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Catalyst CT works with people across Connecticut, striving to elevate and promote the people who live in our communities as we address critical challenges linked to school engagement, youth justice, and behavioral health. Working with students, families, and community leaders, we touch more than 50,000 people annually in Fairfield County and beyond. Below are some stories of success:
When Jaylynd started 8th grade, he felt very isolated, struggling to engage with other students and to be present in the classroom. He worked with our Student Support Advocate Melissa in school and with YDT mentor Tyese outside school. We engaged him in programs aligned with his graphic design and photography goals. By the end of the school year, he was motivated to complete his classwork, and as one teacher noted, “more than not, he has a smile on his face!” He participated in the From the Concrete I Rose: Breaking Ground for the Next Generation of Artists exhibit at the Housatonic Museum of Art. He said of the experience, “I didn’t know it would turn out the way it did, and it exceeded my expectations. I plan to continue my journey in art.”
Amarla was one of two recipients of the inaugural Stephen P. Wright Scholarship. As a senior at Harding High School, she worked closely with one of RYASAP’s Restorative Practices Facilitators. High school has not been easy for her. She had to overcome adversity, drama, and even discouragement. One experience even made her feel like completing school traditionally wasn’t for her. Despite life’s challenges, she persevered and crossed the finish line to graduate high school. Amarla leaves an impression on everyone who comes in contact with her, foreshadowing the impact she will someday make on the world! She plans to attend college as a communications major. Her dream of being a flight attendant embodies how high she can go in life.
Like many in Bridgeport, Daniel experienced poverty, violence, and trauma throughout his life. Two years ago, he was referred to StreetSafe Bridgeport. Working with Dennis, Daniel graduated high school, obtained his driver’s license, and is now employed. He accomplished every goal he set for himself and continues to set even bigger goals – enrolling in college and working with his Park City Career Pathways mentor. Daniel positively impacts his community through volunteer efforts and his job mentoring and tutoring youth.
As a high school senior, Julia felt that thinking about college, scholarships, career possibilities, and applications could take a toll on her mental health if she did not take care. Worrying about her future became very stressful. Working with her Park City Career Pathways (PCCP) mentor put Julia at ease. Having someone with knowledge and experience in college or scholarship-related processes eased some of the stress Julia experienced. PCCP invited her to a STEM workshop and focus group where she learned about many technological advances in our community’s infrastructure. It motivated her to want to learn more about STEM. Julia said, “Thanks to PCCP, I feel better knowing I have a supportive and understanding group of people on my side as I look forward to the next step in life.”
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