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December 21, 2006

National Program Empowers Older Adults and Improves Children’s Academic Performance

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dec. 21, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
Cell – 860.834.0128

United Way and the Agency on Aging Launch Experience Corps

United Way of Greater New Haven and the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut are partnering to implement Experience Corps, a national Civic Ventures initiative that trains older adults (55+) to work with elementary school children to improve their reading skills. A pilot of the program will launch in January 2007 in two Hamden elementary schools, Spring Glen and Helen Street. Volunteers will mentor the children at the schools between 5-15 hours per week, will receive ongoing training in literacy tutoring skills and will organize a community event designed to promote literacy.

“This program touches so many different people in so many different ways,” says Portia Bonner, Assistant Superintendent of Hamden Public Schools. “The schools will gain a new resource in the volunteer mentors. The children will not only receive extra help in their reading and writing skills but they will also gain a new support system through the volunteers. The volunteers will have the opportunity to network with one another while sharing their time, experience and knowledge with the children and will serve as powerful role-models who will start a dialogue around literacy challenges in our community.”

Experience Corps has its beginnings in a 1988 concept paper by John Gardner, former Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and founder of Common Cause, a nonpartisan citizens’ lobbying group. Gardner’s idea was to create a new institution that would mobilize time, talent and experience of older Americans to revitalize their communities. Almost 19 years later Experience Corps is an active program in communities across the country. In January Hamden will be the 20th city to host Experience Corps. United Way and the Agency on Aging secured funding for the launch of the program from Americorps through the Connecticut Commission on Community Service. The Americorps funding will allow for stipends to be awarded to Experience Corps tutors who serve least 10 hours per week.

The number of Americans age 55 and older will nearly double between now and 2030, from 60 million to 108 million, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. As this generation reaches retirement age they represent a significant community resource as they will be the healthiest, longest lived, best educated, most affluent generation in history. United Way and the Agency on Aging hope to tap into this resource through the local launch of Experience Corps. “The program gives older adults the opportunity to connect with peers, share their expertise with children and be empowered through meaningful work in the community,” said Neysa Stallmann Guerino, Executive Director at the Agency on Aging. “Additionally, the program will improve children’s reading and writing skills and provide them with caring mentors that they can connect with on a regular basis.”

“Experience Corps directly addresses one of our region’s most critical challenges: education disparity,” says Jack Healy, United Way President and CEO. “Research has shown that if a student is not reading on grade level by the end of third grade, it is unlikely that he or she will “catch-up” in future years of schooling. United Way is committed to providing opportunities for citizens of all ages to be healthy, active and successful which is why we are so excited about the launch of this program in greater New Haven.” Experience Corps volunteers will help ensure that students are reading on grade level by working one-on-one and in small groups with children in kindergarten through grade three.

Experience Corps is currently looking for volunteers age 55 and above who are interested in tutoring children to improve their literacy skills. No prior tutoring experience is required and all interested participants are invited to an informational session and screening with Sheila Greenstein, Experience Corps Program Manager. To find out more information please call Greenstein at 203-752-3059 x 2900 or email sgreenstein@agencyonaging-scc.org.

About United Way:

United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way can be found at http://www.uwgnh.org/.

About the Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut:
The Agency on Aging works to provide a continuum of opportunities, care and support services that allow older Americans to remain in their homes and communities, avoid unwanted and unneeded institutionalization, and to age in place with dignity, respect and maximum independence. The Agency on Aging hosts additional volunteer programs including the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), a program that coordinates senior volunteers and the Senior Benefits Connection, a program in which senior volunteers conduct financial benefits and services eligibility screenings for other seniors.

More information about the Agency on Aging can be found at http://www.agencyonaging-scc.org/.


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October 6, 2006

United Way and Community Leaders to Host Conference on Economy and Education

REISSUE
DATE CORRECTION
2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

“World is Flat” Author, Thomas L. Friedman Featured as Keynote Speaker

On Oct. 6, United Way of Greater New Haven, along with other community leaders, is holding a conference to discuss the economy and educational well-being of our area entitled What Will It Take? Creating a Competitive, Economically Vibrant Region. The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Michael J. Adanti Student Center at Southern Connecticut State University. The registration fee is $25 per person. Lunch will be provided.

Thomas L. Friedman, the event’s keynote speaker, is a Pulitzer Prize-winning foreign affairs columnist for the New York Times and renowned author of the best-selling novel “The World Is Flat,” winner of the Financial Times and Goldman Sachs Business Book of the Year Award. In 2005, he was honored as one of America’s Best Leaders by US News & World Report. Friedman’s featured address will discuss how the world has “flattened” due to technological and communication advances and how these changes will affect our economy and our communities.

The conference will examine the latest data on the economic and educational disparities in our region and will explain how community members can get involved to ensure an economically successful and competitive future for Greater New Haven.

In partnership with United Way of Greater New Haven, the conference is being organized by local organizations including ACES, Bayer Corporation, Carmody & Torrance, Casey Family Services, The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, CT Voices for Children, Empower New Haven, Gateway Community College, Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce, International Festival of Arts & Ideas, New Haven Business and Professional Association, New Haven Family Alliance, NewAlliance Foundation, New Channel 8 & My TV 9, Regional Growth Partnership, South Central Regional Council of Governments, Southern Connecticut State University, United Illuminating Company, Workforce Alliance, Yale University, Yale University-School of Management and Yale-New Haven Hospital.

Those interested in attending can register at http://www.uwgnh.org or contact Kathleen Norwood for more information at (203) 772-2010 ext. 213.




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October 3, 2006

United Way Vice President to Receive “40 Under 40” Award for Contributions to Community

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 3, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

Jennifer McGrady Heath, Vice President for Community Leadership at United Way of Greater New Haven, has been selected to receive The New Haven Business Times “40 Under 40” award. The award recognizes 40 individuals under the age of 40 who have made significant contributions to the greater New Haven community in terms of professional achievement and community involvement. Heath and 39 other award recipients will be honored at a breakfast on Friday Oct. 6 at Amarante’s Sea Cliff in New Haven.

Heath is responsible for United Way’s community investments and civic engagement initiatives. She directly oversees Community Compass, a regional partnership to identify major issues and opportunities for change and Success By 6, a United Way-led effort to ensure that all children in the region are ready to learn and succeed by the time they begin school.

