Philanthropy Potluck recently reported that community foundations arecurrently the fastest-growing sector in philanthropy. According to theMinnesota Council on Foundations blog, “Community foundations gobeyond simply making grants to identify current and emergingissues, channel resources to address their communities’ needs andhelp their regions prepare for the future.” In addition, the blogrevealed that U.S. community foundations grant more than $31 billionin charitable funds in more than 700 communities and regions.According to the Connecticut Council for Philanthropy, communityfoundations in Connecticut granted more than $75 million tocharitable causes in 2010.

Written by staff of the Minnesota Council on Foundations, PhilanthropyPotluck offers varying perspectives on topics of interest to thephilanthropy community.

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Vol 5: Issue 1 | Spring/Summer 2012

Vol 5: Issue 1 | Spring/Summer 2012

Non-profit Org.US PostagePAIDPermit #67Torrington, CT06790

StewardthePLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE CFNWCT.ORG

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE CFNWCT.ORG

Stewardthe

32 City Hall AvenueP.O. Box 1144

Torrington, CT 06790www.cfnwct.orgT 860.626.1245F 860.489.7517info@cfnwct.org

Board of DirectorsWilliam G. Harding ChairpersonTom Bechtle Vice Chairperson

John E. Janco TreasurerVictoria Patrick Secretary

Khurshed BhumgaraDan Dwyer

Brian McCormick, Esq.Gayle Moraski

Douglas O’Connell, Esq.James O’Leary

E. Frederick PetersenRose Ponte

Alyson ThomsonRoberta Lee August Recording Secretary

Guy Rovezzi PresidentHeather Dinneen Program Officer

Sandy Dressel PR/Communications DirectorLaurie Dunham Development Officer

Leslie Friscia Financial AssistantLorraine Haddock Assistant to the President

Serving Barkhamsted, Bethlehem, Canaan(Falls Village), Colebrook, Cornwall, Goshen,

Hartland, Harwinton, Kent, Litchfield, Morris,New Hartford, Norfolk, North Canaan,Salisbury, Sharon, Torrington, Warren,

Washington, Winsted

Printed on recycled paper

A s a decorated war veteran,the late Colonel James L.

Draper, Jr., knew the meaning ofservice. And when he retiredfrom the U.S. Army, in 1965, Jimand his wife, Shirley, whopreceded him in 2000, carried onthe tradition by devoting theirlives to serving the communitythey cherished.

Jim’s final—and perhapsgrandest—act of charity came inthe form of The DraperFoundation Fund, a $30-millionendowment entrusted to theFoundation. The new fund, whichrepresents the largest single giftin the Foundation’s history, willbenefit mainly local charitableorganizations by making yearlyawards to 19 nonprofits named bythe Drapers, as well as throughannual donor-advised grants.

“Jim and Shirley were well-known in Colebrook, and indeedthroughout the area, for their loveof community,” FoundationPresident Guy Rovezzi said. “Thisendowment reflects their passionfor particular causes—such aseducation and the welfare ofchildren and animals—and willforever serve as a testament totheir compassion for others.”

Love Is ServiceOne Couple’s Philosophy of Life Manifests Itself as Historic Fund

The Draper Foundation Fund: A Lesson in Inspired Philanthropy

The Draper Foundation Fund has forever changed theface of philanthropy, both for The CommunityFoundation of Northwest Connecticut and for the 20communities it serves.

To be sure, a gift of $30 million from the estate ofShirley and Jim Draper, of Colebrook, means additionalresources can now be brought to bear on critical localissues. And in terms of catalytic philanthropy, ourcommunity foundation is better positioned to play aleadership role in the region, working across sectors tosolve complex problems and maximize impact.

But beyond that, The Draper Foundation Fund has thepotential to inspire future philanthropy, which is perhapsthe greatest impact of all. Donors and fund-holders alikewill appreciate ensuing advantages such as:

• Technological advances and staff augmentationyielding improved donor services;

• Increased economies of scale in operationaloverhead;

• Heightened portfolio sophistication and opportunities for increased investment benchmarking;

• More resources deployed locally to causesimportant to our donor community.“This community gave Jim and Shirley their closest

family and friends, and they wanted to return the favorby sharing their good fortune,” Susan Caufield, alongtime family friend, said. “This fund is their way ofreaching out to those who need a helping hand, andperhaps inspiring others to do the same. Inspiring goodworks in others—that was important to them.”

As legacy gifts go, The Draper Foundation Fund is in aclass by itself. One of the largest single gifts on recordto a community foundation in the state of Connecticut,it will forever immortalize Jim and Shirley Draper astwo of the area’s foremost benefactors. And what ismore, there’s no telling how many others it will inspire.

“The historic proportions of Jim and Shirley Draper’sphilanthropy will forever be felt in northwest Connecticut. The significance of The Draper Foundation Fund is profoundon many levels; however, it does not change the fundamentalnature of our work, which is to promote the common good of all who reside in the 20 towns served by the Foundation. For that, we must now—and always—rely on the generoussupport of our donors.” —Foundation President Guy Rovezzi

Jim and Shirley Draper devoted their lives to serving thecommunity they cherished. The newly established DraperFoundation Fund, one of the largest single gifts on record to acommunity foundation in the state of Connecticut, will benefitmainly local charitable organizations by making yearly awards to19 nonprofits named by the Drapers.

PHOTO (CIRCA 1960) COURTESY OF SUSAN CAUFIELD

Be What’s PossibleOur commitment to the vitality of northwestConnecticut is strong, but your ongoingsupport is what makes good things possible.

Together, we’re bringing hope and opportunityto those less fortunate; we’re ensuring the futureof our local libraries, cultural organizations andconservation groups; and we’re advancing theeducational goals of our youth.

We’re your Community Foundation—yourpartner in improving the public good.

Thank you for your continued support. Pleaseuse the enclosed envelope or donate safely andsecurely online at www.cfnwct.org .

