CARVER VOICES - APRIL

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

Westchester Country Club

Anne Bradner, CEO and Claire Steinberg (l to r)

JC Alejaldre

Our Spring Gala on April 5th was more than just a celebration — it was a powerful testament to the strength of community. We raised over $600,000, an investment in our children, teens, and families who rely on Carver Center every day.


We were proud to honor Claire Steinberg, our 2025 Sister Rosemary Sheehan Award recipient, whose dedication to service continues to inspire

us all. The evening was filled with powerful moments — none more moving than hearing the story of Juan Carlos “JC” Alejaldre, who first walked

through our doors at just six years old.

Today, JC stands tall, with confidence, purpose, and a deep sense of belonging — thanks to the programs and people at Carver Center.

JC is currently the Director of Community & Population Health,

New York-Presbyterian Hospital, and Professor, Dept. of Health Policy & Management, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health


👉 Click here to relive the magic of the night through our Gala photos!

(Photos courtesy of Oxygen House Photography)


We look forward to celebrating with you in 2026!

APRIL IS VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION MONTH

April shines a spotlight on the heart of our community during

National Volunteer Appreciation Month, a time to thank the incredible individuals who dedicate their time and talent.



The dedication of volunteers at Carver, including Julia, her daughter, Alexa, and George, directly transforms lives and strengthens our community.

Alexa and Julia

"What I enjoy most is being able to help people in the community, especially seniors, get access to the food they need, and getting to do it alongside my daughter makes it even more special."

George

"I've been volunteering since 2019.

It's been a rewarding journey.

After retiring, I found myself wanting to stay active. I came across Carver and was really impressed by the mission. What I enjoy most is the opportunity to interact with new people. Those moments of genuine connection is what keeps me coming back."

TAKING TIME TO BREATHE

Carver Center hosted Wellness Week during Spring Break for our RECOVS students, focusing on physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Through daily themed activities—like mindfulness, music and emotions, stress relief, teamwork, and gratitude—students explored healthy habits and personal growth.


RECOVS, operated by Carver staff in close partnership with the School District, is funded by the NYS Recover from COVID School Program Grant, and operates in all Port Chester schools. This school year, we have provided academic and social emotional programs to over 900 students.


On Mission Monday, each student was able to express their dreams, goals, and personal stories in a visual and powerful way, through the creation of vision boards—thanks to the wide variety of images that were collected by staff.


Wellness Wednesday's activity brought the concept of how-to-manage stress. Students used their creativity skills and crafted their own stress ball.

DID YOU SAY SPRING BREAK?

 

Our Teen Center students spent Spring Break exploring their futures through college tours!


The schools visited included SUNY Albany, Manhattanville University and Stony Brook University. Teens were engaged with college students and staff, learned about campus life, and gained insight into the path to higher education.


These valuable experiences sparked conversations about college readiness, academic goals, and what it takes to succeed.

 

CARVER CENTER RECEIVES $100,000

 

Through the Westchester County CDBG-CV funding, we are able to stock our self-choice Carver Market with healthy food options for our clients.


We are grateful for this support that helps nourish our community during Market days on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Seniors are invited to shop for a special hour designated just for them.


“This investment enhances our ability to fight food insecurity and nourish our community. Westchester County’s support has allowed us to provide essential services and ensure our neighbors receive the resources they need to thrive,” said Anne Bradner, CEO.

 

CARVER CENTER HOSTS EMERGING LEADERS 

As the host for Nonprofit Westchester’s Emerging Leaders program, Carver Center provided participants with firsthand exposure to its mission and operations, showcasing how it addresses the needs of the Port Chester community. Hosting the program fosters collaboration and raises awareness about Carver Center’s services. Additionally, the interaction between Carver Center and program participants facilitates the exchange of ideas and best practices, contributing to the overall strength and effectiveness of the nonprofit sector in the region.

MEET OUR NEW AQUATICS DIRECTOR

 

We’re excited to welcome Gloria Reyna-Bueno as Carver Center’s new Aquatics Director! With a passion for water safety, youth development, and years of experience in instruction and facility management, Gloria brings energy and expertise to our team. She’s committed to helping every swimmer feel confident and empowered.


Join us in giving her a warm Carver Center welcome!

GREEN LIGHT FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

Carver Center's Scholarship Program honors academic excellence and active participation in Teen Center programming. Open to high school seniors and Teen Center alumni, applicants are evaluated on the Four Pillars: Personal Growth, Academic Achievement, Leadership, and Enrichment. This year, 33 teens are applying. Our staff is actively guiding them through interviews and the application process.


Good luck to all—and congratulations on your hard work and success!

2024 Scholarship cohort

A HAPPY EASTER FOR ALL

Carver Center's Dinner at Noon is a cherished community meal program that offers free hot lunches every Saturday from 11:00am to 1:00pm. In celebration of the Easter season, Carver Center, in partnership with Harvest Time Church, distributed 50 Easter ham kits to our Dinner at Noon guests. Each kit included a delicious and nutritious meal of ham, rice, beans, string beans, and yams.


We extend our gratitude to Harvest Time

Church and all our partners for their

unwavering commitment to supporting the Dinner at Noon program throughout the year.

HELP US NOURISH, EDUCATE, AND EMPOWER OUR COMMUNITY

www.carvercenter.org


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