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FRE Community Connections
Stronger Together
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Welcome back to FRE Community Connections!
In this second issue, we’re proud to continue highlighting the meaningful work taking place across our Behavioral Health, Domestic Violence, Reentry, and Mentoring programs. Every day, your dedication is making a real difference in the lives of individuals and families throughout our community.
Share Your News with Us Do you have a story, program update, or upcoming event you’d like to spotlight? We’d love to hear from you. Please send submissions to dbrackett@crj.org for consideration in an upcoming issue.
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Join the Movement—Follow Us & WIN
| | We're giving YOU the chance to win a $25 gift card every month—just for staying connected with us. Scan the QR code NOW! | |
Introducing FredTalk
A New Video Series
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We’re excited to announce the launch of FredTalk, our new video series hosted by Fred Hodges, Director of Community Relations and Enterprise House—now available on Facebook and Instagram.
Through this series, Fred shares timely insights on building stronger community engagement, fostering meaningful connections, and leading with compassion. Each episode offers inspiration along with practical takeaways for our staff, partners, and the communities we serve.
Stay tuned for upcoming conversations featuring Fred, FRE staff, and valued voices from our community.
| | | Have a Conversation to Share? | | If you're interested in being a guest speaker or sharing your expertise on FredTalk, please contact dbrackett@crj.org to learn more. | | 2026 Reentry Awards Ceremony | | | | |
The 2026 Reentry Awards Ceremony held at Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport on April 27, recognized the achievements of returning citizens who have successfully reintegrated into their communities, along with the dedicated support systems that helped guide their journey.
This year, Family Reentry Recovery Center Manager Mark Grasso was honored for his exceptional commitment to community partnership and advancing reentry success.
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Additionally, RISE clients Lorna Briscoe and Moniece McNeil were recognized for their perseverance and accomplishments throughout their reentry journeys.
Congratulations to all the honorees on this well-deserved recognition!
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Raising Our Voices for Nonprofit Funding
2026 Rally Day in Hartford, CT
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On Wednesday, April 29, FRE staff came together at the Connecticut State Capitol to raise their voices in support of increased and sustained funding for community‑based nonprofits.
By participating in the Rally for Nonprofit Funding, our team demonstrated a shared commitment to advocating for the resources needed to continue delivering vital services to the individuals and communities we serve.
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Stacy Altamirano
Clinical Intake Coordinator, Bridgeport
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Terrell Atkinson
Case Aide, Dana's House
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Deiona Henry
Case Aide, Dana's House
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Jose Oyola
Group Facilitator, Hartford
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Myeasia Taylor-Thomas
Case Aide, Dana's House
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Elizabeth "Liz" Torres
Peer Recovery Support Specialist, Bridgeport
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Rosanne Esposito
Domestic Violence Group Facilitator
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Please join us in celebrating Rosanne Esposito and an incredible 20 years of service! As a dedicated Domestic Violence Group Facilitator across Connecticut programs, Rosanne has made a meaningful difference in countless lives.
Her expertise in de-escalation and commitment to both client- and victim-centered approaches have helped build safer, healthier relationships throughout our community.
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Rosanne’s steady leadership, compassion, and commitment continue to inspire colleagues and strengthen the work we do every day.
Congratulations, Rosanne, on this amazing milestone—and thank you for the lasting impact you’ve made over the past two decades!
| | Tyra Stewart
Recovery Community Center | | | | | |
Tyra’s steady presence and genuine compassion play a vital role in making our Recovery Community Center a welcoming and supportive space for healing, hope, and connection. Day after day, she brings a calm, reassuring energy that helps individuals feel seen, respected, and supported as they navigate their recovery journeys.
Thank you, Tyra, for all that you do and for the important role you play in fostering connection and healing every day.
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Trauma-Informed Care Training Day
We recently had the pleasure of hosting a powerful Trauma-Informed Care Training led by Michelle Harter, Director of the Recovery Community Center. Open to staff, volunteers, and community members, the session drew a strong and enthusiastic turnout.
Michelle delivered practical, easy-to-apply insights that resonated across roles, helping participants better understand the impact of trauma on the individuals we serve. Through thoughtful facilitation and real-world examples, she created an engaging learning environment that encouraged reflection, connection, and growth.
The training strengthened our collective ability to respond with empathy, awareness, and informed care—an essential part of the work we do every day.
Thank you, Michelle, for leading such a meaningful and impactful experience!
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Hartford RISE Program
Through connection, support, and empowerment, Hartford RISE is helping participants build a strong foundation for successful reentry and long‑term stability.
On Wednesday, April 15, the Hartford RISE program marked an important milestone by hosting its first support group. Eight women came together in a safe, confidential, and gender‑responsive space to engage in meaningful conversations around coping skills, peer support, and healthy decision‑making.
| | | Over the past four months, this newly established program—designed to support women returning to the greater Hartford area after incarceration—has continued to grow and make a positive impact. | |
"I’m going to be honest; I was so mad probation made me come here, but I’ve really looked forward to every session. It was incredibly helpful to have an outlet to work through personal challenges without feeling judged."
—Ernie Carrion, Behavior Health Services Client
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2026 CCADV Awards Ceremony
Stay tuned for highlights from the CCADV Awards Ceremony, taking place on May 15 in Hartford, CT, which will be shared on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
We proudly congratulate our First 100 Recipient Honorees:
Charmine Boisvert, Tashina Singletary, and Shelia Stewart
Thank you for your inspiring contributions and outstanding achievements. We look forward to celebrating you!
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Join Us for Our 3rd Annual
Picnic in the Park
Get ready to make new community connections and enjoy a fun-filled day of food, music, and more at our 3rd Annual Picnic in the Park!
📅 Saturday, August 22
⏰ 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Seaside Park, Bridgeport CT
Stay tuned for further details throughout the summer!
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Women's Empowerment Event
Join us for a powerful community event dedicated to uplifting and supporting women’s health and recovery journeys.
Connect with local organizations, discover valuable resources, and experience a welcoming environment designed to empower, inspire, and uplift every woman who attends.
📅 Friday, August 28
⏰ 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
📍 FRE Recovery Community Center
75 Washington Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06604
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