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Summer Issue August, 2010

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Board of Directors - Officers ‘10-11

Jana Draper, President

Julianne Reppenhagen, V.P.

Lisa Cerbone-Montalto,

V.P. Fund Development

Steve Polizzi , Treasurer

Sue Blasavage, Secretary

Bernadette Kallas, Member-at-Large

Board of Directors

Dimples Armstrong

Eileen Curran

Ellen Dubois

Laura Goldstein

Sharmese Hodge

Joy-Ann Nosworthy

Joe Pepin

Barbara Phillips

Glynis Powanda

Sandra Simoes

Corinne Silvert

Mark Stirling

Advisory Board

Louis Alhage

Jim Bixby

Donna Coelho

Eva DeFranco

John Delpino

Paula Elfont

Karen Goldberg

Alice Hyman

Patricia B. Larson

Eliette Matos

Louis McAdams

Peg Molina

Scott Mitchell

Belle Tolor

DRCAC Staff

Rebecca Wade-Rancourt,

Executive Director

Lisamay Cleary-Cast

Claudia Gonzalez

Sandra Gold

Beth Laster

Cindee Latimer

Clementina Lunar

Kimberly Meken

Donna Meyer

Elsa Rebello

Ligia Nara V. dos Reis

Michelle Ross

Anne-Marie Satkowsky

Maria Vargas

Danielle Williams

In Memoriam

Dr. Keren Alexander

Charline Daniels

Patricia Foster

Things change, as demonstrated by the past few months, but one

thing remains the same: The commitment of this agency to protect

the children of our community from abuse through educating and

empowering families.

With great sadness, in June, we bade farewell to Susan Thomas, our

Executive Director for the past 14 years. We will miss her wonderful smile but are happy to

see her starting this new chapter of her life as a retiree. It is difficult to express all that Sue did

for our agency and for our community. Her wisdom, passion for children and caring will be

long remembered. I would especially like to note the enormous support Sue gave us through

our search for a new Executive Director. Special thanks go to Barbara Phillips for leading the

search process.

We are very pleased to welcome Rebecca Wade-Rancourt as our new Executive Director. Re-

becca comes to us from Community Mental Health Affiliates and brings with her an incredible

amount of experience working with staff, expertise in mental health and most of all enthusiasm.

Since Rebecca is also a mom, she brings a passion for children and an understanding of parent-

ing. We are looking forward to great things under her leadership.

The past six months have brought changes in our Board of Directors. Iris Batson, Scott Cham-

berlain and Don Doering have left us. I would like to thank them for giving their time and en-

ergy to our agency. They will be missed, especially Iris who did so much for our Auction Din-

ner Dance for many years. Welcome to our new Board member Eileen Curran from Sealed Air

Corporation. She brings to us great marketing skills.

This spring our Auction Dinner Dance was a financial success. Thank you to everyone who

donated items for the auction and to everyone who attended. You are key to the success of this

event. My thanks also go out to Mark Stirling, Vice President of Fund Development, Sue Bla-

savage, Sharmese Hodge and the entire Fund Development Committee for their creativity and

of their work to make the auction a success. For those of you who contributed generously to

the Annual Appeal, our sincerest appreciation.

This year we are facing huge financial challenges. The United Way and the City of Danbury

among others are unable to fund us at the levels they had previously and we are left with a sig-

nificant gap in our budget. Our goal is to find additional funding to insure none of our agency

programs need be cut. The Board is embracing this challenge with enthusiasm, looking at all

possible ways to raise the money to close this gap. I am extremely impressed with our Board‟s

response. GO TEAM!!

Lastly, but very important, I would like to thank our staff for their hard work and their patience

with the transition from Sue to Rebecca. As always, you have given 110% and more to make

this agency a success in caring for the children of our community.

Jana Draper

ONE THING REMAINS THE SAME...

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“Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches letting us stretch and reach new heights.”

– Pauline R. Kezer

As the DRCAC says goodbye to Sue Thomas and embraces change, we look to the future with high

hopes of growth and continued success. During the transition to a new Executive Director, the staff has

continued to provide outstanding services to those in their charge. Their focus is the well-being of the

children and families, all the while educating others on the importance of their work. Over 85% of our

families are below the Federal Poverty Level, and we see more and more families facing eviction, loss of employment and

struggling to meet day to day needs. It is a reminder for us all to work that much harder.

Our Family Enrichment Service (FES), formerly Parent Aide Program, continues to flourish. This past year, we provided ser-

vices to 517 clients in 140 families. Our dedicated staff continues to connect families to camp resources, food, shelter, trans-

portation- all the while supporting parents to become more effective. We applaud the FES staff for their commitment to the

families in their charge. We continue to grow in this program as well, as we add new tools to measure our success.