With public funding for essential services markedlyconstrained, nonprofits must cast wider fund-raisingnets to stay afloat. Annual grant-making opportunitiesoffered by the Foundation are helping area charitiesbridge the fiscal gap.

During the third grant cycle of 2011, nonprofitorganizations serving northwest Connecticut receiveddiscretionary awards totaling nearly $50,000. Amongthem were:

$4,475 grant to Literacy Volunteers on theGreen to purchase English-language textbooks andinstructional materials for local non-native speakers.

$2,200 grant to Girl Scouts of Connecticutfor a program designed to reduce bullying among girlsin Torrington grammar schools.

$3,000 grant to Music in Common, Inc., tosupport an educational program for high schoolstudents in Torrington, which focuses on thecommunity-building power of music.

$5,000 grant to Civic Life Project to develop areplicable program that engages high school studentsin civic life.

$6,800 grant to Police Athletic League ofTorrington to support a girls’ basketball programserving children from low-income families.

$1,600 grant to Aton Forest, Inc., in support ofa community awareness and information campaign toprotect the Sandy Brook Conservation Corridor.

In addition to grants like those noted above fromunrestricted—or flexible—funds, donor-advised,designated and field-of-interest funds helped to boostthe Foundation’s impact in 2011 through individualgrants to nearly 90 local nonprofits, including thefollowing from the Borghesi Family Fund:

$1,250 matching grant to Torrington EarlyChildhood Collaborative to create a user-friendly,interactive online community resource guide enablinglocal families to access essential child care and earlyeducation services.

The Foundation makes grants to area nonprofitorganizations three times a year, in early spring, lateJune and late fall. Find a complete listing of recentgrants online by clicking “News” at www.cfnwct.org.

Making Ends Meet: Foundation Helps Charities Navigate the Fiscal Crisis

It was an enlightening—if unsettling—afternoon forsupporters of The Women & Girls Fund gathered at the

Torrington Country Club just days before Thanksgiving. KaraDowling-Roraback, chair of the fund’s executive committee,surprised many of the 130 women and men in attendance byciting some grim statistics about the economic status ofwomen both nationally and right here in Litchfield County.

“Eighty-eight percent of those living in shelters throughoutthe region are single-parent, female-headed families,” Ms.Dowling-Roraback said. “These are very tough times and …the need … has never been greater.”

The Women & Girls Fund, established by area civic-minded women in 1999, supports programs that addresswomen’s needs and contribute to the welfare of children, andit promotes the activities of nonprofit organizations thatshare its goal of improving the quality of life for women andgirls in the Northwest Corner.

This year’s grant recipients were among those consideringremarks by University of Connecticut President Dr. SusanHerbst, whose new book investigates the way young peoplediscuss politics, in general, and how they treat each otherduring debates, in particular.

With its $1,000 grant from The Women & Girls Fund, theSalisbury-based after-school program known as Extras willcontinue to provide a safe environment for children aged 5 to12, where they can get help with homework and hone theirsocial skills.

“We want full-time working mothers to have a place fortheir children to come and not have to worry,” Extras DirectorRachel Tory-Grant told fund supporters.

According to Winsted Area Child Care Center DirectorPaige Corey, her agency’s $2,000 grant will assist workingmothers with child-care expenses. “We provide a place forchildren between the ages of 5 and 12 to have positiveinteractions in a safe environment,” Ms. Corey explained.

Through grants to local nonprofit organizations, TheWomen & Girls Fund supports programs that provideopportunities for women and girls to develop real-life skills,enhance economic self-sufficiency, build positive self-esteemand promote personal growth.

Fund Supports Women Facing Economic Hardship

The Women & Girls Fund,initiated by the Foundation in1999, provides a uniquephilanthropic opportunity forcommunity-minded women innorthwest Connecticut whoare committed to improving thelives of area women and girls byraising awareness and poolingresources. By supporting thefund, women:• Help to advance the welfareof local women and girls;• Network with women whoshare similar interests andvalues;• Help women and girls makestrategic and informed decisionsabout their philanthropy;• Join a dynamic group thatempowers other women.

In a generous show ofsupport, the State AutoInsurance Group hascontributed $10,000 over twoyears to advance the mission ofThe Women & Girls Fund. Thisfunding is helping to advancethe welfare of local women andgirls by meeting their real-lifeneeds and by identifyingopportunities to transformtheir lives.

For more information aboutThe Women & Girls Fund, or tolearn how you can support itsmission, visit www.cfnwct.orgor call 860.626.1245.

UConn President Dr. Susan Herbst (left) andKara Dowling-Roraback, Women & Girls Fundexecutive committee chair. Dr. Herbst, whodelivered remarks at the fund’s annual meeting, isthe University’s 15th president and the firstwoman to hold that position.

State Auto Farm Product Assistant ManagerSusan Chiovitti (left) and Nancy Rogers,development director for Susan B. AnthonyProject, which has received multiple Women &Girls Fund grants. As part of its commitment toadvance the economic self-sufficiency and generalwelfare of women and girls in northwestConnecticut, the State Auto Insurance Group hascontributed $10,000 over two years in support ofThe Women & Girls Fund.

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Here for good.

Here for good.

With deep roots in Torrington, Jim and Sandra Thibault know the value ofgiving back to the community where they live and work. It’s a commitmentthey both share, so when they turned their volunteer sights to the Foundation,they knew it was a perfect fit.

“Community Foundations make giving back easy,” Sandra said. “Bysupporting the well-being of the communities they serve, they enable peopleto support the causes they’re passionate about.”

One such passion shared by the couple is animal welfare, and their timeand talent are helping to bring attention—as well as financial support—to aFoundation initiative known as The Critter Fund.

“Animal advocacy is our primary charitable effort, so we’re naturallyinterested in doing what we can to help The Critter Fund,” Jim said, addingwith a smile, “Over the years, we’ve become unofficial ambassadors for thefund.”