“I feel privileged to do this type of work,” said Heath. “In my work and volunteer roles, I have focused primarily on issues affecting children and families, including early care and education, after-school programs and k-12 education. It is very gratifying to be able to work with others in the community to improve lives and I am honored to be receiving this award.”

Prior to joining United Way, Heath was a non-profit consultant at Holt, Wexler and Farnam, where she assisted clients with strategic planning, program evaluation, and group facilitation. Her clients included local non-profits and foundations, several United Ways, and city and state government. Jennifer is also an elected member of the Hamden Board of Education.

Jack Healy, President and CEO of United Way of Greater New Haven, says, ”Jennifer is very deserving of this recognition. Her energy and experience are so valued at United Way but more than that her commitment to her community is truly inspiring.”
Jennifer is a graduate of Davidson College and holds a Master in Public Affairs from the Woodrow Wilson School for Public Affairs at Princeton University.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at www.uwgnh.org.
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September 25, 2006

Community Comes Together to Perform Acts of Kindness

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
Cell – 860.834.0128
mwade@uwgnh.org

United Way’s Commitment to Volunteerism and Civic Engagement Illustrated Through
Day of Caring Efforts and Results

Thousands of local volunteers from New Haven, Bethany, Branford, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, West Haven and Woodbridge participated in a week-long community service event organized by United Way in partnership with Yale-New Haven Hospital, Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield, WTNH News Channel 8/MYTV 9 and 94.3 WYBC. From Sept. 11-15, volunteer teams joined together in 195 projects, along with 58 drives for the benefit of our region’s nonprofit agencies, schools and parks. This annual celebration of volunteerism served as a kick-off to United Way’s workplace campaign, currently taking place.

Company teams and volunteers participated in projects such as painting murals at a youth center, reading books to be recorded for the blind and dyslexic, repairing bicycles, replenishing woodchips in a school playground, and hosting an ice cream social at a complex for the elderly. In addition to these projects, drives were organized to collect hats, books, toys, diapers, and cell phones among other items. These projects helped build relationships between volunteer groups and nonprofit agencies in the Greater New Haven area.

“Civic Engagement is one of United Way’s top priorities,” said Jack Healy, Chief Executive Officer of United Way. “We strive to increase the number of people who are active, engaged citizens in their communities by providing a wide spectrum of opportunity—Day of Caring being just one of the many.”

NewAlliance Bank employees were particularly supportive of Day of Caring this year. Many took the morning off from work to read to Wexler-Grant students grades K-5. Literacy Volunteers of Greater New Haven donated a dozen books to each classroom that participated in the volunteer project, leaving the students with permanent additions to their classroom libraries. “Not only was it gratifying to do something that helped my community but it was also wonderful to meet these kids. They were so excited to see a new face enter their classroom and it gave me the chance to share one of my favorite childhood books with them,” said one NewAlliance manager.

Over the course of just five days, through 250 different volunteer projects and drives, Day of Caring totaled over 4,000 hours of volunteer work worth $100,000. “United Way is about so much more than just fundraising,” said Heather Calabrese, Chief Operating Officer of United Way. “The success of Day of Caring illustrates our community members’ desire to connect with one another. Our ultimate goal is to improve people’s lives so one of our major efforts in doing this is providing the opportunities to connect in meaningful ways.”

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about how United Way is changing lives can be found at www.uwgnh.org.


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September 9, 2006

THOUSANDS OF VOLUNTEERS GIVE BACK TO COMMUNITY: SEPTEMBER 9-15

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2006
Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

From September 9-15, thousands of volunteers from throughout the region will participate in United Way of Greater New Haven’s annual Day of Caring. This event, one of the largest volunteer initiatives in the state, began as a kick-off to United Way’s annual workplace and individual campaign which supports their work to change community conditions and improve lives. In the wake of the September 11th tragedies and the destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina, it has evolved into a weeklong celebration of volunteerism and a way for many local residents to give back to their communities and reach out to those in need in the greater New Haven region.

Each year, United Way organizes volunteer teams from area companies, organizations, schools and civic groups and matches them with one-time improvement projects and collection drives that benefit local nonprofit agencies, schools and parks. Many of these one day projects often develop into lasting relationships between volunteers and agencies.

This year, there are over 150 distinct Day of Caring projects, activities, and collection drives planned. Activities will take place in Branford, East Haven, Guilford, Hamden, Madison, Milford, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, Shelton, West Haven and Woodbridge. With over 75 companies and organizations registered to volunteer, United Way anticipates that Day of Caring 2006 will be a tremendous success.

Day of Caring is sponsored by United Way of Greater New Haven and Yale-New Haven Hospital with support from WTNH/MYTV9, Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield and 94.3 WYBC.

For a list of projects and drives in your town or more information about Day of Caring, visit http://www.uwgnh.org/day_caring.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at http://www.uwgnh.org/.

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July 18, 2006

United Way invests over $200,000 in local early childhood programs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 18, 2006

Media Contact: Sarah McNeely
203.772.2010, Ext.225
smcneely@uwgnh.org

United Way of Greater New Haven has awarded nearly $200,000 to eight local nonprofit organizations for their early childhood programs. Grants were made as part of United Way’s Success By 6® initiative and are focused on improving the quality of early care and increasing parents’ and primary caregivers’ knowledge of the developmental milestones their children should meet to be ready for school.

United Way received over $500,000 in grant requests. Funding decisions were made by a committee of volunteers from area organizations such as NewAlliance Bank, Higher One, WTNH-CH 8, Bank of America and Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute.

The following organizations received a second year of Success By 6 funding for their early childhood programs:
Area Cooperative Educational Services for its Family Resource Center
All Our Kin for its Family Child Care Toolkit Box Licensing Project
Fair Haven Community Health Center for its Well Baby Group Care Program
New Haven School Readiness Council for The ABCs of School Readiness Project
West Haven Community House for its Raising a Reader program

The following programs were awarded new Success By 6 grants:
Greater Dwight Development Corporation for its Montessori School on Edgewood program
The New Haven Reads Community Book Bank for its Kindergarten Success project
West Haven Child Development Center for its Early Childhood Team Approach project.

Through Success By 6, United Way will also invest over $20,000 to help child care programs throughout the region attain accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

ABOUT Success By 6
Success By 6 is the nation’s largest community-based early childhood movement. Its goal is to ensure that all children birth to six are healthy, nurtured and ready to learn by the time they enter kindergarten.