As a newcomer to the DRCAC, I have tremendous respect for the work the Teams do to collaborate on behalf of families in

our community. The Multi-Disciplinary Team (MIT), Forensic Interviews and the After-Care Clinic (ACC) are invaluable

resources that provide free services for children who have suffered abuse, and on behalf of these children we are thankful to

have funding continued for these programs. 61 children were interviewed and 30 families were served by the ACC. The

Child Protection Teams continue to serve as a valuable tool to 59 clients, providing a collaborative approach to care while

minimizing duplication of services.

Volunteer Mentor Program (VMP) maintained the support of 10 volunteers who provided over 250 hours of service. Being a

mentor is a tremendously rewarding experience for both the mentor and mentee, and these connections provide the opportunity

to find safety in relationships.

Communications of Parent Effectiveness Skills (COPES) and ParentNet have done much to educate and empower over 80

families served this year; these parents have had such a positive experience that they stay in touch to let us know how our pro-

grams have had a long lasting impact on their roles as parents. The GAPS group continues to provide specialized support for

21 grandparents this year, who found themselves in the unexpected role of raising their grandchildren.

This fiscal year will be a great challenge for the Danbury Regional Child Advocacy Center, as the economy continues to bear

weight on budgets everywhere. We are so grateful for a Board who has dedicated themselves to overcoming this challenge;

their energy is palpable and they are working diligently meeting their objectives. It has been a pleasure getting to know their

individual strengths and watching them work as a team. A special thank you to Berni Kallas for her leadership as Board Presi-

dent for the past 2 years, and welcome to incoming President, Jana Draper, whose long time commitment to the agency will

serve us well.

We are thankful for the City of Danbury, the Towns of New Fairfield, New Milford, Newtown, Redding, Ridgefield, and

Sherman as well as our relationships with The Exchange Club of Danbury and The Greater Candlewood Exchange Club, The

Moose Lodge 1373, The National Children‟s Alliance (NCA), the Leir House, Tow, Perrin, Keren Family, and Fairfield

County Community Foundations; also for ATMI, GE, The Taunton Press, Bedoukian, Savings Bank of Danbury, Union Sav-

ings Bank and St. Stephen‟s and St. James‟ Churches. The United Way and the Department of Children and Families continue to provide valued fiscal support, and we are grateful for these ongoing relationships. Such collaboration and support from the

community mirrors the important work we teach our families about reaching out to others to meet successful outcomes.

The enthusiasm of the staff, Board and community is inspirational, and I look forward to a rewarding year.

Rebecca Wade-Rancourt

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

CONTINUITY GIVES US ROOTS...

An excerpt from Sue‟s speech at June Luncheon: “Over my 14 years with this agency; part of the life

cycle of the agency mirrored that of any family; we mourned the loss of Board members, staff, and their

loved ones, rejoiced in the birth of children to Board and staff, and celebrated weddings, civil unions,

and sometimes, separations. The families we serve lived these milestones as well. It seems fitting to re-

member that we don‟t retire from these life events, simple from a context in which we have lived them.

These lives and that of the DRCAC will continue with vitality, compassion, and dedication to making a

difference in the world we all inhabit.

Susan V. Thomas

WORDS FROM THE HEART

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This One Is About You

Agent of change – that’s what you are

among your peers, a shining star.

You want no fame, acclaim or praise –

your soul reward, the work of days.

Good people for good people do good things,

and that’s the wind beneath your wings.

Mothers and fathers more kind and sure

building families that will endure;

Children finding the love they need

because you helped to grow the seed.

If it takes a village to raise a child,

on this village, the heavens smiled.

Through you even I can learn to see

how much of life is not about me.

But now it’s time to say what’s true:

this one, Sue Thomas, is about you.

Frank Thomas June 30, 2010

LASTING SENTIMENTS...

ON BEHALF OF ALL OF US AT THE DRCAC

Best Wishes to our dear Executive Director of 14 years! As an advocate for her staff and the families they serve, Susan

Thomas demonstrated the qualities of the consummate human service professional. She led teams and trained leaders,

raised money and raised hopes, shared her passion for people and community and shared a bit of herself with us all.

Some words shared by the staff to describe their leader: trusting, wise, approachable, kind, resourceful, generous, com-

mitted, passionate, strong, determined, intuitive, supporting growth and demonstrating humility. Although not enough

to capture Sue in her entirety, they tell the story of one on whom the staff could rely.

How do you sum up Sue‟s career as the Executive Director of DRCAC? Certainly there is not enough space to com-

ment on her every accomplishment. She grew and added programs to serve the families in the Greater Danbury area,

provided an enriching experience for others to feel confident in their ability to promote positive parenting and helped

the community identify and overcome barriers to success. The poem her husband Frank wrote for her and shared with

all of us at her June 30 retirement party reflects the feelings of her staff, the Board and the community.

