Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund Awards $315,000 to 33 Local Nonprofits
On Monday, December 9, the Westport Weston Family YMCA (WWFY) hosted an inspiring breakfast ceremony to honor 33 local nonprofit organizations that received grants totaling $315,000 through the Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund (BFSRF). The grants, awarded to organizations across Fairfield County, will support a wide range of educational programs designed to empower children and young adults.
This year’s ceremony celebrated the continued legacy of Ruth T. Bedford, whose generous gift in 2015 created the Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund. Ruth T. Bedford, a longtime YMCA trustee emeritus and philanthropist, made this transformative gift to enhance educational opportunities and strengthen the communities she loved. Her grandfather, Edward T. Bedford, established the first Westport YMCA in 1923, and her family’s unwavering support helped shape the YMCA into the vital community institution it is today.
“The award ceremony is such an inspiring event,” said Adrienne Morrison, BFSRF Committee Member. “It brings together people from around the community that put the good of others ahead of themselves. The organizations that were honored work so hard to close the education gap and provide opportunities to children and young adults that will impact them for the rest of their lives.”
The awarded grants will be used to fund educational initiatives that create lasting opportunities for young people, from after-school programs and tutoring services to college preparation and mentorship. The selected organizations were recognized for their dedication to closing educational gaps and offering transformative experiences for children and young adults in the Westport, Weston, Bridgeport, Fairfield, Norwalk, and Wilton communities.
The following 33 nonprofit organizations were recipients of this year’s grants:
- A Better Chance of Westport
- Achievement First Bridgeport
- Adam J Lewis
- Bridgeport Youth Caribe
- Cardinal Shehan Center
- Carver Foundation
- CCC YMCA – Bridgeport
- Covenant School of Bridgeport
- CT Institute for Refugees and Immigrants
- Family & Children’s Agency
- GCTYO
- Hall Neighborhood House
- Homes with Hope
- Horizons at Sacred Heart/Notre Dame
- Horizons GFA
- Housatonic Community College Foundation
- Kids Empowered By Your Support
- Klein Memorial
- Lifebridge Community Services
- McGivney Community Center
- Mercy Learning Center
- Neighborhood Studios of Fairfield County
- New Beginnings
- Norwalk Community College
- Norwalk Housing Foundation
- Project Morry
- Shepard’s Mentors
- Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities
- Staples Tuition Grant
- Under One Roof
- Urban Impact of Black Rock
- Wakeman Boys and Girls Club
Thanks to the generosity of Ruth T. Bedford’s estate, we are able to provide critical funding to these organizations, whose work truly makes a difference in the lives of young people and it is an honor to continue Ruth Bedford’s legacy of support, ensuring that the YMCA can be a leader in community impact for years to come.
The Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund was established with a $5 million endowment to support nonprofit organizations offering direct or supplemental educational opportunities to children and young adults. Each year, the fund awards one-year grants to qualifying organizations in Fairfield County, focusing on programs that provide access to education, mentorship, and skills development.
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 2024 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
- Kate Guthrie
- Rosemary Halstead
- Adrienne Morrison
- Gloria Nussbaum
- Bina Amin Patel
- Bonnie Strittmatter
- Juliane Sunderland
- Barbara Weiderecht
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.
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.