United Way of Greater New Haven launched Success By 6 in October 2004 based on key findings presented by the Community Compass data collection project.

Among the data collected and analyzed, Economic Health/Disparity and Education Disparity surfaced as regional issues of highest priority. These issues profoundly affect the region’s most vulnerable children, as economic challenges and lack of quality early learning experiences can place them at a disadvantage from the start. Their chances for success in school and in later life are greatly affected as a result.

Through Success By 6, United Way is committed to addressing the root causes of these problems in order to improve outcomes for children and change lives.

Yale University and the NewAlliance Foundation each contributed grant dollars to start Success By 6 and donor support has continued to grow ever since.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

For more information about United Way of Greater New Haven’s community leadership and how you can help please visit www.uwgnh.org.


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June 25, 2006

United Way of Greater New Haven Names Director of Finance and Administration

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

Christian Diaba of Hamden Connecticut has recently been named Director of Finance and Administration for United Way of Greater New Haven. In this position, Diaba will be responsible for all financial and administrative functions within the organization. Newly appointed CEO Jack Healy says, “Because United Way of Greater New Haven is committed to financial transparency, we are thrilled to bring aboard an employee of Diaba’s caliber to maintain this level of precision.”

Before joining the United Way of Greater New Haven, Diaba held a position as Assistant to Fiscal Officer at Crossroads Inc. in New Haven, as well as a Volunteer Income Tax Assistant (VITA) for both Southern Connecticut State University and the City of New Haven in which he prepared individual income tax returns for the community. In 2004, he received the Outstanding Service Award in the City of New Haven for his work at with VITA.

Diaba graduated from Southern Connecticut State University in 2000 with a major in accounting. He also received his Master of Business Administration from Southern Connecticut in 2006.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at www.uwgnh.org.

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Local Professional Accepted into Prestigious Resident Fellows Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

Sarah McNeely, Program Director at the United Way of Greater New Haven, has been accepted into the inaugural class of United Way of America’s Resident Fellows Program. Newly introduced by the United Way of America, this Resident Fellows Program gives outstanding employees a chance to enhance their business core functions within United Way, in order to better their specific division. She will be joining 26 other United Way employees from all across the nation.

Looking forward to the start of this learning experience, McNeely says, “I’m very excited about being accepted to this program. I think that it’s a great opportunity that will help me to grow both personally and professionally.”

Throughout the year, Resident Fellows will focus on specific program objectives such as: networking, professional development, exposure to United Way Best Practices and Standards of Excellence and identifying United Way business issues and challenges in order to develop implications for change. During the program orientation, held June 19-23 at United Way of American in Alexandria, Virginia, the Fellows received customized learning based on the Consultative Selling principles.

“Sarah is one of that growing group of talented young professionals who are making New Haven their home, says Jack Healy, newly appointed CEO of United Way of Greater New Haven. ”We are fortunate to have Sarah working on a project as important as Success By 6® that has a profound impact on children’s lives. Sarah will learn from experts and other talented young professionals through this exclusive national program and bring that learning back to New Haven.”

A Hamden resident, McNeely is a 2004 graduate of Fairfield University with Bachelor’s degree in both Political Science and Spanish. After graduating, she completed a 5-month internship with the United Way of Greater New Haven, where she helped to manage campaign accounts in the New Haven region, as well as assisted in the development of effective marketing approaches. In January, 2005 she was hired as Program Coordinator for Success By 6®, a national United Way initiative which helps to ensure that all children are ready to learn upon entrance into kindergarten. Ms. McNeely is credited with the successful launching of the first and second grant cycles for Success By 6.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at www.uwgnh.org.

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United Way of Greater New Haven Appoints Director of Leadership Giving

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

John (J.R.) Logan, has recently been named Director of Leadership Giving, a newly created position at United Way of Greater New Haven. In this position Logan will focus his efforts on enhancing United Way’s relationship with its leadership level donors and deepening their understanding of United Way’s work.

Before joining the United Way of Greater New Haven, Logan held a position as Community Fellow at Aloha United Way in Honolulu. This position gave Logan the chance to experience each department of Aloha United Way by working with various accounts, helping to facilitate the grant making process, developing projects focused on community building, as well as participating in marketing and resource development functions.

Originally from Oxford Michigan, Logan graduated from Alma College with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He then went on to get a Master of Public Affairs, with a concentration in Nonprofit Management and Public Management at Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs. Logan also received a Certificate in Fund Raising Management from The Fund Raising School at the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University. In addition, his credentials include an internship position in Warsaw, Poland at the Polish Agency for Foreign Investment.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at www.uwgnh.org.

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United Way Employee Selected Co-Chair of the Greater New Haven Association of Volunteer Administrators

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

Janitha McCray Price, Community Impact Associate and Volunteer Link Coordinator at United Way of Greater New Haven, has recently been elected Co-Chair of the Greater New Haven Association of Volunteer Administrators (GNHAVA). GNHAVA is a professional membership organization uniting individuals engaged in volunteer management and dedicated to enhancing the competency of volunteer administrators and strengthening the profession of volunteer resource management.

Founded in 1983, the main goal of GNHAVA is to promote combining efforts between agencies and volunteer administrators, creating an environment that supports the enrichment of volunteer programs by sharing information and resources. This organization also provides a significant opportunity for networking as members plan and act together on matters of common interest.

Since joining GNHAVA in 2002, McCray Price has served as the organizations membership chair. Her responsibilities included developing membership materials, creating and implementing new recruitment and retention plans, and corresponding on behalf of the Association with newsletters and notifications to members and other entities.

Her new position as Co-Chair entails committing to co-leading and working collectively as one of the principal officers of the Association. McCray Price will preside at all meetings of the Board and Executive Committee and appoint all standing and special committee chairs with the approval of the Executive Committee. McCray Price is responsible for selecting and appointing committee chairs while simultaneously serving and working on activities for each committee as needed.
GNHAVA’s 2006-2007 Annual Membership is $50.00 and includes one pre-paid seat at each of GNHAVA's three workshops during 2006-2007, one pre-paid seat at AVA’s Annual Meeting, Opportunities for networking and publicizing organizational events on GNHAVA's website and quarterly newsletter. For more information contact new Membership Chair, Beverly Kidder at (203) 785-8533 or choicessccaa@snet.net.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at www.uwgnh.org.

