Dear Stamford Cradle to Career Community,

As the new school year begins, I hope you and your families are starting this first week back with energy, hope, and encouragement. A new year brings new opportunities for growth, and we are excited to continue working together to ensure that every child in Stamford has the support they need to succeed.

This summer was full of powerful moments. Our Youth Leadership Program empowered students to step into civic engagement and advocacy. Our Summer Literacy Initiative also made a real impact, helping students strengthen their skills and stay on track for success this fall.

At the same time, we recognize that many families are carrying heavy concerns. The heightened ICE presence in Stamford has caused fear and uncertainty for some of our neighbors. Please know that Stamford Cradle to Career stands firmly with our families—we are here to support, to listen, and to make sure every child and parent feels valued and safe.



In this newsletter, you’ll find updates on our summer programs, upcoming events, and resources to help guide you into the year ahead. Together, we are building a community where every child can thrive.

With gratitude,

Edith Presley

President, Stamford Cradle to Career

Summer Literacy initiative:

Building Strong Readers

This summer, Stamford students kept their minds active and their love for reading alive through our Summer Literacy Initiative. Over six weeks, campers at the Boys & Girls Club and ROSCCO sites accomplished so much:

• 15 books read
• 20+ hours of reading and writing
• 185 books given away to take home and enjoy with families

With the support of our partners — Boys & Girls Club of Stamford, ROSCCO Stamford School Community Organization, The Ferguson Library, and Stamford Public Schools — we created opportunities for children to strengthen skills, explore new stories, and build confidence as readers.

The work doesn’t stop here. Just 15 minutes a day of reading can help keep the momentum going and build strong readers all year long. Together, we can nurture a lifelong love for literacy. 

Youth Leadership Program

Wrap-Up

This summer, Stamford youth participated in the Youth Civic Engagement Program at the Boys & Girls Club, a four-session series designed to introduce young leaders to civic engagement, advocacy, government, and policy. Guest speakers—including local officials and community leaders—guided students through interactive workshops where they learned how to identify local issues, understand government systems, and engage in advocacy.

The program concluded with a celebration recognizing participants’ hard work and achievements. Each student received a certificate, stipend, and official proclamations from the Mayor and Governor. Looking ahead, several students will be elected to join the Stamford Youth Voice Executive Board, where they will represent their peers and help shape future youth-led initiatives in Stamford.

SCOPES Meet & Greet

This informal gathering is a chance for families to connect with Stamford’s Special Education Director and Assistant Directors, learn more about programs and resources, ask questions, and strengthen partnerships that support every child’s success.

Date: September 12, 2025

Time: 6:00 PM

Location: Welcoming Center, Cloonan Middle School, 11 West North Street, Stamford

Don’t miss this opportunity to meet the team and build community.

2025 Impact Breakfast

Your support is vital to our mission! Join us for an inspiring morning of connection and purpose at "Creating Real Change, Together: 2025 Impact Breakfast", hosted by United Way Coastal and Western Connecticut and presented by Comcast.

Together with advocates, nonprofit partners, corporate leaders, and elected officials, we'll mark the beginning of a new year of impact, collaboration, and community-led change.

Date: Wednesday, September 10

Time: 8:00 am 

Location: Pinstripes in Norwalk, CT

Stay connected and never miss an event—subscribe to our calendar for updates on upcoming community events!

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