Jim and Sandra earned that recognition, at least in part, by serving onplanning committees for the 2008 Hare Ball—touted as a barn dance foranimal lovers—as well as last fall’s New Leash on Life, which helped morethan a dozen abandoned dogs find new homes while raising awareness of theplight of homeless pets. As organizers of both well-attended local events, theirnames have become synonymous with animal-relatedcauses.

But their contributions to the Foundation don’tend there. As managing partner of the Torrington-based investment advisory firm Barron FinancialGroup, Jim was an ideal candidate for theFoundation’s Investment Committee, assumingchairmanship in 2008.

“The Investment Committee is chargedwith overseeing the Foundation’sinvestments, selecting portfoliostrategists and upholding theorganization’s fiduciaryresponsibilities,” Jim explained. “I enjoy this role because it allowsme to use my professionalknowledge and team-buildingskills to benefit the Foundation.”

But Jim and Sandra, who servesas Barron Financial Group’soperations coordinator, don’t limittheir generosity to communityservice. Each year, the firmrecognizes its clients by making asizable contribution in their honorto the Northwest ConnecticutPhilanthropy Fund. This endowedfund, comprised of undesignatedgifts to the Foundation, is used to support emerging community needs.

With a successful business to run, Jim and Sandra have learned to directtheir volunteer efforts where they can do the most good. A newly electedConstable in Torrington, Jim also chairs the city’s Economic DevelopmentCommittee and serves on the Torrington Charter Review Committee. Sandra,as one might expect, serves on the board of The Little Guild of St. Francis, ahumane organization based in West Cornwall.

“Although I love all animals, I’m particularly concerned about the plight of homeless dogs and cats,” Sandra said. “I hope the future holds many moreopportunities for us to be involved in planning events that support The

Critter Fund.”

Basic Needs Met by Year-End Grants

Faced with dwindling government support, charitable organizations serving someof the area’s most economically distressed residents are struggling to advance theirmissions. This year, much of the $20,150 in critical-needs grants from the MarionWm. and Alice Edwards Fund will be used by local nonprofits to provide the mostbasic of necessities—food, warm clothing and shelter.

With its grant, the Litchfield Hills Elderly Nutrition program run by the EdwardE. Sullivan Senior Center will continue to provide nutritious meals to homeboundseniors in northwest Connecticut.

“Nationwide, and right here in Litchfield County, seniors are struggling to obtainthe basic necessities of life, including nutritious food and basic health care,”program supervisor Joel Sekorski said. “Our assistance helps many remainindependent in their own homes for as long as possible.”

Likewise, the Torrington Chapter of FISH will use its grant to assist some of thearea’s most disadvantaged families. “Federal and state funding is being reduced,and donations are down from previous years,” Executive Director Kevin Purcellsaid. “We have had as many as 13 childrenliving in our shelter—the youngest being just

two weeks old—which clearly demonstrates the dire need in our community.”

Likely a result of the economy, year-end grantapplications continued to trend upward in 2011.“These grants are intended to help our areanonprofits provide essential services at a timeof year when the need is greatest and budgetsare tight,” Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said.

Nobody knows more about need than Susan Leigh, who coordinates the servicesprovided by Goshen Community Care & Hospice to town residents, many of whomare elderly. “We thought it would be nice to surprise some of our homeboundseniors with a gift of a new sweater or warm blanket,” Ms. Leigh said. “This granthelps in so many ways, from simple home repairs to a holiday meal … it allows us togo a step beyond and make more of a difference.”

In December of 2011, 42 area charities received grants intended to help themmeet the critical needs of area residents.

Pictured with 4-year-old Toby, a recent addition tothe Thibault family, Jim and Sandra are staunch

advocates for pet adoption. Over the years, theyhave put their passion into practice, rescuing ill-fated dogs from city pounds in Torrington

and Bridgeport. Toby’s proclivity for snugglingmakes him a likely candidate for the Canine

Good Citizen award, something Sandrabelieves helps to dispel negative stereotypesassociated with certain breeds. TheThibaults’ active lifestyle wouldn’t becomplete without a dog or two, says Jim,

who hopes the couple’s advocacy work willhelp to spread their “rescue a mutt”

philosophy.

Vol 5: Issue 1 | Spring/Summer 2012

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE CFNWCT.ORG

Stewardthe

PHOTO: JENNIFER ALMQUIST

For the Love of AnimalsTorrington Couple Bring Passion for Pets to Foundation

Established by the Foundation in2005, The Critter Fund supportscharitable organizations innorthwest Connecticut dedicated to animal welfare. The fund assistswith shelter, rescue and adoption,training, prevention of cruelty,spaying and neutering, elderlycompanionship, services to thedisabled and wildlife preservation.

Growing up in Norfolk, Karen O’Connor forged many ties with the people andplaces in northwest Connecticut. So when it came time to update her estate

plans, Karen knew the causes she wished to support. But it wasn’t until she reada story in this publication that the idea of a legacy gift came to mind.

“I happened to read about Gail and Charles Olsen deciding to include theCommunity Foundation in their estate plans,” Ms. O’Connor explained. “Havinggrown up in Norfolk and attending grammar school with Charlie, I found thearticle inspirational.”

By including a gift to charity in her will, Ms. O’Connor can be certain that theFoundation will honor her wishes in perpetuity. “A bequest has so manybenefits,” she said. “And giving through the Community Foundation ensures thatthe funds will forever be directed where they can do the most good.”

For information on how to include The Community Foundation of NorthwestConnecticut in your estate plans, or to let us know that you have already done so,please contact us at 860.626.1245 or info@cfnwct.org.

Giving Back Helps Communities Get Ahead

A bequest to the Foundationensures that communities innorthwest Connecticut will havetangible, lasting evidence ofKaren O’Connor’s generosity.