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The Department of Children and Families (DCF) referred twenty-five year old Tina to the Family Enrichment Service

after her release from prison for drug charges. She was living with her own grandmother and had just given birth to

baby Brenda. Her boys, 7 year old Chuck and 3 year old Andrew would be returning to her custody from their grand-

mother and aunt‟s home, when Tina located a larger apartment. She was overwhelmed with

the care of the new baby, but was eager to be reunited with her boys.

Tina and her Family Enrichment Specialist, Michelle, prioritized her tasks. First, Tina con-

nected with MCCA to begin a drug relapse prevention program. She attended the groups

weekly, and maintained contact with her counselor. She complied with the Department of

Social Services and received cash assistance, food stamps and medical care. Over three

months she became reacquainted with her boys, and helped Chuck with his homework. She

took them to doctor and dentist appointments, and attended parent-teacher conferences.

Tina had grown up in a family of „yellers.‟ They argued, shouted, belittled and threatened

each other. This pattern did not change when she came home from prison. When Tina at-

tempted to establish her role as the children‟s mother, her grandmother, mother and sister

each had a different opinion on the matter, and they voiced it vociferously. She had to re-

move herself from several arguments, and had to back away from her family. She wanted to

move out on her own, but had decisions to make. She considered getting her own small

apartment with the baby now, while she waited for DCF to help her get a housing voucher

for a larger apartment, rather than stay at her grandmother‟s place.

While adjusting to her family and maintaining a sober life, Tina suffered a relapse, and was arrested for a DUI. She had

put a lot at risk. Fortunately, she accepted responsibility for her actions, and was accepted back into the drug relapse

prevention program, increasing her attendance. DCF continued to support her plan, and Michelle helped her cope with

the difficult decisions. Tina got a small apartment for herself and the baby in a different town from her family‟s resi-

dence. Putting distance between them, she focused on herself and her treatment, her routine with the baby, her regular

visits with her boys, and her future plans.

After five more sober months, she obtained her housing voucher and moved into a larger apartment. DCF reunited her

with her boys, and they set about the transition. Chuck started a new school, Andrew started Headstart, and Tina contin-

ued with her program. Michelle and Tina reviewed the age-appropriate expectations and developmental issues of the

three children. Tina made time for each of the children, utilizing the different bedtimes appropriate to their ages. Tina

attended the weekly COPES moms group with baby Brenda.

It was not an easy year-long transition for Tina. She became frustrated and lost hope at times. But she learned to utilize

the supports available: her drug program counselor and friends she made there, her COPES moms, and her Family En-

richment Specialist, Michelle. She did not completely cut herself off from her family, but she learned what she could

expect from them, and did not press them for more. She knew when she needed to leave, and did not wait for things to

escalate. As she matured during this challenging transition, Michelle supported and encouraged her.

Family Enrichment Service (FES)/Parent Aide Program

Sandra Gold, Director

Family Enrichment Specialists/Parent Aides provide weekly one-to-one home based intensive education

and support for families at risk of child abuse and neglect.

A NEW BEGINNING WITH A BRIGHT FUTURE

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COPES provides education and support through weekly parent/infant/toddler groups offered in English and

in Spanish.

This letter was received January 20, 2010 from a mom who attended COPES for three years. She lives in Bethel

with her husband and son. Initially she participated in the Spanish group, however after her English improved

she transferred to the English speaking group. She has gone back to college since leaving COPES.

To whom it may concern,

My name is Luisa. I came from Peru, and I have a 5 years old son, his name is Rodrigo. A few years ago

while at the WIC office I found a Parent to Parent magazine it had information about parenting classes; af-

ter that I called Maria Vargas and she very kindly gave me information about the different parenting classes

and the COPES program seemed to be the program for me.

Shortly, before Rodrigo turned 2 years old, we began the COPES

program; although in the beginning it was difficult for my son and I

to be separated for a short time. Then when I saw my son very

comfortable in the group I felt very relieved. I know this is the rea-

son why when Rodrigo started preschool he felt very happy. The

COPES program helped my son develop his social skills by learn-

ing songs and playing games with other children in our native lan-

guage (Spanish). For me the most important lesson he learned

from the group was that “mommy always will come back for him”.

I have attended COPES program for more than three years. First I attended the

Spanish group. However, the last half year I switched to the English group. I

learned a lot from Maria Vargas‟ teaching and the others moms experiences.

This program was an excellent opportunity to help me develop patience as a

mom. I now understand many behaviors that are normal in children and that it is

not that he is spoiled or manipulating as I previously thought.

