agency’s ability to strengthen and stabilize families.

The following list includes individuals, groups, and corporate volunteers who work directly with clients, as well as Board Members, Advisory Board Members, committee members, and Family & Children’s Agency auxiliary members.

Family & Children’s Agency Auxiliaries

Children’s Aid, Inc. of Darien Minks to Sinks, Wilton

Volunteers

Charlotte C. Ackerman Lianne Acosta-Rua Antiss Agnew Thomas Agosto Gabriela Alban Andy Alcosser Elana Anderson Kathryn M. Anderson Barrett Andrews Carol Andrews Leili Andrews 21

Anne C. Cary Volunteerism Award

Allison Antonini Charlotte Armstrong Deborah Aspinwall Assumption Church Anne Atkins Toby Baker Gale Baldwin Carol Ball Martha Banks Sally Banks Gina Barber Olivia Barbieri Joan Barksdale Michele Barnes Ann Barton Trisha Barton Susan McCarthy Bates Pamela Bayly Lauren Beardsley Lindy Beardsley Stephen Beck Patrick Beirne Donna K. Below Joan Bepler Joan Bergen Elina Berglund Pasqualina Berkowitz Gail Berritt

Jana Bertkau Laura & Todd Bickmeyer Courtney Bieger Patricia Bilotto Lee Bishop Kathy Blackman Adam Blank Nancy Block Maureen Bloom Wesley Blummer Carol Boehly Manon Bone Catherine Bonnette Yolanda Bonomo Marsha Borden Maya Boreen Andrea Borjas Cindy Bornhuetter Joanna Bornstein Carolyn Bosies Susan Bottini Maria Bouvier Barbara Boyd Joann Brant Tina Brault Julie Breene John Brett Mindy Breva

Michelle Brink Mary Pat & Robert Brody Connie Brown Jean Brown Pam Brown Tammy & Mark Brown Dee Browne Lois Bruce Carolyn Bruno Cheryl Bryant Janet Bucciero Nancy Budd Carol H. Bullard JoAnn Bullinger Marty Burford Peggy Burgess Amy Burke Beth Burns Tina Butler Lauren Byrne Joyce Cain Michelle Callaghan Sharon Callahan Meg Campbell Wenton Camporin Michele Caporizzo Diana Carlson Debbie Carnes

Gail Caruso Anne Cary Dana Cary Janel Cassara Catapult Marketing Vae L. Champagne & James J. Mecca Claire Champon Maura Chapey Emily Chen Winifred Chesley Chilton Family Christina Chironna Susan Chow Donna J. Christensen Anne Christian Nicole Cirilli Barbara Clancy Marilu Cleary Ann Close Connie Cobb Lauren Cody Stasha Cohen Coleytown Elementary School Maura M. Collins Beth A. Colonna Deborah Connelly Maura Connolly Kathleen Connor

2009–2010 Annual Report

Barbara Conrad Eileen Conte Anne C. Cooling Nancy Coppotelli Wendy Corper Jim Corridon Mary-Pat Cottrell Ginger Craft Carol Craig Carol Crikelair Laurie Crimmins Joyce Critelli Celestine H. Cronin Susan Bartush Cugliari Megan Cullinane Sarah Cutler Patricia Daigle Christine D’Alessandro Lillian Damast Jennifer Davatzes Susan Davidson Nicola Davies Matthew Dec Louise & Dennis Delaney Cindi Delfino Matthew J. Delfino Deloitte Anni L. DeMarco Katie E. Denious Esther Depelteau Jayne & Steve Desloge Victoria Detoledo & Stewart Casper Betty Anne Dever Kathryn DeVoll Diageo North America Michelle L. Doggett Laurie Doig Carol Donegan Samantha Dorfman & Jim Mize Suzanne Dorfman Ken Dougherty Marietta Douglas Kate Downes Sandy Drimal

www.FamilyandChildrensAgency.org

Vigee Droesch Kristin Duff Senator Robert B. Duff Marilyn Dugan Kelsey Durkin Claire Dwyre Genevieve P. Eason Sarah Edelstein Pam Ely Nancy Emro Martha Ercole Suzie Ettie Babs Eustance FactSet Research Systems Inc. Pam Fadner Paula Ferguson Carey Field Deanna Fine Leigh Finley Maureen Finnegan Valerie Fischel Bebe Fisher Jacquie Fitzgerald Hilary Fitzsimmons Robert Florian Susan Florido Leigh Ann Floyd Denise Fogarty Danielle Fontaine Roseanne Forslund Katy Foster Catherine A. Freimuth Michael Freyre Deborah S. Fuller Marie Gallagher Henn Peggy Garbus Dorothy Gardiner Susan Gardner Jenny Gaylord GE Commercial Finance Anne Geissinger General Re Corporation Marilyn Giannos Joan Gildea