Legacy Gifts and You

More and more people are including charitable gifts in their estate plans. Why? Because it’s a sure way tomake a positive impact on the causes or communities that matter most to them. Whatever you choose todo with your endowed bequest, you can be sure it will bring more hope, caring and goodness into theworld.

A bequest can be made in the form of a stated sum of money, stocks and bonds, a percentage of an estateor valuable artwork. Or you can name the Community Foundation as beneficiary of a life insurance policy, a qualified retirement plan or an IRA.

To include a charitable gift in your estate plans, please consult your professional advisor or attorney. Formore information about bequests, please contact us at 860.626.1245 or visit www.cfnwct.org.

Change the World: Get OurNew Guide to Legacy GiftsHave you ever wished you could make a difference in the world? Well, you can.And it’s easier than you might think.Simply include a charitable gift in yourestate plans. It’s a sure way to make apositive impact on the causes, charitiesor communities that matter most to you.

A bequest could be the mostimportant charitable gift you evermake. That’s because an endowed fundestablished though your CommunityFoundation becomes a powerful andtrue legacy—one that will ensure thatyour generosity becomes a lastingtribute.

Call us to learn more about making abequest for charity. We’ll send you ournew guide to legacy gifts, EstatePlanning and the Common Good.You’ll learn why charitable bequests aregaining in popularity and get step-by-step advice about your options.

Let us help youmake the most ofyour charitablegiving. Together,we can bringmore hope,caring andgoodness intothe world.

PHOTO: JENNIFER ALMQUIST

Sample language for a bequest: “To The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut, Inc.,I give ___% of my residuary estate.” Or you can name a fixed dollar amount.

The annual Bearcat 5K Cross Country Challenge is one way the HousatonicYouth Service Bureau is helping to promote family health. Initiated by TheHotchkiss School in 2010, the community-wide event also includes a varietyof educational and entertaining activities. Last year’s race attracted over150 runners of all ages and raised more than $5,000 to benefit theyoungsters and families served by the Falls Village-based nonprofit.

Serving six rural towns in northwest Connecticut, the Housatonic YouthService Bureau provides a variety of innovative services that promote theoverall health and well-being of area children, teens and families. Critical-needs grants from the Foundation help to advance the organization’smission of promoting positive youth development and strengtheningfamilies.

“This grant … allows us to go a step beyond and make more of a difference.”—Susan Leigh, Coordinator, GoshenCommunity Care & Hospice

Shallow Pool of Public FundingHampering Human Services

According to an article in the Stanford Social Innovation Review, thelong-term outlook for government funding for human services isbleak. “The sobering reality is that nonprofits will have to be evenmore entrepreneurial in their funding models, efficient indeploying their resources and vigilant in serving their mission tomake headway,” authors Daniel Stid and Willa Seldon, of TheBridgespan Group, said.

Given the authors’ grim assessment that “these organizationsare left to cobble together their own resources from otherfunding sources to make up the difference,” grants like those fromthe Foundation’s Marion Wm. and Alice Edwards Fund aremore critical than ever.

“We are extremely grateful to The Community Foundation ofNorthwest Connecticut,” Kit Wright, coordinator of LARC’sTransitions School to Community program, said. “Your ongoingsupport of the area’s residents and organizations makes so muchpositive impact.”

Learn more about how human service nonprofits can advancetheir missions while contending with government cutbacks atwww.ssireview.org.

Source: The Bridgespan Group and Stanford Social Innovation Review/Winter 2011

In addition to awards for critical needs madeannually in December, the Foundation makesgrants to local nonprofit organizations threetimes a year, in early spring, late June and latefall. Last year, combined grants and scholarshipstotaled over $1.2 million.

Community Mourns a Local Legend

It would be safe to say that Fred Bruni savored every one of his 92years. And to the Torrington community he cherished, he leaves

an impressive legacy befitting his exceptional generosity andprofound civic pride.

With Fred’s passing on November 2, 2011, the community lost anincomparable friend and benefactor. A recipient of the Rotary Club’sprestigious Paul Harris Fellow award, Fred was as well-known forhis civic contributions as he was for his indefatigable goodwill.

Honored by the Chamber of Commerce and LARC for hisexemplary service, Fred also contributed his time and talents to the local Salvation Army, YMCA, Lions Club, United Way and B.P.O.Elks, to name a few.

In addition to a decades-long career in the banking industry, Fredwas a successful entrepreneur, founding, in 1946, the Fred Bruni Nut& Candy Company. Those close to Fred say he was a man whopersonified his motto: “It doesn’t cost anything to be nice to people.”

“Fred has left an indelible mark on the community he loved as wellas on the countless organizations that benefited from his generosity,”Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said. “The establishment of theFred and Josephine Bruni Scholarship Fund at the Foundationhonors his beloved wife of 65 years and will forever pay homage toFred’s remarkable legacy.”

FOUNDATION FOCUSDinneen Named Program Officer

We are pleased to announce the appointment ofHeather Dinneen as Program Officer. In her new role,Heather will oversee the Foundation’s grant-makingprocess, including all discretionary andprogrammatic awards.

A Cornwall native, Heather holds bachelor’sdegrees in social work and international relationsfrom Concordia College. She also earned master’sdegrees in social work, from Fordham University, andin strategic fund-raising and philanthropy, from BayPath College.

“Heather has extensive experience in the nonprofitsector, both here and abroad, and her expertise andglobal perspective are sure to invigorate our grant-making,” Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said.

In addition to her work as a crisis clinician for families in the U.S. experiencinghomelessness, Heather served as grants manager for a $10-million capital campaignconducted by The Meeting Waters YMCA, in Brattleboro, Vermont.

Heather’s humanitarian efforts include founding and directing the Ghana Fund, inAccra, Ghana, a nonprofit organization that supports the Christ Faith Foster Home.Her international experience also includes a development post with PayapUniversity, in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Heather and her family currently reside in Cornwall.