COPES, also taught me to distinguish between discipline and punishment. It

helped me to learn that it is okay to set limits and rules. I finally understood that

like other members of my family I too am important and learned how to transmit

this to my loved ones. I learned it was fine to do things for me. I started to take

English classes and completed my GED. Thank you COPES for this great op-

portunity and valuable years and I hope the program continue to help others

moms in Danbury Community.

Sincerely,

Luisa

Communication of parent effectiveness skills program (copes)

Maria Vargas, Director

POSITIVE TRANSITIONS!

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TEAMS PROGRAM

child protection teams (CPT) Donna Meyer, Director

Here is the story of Janet who is raising her young granddaughter.

When Janet first came to the group she was unaware of the various resources that were available to her family. She was

facing financial hardship, and, like many, was worried about how she would make ends meet. Her

granddaughter was struggling in school both behaviorally and academically, as well as recently be-

ing diagnosed with an attention deficit disorder (ADD). Janet was feeling overwhelmed, over-

worked and isolated. Her DCF worker had suggested she attend the group to connect with other

grandparents who face similar challenges.

Janet was hesitant at first. After attending a couple of group sessions, she expressed that she felt

supported and had a sense of belonging. After presentations from various speakers, Janet became

aware of community resources available to help her. Her engagement with these agencies made her

financial burdens more manageable and left her more time to spend with her granddaughter. Conse-

quently, her granddaughter became more stable and was able to improve her grades and behaviors

both at home and at school.

SUCCESS THROUGH TEAMWORK

FINALLY A SENSE OF BELONGING…

Grandparents as Parents Support Groups

(GAPS) Danielle Williams, Director

Grandparents as Parents Support (GAPS) meet weekly during the school year to assist grandparents who are rais-

ing their grandchildren. The group helps these grandparents to learn effective parenting skills, to give and receive

support and to access other community resources that are available for assistance. The group is led by trained

volunteers who have made a monumental difference in the lives of these families.

Child Protection Teams (CPTs) convene on behalf of families at risk to coordinate services provided by professionals

in the community and to ensure a unified effort and treatment approach without duplicating services.

The “Johnson” family was referred for a Child Protection Team (CPT) by the school where one of the children Mary at-

tends. The social worker at the school was concerned about Mary‟s excessive absences and incomplete homework as-

signments. Several community providers who were involved with the family were invited to participate. The team met

to share information, coordinate services and develop a plan of action. The family actively participated in creating a plan

that addressed their needs. Additionally, the team identified other services within the community to assist the family.

Two months later Mary‟s attendance had improved greatly and mom reported feeling empowered by her participation in

the team and the services put into place.

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As we continue to provide critical services to our growing population of care recipients, we hope

that the reasons for our agency's existence could be eradicated. The sad fact is that this is not the

case and our services continue to be in greater demand than ever.

With this in mind, the need to raise funds and secure publicity for our agency (which hopefully

yields the former) has a new sense of urgency.

We are grateful for the News-Times' support, extensive coverage, and plethora of articles this

year. For those of you who may have missed any, please reference: Brian Koonz' superb articles

"Providing a Sanctuary From the Shadows" (2/28/10) which educated people about the significant

work of our agency and in the process, garnered greater auction attendance, and the heartfelt cov-

erage of Susan Thomas' retirement, "A Lifetime of Service to Children" (6/16/10) which moved

us. John Pirro's "The Predator You Know" (6/13/10) and Dirk Perrefort's "Investigations Team

Aims to Ease Trauma" (6/13/10) were pivotal...and we even made The Society Page (7/18/10).

This year's Auction/Dinner Dance at the Amber Room (3/27/09) was

viewed by all as a huge success. We received numerous accolades for

our important work by auction goers and on the lighter side: "My fa-

vorite (social) event of the year"..."The auction items have never been better"..."I'm spreading

the word"...

We found ourselves in the enviable position of having to shift a number of live auction items

to the silent auction tables so as not to bore the audience (more time for dancing and eating;

yes, we listen to your comments!)

WOW! Two weekend getaways to New York City including theater tickets...a Vermont spa/

resort getaway...two sets of tickets to the much sought after Tanglewood James Taylor/Carole

King concert with overnight accommodations at the Great Barrington Holiday Inn Express

(for which we are most grateful; ever try to get an overnight stay anywhere near Tanglewood

on James Taylor weekend?)...then came three bidders battling it out for the African Safari trip (people held their

breath)...

In the midst of all the bidding, our surprise guest, Attorney General Richard Blumenthal, joined the excitement and auc-

tioned his Office of the Attorney General jacket to the wowed crowd. Mr. Blumenthal is a

dedicated advocate for children, upholding the sex offender registry in the U.S. Supreme

Court and working tirelessly for victims of abuse.

