Publication: In Your Northwest Corner

In Your Northwest Corner September 2025

October 06, 2025

Fostering Leadership Skills and Confidence Through Camp Experiences 

Tucked into the scenic hills of Litchfield, YMCA Camp Mohawk is more than just a place to swim, hike, and play—it’s a place where girls find their voice, build lasting friendships, make memories for life, and grow into confident young women.  

At Camp Mohawk, girls ages 7 to 15 are immersed in programs that foster leadership skills, and build character and confidence through outdoor education, arts and crafts, waterfront activities, sports, and adventure programming.

A recent grant from the Northwest CT Community Foundation Carlton D. Fyler and Jenny R. Fyler Fund supported camperships for girls from low-income families across Northwest CT. 

"This funding is crucial to maintaining our commitment to make camp accessible to all eligible girls, regardless of financial circumstances, as demand for assistance continues to grow," said Patrick Marchand of YMCA Camp Mohawk. 

In the words of the Mohawk Creed, "to be happy, we must be good, to be worthy, we must be kind, and to be loved, we must think love." 

 

Building Connections for Better Lives

Prime Time House empowers adults living with mental illness to lead productive, independent and fulfilling lives by working with its members on setting individual recovery goals and providing opportunities to build friendships, attain meaningful employment in their communities, and access supportive housing and transportation.

"We believe all individuals deserve to be appreciated for their unique abilities and strengths and should be encouraged to be independent and productive members in the community," said Kathi Weinstein of Prime Time House. 

Recent grants from the Northwest CT Community Foundation Nolin Selby Fund and the Northwest CT Community Foundation Karen M. O'Connor Fund supported the establishment of a flexible emergency fund to ensure housing stability for Prime Time House members. 

​“This source of immediate support will prevent evictions, stabilize housing, and provide recipients with the security they need to focus on long-term solutions for financial stability and their health," said Kathi.

A recent grant from the Northwest CT Community Foundation Keroden Endowed Fund supported the purchase of an accessible van that will make transportation and program access easier for members with mobility challenges. 

"Thanks to your generosity, Prime Time House is able to offer the assistance our members both need and deserve. Your support truly makes a meaningful difference."

 

Preserving Natural Spaces and Historical Sites

Steep Rock Association (SRA) in Washington manages 5,765 acres of land. The nationally accredited land trust conserves ecologically and historically significant landscapes, including a former railroad tunnel. SRA makes available and maintains more than 47 miles of multi-use trails open for hiking, bicycling, and equestrian activities for community members and visitors to enjoy.

SRA also manages Judea Garden, a community garden founded in 2008 that annually produces nearly two tons of organically grown vegetables and fruits for local food banks, social service agencies, and neighbors in need.

A recent grant from the Northwest CT Community Foundation Khurshed Bhumgara Fund supported "100 Years of Protecting What You Love: Celebrating Steep Rock Association's Centennial," the organization's year-long series of programs to engage the community in SRA's history and the importance of land conservation.

"Thank you for your support," said Monica Roberto of Steep Rock Association. "It means a great deal to us.

Centennial programs included a speaker series, a hiking challenge, trail appreciation day, guided walks at historical elements, and programs about climate resilience, forest health, and protecting water resources.

 

What's New at NCCF 

NCCF Hosts Nonprofit Conference: Improving Our Region Through Nonprofit Excellence
Improving Our Region Through Nonprofit Excellence, a full-day educational conference dedicated to strengthening the capacity and impact of nonprofit organizations across the region was held at the Warner Theatre on September 18, 2025.
Learn more

The Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund Provides More than $350,000 in support for Barkhamsted
The Northwest CT Community Foundation Douglas and Janet Roberts Fund recently awarded $375,050 in support of Barkhamsted nonprofits and scholarships for Barkhamsted students.
Learn more

More than $500,000 in Scholarships Awarded to Local Students 
NCCF awarded 189 students across the Northwest Corner of CT $532,100 in scholarships and awards for the 2025-2026 academic year—a significant increase from last year’s $456,000.
Learn more