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With deep roots in Torrington, Jim and Sandra Thibault know the value ofgiving back to the community where they live and work. It’s a commitmentthey both share, so when they turned their volunteer sights to the Foundation,they knew it was a perfect fit.

“Community Foundations make giving back easy,” Sandra said. “Bysupporting the well-being of the communities they serve, they enable peopleto support the causes they’re passionate about.”

One such passion shared by the couple is animal welfare, and their timeand talent are helping to bring attention—as well as financial support—to aFoundation initiative known as The Critter Fund.

“Animal advocacy is our primary charitable effort, so we’re naturallyinterested in doing what we can to help The Critter Fund,” Jim said, addingwith a smile, “Over the years, we’ve become unofficial ambassadors for thefund.”

Jim and Sandra earned that recognition, at least in part, by serving onplanning committees for the 2008 Hare Ball—touted as a barn dance foranimal lovers—as well as last fall’s New Leash on Life, which helped morethan a dozen abandoned dogs find new homes while raising awareness of theplight of homeless pets. As organizers of both well-attended local events, theirnames have become synonymous with animal-relatedcauses.

But their contributions to the Foundation don’tend there. As managing partner of the Torrington-based investment advisory firm Barron FinancialGroup, Jim was an ideal candidate for theFoundation’s Investment Committee, assumingchairmanship in 2008.

“The Investment Committee is chargedwith overseeing the Foundation’sinvestments, selecting portfoliostrategists and upholding theorganization’s fiduciaryresponsibilities,” Jim explained. “I enjoy this role because it allowsme to use my professionalknowledge and team-buildingskills to benefit the Foundation.”

But Jim and Sandra, who servesas Barron Financial Group’soperations coordinator, don’t limittheir generosity to communityservice. Each year, the firmrecognizes its clients by making asizable contribution in their honorto the Northwest ConnecticutPhilanthropy Fund. This endowedfund, comprised of undesignatedgifts to the Foundation, is used to support emerging community needs.

With a successful business to run, Jim and Sandra have learned to directtheir volunteer efforts where they can do the most good. A newly electedConstable in Torrington, Jim also chairs the city’s Economic DevelopmentCommittee and serves on the Torrington Charter Review Committee. Sandra,as one might expect, serves on the board of The Little Guild of St. Francis, ahumane organization based in West Cornwall.

“Although I love all animals, I’m particularly concerned about the plight of homeless dogs and cats,” Sandra said. “I hope the future holds many moreopportunities for us to be involved in planning events that support The

Critter Fund.”

Basic Needs Met by Year-End Grants

Faced with dwindling government support, charitable organizations serving someof the area’s most economically distressed residents are struggling to advance theirmissions. This year, much of the $20,150 in critical-needs grants from the MarionWm. and Alice Edwards Fund will be used by local nonprofits to provide the mostbasic of necessities—food, warm clothing and shelter.

With its grant, the Litchfield Hills Elderly Nutrition program run by the EdwardE. Sullivan Senior Center will continue to provide nutritious meals to homeboundseniors in northwest Connecticut.

“Nationwide, and right here in Litchfield County, seniors are struggling to obtainthe basic necessities of life, including nutritious food and basic health care,”program supervisor Joel Sekorski said. “Our assistance helps many remainindependent in their own homes for as long as possible.”

Likewise, the Torrington Chapter of FISH will use its grant to assist some of thearea’s most disadvantaged families. “Federal and state funding is being reduced,and donations are down from previous years,” Executive Director Kevin Purcellsaid. “We have had as many as 13 childrenliving in our shelter—the youngest being just

two weeks old—which clearly demonstrates the dire need in our community.”

Likely a result of the economy, year-end grantapplications continued to trend upward in 2011.“These grants are intended to help our areanonprofits provide essential services at a timeof year when the need is greatest and budgetsare tight,” Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said.

Nobody knows more about need than Susan Leigh, who coordinates the servicesprovided by Goshen Community Care & Hospice to town residents, many of whomare elderly. “We thought it would be nice to surprise some of our homeboundseniors with a gift of a new sweater or warm blanket,” Ms. Leigh said. “This granthelps in so many ways, from simple home repairs to a holiday meal … it allows us togo a step beyond and make more of a difference.”

In December of 2011, 42 area charities received grants intended to help themmeet the critical needs of area residents.

Pictured with 4-year-old Toby, a recent addition tothe Thibault family, Jim and Sandra are staunch

advocates for pet adoption. Over the years, theyhave put their passion into practice, rescuing ill-fated dogs from city pounds in Torrington

and Bridgeport. Toby’s proclivity for snugglingmakes him a likely candidate for the Canine

Good Citizen award, something Sandrabelieves helps to dispel negative stereotypesassociated with certain breeds. TheThibaults’ active lifestyle wouldn’t becomplete without a dog or two, says Jim,

who hopes the couple’s advocacy work willhelp to spread their “rescue a mutt”

philosophy.

Vol 5: Issue 1 | Spring/Summer 2012

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE CFNWCT.ORG

Stewardthe

PHOTO: JENNIFER ALMQUIST

For the Love of AnimalsTorrington Couple Bring Passion for Pets to Foundation

Established by the Foundation in2005, The Critter Fund supportscharitable organizations innorthwest Connecticut dedicated to animal welfare. The fund assistswith shelter, rescue and adoption,training, prevention of cruelty,spaying and neutering, elderlycompanionship, services to thedisabled and wildlife preservation.

Growing up in Norfolk, Karen O’Connor forged many ties with the people andplaces in northwest Connecticut. So when it came time to update her estate

plans, Karen knew the causes she wished to support. But it wasn’t until she reada story in this publication that the idea of a legacy gift came to mind.

“I happened to read about Gail and Charles Olsen deciding to include theCommunity Foundation in their estate plans,” Ms. O’Connor explained. “Havinggrown up in Norfolk and attending grammar school with Charlie, I found thearticle inspirational.”