The superb quality of over 100 silent auction items kept some people, like myself, bidding

more than dancing!

Hope to see you all at next year's Auction/Dinner Dance... bring your friends, support a

great cause and mark your calendars for March 19, 2011!

SILENT AUCTION/DINNER DANCE Ellen Dubois, Public Relations

HELP US TO HELP OTHERS

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ANNUAL AWARDS LUNCHEON

The Dr. Keren Alexander Community Service Award: presented to an individual who has made significant contributions to the chil-

dren and families of our community. This committed recipient makes a difference and her gifts enrich our community.

Alecia Andrews is a resident of Waterbury who has worked for the United Way of Western Connecticut for the past 14 years.

Her job as Director of Community Building speaks volumes about who Alecia is and how she has affected the lives of people in our

area. Alecia is a member of the Healthy Kids Coalition, playing a major role in promoting Healthy Kids 2008 Week. Alecia sits on

the School Readiness Council in Danbury, and is a member of the Board of the Hord Foundation. She participates in the Morning

Glory Breakfast Program at the homeless shelter and is a facilitator in Waterbury's Parent Leadership Program.

Alecia is a dedicated professional who, over the years, has supported the staff of our local nonprofits to strive for excellence in pro-

viding the best services possible for our community. Her involvement with the Hord Foundation has raised significant dollars to

provide assistance to hundreds of minority students in our community. Her participation in the Parent Leadership Program comes

from her compassion for children and her commitment to help them become successful.

Alecia is a quiet hero who serves the communities where she works and lives without seeking recognition and always responds to

requests for help when asked. Through her professional and volunteer service Alecia has compassionately improved the lives of

hundreds of children and families in our community

Joan Weisman started The Reading Partners program in 2000 with a handful of volunteers after learning of the program from the

National Jewish Coalition for Literacy. Her first attempt received the response of “Not Interested!” but she persevered and put to-

gether a proposal for the Language Arts Specialists in Danbury‟s elementary schools. They jumped at the opportunity. Ten years

later, there are more than 100 volunteers and 400 Danbury school children reading together, weekly, throughout the

school year.

The goal of The Reading Partners is to improve the lives of school children by helping them gain better reading

skills. Volunteers read with children one-to-one and the children benefit from the individualized attention they re-

ceive from their partner. Not only do their reading skills improve, but also their confidence and self esteem as they

have a special time to share books, stories and life experiences with their reading partners. The value of this pro-

gram cannot be underestimated. You would only have to see the enthusiasm of the children who eagerly wait for

their partner each week.

Joan is dedicated to social service and the values of helping others in the community. She is active in the League of Women Vot-

ers, Meals on Wheels, AmeriCares, Home Front and Heifer International.

The Linda Newby Professional Services Award: presented to a dedicated direct service provider who has made significant contribu-

tions to children and families in our community.

Sandy Weinberg: A certified RN Visiting Nurse in Ridgefield, (RVNA), President of ATHNA, and the recipient of The Nightin-

gale Award in 2008, Sandy Weinberg is committed to our community. She directs RVNA‟s Well Child

Clinics, providing a vast array of immunizations, educating a vulnerable Pediatric population and assisting

families regardless of their ability to pay. She has conducted numerous Pediatric H1N1 clinics and has

contributed to the health of over 2000 children. In addition, Sandy provides consultations and travel immu-

nizations and contributes to emergency preparedness with Ridgefield Town Hall, Fire & Police Depart-

ments. With the police, Sandy developed the annual Health Fair medication collection program to safely

dispose of unused drugs. For the past six years, Sandy has embodied the spirit of community & public

health especially among the pediatric population. She demonstrates extensive knowledge, outstanding

compassion for adults and children and collaborates with doctors and Health Departments to oversee three major pediatric pro-

grams – H1N1, Well Child Clinic, and the Health Fair at RVNA. Sandy has worked tirelessly to advocate for and develop pro-

grams that support public health and protect communities from preventable disease. We commend Sandy for all of her efforts and

her commitment to our community, our children and our families. She is an outstanding individual.

Detective Ralph DeLuca: Presently a Corporal in the Detective Division of The Bethel Police Dept., Det. Ralph DeLuca has been

a Veteran Police Officer for 30 years. In 1988, he was named Bethel Police Officer of the year. A gradu-

ate from Fairfield Preparatory High School, Det. Ralph DeLuca went on to receive his B.A. from Mora-

vian College 1999 and his M.S. from St. John‟s University. Det. Ralph DeLuca has played an important

role in our community as D.A.R.E officer for 25 years and he‟s participated in almost every major investi-

gation involving children in Bethel for over 20 years. He has successfully interviewed both victims and

suspects, is the “Go to Guy” in the Bethel Police Dept. and serves as a mentor to younger officers. Det.

