March 20, 2015 - Before a gathering of more than 30 board members, past directors, founders and staff, the Main Street Community Foundation elected officers and four new board members at its annual meeting on March 20, 2015.

New officers elected to serve for 2015-2017 term are: John A. Letizia, Chairman; Robert M. Caiaze, Vice Chair; John D. Scarritt, Vice Chair; Michael Brault, Secretary; Valerie DePaolo, Treasurer; and Janis L. Neri, Past Board Chair.

The Board of Directors also elected four new directors representing the communities the Foundation serves. The newly elected directors are: Dan Daigle of Southington; Scott Fournier of Bristol; Jackie Merchant of Plymouth; and Bill Micari of Burlington. In addition, Pattie Dunn of Southington was reelected to another three-year term.

“The Board of Directors plays an essential role in guiding the Foundation’s work,” said Susan Sadecki,
President & CEO of the Community Foundation. “We’re grateful for the valuable expertise each brings to the Foundation as we embark on our 20th year.”

Community Foundation Reports $1.1 million in Grants Awarded; 12 Funds Established
Additionally, the annual meeting celebrated 2014, which saw the distribution of $1.1 million in grants and scholarships to benefit the residents of Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington and Wolcott.

“We were able to award this remarkable amount thanks to the community’s very generous people,” said Sadecki. “For 20 years, and continuing,” she explained, “they have established a total of 195 funds and made contributions that fuel these grants to their favorite nonprofits, their towns and their most passionate causes, like education, healthcare, and the environment. We are honored to help our donors carry out their wishes and accomplish their goals – now and forever.”

Furthermore, 12 new funds were established or transferred to the Foundation by local individuals, families and businesses. These funds will provide scholarships and grants to improve the quality of life for both present and future generations.

With the newly established funds, additional gifts to existing funds and strong investment returns, the Foundation’s assets grew to more than $38 million by the end of 2014.

“Last year’s accomplishments provide a strong base of permanent funding for our communities as we celebrate our 20th anniversary,” stated Sadecki. “We look forward to continuing our work with donors to fulfill their charitable goals.”