By including a gift to charity in her will, Ms. O’Connor can be certain that theFoundation will honor her wishes in perpetuity. “A bequest has so manybenefits,” she said. “And giving through the Community Foundation ensures thatthe funds will forever be directed where they can do the most good.”

For information on how to include The Community Foundation of NorthwestConnecticut in your estate plans, or to let us know that you have already done so,please contact us at 860.626.1245 or info@cfnwct.org.

Giving Back Helps Communities Get Ahead

A bequest to the Foundationensures that communities innorthwest Connecticut will havetangible, lasting evidence ofKaren O’Connor’s generosity.

Legacy Gifts and You

More and more people are including charitable gifts in their estate plans. Why? Because it’s a sure way tomake a positive impact on the causes or communities that matter most to them. Whatever you choose todo with your endowed bequest, you can be sure it will bring more hope, caring and goodness into theworld.

A bequest can be made in the form of a stated sum of money, stocks and bonds, a percentage of an estateor valuable artwork. Or you can name the Community Foundation as beneficiary of a life insurance policy, a qualified retirement plan or an IRA.

To include a charitable gift in your estate plans, please consult your professional advisor or attorney. Formore information about bequests, please contact us at 860.626.1245 or visit www.cfnwct.org.

Change the World: Get OurNew Guide to Legacy GiftsHave you ever wished you could make a difference in the world? Well, you can.And it’s easier than you might think.Simply include a charitable gift in yourestate plans. It’s a sure way to make apositive impact on the causes, charitiesor communities that matter most to you.

A bequest could be the mostimportant charitable gift you evermake. That’s because an endowed fundestablished though your CommunityFoundation becomes a powerful andtrue legacy—one that will ensure thatyour generosity becomes a lastingtribute.

Call us to learn more about making abequest for charity. We’ll send you ournew guide to legacy gifts, EstatePlanning and the Common Good.You’ll learn why charitable bequests aregaining in popularity and get step-by-step advice about your options.

Let us help youmake the most ofyour charitablegiving. Together,we can bringmore hope,caring andgoodness intothe world.

PHOTO: JENNIFER ALMQUIST

Sample language for a bequest: “To The Community Foundation of Northwest Connecticut, Inc.,I give ___% of my residuary estate.” Or you can name a fixed dollar amount.

The annual Bearcat 5K Cross Country Challenge is one way the HousatonicYouth Service Bureau is helping to promote family health. Initiated by TheHotchkiss School in 2010, the community-wide event also includes a varietyof educational and entertaining activities. Last year’s race attracted over150 runners of all ages and raised more than $5,000 to benefit theyoungsters and families served by the Falls Village-based nonprofit.

Serving six rural towns in northwest Connecticut, the Housatonic YouthService Bureau provides a variety of innovative services that promote theoverall health and well-being of area children, teens and families. Critical-needs grants from the Foundation help to advance the organization’smission of promoting positive youth development and strengtheningfamilies.

“This grant … allows us to go a step beyond and make more of a difference.”—Susan Leigh, Coordinator, GoshenCommunity Care & Hospice

Shallow Pool of Public FundingHampering Human Services

According to an article in the Stanford Social Innovation Review, thelong-term outlook for government funding for human services isbleak. “The sobering reality is that nonprofits will have to be evenmore entrepreneurial in their funding models, efficient indeploying their resources and vigilant in serving their mission tomake headway,” authors Daniel Stid and Willa Seldon, of TheBridgespan Group, said.

Given the authors’ grim assessment that “these organizationsare left to cobble together their own resources from otherfunding sources to make up the difference,” grants like those fromthe Foundation’s Marion Wm. and Alice Edwards Fund aremore critical than ever.

“We are extremely grateful to The Community Foundation ofNorthwest Connecticut,” Kit Wright, coordinator of LARC’sTransitions School to Community program, said. “Your ongoingsupport of the area’s residents and organizations makes so muchpositive impact.”

Learn more about how human service nonprofits can advancetheir missions while contending with government cutbacks atwww.ssireview.org.

Source: The Bridgespan Group and Stanford Social Innovation Review/Winter 2011

In addition to awards for critical needs madeannually in December, the Foundation makesgrants to local nonprofit organizations threetimes a year, in early spring, late June and latefall. Last year, combined grants and scholarshipstotaled over $1.2 million.

Community Mourns a Local Legend

It would be safe to say that Fred Bruni savored every one of his 92years. And to the Torrington community he cherished, he leaves

an impressive legacy befitting his exceptional generosity andprofound civic pride.

With Fred’s passing on November 2, 2011, the community lost anincomparable friend and benefactor. A recipient of the Rotary Club’sprestigious Paul Harris Fellow award, Fred was as well-known forhis civic contributions as he was for his indefatigable goodwill.

Honored by the Chamber of Commerce and LARC for hisexemplary service, Fred also contributed his time and talents to the local Salvation Army, YMCA, Lions Club, United Way and B.P.O.Elks, to name a few.

In addition to a decades-long career in the banking industry, Fredwas a successful entrepreneur, founding, in 1946, the Fred Bruni Nut& Candy Company. Those close to Fred say he was a man whopersonified his motto: “It doesn’t cost anything to be nice to people.”

“Fred has left an indelible mark on the community he loved as wellas on the countless organizations that benefited from his generosity,”Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said. “The establishment of theFred and Josephine Bruni Scholarship Fund at the Foundationhonors his beloved wife of 65 years and will forever pay homage toFred’s remarkable legacy.”

FOUNDATION FOCUSDinneen Named Program Officer

We are pleased to announce the appointment ofHeather Dinneen as Program Officer. In her new role,Heather will oversee the Foundation’s grant-makingprocess, including all discretionary andprogrammatic awards.

A Cornwall native, Heather holds bachelor’sdegrees in social work and international relationsfrom Concordia College. She also earned master’sdegrees in social work, from Fordham University, andin strategic fund-raising and philanthropy, from BayPath College.