Diane Gilliam Ann Gilmartin Girl Scout Troop #50310 Jennifer Gish Eric Glass Hanna Glidden Ana Goizueta Jennifer Goldwag Grace Episcopal Church Peter Grambs Kris Granetz Dianne & Will Green Brenda Greene Cherie Greene Margret & Matthew Greene Julene & Simon Greenshields Alison Greenspon Claire Greenspon Greenwich Academy, Lower School Community Service Group Rita Gresl Sarah Guth Max Gutman Joan L. Guzzetti Margaret Haase Claudia Halsey Anne Hamar Denise Hamson Jane Handler Forrest Hanson Paula Hanson Catherine Harding Denise C. Harned Margaret Harrington Conor Harris Nancy Harris Sandy Hart Elizabeth H. Haskell Elinor Hauff Nancy Hayes Sheldon Hearst Thomas Heckel Laura Heery

Heidmar Inc. Kathy Helms Dr. Jennifer Henkind Jean Heuer Noni Higgins Ryan Higgins Jean Hill Frances Hills Lisa Hipwell Judy Hitter Joan G. Hoben Pat Hoeg Anne D. Hoelzl Rose Ann Hoffman Lynn Holdt Jordan Holmén Stacy Holmén Danielle Holmes Jody Holmes Nancy Hooper Melinda Houck Barbara Hough Robin & Michael House Tessa Howard Lori Hubbard Betsy Hulsey Darren Humphreys Patty Hutchinson Susan R. Igoe Ina E. Driscoll School Dorothy B. Ingersoll Samuel Jackson Jennifer Jacoby Helen Jaeger Devyn Jefferies Marilyn Jimenez Stefanie Jimenez Kimberly R. Johnson Margaret Johnston Penny Jones Ellen Judelson Shawn Kahal Allie Kaliff Olivia Kamisher

Center, President & CEO, Rob Cashel, with FCA 2010 Golf & Tennis Classic golf tournament Co-Chairs Mark Lux, left, and Mark Brown.

“ For over fifty years the volunteers of Minks to Sinks have supported Family & Children’s Agency. We are proud to work with their dedicated staff who are committed to helping people in need in our surrounding communities.” Maya Boreen and Michelle Doggett, Minks to Sinks

President & CEO, Rob Cashel, with Children’s Aid Co-Chairs, Susan Cugliari, center left, and Rita Marber, far right, at the annual Children’s Aid Bridge Luncheon in Darien. Also pictured is Anni DeMarco, center right, a volunteer who facilitates the Community Connections Drop-In Center art program. Artwork from the program was exhibited at the luncheon.

FactSet volunteer, Kathleen Callahan, spends a playful moment during a “Healthy Heart” event sponsored by FactSet Research Systems for the Family Strengthening Program.

“ We have seen firsthand how well run Family & Children’s Agency is and how meaningful its programs are to its clients. We are confident that our donations of time and money are positively impacting our local community.” Kathleen Fischer Callahan, FactSet Research Systems Inc.

Joe and Gaye Yllanes were honored as Bank of America’s Local Heroes for their involvement with the Agency’s Foster Care Program. Center: William Tommins, Fairfield County market president for Bank of America. The Yllanes Family, back row, from left, JR, Wesley, Noelle, Gaye, Joe, Justin and Jocelyn. Front row, from left, Marcus, Mya, Mackenzie, Zoe, Dorothy Paige, and Sydney.

Jane Kandiew Jake Kane Anne Kelly Theo Kelly Luisa Kelso Lorraine Kennedy Elisa Keogh Carol Kesler Gretchen Kilmarten Dee King Pam Kivi Anne Klotz Susan Knapp Knights of Columbus, St. Matthew Council #14360 Marshall Knutson Linda Koch Nancy Kohman Nicole E. Kouvaris Ulla Kremer Rose & Bill Krivoshik Deputy Chief Thomas E. Kulhawik Debra Kunces Melissa Kyle Toni Landry Blair Lang Ronda Lanzi Anne Larkin Caroline Larsen Kate Larson Molly Larson Connor Latella Ryan Latella Betsey Lebow Katya Lebrija Jane Legaz Rose Levenson David Levinson Heather Levy Carolynn Lewis Rachel Lieberman Lisa Lillie Gerry Lillis Gail Lilly

