👉 Support the Women & Girls Funds
The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut (CFECT) hosted a highly successful and inspiring Women & Girls Luncheon on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at The Spa at Norwich Inn, bringing together community leaders, philanthropists, and advocates to support programs that empower women and girls across the region.
The event, Leading to Do Good: A Conversation with Morgan Tuck and Elena Trueworthy, featured a dynamic and thoughtful discussion on leadership, resilience, and navigating adversity. The conversation was moderated by Karim Ismaili, President of Eastern Connecticut State University, and included insights from Morgan Tuck, General Manager of the Connecticut Sun, and Elena Trueworthy, Commissioner of the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood.
Attendees filled the room with energy and enthusiasm, engaging in meaningful conversations and building new connections rooted in a shared commitment to equity and opportunity for women and girls.
The luncheon raised approximately $33,000 in ticket sales and sponsorships. CFECT continues to work toward its $50,000 fundraising goal, with all proceeds supporting the Foundation’s Women & Girls Funds.
“These funds are a powerful example of what’s possible when a community comes together,” said Maryam Elahi, CFECT President and CEO. “The generosity and engagement we saw in the room reflect a deep commitment to advancing opportunity, safety, and well-being for women and girls throughout Eastern Connecticut.”
Since their founding, CFECT’s Women & Girls Funds have supported initiatives that empower women and girls to make positive life decisions, build healthy relationships, and overcome systemic barriers, including domestic violence and economic insecurity. In 2025 alone, the funds awarded more than $350,000 in grants—the highest annual total to date—with particularly strong impact in the Norwich area.
Recent grant recipients include:
-
$20,000 to Birth Support, Education & Beyond for perinatal services supporting young individuals who are survivors of violence and systemic inequities
-
$8,000 to Rose City Learning Center for workforce preparation and ESL programming for women
-
$10,000 to Windham Area Interfaith Ministry for housing stability for women and women-headed households
-
$8,000 to S.T.E.P.S. Inc. for programs that equip young women with tools for self-sufficiency and positive decision-making
The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut envisions a healthy, thriving, and sustainable region with greater equity for all. Through targeted funds and strategic partnerships, CFECT continues to address critical needs across Eastern Connecticut—including support for women and girls, youth, environmental initiatives, and animal welfare.
Community members are encouraged to support the Foundation as it works toward its $50,000 goal to advance the vital work of the Women & Girls Funds.