“Heather has extensive experience in the nonprofitsector, both here and abroad, and her expertise andglobal perspective are sure to invigorate our grant-making,” Foundation President Guy Rovezzi said.

In addition to her work as a crisis clinician for families in the U.S. experiencinghomelessness, Heather served as grants manager for a $10-million capital campaignconducted by The Meeting Waters YMCA, in Brattleboro, Vermont.

Heather’s humanitarian efforts include founding and directing the Ghana Fund, inAccra, Ghana, a nonprofit organization that supports the Christ Faith Foster Home.Her international experience also includes a development post with PayapUniversity, in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Heather and her family currently reside in Cornwall.

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Philanthropy Potluck recently reported that community foundations arecurrently the fastest-growing sector in philanthropy. According to theMinnesota Council on Foundations blog, “Community foundations gobeyond simply making grants to identify current and emergingissues, channel resources to address their communities’ needs andhelp their regions prepare for the future.” In addition, the blogrevealed that U.S. community foundations grant more than $31 billionin charitable funds in more than 700 communities and regions.According to the Connecticut Council for Philanthropy, communityfoundations in Connecticut granted more than $75 million tocharitable causes in 2010.

Written by staff of the Minnesota Council on Foundations, PhilanthropyPotluck offers varying perspectives on topics of interest to thephilanthropy community.

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Vol 5: Issue 1 | Spring/Summer 2012

Vol 5: Issue 1 | Spring/Summer 2012

Non-profit Org.US PostagePAIDPermit #67Torrington, CT06790

StewardthePLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE CFNWCT.ORG

PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE CFNWCT.ORG

Stewardthe

32 City Hall AvenueP.O. Box 1144

Torrington, CT 06790www.cfnwct.orgT 860.626.1245F 860.489.7517info@cfnwct.org

Board of DirectorsWilliam G. Harding ChairpersonTom Bechtle Vice Chairperson

John E. Janco TreasurerVictoria Patrick Secretary

Khurshed BhumgaraDan Dwyer

Brian McCormick, Esq.Gayle Moraski

Douglas O’Connell, Esq.James O’Leary

E. Frederick PetersenRose Ponte

Alyson ThomsonRoberta Lee August Recording Secretary

Guy Rovezzi PresidentHeather Dinneen Program Officer

Sandy Dressel PR/Communications DirectorLaurie Dunham Development Officer

Leslie Friscia Financial AssistantLorraine Haddock Assistant to the President

Serving Barkhamsted, Bethlehem, Canaan(Falls Village), Colebrook, Cornwall, Goshen,

Hartland, Harwinton, Kent, Litchfield, Morris,New Hartford, Norfolk, North Canaan,Salisbury, Sharon, Torrington, Warren,

Washington, Winsted

Printed on recycled paper

A s a decorated war veteran,the late Colonel James L.

Draper, Jr., knew the meaning ofservice. And when he retiredfrom the U.S. Army, in 1965, Jimand his wife, Shirley, whopreceded him in 2000, carried onthe tradition by devoting theirlives to serving the communitythey cherished.

Jim’s final—and perhapsgrandest—act of charity came inthe form of The DraperFoundation Fund, a $30-millionendowment entrusted to theFoundation. The new fund, whichrepresents the largest single giftin the Foundation’s history, willbenefit mainly local charitableorganizations by making yearlyawards to 19 nonprofits named bythe Drapers, as well as throughannual donor-advised grants.

“Jim and Shirley were well-known in Colebrook, and indeedthroughout the area, for their loveof community,” FoundationPresident Guy Rovezzi said. “Thisendowment reflects their passionfor particular causes—such aseducation and the welfare ofchildren and animals—and willforever serve as a testament totheir compassion for others.”

Love Is ServiceOne Couple’s Philosophy of Life Manifests Itself as Historic Fund

The Draper Foundation Fund: A Lesson in Inspired Philanthropy

The Draper Foundation Fund has forever changed theface of philanthropy, both for The CommunityFoundation of Northwest Connecticut and for the 20communities it serves.

To be sure, a gift of $30 million from the estate ofShirley and Jim Draper, of Colebrook, means additionalresources can now be brought to bear on critical localissues. And in terms of catalytic philanthropy, ourcommunity foundation is better positioned to play aleadership role in the region, working across sectors tosolve complex problems and maximize impact.

But beyond that, The Draper Foundation Fund has thepotential to inspire future philanthropy, which is perhapsthe greatest impact of all. Donors and fund-holders alikewill appreciate ensuing advantages such as:

• Technological advances and staff augmentationyielding improved donor services;

• Increased economies of scale in operationaloverhead;

• Heightened portfolio sophistication and opportunities for increased investment benchmarking;

• More resources deployed locally to causesimportant to our donor community.“This community gave Jim and Shirley their closest

family and friends, and they wanted to return the favorby sharing their good fortune,” Susan Caufield, alongtime family friend, said. “This fund is their way ofreaching out to those who need a helping hand, andperhaps inspiring others to do the same. Inspiring goodworks in others—that was important to them.”

As legacy gifts go, The Draper Foundation Fund is in aclass by itself. One of the largest single gifts on recordto a community foundation in the state of Connecticut,it will forever immortalize Jim and Shirley Draper astwo of the area’s foremost benefactors. And what ismore, there’s no telling how many others it will inspire.

“The historic proportions of Jim and Shirley Draper’sphilanthropy will forever be felt in northwest Connecticut. The significance of The Draper Foundation Fund is profoundon many levels; however, it does not change the fundamentalnature of our work, which is to promote the common good of all who reside in the 20 towns served by the Foundation. For that, we must now—and always—rely on the generoussupport of our donors.” —Foundation President Guy Rovezzi

Jim and Shirley Draper devoted their lives to serving thecommunity they cherished. The newly established DraperFoundation Fund, one of the largest single gifts on record to acommunity foundation in the state of Connecticut, will benefitmainly local charitable organizations by making yearly awards to19 nonprofits named by the Drapers.

