Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund Awards $315,000 to 35 Local Nonprofits  

The Westport Weston Family YMCA (WWFY), in partnership with the Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund, hosted its annual awards ceremony celebrating 35 nonprofit organizations whose work is strengthening outcomes for children, youth, and families across the region.  

Established through the generosity and legacy of Ruth T. Bedford, the Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund supports programs that expand educational access, foster confidence, and create opportunity for young people. This year’s grantees represent a wide range of impact areas, including education, youth development, arts, mental health, housing stability, and workforce pathways. 

The ceremony served as a celebration of the meaningful work happening across the community and the organizations driving lasting impact for young people and families. Grants were presented by WWFY CEO Glen Hale alongside Fund Co-Chairs Libby McKinney Tritschler and Julie Tuttle. 

2025 Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund Grant Recipients include: 

• A Better Chance of Westport 

• Achievement First Bridgeport Academy 

• Adam J. Lewis Academy 

• Bridgeport Caribe Youth Leaders 

• Bridgeport Youth Lacrosse 

• Bridgeport Central Connecticut Coast YMCA 

• Cardinal Shehan Center 

• The Carver Foundation of Norwalk 

• Catalyst CT, Inc. 

• Covenant School of Bridgeport 

• Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants 

• Family & Children’s Agency 

• First Serve Bridgeport 

• Greater Connecticut Youth Orchestras 

• Hall Neighborhood House 

• Housatonic Community College Foundation 

• Horizons at CT State Norwalk 

• Horizons at Sacred Heart University 

• Horizons at Greens Farms Academy 

• Kids Empowered by Your Support (KEYS) 

• Klein Memorial Auditorium Foundation 

• LifeBridge Community Services 

• McGivney Community Center 

• Mercy Learning Center 

• NCC Foundation (Norwalk Community College Foundation) 

• Neighborhood Studios 

• New Beginnings Family Academy 

• Norwalk Art Space 

• Norwalk Housing Foundation 

• Project Morry 

• Shepherds, Inc. 

• Staples Tuition Grants 

• Under One Roof 

• Urban Impact of Black Rock 

• Wakeman Boys & Girls Club 

 

“We are deeply grateful for the work these organizations do every day and honored to support their mission,” said Hale. “Together, they represent the strength and compassion of our community.” 

The YMCA extends its sincere congratulations to all of this year’s recipients and thanks them for their ongoing commitment to building stronger, more vibrant communities. With gratitude, the WWFY also acknowledges its 2025 Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund Committee Members, whose commitment and guidance make these awards possible, fostering growth and furthering positive change in our community:  

• Glen Hale

• Libby McKinney Tritschler, Co-Chair
  

• Julie Tuttle, Co-Chair

• Rosemary Halstead

• Jen Malichio

• Adrienne Morrison

• Gloria Nussbaum

• Bina Patel Amin

• Bonnie Strittmatter

• Juliane Sunderland

• Barbara Wiederecht

• Kate Guthrie

For more information about the Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund or to learn how to apply for a future grant, please visit westporty.org/BFSRF. 

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About Westport Weston Family YMCA
The Westport Weston Family YMCA is a cause-driven non-profit organization whose 100-year history is steeped in dedication and compassion for those we serve and beyond. We come together from every walk of life to strengthen our community in the name of healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility. The Y is centered on helping people feel healthier, happier, and more connected and working to ensure everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity. Together, for a better us. Learn more at westporty.org.