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United Way Announces New Chairs of Success By 6® Advisory Council

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

United Way of Greater New Haven has named two new Chairs to its Success By 6 Advisory Council. Dr. Cheryl S. Saloom and Dr. John Leventhal, both accomplished professionals in the fields of childcare and education, will guide a team of over 25 professionals on the Advisory Council of United Way’s early childhood initiative. Success By 6 works to improve the educational disparities of our region through the promotion of leadership, dialogue, public policy and regional planning involving early childhood-related issues.

Dr. Cheryl S. Saloom, former Executive Director of ACES in Hamden has an extensive background in the field of education. In addition to over a decade of experience in special education, professional development and curriculum development, Saloom holds an Ed.D. in Educational Administration from Columbia University. She is the founding member of the ACES Education Foundation and the Founding President. Saloom also serves on both the United Way of Greater New Haven Board of Directors and the Successful Children & Youth Action Team. Saloom is a resident of Avon, CT.

Dr. John Leventhal, Professor of Pediatrics at Yale University School of Medicine, has been at Yale-New Haven Hospital since 1978. He is a Board-certified Pediatrician and Medical Director of the Yale Child Sexual Abuse Clinic and Child Abuse programs, including a large prevention program at the Children’s Hospital. Leventhal is a graduate of Tufts University School of Medicine and completed his pediatric residency at Yale-New Haven Hospital and a research fellowship at Yale University School of Medicine. In addition to his work at Yale, Leventhal has participated in many community activities, including the Board of Directors of Domestic Violence Services of Greater New Haven and the Commission on Infant and Child Health and advisory groups for the Department of Children and Families. Leventhal is a resident of New Haven.

“As an educator in New Haven County, I have always been committed to providing quality education to children, from pre- school through high school, says Saloom. The issues
surrounding early care and education are multi layered and are critical to the healthy and successful growth of a family and of a community. I believe that the work of United Way, through its Success By 6 initiative, demonstrates that an active and committed public can move forward a critical agenda in our community.”

Leventhal adds, “I believe that Success By 6 can help our community in three critical ways. First, it can energize and focus our community on the developmental needs of young children and how we can improve services; Second, it can help identify promising programs that need funding and support so that these programs can be expanded to meet children's needs; and third, it can help to raise money through the United Way for these efforts.”

Together, Saloom and Leventhal will lead the Advisory Council to help advance the impact of Success By 6 on the Greater New Haven community and guide its work to address the regional opportunities to improve early childhood education.

About Success By 6®:
Success By 6 is the nation’s largest community based movement of public and private partners that work together to improve outcomes for children. In September 2004, United Way of Greater New Haven (UWGNH) became one of over 360 United Ways throughout the United States and Canada to adopt the initiative. UWGNH is committed to ensuring that the children of this region are ready to learn when they enter school and have a solid foundation for lifelong success.

About United Way:
United Way brings together the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about Success By 6 or United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help please visit http://www.uwgnh.org/.

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NewAlliance Bank CEO Named 2006 United Way Campaign Chair

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

Peyton R. Patterson, NewAlliance Bank’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, has been named Chair of United Way of Greater New Haven’s 2006 campaign, Jack Healy, CEO-elect announced today.

“We are thrilled to have such a dynamic and community driven individual on our team. In this leadership capacity, she will guide the annual United Way campaign which will enable the organization to continue the work of creating meaningful change in the community we all live and work in. “

The partnership between Patterson and United Way demonstrates NewAlliance Bank’s ongoing dedication to this community. This commitment is also seen through the work of the NewAlliance Foundation, which addresses the social and economic needs of the communities served by the bank. Recently, the NewAlliance Foundation made a generous, three-year commitment to United Way and Greater New Haven with an unprecedented $300,000 challenge grant aimed at increasing United Way giving and supporting Success By 6®. Success by 6, United Way’s early childhood learning initiative, is dedicated to giving children a solid foundation by improving early childhood development and school readiness.
Cont.

NewAlliance Bank’s contributions add up to more than just dollars. By participating as an active leader in the community, Patterson’s passion to improve lives in the area has extended to her staff as well. NewAlliance employees sit on various United Way committees and are involved with United Way volunteer projects such as Day of Caring and grant review committees.

“Our commitment to the community is core to who we are and how we do business,” said Patterson. “This partnership will help continue NewAlliance’s tradition of being an involved, generous and active member of the community.”
Patterson, who joined New Haven Savings Bank in January of 2002, has over twenty years of banking experience and has been named second among the “25 Most Powerful Women in Banking” for the past two years. In addition to her United Way leadership, she serves on the boards of the Yale-New Haven Hospital and the Arts Council of Greater New Haven, as well as the Boards of the Consumer Bankers Association, America’s Community Bankers and the March of Dimes.

NewAlliance Bank is the sixth largest bank headquartered in New England and the third largest bank based in Connecticut. The Bank has 71 branches in six Connecticut counties, and at March 31, 2006, NewAlliance had $6.9 billion in assets and $3.9 billion in deposits.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

For more information about United Way of Greater New Haven’s community leadership and how you can help please visit www.uwgnh.org.

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United Way invests $100,000 in local supportive housing programs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

United Way of Greater New Haven has awarded a total of $100,000 to two new projects that will help increase access to affordable, supportive housing for families and individuals with special needs and disabilities. Both projects are collaborative efforts and involve a total of four local nonprofit organizations. United Way’s focus on supportive housing is a key component in their effort to create economically vibrant communities in the region. These investments support strategies from Mayor DeStefano’s 10-Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness. Supportive housing is defined in the 10-Year Plan as “affordable permanent housing that offers residents a range of services to enable individuals with a variety of challenges, such as mental illness, drug addiction, or low literacy levels, to remain stably housed.” That includes additional services, such as counseling or case management, to help ensure that people can live successfully on their own. United Way is the first local funder to strategically align its funding with the plan.

The nonprofit organizations who received grants are ALSO-Cornerstone, Inc. and Community Mediation; and Fellowship Place, Inc. and Columbus House.
The ALSO-Cornerstone/Community Mediation Project will hire a Supportive Housing Development Specialist to: help clients secure affordable housing; develop resources for case managers so they know more about housing resources for their clients; and form relationships with landlords to promote affordable supportive housing. As part of the project, Community Mediation will provide training in mediation and conflict resolution to staff so that they can help diffuse disagreements among tenants and landlords.

