Hartford, CT — NAFI Connecticut, Inc. (NAFI CT) is proud to announce a transformative partnership with the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, which has awarded $100,000 in seed funding to support the launch of our Community Liaison Pilot Program. This innovative initiative is designed to connect youth and families served by NAFI CT to a comprehensive network of community-based resources, addressing their basic needs and fostering long-term stability.
Recognizing the complex challenges faced by our clients – ranging from housing insecurity and transportation needs to educational and therapeutic support – this program will ensure families receive holistic care that transcends traditional service boundaries. The Community Liaison will play a pivotal role in bridging gaps, forming partnerships with local grassroots organizations, and tailoring support to meet the unique needs of Hartford residents.
“We are deeply grateful to the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving for their commitment to equity and their belief in the power of community-driven solutions,” said Kris Welch, Director of Development and Communications at NAFI CT. “This funding allows us to pilot a program that not only strengthens our connection to the Hartford community but also provides critical, sustainable support to families navigating complex systems.”
This partnership highlights the shared commitment to empowering families and strengthening locally led initiatives. “The Foundation is proud to support NAFI Connecticut's Community Liaison Pilot Program in its efforts to meet the essential needs of individuals and families and foster meaningful progress toward positive and equitable outcomes for communities in Greater Hartford. - Bria Gadsden, Community Impact Officer, Hartford Foundation for Public Giving.
The Community Liaison Pilot Program also underscores NAFI’s dedication to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI&B). By hiring a liaison directly from the Hartford community, the program ensures culturally attuned and locally informed care. The initiative’s goals include establishing formal partnerships with Greater Hartford service providers, including local DEI&B-focused organizations, ensuring families and children from all backgrounds can access resources and support tailored to their unique identities.
“This program exemplifies our commitment to creating a sustainable network of care for families,” said Lynn Bishop, Executive Director of NAFI CT. “We believe in empowering individuals with the resources they need to thrive both at NAFI and beyond, and this partnership allows us to make that vision a reality.”
The pilot program, launching this year, marks a key advancement in NAFI CT’s mission to empower individuals and families through comprehensive services. By embedding deeply within the Hartford community, NAFI CT is laying the groundwork for lasting, transformative change.
For more information about NAFI CT and the Community Liaison Pilot Program, please contact:
Kris Welch
Director of Development and Communications
NAFI Connecticut
49-51 Wethersfield Ave, Hartford, CT 06114
Email: kriswelch@nafi.com | Phone: (860) 284-1177
About NAFI Connecticut, Inc.
NAFI Connecticut, Inc. (NAFI CT) is a human services agency dedicated to empowering individuals, strengthening families, and building healthier communities. Through innovative programs and services, we address behavioral health, family support, youth development, and residential care. Guided by a belief in the potential for growth and change, we partner with individuals and families to create lasting, positive outcomes. To learn more, visit us www.nafict.org.
About the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving
The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving is the community foundation for Hartford and 28 surrounding towns. Through partnerships, the Foundation seeks to strengthen communities in Greater Hartford by putting philanthropy in action to dismantle structural racism and achieve equity in social and economic mobility. Made possible by the gifts of generous individuals, families and organizations, the Foundation has awarded grants of more than $1 billion since its founding in 1925. For more information, visit www.hfpg.org or call 860-548-1888.