DeLuca is currently in charge of student mentoring interns and “Job Shadowing” in the department.

Many Bethel High School students and college students have participated in this program with some stu-

dents attending Law School. He is active with St. Mary‟s School, and a volunteer Counselor at the annual St. Mary‟s Church Sum-

mer Camp. Det. DeLuca is well known and respected in the Bethel community and serves faithfully in many community capaci-

ties. His impact on Bethel‟s children is profound; his genuine caring attitude makes him a compassionate and enthusiastic leader in

our community.

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Funders

We are grateful to the following community partners for support during Fiscal Year 2009 - 2010.

ATMI, Inc. Bedoukian Research, Inc. Department of Children & Families The Exchange Club of Danbury Fairfield County Community Foundation Donor advised funds of the Fairfield County Community Foundation: The Bluenose Fund The Pat and Shirley Howe Fund The Nevas Family Fund GE The Keren Foundation for Children

The Leir Foundation Loyal Order of Moose, Lodge 1373 National Children’s Alliance The Perrin Family Foundation Savings Bank of Danbury St. James’ Church St. Stephen’s Church Taunton Press The Tow Foundation City of Danbury Town of New Fairfield Town of New Milford

Town of Newtown Town of Redding Town of Ridgefield Town of Sherman United Ways of: Capitol Area New England Special Distributions Division Western Connecticut Westchester & Putnam County Valley United Way

In Memory of:

Dr. Keren Alexander, George Armstrong, Bud Barton, Lilly Jayne Evelyn Collins, Charline Daniels, Stella & Dorcas Lloyd Dawe,

Sara Edmonds, Helen Traver Endriss, Pat & George Foster, N.P. Herzegovitch, Elsie Horvath, Bunny Jacobson, Nan Joy, Dr. Albert

Koweek, Gerrold Kruse, Henry J. and Erna D. Leir, Dr. Guy Metcalf, Jr., Alyssa Potraz, Peter Vannucci and Harry L. Vincent, Jr.

In Honor of:

Jonathan Alexander and Julie Horowitz, Dorothy Barton, Mark Daniels, Celia Eizik, Bernadette Kallas, Cathy & Howard Lasser,

Gail Hamatty Matthews, Isabelle & Ethan McKean, Arthur & Barbara Phillips,

the Rausch Family and Dolores Stewart

The Danbury Regional Child Advocacy Center recognizes those loved ones in whose name donations were made

Outstanding Service Club Award: presented to a club or organization that has made significant contributions to children and families in our

community.

The Exchange Club of Danbury: The Exchange Club of Danbury is a part of a National Exchange Organiza-

tion, the largest exclusively American service club in the nation. The first Exchange Club was formed in De-

troit, Michigan in 1911. The Danbury Club was chartered in 1947.

Exchange is an all volunteer, goal oriented organization that concentrates its efforts in three categories: Youth

related projects, American Citizenship, and Community Service. Some projects and activities are national in

origin and scope while others are specifically tailored to meet the needs of the Danbury Community.

The main focus of the Exchange Club‟s fundraising activities is for its programs of service and the National

Exchange project - The Prevention of Child Abuse. The Exchange Club of Danbury actively supports the Danbury Regional Child Advo-

cacy Center.

GE Sustaining Supporter Award: presented to an organization or business that has made a significant contribution to children and families in

our community through the support of our programs.

The Greater Candlewood Exchange Club is guided by their motto “Unity for Service” and by a covenant of service

as they participate in the national mission to prevent child abuse, to promote youth and community service activi-

ties, and to help others in the community through volunteerism. Their purpose is to develop leaders, expand the

organization, and support existing child abuse prevention efforts as well as the Exchange Club Center for the Pre-

vention of Child Abuse. In 2010, this Exchange Club “discovered” the DRCAC through the Annual Auction/

Dinner Dance, for which they provided generous support. We honor their dedicated commitment to the children

and families of our community.

The Charline Daniels Memorial Scholarship: to honor the memory of our founder and colleague Charline Daniels who contributed so much

to the success of the Danbury Regional Child Advocacy Center.

Lisamay Cleary-Cast, Family Enrichment Specialist/Parent Aide and ParentNet Instructor: Lisamay will continue her studies for a

Bachelor‟s degree in Social Work at WCSU. This course of study will offer her a comprehensive education in the content and methods of

social work, enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving, oral and written communication skills, and methods of working with families in

their social context. She will build on her previous college focus on Special Education. Lisamay is convinced that continuing her educa-

tion will help her coordinate intervention, treatment and services for children and families.