PHOTO (CIRCA 1960) COURTESY OF SUSAN CAUFIELD

Be What’s PossibleOur commitment to the vitality of northwestConnecticut is strong, but your ongoingsupport is what makes good things possible.

Together, we’re bringing hope and opportunityto those less fortunate; we’re ensuring the futureof our local libraries, cultural organizations andconservation groups; and we’re advancing theeducational goals of our youth.

We’re your Community Foundation—yourpartner in improving the public good.

Thank you for your continued support. Pleaseuse the enclosed envelope or donate safely andsecurely online at www.cfnwct.org .

With public funding for essential services markedlyconstrained, nonprofits must cast wider fund-raisingnets to stay afloat. Annual grant-making opportunitiesoffered by the Foundation are helping area charitiesbridge the fiscal gap.

During the third grant cycle of 2011, nonprofitorganizations serving northwest Connecticut receiveddiscretionary awards totaling nearly $50,000. Amongthem were:

$4,475 grant to Literacy Volunteers on theGreen to purchase English-language textbooks andinstructional materials for local non-native speakers.

$2,200 grant to Girl Scouts of Connecticutfor a program designed to reduce bullying among girlsin Torrington grammar schools.

$3,000 grant to Music in Common, Inc., tosupport an educational program for high schoolstudents in Torrington, which focuses on thecommunity-building power of music.

$5,000 grant to Civic Life Project to develop areplicable program that engages high school studentsin civic life.

$6,800 grant to Police Athletic League ofTorrington to support a girls’ basketball programserving children from low-income families.

$1,600 grant to Aton Forest, Inc., in support ofa community awareness and information campaign toprotect the Sandy Brook Conservation Corridor.

In addition to grants like those noted above fromunrestricted—or flexible—funds, donor-advised,designated and field-of-interest funds helped to boostthe Foundation’s impact in 2011 through individualgrants to nearly 90 local nonprofits, including thefollowing from the Borghesi Family Fund:

$1,250 matching grant to Torrington EarlyChildhood Collaborative to create a user-friendly,interactive online community resource guide enablinglocal families to access essential child care and earlyeducation services.

The Foundation makes grants to area nonprofitorganizations three times a year, in early spring, lateJune and late fall. Find a complete listing of recentgrants online by clicking “News” at www.cfnwct.org.

Making Ends Meet: Foundation Helps Charities Navigate the Fiscal Crisis

It was an enlightening—if unsettling—afternoon forsupporters of The Women & Girls Fund gathered at the

Torrington Country Club just days before Thanksgiving. KaraDowling-Roraback, chair of the fund’s executive committee,surprised many of the 130 women and men in attendance byciting some grim statistics about the economic status ofwomen both nationally and right here in Litchfield County.

“Eighty-eight percent of those living in shelters throughoutthe region are single-parent, female-headed families,” Ms.Dowling-Roraback said. “These are very tough times and …the need … has never been greater.”

The Women & Girls Fund, established by area civic-minded women in 1999, supports programs that addresswomen’s needs and contribute to the welfare of children, andit promotes the activities of nonprofit organizations thatshare its goal of improving the quality of life for women andgirls in the Northwest Corner.

This year’s grant recipients were among those consideringremarks by University of Connecticut President Dr. SusanHerbst, whose new book investigates the way young peoplediscuss politics, in general, and how they treat each otherduring debates, in particular.

With its $1,000 grant from The Women & Girls Fund, theSalisbury-based after-school program known as Extras willcontinue to provide a safe environment for children aged 5 to12, where they can get help with homework and hone theirsocial skills.

“We want full-time working mothers to have a place fortheir children to come and not have to worry,” Extras DirectorRachel Tory-Grant told fund supporters.

According to Winsted Area Child Care Center DirectorPaige Corey, her agency’s $2,000 grant will assist workingmothers with child-care expenses. “We provide a place forchildren between the ages of 5 and 12 to have positiveinteractions in a safe environment,” Ms. Corey explained.

Through grants to local nonprofit organizations, TheWomen & Girls Fund supports programs that provideopportunities for women and girls to develop real-life skills,enhance economic self-sufficiency, build positive self-esteemand promote personal growth.

Fund Supports Women Facing Economic Hardship

The Women & Girls Fund,initiated by the Foundation in1999, provides a uniquephilanthropic opportunity forcommunity-minded women innorthwest Connecticut whoare committed to improving thelives of area women and girls byraising awareness and poolingresources. By supporting thefund, women:• Help to advance the welfareof local women and girls;• Network with women whoshare similar interests andvalues;• Help women and girls makestrategic and informed decisionsabout their philanthropy;• Join a dynamic group thatempowers other women.

In a generous show ofsupport, the State AutoInsurance Group hascontributed $10,000 over twoyears to advance the mission ofThe Women & Girls Fund. Thisfunding is helping to advancethe welfare of local women andgirls by meeting their real-lifeneeds and by identifyingopportunities to transformtheir lives.

For more information aboutThe Women & Girls Fund, or tolearn how you can support itsmission, visit www.cfnwct.orgor call 860.626.1245.

UConn President Dr. Susan Herbst (left) andKara Dowling-Roraback, Women & Girls Fundexecutive committee chair. Dr. Herbst, whodelivered remarks at the fund’s annual meeting, isthe University’s 15th president and the firstwoman to hold that position.

State Auto Farm Product Assistant ManagerSusan Chiovitti (left) and Nancy Rogers,development director for Susan B. AnthonyProject, which has received multiple Women &Girls Fund grants. As part of its commitment toadvance the economic self-sufficiency and generalwelfare of women and girls in northwestConnecticut, the State Auto Insurance Group hascontributed $10,000 over two years in support ofThe Women & Girls Fund.

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Here for good.

Here for good.