Traci Lilly Sandi Lincoln Phyllis Lindland Joan Lister Mary Lou Logan Susan Long Lord Family Karen Lourd Anna Maria Lowman Mark D. Lux Janice Lynch Mary Lyons Bonnie Macleod Cecilia Q. Maher Mary Beth Mahon Make A Difference Day, Westport Nick Maki Martha Makin Rosemarie Malcarney Jane Manners Wardy Mannix Leti Manuel Rita M. Marber Christopher Marino Nancy Marino Bonnie Markowski Cora Martin Ginny Martin Nea Martin Michelle Maschoff Kassandra Masilamani Gail Mathews Susan Mathews Sue Mattison Karen Mauer Lauren Mazzoli Amanda McAree Marianne McCarthy Judi McCarty Janet D. McClutchy Paul McErlain Larry McGonigle Melanie McGuire Pat McLean

Sue McLean Patricia McQuillen Parker McReynolds Victoria Meany Media Storm Nicole Meek Margaret Meno Michelle Messina Mary Lou Meyer Jill Mikes Elinor B. Miller Karen Miller Michelle Miller Iris B. Mix Jennifer Moise Lois B. Moore Mary Moore Stephanie H. Moore Morgan Stanley Ann Morris Lisa Moseley Sandy Mumbach Tatiana Munoz Kathleen & Peter Murphy William O. Murphy Carolynn Murtha Wendy Nadel Patricia Nave Lisa Neuscheler New Canaan Country School New Canaan Outback Teen Center New Canaan Y-Guides & Y-Princesses Ann Newton Nancy Newton Stacie Nicholls Dana Nickel Gail Nielsen Becky Norman Norwalk Hospital, Critical Care Unit Mirna Noujaim Katie Nugent Cynthia Oakford James J. O’Brien Daniel F. O’Connor

Linda O’Hara Linda O’Herron McGregor Onderdonk Gladys O’Neill Gail Ord Donna O’Reilly Alice Mae Orr Susan Orr Kendra Osborn Delphine Overby Ox Ridge Elementary School, Kids Care Club Dawn Padovan Kristi B. Panarese Pear Tree Point School Fenella Pearson Mary Ann Peglar Mary Peniston June C. Penn Ann C. Penrose Peggy Peoples Pepperidge Farm, Inc. Anne Perlin Representative Christopher Perone Nancy Peters Andress Pettibone Betsy Pettit Flo Piantidosi Betsy Pierpont Vidi Piersall Charles Pieterse Sarah M. Pinkham Carol Pinto Plainfield Asset Management Emily Platt Joyce Ploder Nancy Pool Nancy W. Powell Mary Pratt Brenda R. Prichard Elizabeth Principe Dylan Priolet Elizabeth Purvis Rosemary E. Quinn

2009–2010 Annual Report

Kathryn Quirk Terry Ragazzini Lisa Raggio Shwetha Raguraman Jill Raifaisen Gail Rand James A. Randel Brandon Ray Allegra Raynor Mary Anne Reed Marianne Reifenheiser Laurie Reighley Bridget Reilly Elizabeth Reiss Jane Renaud Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Heather & George Ribellino Sheri Richards Sigrid & Michael Richards Catherine Richardson Judy Rin Putsie Ritchey Sarah Ritchey Judy Robinson Sharon Rodda Katharine Rohn Donna Rohs Mary B. Roman Anne Rondepierre Georgie Rooney Ester Rosenman Peggy Roth Rowayton Elementary School, Kids Care Angela Rowley Rebecca Ruff Robin Ruffio Ellie Runge Allison Russo Ali Rutishauser Diane Ryan Alexander Sabato

Sacred Heart University, Women’s Lacrosse Team Lyn Sainz Petra Saldutti Mary C. Sankey Joan Satterley Saugatuck Elementary School Beverly Saunders JoAnn Savoia Karen Scappaticci Hillary Schmidt Benjamin Schneider Lynn Schneider Parker Schram Sciarretta Family Suzanne Sclafani Dori Seamans Maurice K. Segall Katherine Segelstein Marcia Segelstein Jennifer Selensky Service League of Boys (SLOBs) Janine Sevigny Catherine Shannon Susan Shannon Priscilla Shepherd Paula Sherk Reissa Shield Carole A. Sindel Vinti Singh Helen D. Skipper Dr. Erik Slovin Amy Smith Barbara R. Smith Hester Smith Joanne Smith Karen Smith Tania Smith Joan Sorgi Barbara Spadone Dorothy Sparling St. Luke’s School Thomas Standring Sandra Stanfield