Fellowship Place and Columbus House will create the Supportive Home Ownership Program (SHOP), which will provide case management and educational programming to prepare mentally ill individuals for home ownership. The costs of their mortgage or long-term lease will be supported by Section 8 certificates. When individuals move from the Fellowship units to their own permanent housing, the door will open for more homeless, mentally ill individuals to secure housing at Fellowship.
Cont.
Funding decisions were made by a committee of volunteers from area organizations such as Coordinating Council for Children in Crisis, New Haven Family Alliance, Corporation for Supportive Housing, Empower New Haven, and Liberty Community Services.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at www.uwgnh.org.

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GoodSearch.com Offers a Way for Anyone to Support United Way of Greater New Haven Every Time They Search the Internet

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2008

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

Goodsearch.com, a new search engine powered by Yahoo!, donates 50% of its revenue (approximately one cent per search) to charities and schools designated by the users. United Way of Greater New Haven hopes to take advantage of this free and easy to use fundraising tool.

Because all money is generated by advertisers, this great opportunity is free of cost for United Way. If 1,000 United Way supporters used GoodSearch.com twice a day, the organization would receive approximately $7,300 per year. Since it is powered by Yahoo!, it works like a normal search engine with one exception: upon the first visit each user must designate the organization they are supporting. After designating once, GoodSearch will remember the organization of choice each time the site is utilized by that user. Users are also able to download a GoodSearch tool bar in which they are able to search the web using GoodSearch without having to log on to the actual website.

GoodSearch has recently been featured in NY Times, Wall Street Journal, Oprah Magazine, Fortune Small Business, and ABC News, as well as many other publications.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at www.uwgnh.org.

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Portion of New Haven County Cutters Game to Benefit United Way of Greater New Haven

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2008

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

Friday, August 11th United Way of Greater New Haven will be teaming up with the New Haven County Cutters baseball team to host a United Way Night at the Ballpark. Fifty percent of each ticket purchased through United Way will benefit the local non-profit organization

Tickets can be purchased by calling United Way at 203-772-2010, and can be picked up at the United Way office on 71 Orange Street, New Haven or at “will call” on the night of the game. Tickets are $10 for box seats and $8 for general admission.

The Cutters will be competing against the Quebec Les Capitales, and attendees will enjoy games, contests and prizes, as well as a meet and greet with players shortly before the start of the game at 7:05 p.m. The stadium is located at Yale Field on 252 Derby Avenue in West Haven.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at www.uwgnh.org.

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May 30, 2006

United Way of Greater New Haven Names New COO and Vice President for Community Leadership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 30, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

Heather Calabrese, Senior Vice President of United Way of Greater New Haven, will become Chief Operating Officer on July 1. In addition, Jennifer McGrady Heath has joined the organization as Vice President for Community Leadership. The changes are part of United Way’s ongoing effort to improve lives in our community and to focus on successful children and youth, economically vibrant communities and community wellness.

Calabrese joined United Way of Greater New Haven in September 2000 as Director of Marketing and Communications. Prior to joining United Way she served as Director of Corporate Development for the International Festival of Arts and Ideas and Vice President of Community Affairs at the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. Calabrese is active in the local community. Her volunteer activity includes work for Read to Grow, with School Volunteers for New Haven, the New Haven Free Public Library, St. Rita School and Habitat for Humanity.

As COO, Calabrese will be responsible for the daily operations of United Way including the areas of finance, marketing and communications, community leadership and investment and resource development. She is a graduate of Wheelock College and lives in Hamden with her husband, Victor, and her son, Andrew.

Jennifer McGrady Heath joins United Way after four years as a Senior Associate at Holt, Wexler and Farnam, LLP, a planning and management consulting firm in New Haven where her clients included United Way, the William Casper Graustein Memorial Fund, the City of New Haven and the City of Hartford. Heath has also worked as a consultant to United Way’s Success by 6® initiative to improve school readiness and Community Compass which identifies the assets and needs of the region and opportunities for action.

As Vice President for Community Leadership, Heath is responsible for United Way community investments, nonprofit relations, civic engagement and public policy leadership. This new position will enable the United Way to create positive change in three priority areas: Successful Children and Youth; Economically Vibrant Communities; and Community Wellness.
Heath graduated from Davidson College and has a Master in Public Affairs from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University. She and her husband, Ken, live in Hamden where she serves as an elected member of the Board of Education.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

For more information about United Way of Greater New Haven’s community leadership and how you can help please visit www.uwgnh.org.


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May 25, 2006

YOUTH PHILANTHROPY PROGRAM TO AWARD GRANTS TO LOCAL YOUTH PROGRAMS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 2006
Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
Cell – 860.834.0128
mwade@uwgnh.org

MTV/ UNITED WAY OF AMERICA STORM CORPS MEMBER, ELIZABETH WHITE,
TO SPEAK AT EVENT


United Way of Greater New Haven’s Youth Philanthropy Project (YPP) will announce and celebrate three grant recipients at its second annual award ceremony on Thursday, May 25, 2006. A total of $11,000 will be awarded to AIDS Project New Haven, The New Haven Ecology Project, Inc. and West Haven Community House Association.

The Youth Philanthropy Project (YPP) is an innovative, youth grant-making and leadership development program for high school students in the Greater New Haven area. This group is made up of fifteen local youth, ages 13-18, from ten different high schools, who dedicate their time, talent, and treasure to develop civic and social awareness in their regional community through leadership and academics. Through YPP organized events, the group raises money, which is then matched by local community organizations, to be awarded to local youth programs. This youth serving youth format is a key ingredient in the program’s success.

This will be the group’s second year of fundraising and grant making. After a second successful NFL Players Youth Clinic in March, the group sent out a request for proposals to area non-profits who provide youth related services. The group of fifteen YPP youth then reviewed each grant application and decided which programs they would fund and how much each would receive.

Additionally, a “Service before Self” award will be presented to Elizabeth White, a New Haven resident and Fordham University student, who spent her spring break as a Storm Corp volunteer in Biloxi, Mississippi helping hurricane Katrina cleanup efforts. Storm Corps is a joint venture between United Way of America and MTV to provide college students the opportunity to become involved in rebuilding the Gulf Coast.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way’s Youth Philanthropy Project (YPP) can be found at www.uwgnh.org.