Michelle Ross, Family Enrichment Specialist/Parent Aide: Michelle is pursuing a Bachelor‟s degree in Human Services from University

of Bridgeport. This program will prepare her with entry level social work skills and will give her the ability to provide services to individu-

als, groups and families. Her studies link directly to the work as a family enrichment specialist/parent aide since the position requires inter-

vention, education and collaboration to insure the safety of the families and their children. Michelle feels that this program allows her to

bring fresh new ideas from the classroom to her work with families and to provide a higher level of service to all the families with which

she works.

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2010 Auction Donors

Adam Broderick Salon Adrienne Restaurant Aetheria Relaxation Spa All American Waste Alvaro's Shoe Service Amber Lighting Augie's Numero 1 Resturant Avallone Discount Wine & Spirits Taylor Belardinelli Tire Bernard's of Ridgefield Irwin & Roberta Berger Bloomingdale's Attorney General Richard Blumenthal Bluu Café & Ultra Lounge BMW of Ridgefield Bob's Discount Furniture Bridgewater Chocolates Café on the Green Ristorante Cappiello Brothers Jewelry Caraluzzi's Market Cartus Chris Durante Framing Studio Lisamay Cleary-Cast Colonial Cleaners Comfort Suites Danbury Courtyard by Marriott Craig's Fine Jewelry Danbury Hampton Inn Danbury Plaza Chief Alan Baker, Danbury Police Department Designs By Heidi DRCAC Board of Directors Dry Brook Farm Ellen & Larry Dubois Elisabeth Adams Escape Salon and Spa Ethan Allen Hotel Fairfield County Bank Corp. First & Last Café Jack Fong Eric Gottschalk Grass-Roots, Inc. Greg & Tony Ouidad Salon Hanna's Mideastern Resturant Hartford Stage Lucille Herzegovitch Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, Great Barrington

Hollandia Nursery Hopkin's Inn IL Bacio John Jesse Jim Barbarie's Resturant Joe Pepin Joe's Salon & Spa Just Dance School of Performing Arts Michael & Bernadette Kallas Patricia Kendziorski Koo Restaurant Lake Compounce Lawrence & Patricia B. Larson Mike Lofrumento Alair Lopes Sheila Lougheed Law Offices of Dom Chieffalo Le Château Lord & Taylor Marcus Dairy Inc. Lou & Carolyn McAdams M. Monteiro & Son, Inc. Orlando Monteiro Mark Korotash New Britain Rock Cats New York City Ballet New York Marriott Marquis Noah Webster House, West Hartford Historical Society Norbert E. Mitchell Inc Northeast Chem-Dry Ondine Restaurant Pancho's & Gringo's Peter's North End Barbershop Phillip Bruce Salon Arthur & Barbara Phillips Portifino Restaurant R N B Enterprises Regional YMCA of Western CT Charles Reppenhagen Residence Inn By Marriott Richter Golf Course Bruce Ridenour Ridgewood Country Club Sesame Seed Restaurant Silo/Hunt Farm Trust Sandra Simoes Southwest Cafe Sportsplex

Stew Leonard's Mark Stirling Swank on Bank Lynn Taborsak Tanglewood Boston Symphony Orchestra The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum The Bridge Christian Arts Center The Center for Living Well Therapies The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort The Exchange Club of Danbury The Fashion Exchange The Maids Home Services The Pearl Theater The Toy Chest Frank Thomas Town & Country Trader Joe's Anne Trister Two Steps Downtown Grille Union Savings Bank Clay Winters

Thank you to all those who have contributed items for the Danbury Regional Child Advocacy Center’s

Fifteenth Annual Silent Auction/Dinner Dance. If your name is missing or misspelled,

please call (203) 748-4542. Your gift is important to us.

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Benefactors ($500 and above)

JoAnne Albanesi Jonathan Alexander Holly & Reathal Bean Jim & Karen Bixby George Bogart John & Kristen Burns Charles Burkey John Daniels Edwin Dawe Jana Draper

Drywall, Inc. Exchange Club of Danbury Fairfield County Bank The Greater Candlewood Exchange Club Earl Hagman Andrea Heap IBM Michael & Bernadette Kallas Ladies Philoptachos Society,

Assumption Greek Orthodox Church Ken & Cindy Leili Michael Lofrumento Pointy Heads, LLC. John Priola Veronica Ron-Priola Monte & Carolyn Redman Peter & Addie Sandler Sealed Air Corporation

Mark Stirling Barbara & William Sullivan Frank & Susan Thomas Kate & Jon Thomas-Palmer Arthur & Barbara Phillips Union Savings Bank Webster Bank Westchester Classic Cars & Coachwork Clay Winters

Partners ($250—$499)

Patrons ($100 –$249)

Friends ($1—$99)

Dorothy Barton Elisabeth Booth-Barton Georgia Carrington Ellen & Larry Dubois Isabelle Farrington Wyatt Flores Sandy & Irving Fox