Pamela Stark-Guyer Judith Stavola Mary Anne Stelben Judy Stevenson Wanda Stockfisch Christie Stone Sarah Stout Marjorie Stuart Birgit Stueber Victoria R. Sudano Katie Sullivan Peg Sullivan Sharon Sullivan Emma Sutherland Linda Swayze Karen Tapella Charlotte K. Taverna Laura Tempini Sally Tepas Linda Terhune Betsy Thomas Joanne Thomas Thomson Reuters Toni Tiller Erica Titlebaum Patty Tomasetti Tools for School Nancy Toothaker Mary Tucciarone Arlene E. Tulacro Tumble Bugs Day School United Methodist Church of Darien Jonie Vail Laurie Valandra Leslie van de Velde Quynhchi van Lang Martha van Nierop Kathi van Voorhees Katrina Vanderlip de Carbonnel Medina Vasily Jessel Vitonera Rosemary Vogt Bradley Vonick Mary C. Voss

Mary Wagner David Walbert Donna Walker Laura C. Wallstrom Denise & Tom Walsh Sandy Ward Estelle Watson Trish Weber William O. Webster Kelly Weldon Patricia A. Wernig Daryl Westbrook Weston Women’s League Ann Marie Wheeler Maria White Gail Whiteside Jackson Wilbur Maria Wilcox Alexander Wildish Ann Williams Kara P. Williams Katy Williams Sheryl & Tim Williams Gwenna Williamson Wilton Montessori School Ann Marie Winsch Stephanie Winsch Carolyn Wissinger Kara Wojick Sara Lou Wolter Barbara Wong Angela Wood Chrissy Wood Jane Wood Robin Wood Betsy & William Wrenn Cecile Wyka Xerox Corporation Elizabeth & Joseph Yllanes Elfriede Yoder Allie Young Joseph Zakowski Mary J. Zieman

“ What drew General Re to Family & Children’s Agency, and continues to make us proud of our partnership, is the commitment to excellence that the Agency shows at all levels. Through their many programs, outreach efforts, volunteer events, and responsible fiscal management, they lead the way to improving the lives of children, families, and all those in the community striving for self sufficiency.” Richard W. Manz, General Reinsurance Corporation

Students in the After School Program pose with Heidmar volunteers at an end-of-year picnic sponsored by Heidmar Inc. at Norwalk’s Cranbury Park.

“ This is my second year as an After School Program volunteer. I know this program is making a difference in the community because I see it every week. It’s a pleasure to work with kids, week in and week out, and see them improve academically and socially. This is a program that should be a model for school systems all over the country.” Thomas B. Heckel, After School Program volunteer

www.FamilyandChildrensAgency.org

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 O p e r at i n g

O p e r at i n g R e v e n u e s *

Revenues

5% 2% 7%

Program Services

6% 36%

F INANC IAL REPORT

Government Grants

$3,780,584

Government Grants

$4,578,033

Private Grants

$599,997

Private Grants

Contributions

$699,624

Contributions

Special Events

$468,122

Other Income, including United Way

$297,136

Special Events

Other Income, including United Way

44%

Total

$10,423,496

*Results are unaudited as of publication date. Complete financial statements audited by Blum Shapiro & Company, P.C. are available upon request.

2 0 0 9 – 2 0 1 0 O p e r at i n g

EXPENSES

3% 9%

Management and General

33%

Did You Know?

Development and Marketing 25%

Behavioral Health HomeCare Plus Adoption Family Strengthening and Foster Care

Program Services

88 cents of every dollar donated to Family & Children’s Agency goes directly to its programs.

9% 21%

2009–2010 Annual Report

Fa m i ly & C h i l d r e n ’ s Ag e n cy Sta f f

Idania Abreu-Velazquez Jiomarys Alers Kathleen Alicata Karina Alonso-Ferrari Joy Alston Marie Alvarado Robert Amofa Lourene Antley Sharlene Babbidge Samuel Baffour Joshua Baker Jennifer Barahona Constance Barber Allison Barker Genie Barlan Nicole Beckham Jamal Benbow Polly Benn Alexandra Besson Antonia Better-Wirz Kuiana Blackwell Maritza Bonilla Stefanie Borglum Fernando Borjas Sheila Bowles Evelyn Boyd Michael E. Boyd, Jr. Anne C. Briggs Angela Christian Brooks Thaddea Brown Florence Burke Fred J. Burrows Tamara Cannon Vickie Carozza Elisabeth Carpenter Rosemary Carroll Robert Cashel Janina Castiglia Joann Catino Denise Renee Charles