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April 12, 2006

United Way Raises Over $100,000 at NFL Players Weekend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 12, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

Funds to Benefit the Greater New Haven Community


Over 25 NFL players helped raise more than $100,000 while building the community at the 13th annual NFL Players Weekend hosted by the United Way of Greater New Haven.

United Way partnered with J.L. Sports to organize the most successful weekend in event history on March 10 and 11. Money raised will benefit United Way of Greater New Haven and its work improving lives in the area. Together, with partners like Joe Linta at J.L. Sports, United Way continues to support the shaping and strengthening of the community.

Players from 15 NFL teams participated in a weekend of community service activities including a youth health and fitness clinic, visits to the Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital and the Boys and Girls Club of New Haven, and a lunch honoring the New Haven Police and Fire Departments. Players also took part in fund-raising at a Celebrity Bartending event and an NFL Celebrity Auction.

“The weekend was a great experience,” said volunteer Robert Gagliardi, a SCSU student. “The kids really enjoyed it and loved the interaction with the players.”

Among the NFL players in attendance was former New England Patriot Joe Andruzzi who was honored as United Way’s Player of the Year. Other players included Chukky Okobi and Russell Stuvaints from this year’s Super Bowl Champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots’ Brandon Gorin, Dan Koppen and Russ Hochstein.

NFL Players Weekend facilitated fund-raising while giving players an opportunity to impact the community.

“Events like this help United Way to achieve its ultimate goal of improving the lives of those in the community.” said UWGNH CEO-elect Jack Healy.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

For more information about United Way of Greater New Haven’s community leadership and how you can help please visit www.uwgnh.org.

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March 8, 2006

Keith Kountz, News Channel 8 Anchor, Named Honorary Event Chair of United Way NFL Players Weekend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2008

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

March 10-11, 2006 - New Haven

Keith Kountz, well known news anchor on News Channel 8 and UPN 9, has been named honorary event Chair of the 13th annual United Way NFL Players Weekend to take place March 10th – 11th in New Haven.

NFL players from 15 teams will arrive in New Haven on March 10th for a weekend of events and community service projects. United Way of Greater New Haven, in conjunction with J.L. Sports, will host the 13th Annual NFL Players Weekend, where 25 NFL Players from 15 teams are expected to attend.

Players will participate in weekend long community service activities including honoring the New Haven Police and Fire Departments, visits to Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital and the Boy’s and Girl’s Club of New Haven as well as facilitating a youth health and fitness clinic at Yale.

There will also be some events that are available to the public including a Celebrity Bartending Happy Hour Friday evening from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., at Hula Hank’s Island Bar at 216 Crown Street in New Haven. Or join the players later that evening for dinner, dancing and bidding at the annual Celebrity Auction to be held in the Omni New Haven Hotel ballroom. Items such as signed sports memorabilia, an African Safari Vacation package, Romantic getaways, Gourmet packages and more will be available for bidding at this gala event. Tickets for the NFL Celebrity Auction are still available and can be purchased for $50 in advance and at the door. Please call Kathleen Norwood at United Way of Greater New Haven at 772-2010 ext. 213, or log onto http://www.uwgnh.org/.

Finally, on Saturday night you and three friends can “Bowl with the Pros” at AMF Lanes in Hamden, where NFL players will be available to autograph their photos from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. and then bowling until 10 p.m. Companies or group can “bowl with a pro” by sponsoring a lane. For more information please call Kathleen Norwood at United Way of Greater New Haven at 772-2010 ext. 213, or log onto http://www.uwgnh.org/.

All proceeds from the weekend benefit United Way of Greater New Haven and the work they do in Greater New Haven.

Among NFL Players expected to attend are former New England Patriot Joe Andruzzi, who now plays for the Cleveland Browns, New England Patriots’ Brandon Gorin, Dan Koppen and Russ Hochstein as well as Chukky Okobi and Russell Stuvaints from this year’s Super Bowl Champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Visit www.uwgnh.org/nfl.cfm for a full weekend schedule and up to the minute player and auction news.

Event sponsors include The New Haven Register, Clear Channel, News Channel 8 and UPN 9, Stop and Shop and UHY.

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JOE ANDRUZZI OF THE CLEVELAND BROWNS NAMED UNITED WAYPLAYER OF THE YEAR AT NFL PLAYERS WEEKEND

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

13TH Annual United Way NFL Players Weekend Draws over 25 Pro Celebrities


United Way of Greater New Haven will honor former New England Patriot Joe Andruzzi as Player of the Year at this weekend’s Celebrity Auction, sponsored by Stop & Shop. Andruzzi, a graduate of Southern Connecticut State University and member of three New England Patriots Super Bowl Championship teams (2001, 2003, 2004), has participated in almost every Players Weekend and has helped draw other NFL players to the event. As a thank you for his dedication both on and off the field, United Way will recognize him during the auction taking place on Friday, March 10th from 6:00pm – 10:00pm at the Omni Hotel at 155 Temple Street in New Haven. Tickets are available at the door for $50. This includes registration for live and silent auction, buffet, dancing and open bar.

With just days to go before one of the Northeast’s largest NFL player supported weekend kicks off, more than 25 players from teams across the country have confirmed their participation. Players with local ties, in addition to Joe Andruzzi, include Jacques Cesaire, former Southern Connecticut All American and current San Diego Charger as well as Hamden’s Chukky Okobi of the Super Bowl Champion Pittsburgh Steelers. Also participating this weekend will be Patriots’ Russ Hochstein, New York Jets’ Cory Lamkin and Jim Miller, Quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings.

The players will spend the weekend in the area to raise funds and build community with United Way of Greater New Haven. During the weekend players will visit Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital and the Boys and Girls Club of New Haven, conduct a Celebrity Bartending fundraiser at New Haven’s Hula Hanks, host and attend the NFL Celebrity Auction at the Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale, wait tables for area police and firefighters at the Fireside Restaurant in New Haven, and participate in a Bowl with the Pros bowling tournament at AMF Lanes in Hamden and host the 2nd annual United Way/NFL Players Youth Clinic at Yale.

Tickets for The NFL Celebrity Auction on Friday, March 10th are still available. The auction is presented by Stop & Shop and will feature a silent and live auction, light buffet and cash bar. Tickets for the event are $50 in advance or at the door. Please call United Way of Greater New Haven for more information at (2030 772-2010 or log on to www.uwgnh.org.
Cont.
Visit www.uwghn.org/nfl.cfm for a full weekend schedule and up to the minute player and auction news.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at www.uwgnh.org.

