In 1995, the Rhode Island Community Foundation wanted to start a Children’s Initiative to help transform the lives of children. As a result, Connecting for Children & Families (CCF) was created. Today, CCF continues to be a leader on child and family issues. Because of their endless dedication and wide array of available programs and resources, the team at Connecting for Children and Families is our new Expert of the Month!
Their Mission
CCF is a community-based, non-profit organization located in Woonsocket, RI. Their mission is to transform the lives of children through high quality educational opportunities and family support. Overall, they strive to make a difference in the lives of children, families, and the city of Woonsocket. Connecting for Children & Families primarily works with families in Woonsocket, but they do travel out into neighboring areas. Certain programs are open to people who live anywhere in the state.
As Executive Director Terese Curtin states, it is their goal to “remove any obstacles that might prevent a child from being successful in school and in life.” At Connecting for Children & Families, they focus heavily on education for all ages. They offer programs for expecting mothers, an early learning center for toddlers and preschoolers, after school enrichment, and summer learning programs for kindergarten through high school students. To ensure each child can succeed, they also work with their families and offer several support programs including workforce training, free tax preparation, financial literacy workshops, food pantry, and weekly clothing distribution.
CCF is a quality resource for families. They have a close partnership with several schools in the area, which allows them to connect with families. At the end of the day, they want families to be aware that there are a lot of positive and supportive programs or resources available to help them whenever needed.
Both Terese Curtin and the Director of Development & Communications Lucy Davidson agree that our team of technicians is very responsive, professional, and willing to help whenever a problem arises. Terese Curtin believes that our “team is a tremendous help” especially because if something happens, we’re just a phone call and a quick drive away. Overall, she’s glad that we offer her “peace of mind the minute a computer isn’t working.”
If you’d like to learn more about CCF, all available programs and resources, or you’d like to volunteer or donate, visit their website www.ccfcenter.org or their Facebook page. If you have any questions about CCF’s programs and resources, contact Lucy Davidson at [email protected].
Fundraising Events
Connecting for Children & Families also hosts several fundraising events throughout the year. One of their most notable events is their annual Make Track for Kids 5K Race. Because their 5K is such a great cause, the SNECS team has participated several times!
CCF’s next event is Vision of Hope, which takes place on Tuesday, October 30. If you’re interested in attending Vision of Hope and celebrating the community’s efforts to transform lives, you can purchase tickets at visionofhope.brownpapertickets.com. All proceeds will support CCF in their ongoing quest to give children the basic building blocks they need for a successful life!