Karen & Barry Goldberg Elizabeth Gordon & Warren Mintz The Hand Center of Western CT Terry & Robert Henry Jim Barbarie’s Restaurant Maureen & Sean Kerins Lou & Carolyn McAdams

Richard McCarthy Tim & Stephanie McInerney Kimberly Meken Donna & Bob Meyer Lyn Myers Glynis Powanda Stuart & Joanne Roberts

Savings Bank of Danbury Bob & Barbara Schneider Sandra Simoes State Farm Insurance, Mill Plain Office Nancy Urell Nancy Vincent

Glenda Armstrong Kathy Bardes & Michael Broad Pete & Elaine Bartkus Georgia & George Batey Frans Boetes Juan Campanario Lori Capobianco Lisa Cerbone- Montalto Donna & David Coelho Mark Daniels Elaine & Paul Dinto Nick & Anita Donofrio DRCAC Board of Directors Carol Elder

Karen & Barry Goldberg Laura Goldstein & Steven Vine Chris & Joe Giordano Sandra Gold & Paul Medina Vicki & Brandon Michalek Caryn & Joe Golden Ruth Gramlich Hudson City Savings Bank Brenda Hunt Jim Barbarie’s Restaurant Jeffrey & Jeanne Katz John & Nancy Katz Amy Klein Lawrence & Patricia B. Larson

Sally & Stuart Lesser Elza Ligouri Al & Joan Mead Scott & Marianne Mitchell Peg Molina Jim Montalto Kimberly & Kevin Morgan Joe & Alice Pepin Richard Ponton, Jr. John Priola Cynthia & Ralph Redman Linda Reddington and Family June & Glenn Renzulli S & D Cleaning

Lisa Salazar Anne-Marie & Ed Satkowsky Patricia & Stephen Sheilds Scott & Patricia Tenney Union Savings Bank Donna Van Waalwijk Maria Vargas Michelle & Seamus Walsh Lee & Carol West Danielle & Mark Williams Colleen & Eugene Zingaro

David Allen Dimples Armstrong Don & Maureen Arsenault Mary & Alan Baker Priscilla Beaulieau Kenneth & Barbara Bigham John & Mariann Black Jim & Margie Blansfield Sue & Mike Blasavage Lawrence & Diana Boxer Paul & Winifred Brickmeier Estela Camacho Cindy Chen Elizabeth & Daniel Cox Marnie Emerito Laura Erhardt Josette & Korb Eynon Howard Fales Robert & Carolyn Flynn

Anita Gellella Brad & Suzanne Gibson Anthony Gnolfo Pat & Alvin Goldman Bill & Chris Gray Chris Halfar Yili Hammer Lucille Herzegovitch Sharmese Hodge Samuel & Alice Hyman Darlene Jackson Cindy Johnstone Susan Kania Andrew & Robin Keller Cort Kinker Marcia Klebanow Shirley LaPine Sandra Larkin Jane Leff

Levine Auto & Truck Parts Wenjun Lui Ethan Mable Serban & Dorina Maerean Anthony & Lisa Marsico Cynthia & James Mastroni C. Alison McLean Shelagh McLean John & Susan Melillo Thomas Mensi, Dental Assoc. New Milford Com. Ambulance David & Gail Orser Judith & James Pierpont Alicia Perez Stephen Polizzi Erma & Richard Rausch Julie & Charles Reppenhagen John Richards Elaine Rosenthal

Laura Ross Richard & Nan Ruben Jehad & Kathy Sabbagh David & Jane Sarath Dorothy Schaffer-Pepin Charles & Irene Schmidt Paul & Jane Sedor Myra Shaw Corinne Silvert Jennifer Silves Carol & James Stirling Alexander & Belle Tolor Ellen Tower David & Joan Treadwell Pearl Turk Helen & Allan Wallace Michelle & Seamus Walsh WeCahr

Thank you to all those who have contributed to the Danbury Regional Child Advocacy Center from 7/1/09 to 6/30/10.

If your name is missing or misspelled, please call (203) 748-4542. Your gift is important to us.

2009 – 2010 CONTRIBUTORS

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268 Main Street, Danbury, CT 06810

Child Advocacy Center

Phone: 203-748-4542 Fax: 203-797-0847

Please SAVE the DATE

MARCH 19, 2011

for the DRCAC’s Sixteenth Annual

Dinner Dance &

Silent/Live Auction At

The Amber Room Colonnade, Danbury

Featuring the Clark Eno Orchestra

For more information call (203) 748-4542

NONPROFIT

US POSTAGE

PAID

DANBURY, CT

PERMIT NO. 73

www.danburychildadvocacy.org Email:drcac76@sbcglobal.net