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February 14, 2006

United Way of Greater New Haven Recognizes Local Organizations and Volunteers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 14, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

NEW HAVEN, Conn., February 14, 2006 – United Way of Greater New Haven honored local organizations and volunteers at their annual Community Spirit and Volunteer Recognition Awards luncheon at 500 Blake Street.

An enthusiastic crowd of over 350 attended the event which was emceed by Veronica Douglas of News Channel 8 and UPN 9.

The event recognizes local organizations and volunteers who exhibit their support throughout the year to further the goals of United Way of Greater New Haven. The awardees demonstrated their support in various and equally important ways. From partnering with United Way around specific issues such as early childhood education, to running highly successful workplace fundraising campaigns, to encouraging volunteerism among employees, United Way rang the bell for companies and individuals who work to make a difference in this community.

Community Champions: Those local organizations that recognize, support and fight for the health and well-being of our community. They encourage a sense of ownership around our most critical issues and they believe they can make a difference.

AT&T Proliance
The Bilco Company Quinnipiac University
Citizens Bank South Central CT Regional Water Authority
Hubbel Sargent Manufacturing
Knights of Columbus The United Illuminating Company
New Haven Fire Department West Haven Community House
New Haven Register Yale College Council
New Alliance Bank

Youth Leadership Award: Awarded to local organizations or individuals which believe in the potential of our young future leaders and the importance philanthropy holds as a value of successful leadership.

The Community Foundation For Greater New Haven Town Fair Tire

Bill Graustein Youth Philanthropy Project

Rick Mayer of the JFM Foundation
United Way Recognizes Local …page 2

Campaign Coordinator of the Year: This person exemplifies leadership skills and strong commitment to improving lives through the successful management of their annual workplace campaign.

Carol Blake – Hubbell

Community Impact Award: Recognizes local organizations that demonstrate a desire to create lasting change in people’s lives and in the community.

Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce Leadership Center

Town of Orange Community Services Department

Youth of the Year Award: Recognizes young citizens, 18 years or younger, who have demonstrated a strong sense of community responsibility through activities and/or projects that contribute positively to the community.

Mike Yegarian of Wallingford

Community Partner Award: Community Partners understand that by working together we are stronger and more powerful than standing alone. They embrace their roles in community change, sometimes as leaders, sometimes as supporters.

The Community Foundation For Greater New Haven New Haven School Readiness Council

News Channel 8 and UPN 9 U.S. Surgical

Spirit of Caring Award: Recognizes an organization where core values and every day actions inside and outside the workplace exemplify a sense of responsibility and concern for others.

Yale-New Haven Hospital

Building a Legacy Award: Recognizes an organization or individual who looks to the future and works to brighten that future by the actions and measures they take today.

Yale University

Chairman’s Award: Acknowledges a company that consistently exhibits and encourages excellence in community responsibility and promotes a culture of volunteerism among employees.

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Volunteer of the Year: This individual embodies the spirit of civic engagement through their dedication of time and talent to the highest goal of improving lives and building a stronger community.

Judith Dozier-Hackman – Associate Dean, Yale College

United Way Recognizes Local …page 3

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at http://www.uwgnh.org/.

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February 11, 2006

United Way and NFL Players Team up for Annual Fundraising and Community Service Weekend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 11, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

Over 30 NFL Players, Including Former New England Patriot Joe Andruzzi, Expected to Attend


25 NFL players from 15 teams will arrive in New Haven on March 10th for a weekend of events and community service projects. United Way of Greater New Haven, in conjunction with J.L. Sports, will host the 13th Annual NFL Players Weekend.

The weekend will kick off on Friday, March 10th, with a lunch honoring the New Haven Police and Fire Departments hosted by Fireside Restaurant, as well as player visits to Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital and the Boy’s and Girl’s Club of New Haven.

Friday evening will feature an “open to the public” Celebrity Bartending Happy Hour, from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., at Hula Hank’s Island Bar at 216 Crown Street in New Haven, followed by a reception where you can join the players for dinner, dancing and bidding at the annual Celebrity Auction to be held in the Omni New Haven Hotel ballroom from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Items such as signed sports memorabilia, an African Safari Vacation package, Romantic getaways, Gourmet packages and more will be available for bidding at this gala event. Tickets for the NFL Celebrity Auction are still available and can be purchased for $50 in advance or at the door. Please call Kathleen Norwood at United Way of Greater New Haven at 772-2010 ext. 213, or log onto www.uwgnh.org.

On Saturday, March 11th, Town Fair Tire, Comcast and Yale University will sponsor the United Way NFL Players Youth Clinic and later that evening the “Bowl with the Pros” event will take place at AMF Lanes in Hamden, CT, where NFL players will be available to autograph their photos from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. Companies or individuals can “bowl with a pro” by purchasing a lane for four guests and one NFL player from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

All proceeds from the weekend benefit United Way of Greater New Haven and the work they do in Greater New Haven.

"This event has become one of the biggest sports charity events in New England", said Joe Linta, President of New Haven-based JL Sports, the agency which represents the visiting NFL players. "Our players look forward to coming to New Haven to support United Way and their efforts to improve lives in this community."

Among NFL Players expected to attend are former New England Patriot Joe Andruzzi, who now plays for the Cleveland Browns, New England Patriots’ Brandon Gorin, Dan Koppen and Russ Hochstein as well as Chukky Okobi and Russell Stuvaints from this year’s Super Bowl Champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Visit www.uwgnh.org/nfl.cfm for a full weekend schedule and up to the minute player and auction news.

Event sponsors include The New Haven Register, Clear Channel, News Channel 8 and UPN 9, Stop and Shop and UHY.

