Main Street Community Foundation has made a tremendous impact on local residents through the Men & Boys’ Fund. Since 2016, over $30,000 has been awarded in program grants to support nonprofit organizations serving men and boys in Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington and Wolcott. This year, a total of $7,500 was awarded to the following organizations:

• Boys & Girls Club of Bristol - $1,500 - Passport to Manhood, a program that reinforces character, leadership and positive behavior in boys ages 8-17
• City of Bristol Youth and Community Services - $2,000 - Skills to Pay the Bills, Men’s Edition, a life skills program for high school aged young men
• Plainville Adult and Continuing Education - $2,000 - Boot Camp for New Dads program, a community-based workshop that supports the transition to fatherhood
• The Children’s Law Center - $2,000 - Legal representation of male children in family court from the communities of Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington and Wolcott

“It’s exciting – the Fund has supported three of the organizations in the past, and they have all had great impact,” stated Richard Carmelich, the Men & Boys’ Fund Advisory Board Chairperson. “Meanwhile, the Plainville Adult and Continuing Education program, Boot Camp for New Dads, is a national program that is being brought to Plainville, and it will be the first in the state.”

Established five years ago, the Men & Boys’ Fund seeks to help men and boys improve the quality of their lives, increase self-sufficiency and make a positive difference in their communities. In the fall each year, the Fund provides grants to programs that align with the Fund’s mission. In addition, throughout the year, the Men & Boys’ Immediate Response Fund supports grants of up to $250 for men and boys who may be in need of immediate assistance due to a particular life situation or unexpected financial hardship.

“The generosity and enthusiasm of the six communities we serve makes what we do possible,” said Susan Sadecki, President & CEO of the Community Foundation. “It takes many donors and volunteers to deliver on the mission.”