Mary Jane Chironna Darlene Cirilli Lee I. Clark Lucie Connell Claribel Cordero Jane Coughlin Deborah Courtney Irene Cronkright Yubany Cruz Bismark Dadzie Monica D’Auria Tracy David Betty Davis Shirley Davis Jacqueline Desravines Marjory Dorival Suzanne Doyle Alyssa Dudzik Sharon Dulo Kevette Dunkley James Dupree, Sr. Randi Ederle Melissa Elam Audrey Elliott Barbara J. Evans Kimberly Evans Lois Fahey Melissa Farina Amy Feder Monique Felder Beverly Florian Shanique Fludd Anne F. Foster Yvonne Foster Erna Foster-Brewington Samuel Gachelin Timothy Gagne Erinese Geffrard Pamela Ginyard Christine Girardin-Fuller

Strengthening Connecticut’s Families

Jan C. Glorie Celestine Golden Ximena Gordon Dorothy Grajales Kate Gredinger Matthew Guida Lisa Habasinski Linda Hall Mary Hamilton Megan Haque Mary Ellen Hass Vanessa Hernandez Patricia Hinds Kim Hinton Mayx Holmes Nancy Horowitz Lynn Hudler Donna M. Huot-Benz Masako Iwai Christopher Jachino Dina Jackson Magalie Jean Yanick Jean Jasmine Jean-Baptiste Amy Jeffereis Sirlei Jessup Soria Jimenez Rosa Lee Johnson Venisa Johnson Darnelly Joseph Marie-Carmel Joseph Gaye Kinlock Kossiwa Klutse-Julius Kristine Kumpf Ingrid L. Kurensky Anastasia Kydes Karen Layer Richard Legg Keith Lepp, M.D. Marilyn Lewis

William Lilling Sallie Lloyd Danielle Lomba Meghan Lonergan Barbara Lysobey Raymonde Maccean Lisa Mandelman Patricia Marsden-Kish Ligia Masilamani Sharon Massey Tiffany McCarthy James McClester Priscilla McClester Chelsea McGee Marissa McPherson Korrie-Anne McRae Michelle McRae Walles Medina Noemi Mejia Fayon Miller Lea Mintz Erika Montoya Maria Montoya Gloria Morales Jennifer Moriarty Theodora Morris Destiny Mosher Elizabeth Murdoch Alecia Nesbett Marie B. Njie Kwame Nkrumah Nevaughn Norris Onedu Nwajagu Sera Lee O’Brien Carolynn Olsen Madeline Ortiz-Slonski Dawn Overholser Mercy Owusu Rejoyce Owuso Sharon Patterson

Daisy Pavon Jennifer Payton China Shante Perez-Brown Tavares Perkins Janeen Perry Marjorie Peterson Ann Marie Pierce Larry Piselli Margaret Clare Pyne Truly Rafalko Pamela Ramdhanie Yvonne Ranieri Cynthia Reckord Lorraine Reid Maura McCarthy Rhodes Le’shae Rice Alan Rich Sonya Rich Sheri Richards Joann Richardson Jason Riendeau Lisa Roberts Abigail Rodriquez Andres Roman Susan T. Rosco Eudora Rose Rocky Rossetti, III Ernesia Rowe Carl Russell Fannie Russell Gloria Samuel Anne Schneider Mary Kate Schneider Evelyn Sekyere Charlise Sellars Akuah Serwah Anthony Shulick Yolanda Sierra Dolly Singleton Roberta L. Smith

Dhani Chinalai Spinola Karen J. Stein Patricia Storch Shane N. Strachan-Absolu Nicholas Tachie Deborah A Tadduni Caroline Tanski Tonia Y. Taylor Marie Telo Elsa Tirado James Tomaselli, Jr. Carolle Toussaint Judith Toussaint Shari G. Troost Mercia Ulysse Ana Urrego Shahin Vahora Vincent Van Oss Stephanie Vanhatten Johanna Vasquez Maria Vergara Gladys Waithira Linette Walker Maren L. Walsh Analethia Williams Eugene Williams Jerrold Williams Stacey Williams Lewis Wilson Ama Wirekoah Kathleen Wynn Jennifer Yang-Kwait Daisy Yeboah Daniella Zlatareva, M.D. Yunfang Zhang

Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID Permit No. 172 Norwalk, CT

9 Mott Avenue | Norwalk, CT 06850

Main Office 9 Mott Avenue Norwalk, CT 06850 Tel: (203) 855-8765 Fax: (203) 838-3325

Other Locations 151 New Park Avenue Hartford, CT 06106 Tel: (860) 586-2365 Fax: (860) 586-2263

149 Water Street Norwalk, CT 06854 137 East Avenue Norwalk, CT 06851

Ben Franklin Community Center 165 Flax Hill Road Norwalk, CT 06854 www.FamilyandChildrensAgency.org