Confirmed Players (as of 2/8/06)
Baltimore Ravens: Robb Butler #45 (S)
Buffalo Bills: Brian Moorman #8 (P)
Liam Ezekiel #50 (LB)
California U of Penn: Antoine Bagwell #46 (RB)
Carolina Panthers: Casey Cramer #49 (FB)
Cincinnati Bengals: Brad St. Louis #48 (LS)
Scott Kooistra #75 (T)
Cleveland Browns: Dave Yovanovits #68 (T)
Joe Andruzzi #63 (G)
Kansas City Chiefs: Aaron Golliday #45 (TE)
Kevin Sampson #79 (T)
Minnesota Vikings: Matt Birk #78 (C)
Mike Rosenthal #75 (T)
New England Pats: Brandon Gorin #76 (T)
Dan Koppen #67 (C)
Russ Hochstein #71 (G)
New York Giants: Jason Whittle #65 (G)
Philadelphia Eagles: Dominic Furio #75 (C)
Todd Herremans #79 (T)
Matt McCoy #51 (LB)
Hank Fraley #63 (C/G)
Pittsburgh Steelers: Chukky Okobi #56 (C)
Russell Stuvaints #33 (DB)
San Diego Chargers: Jacques Cesaire #74 (DE)
San Francisco 49ers: Renauld Williams #59 (LB)
Syracuse University: Quinn Ojinnaka #69 (OT)
U of Pittsburgh: Charles Spencer #56 (OL)
Villanova U: Darrell Adams #90 (DE)


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February 9, 2006

United Way of Greater New Haven Chooses Jack Healy as New CEO

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 9, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

The Board of Directors of United Way of Greater New Haven has unanimously approved the recommendation of their search committee and appointed Jack Healy to succeed Hart D. Caparulo as President and Chief Executive Officer upon her retirement in June. Healy has served United Way since 1996 as Executive Vice President with responsibility for fundraising and marketing. “Jack brings over twenty years of human service experience to this position. For the last ten years, he has worked with Hart and the Board of Directors to raise over $50M and help thousands of people in our community”, said Tom Sansone, Managing Partner, Carmody & Torrance, chair of the search committee and incoming Board chair.

Healy expressed his intention to continue the focused approach United Way of Greater New Haven has implemented over the past several years. Heather Calabrese, Senior Vice President, will become Chief Operating Officer and Ms. Caparulo, will continue to work with United Way in a consulting capacity. “Jack understands the importance of United Way and its leadership role in addressing some of our most challenging community issues, said Caparulo “We have worked hand-in-hand for a decade to reshape United Way’s role and mission in our community. I couldn’t be happier with the Board’s choice.”

Barbara Pearce, current Board chair and President, H. Pearce Company Realtors, also expressed confidence in Mr. Healy’s leadership ability. “Jack has strong relationships in the business community that will serve United Way well as he moves into this new role. He’s worked effectively with many regional businesses to help them connect to this community through charitable giving and volunteerism.”

United Way has recently partnered with several other public and private organizations in an effort to improve school readiness through its Success By 6 initiative and is concerned with the growing problems associated with economic disparity. “I am honored the Board has chosen me to follow Hart as CEO. I have been fortunate to have worked with some wonderful people in Greater New Haven over the last decade. This is a community of caring people who express that caring generously with time, talent and giving. My intention is to keep United Way focused on what matters in this community and open to all who want to make a difference” said Healy.

Healy, who grew up in North Haven, has held a number of positions both within the United Way system and with other nonprofit organizations. He served as United Way Vice President in San Francisco and President in Everett, Washington
and as Executive Director of The Massachusetts Council of Human Service Providers and Cambridge (MA) Community Services. He holds a MA in Communications from Fairfield University and BA from Ithaca College.

About United Way:
United Way mobilizes the caring power of our community to create measurable, sustainable change and to improve lives. To do this we: help identify our region's greatest needs and best opportunities for change; raise dollars and invest those dollars for results; connect people to their caring through volunteer opportunities.

More information about United Way of Greater New Haven's community leadership and how you can help can be found at www.uwgnh.org.

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January 14, 2006

United Way of Greater New Haven Names New Board Chair

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 14, 2006

Media Contact: Michelle Wade
203.772.2010, Ext.202
mwade@uwgnh.org

NEW HAVEN, Conn., January 14, 2006 – During the annual meeting of the United Way of Greater New Haven’s Board of Directors, Mr. Thomas J. Sansone, Administrative Partner, Carmody & Torrance was named Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Sansone has been on the United Way Board of Directors since 1998, serving as its Secretary, Vice Chair and now Chair. In addition, he has functioned as Chair of the Community Compass partnership, a diverse group of 30+ civic, philanthropic and corporate entities whose mission is to utilize demographic data to identify the most critical needs of the region, and to develop effective strategies for responding to those needs.

Sansone received his undergraduate degree from the Boston University College of Liberal Arts in 1982 and his law degree from the Boston University School of Law in 1985. Following graduation, he joined the law firm of Carmody & Torrance LLP and worked for 10 years in the firm's main office in Waterbury. In 1995, he relocated his practice to the firm's New Haven office where he serves as its Administrative Partner. His practice is concentrated in civil litigation, with emphasis on commercial and construction litigation. He is a member of the American, Connecticut and New Haven County bar associations, and has served on the Executive Committee of the Commercial Law & Bankruptcy Section of the Connecticut Bar Association since 1994.

Tom is an active member of Christ Episcopal Church in Bethany, where he currently chairs a committee that is working closely with a Kenyan nonprofit that is building a residential school for AIDS orphans in the rural western province of Nambale.
Sansone and his wife have lived in Bethany since 1992.

Additionally, during the annual board meeting, the following Officers and Directors were named:

Secretary/Treasurer of the Board of Directors – Anthony Santore, CPA, Beers, Hammerman & Co., P.C. (North Haven resident)
Assistant Secretary – Hart D. Caparulo, United Way of Greater New Haven (Orange resident)
Vice Chairs – Judith Dozier Hackman, Yale University (Bethany resident)
Robert J. Lyons, The Bilco Company (Guilford resident)
Alfred E. Smith, Jr., Murtha Cullina LLP (Woodbridge resident)
Directors - Barbara Pearce, H. Pearce Company Realtors (Guildford resident)
Mary Lee Weber, WTNH News Channel 8 (Branford resident) Pat Kaplan, New Haven Legal Assistance (Branford resident)
George B. Clarke, Clarke’s Clean Control
Donald R. Kehoe, Knights of Columbus (Cheshire resident)
Lawanda Leslie, United Illuminating Company
Dr. James Lewis III, National Center for Children Exposed to Violence and the Yale Child Study
Center
Patricia Sue Fitzsimmons, Yale-New Haven Hospital
Cheryl Saloom, Area Cooperative Educational Services (North Haven resident)
Alfred Smith, Murtha Cullina LLP (Woodbridge resident)
Mary Taylor, CuraGen Corporation (Guilford resident

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