Dear Team CPA, Partners, and Supporters,
As we look back on recent months, I’m filled with gratitude and pride for all that we have accomplished together. I’m thrilled to announce that our work continues to be recognized at a national level, as our Prison Arts Program was awarded a $130,000 ArtsHERE grant by the National Endowment for the Arts. This grant acknowledges both the profound impact of art on our participants and the value of creative expression in fostering hope and connection to the people who create it, their families, and the 21,000 people who viewed it at eight exhibitions this year. The success of this program highlights the incredible outcomes possible when we bring new opportunities to those we serve, and this grant will pave the way for much needed funding to help further promote the program to those incarcerated.
This year, collaboration has been central to our growth and innovation. From delivering critical services to 4,310 participants and distributing over 12,000 basic needs items take stock of all that we have achieved:
- Contributing to our recent RFP grant writing applications for Community Court, Alternative in the Community, Transitional Housing and Work Release programs
- Standing shoulder-to-shoulder at the state capital advocating for greater and fairer funding
- Taking part and hosting Open Houses, voter registration drives, financial literacy workshops, and more
- Pledging to our BEDI—Belonging, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion—initiative
- And, competing in our first ever cornhole championship tournament
Our team came together to share insights, perspectives, and expertise, demonstrating the strength of the talented individuals who define our organization. Thanks to each of you, we’re broadening our reach and securing urgently needed resources to uplift more lives and communities.
In 2025, CPA will mark an extraordinary milestone: our 150th anniversary. For a century and a half, we have worked tirelessly to support individuals through justice-focused programs, a legacy made possible by the commitment of our staff, partners, and supporters. Our annual meeting on December 4 will kick off this milestone year, with additional events planned throughout 2025 to honor the impact of CPA and recognize the efforts of our community.
One event I am particularly excited about is our Second Chance Conference on April 4, hosted in partnership with Central Connecticut State University. This will be a powerful moment to reflect on the importance of second chances and foster new conversations with government and legislative officials, partner organizations, academia and university students, social service professionals, and participants about the state of reentry, and the future of restorative justice services and rehabilitation.
I am grateful for each of you who has played a part in our journey, helping us move forward with purpose and a shared commitment to serve. Thank you for the work you do every day to support CPA’s mission and to change lives. I look forward to the incredible things we will achieve together as we honor our past and step confidently into our future.
Warm regards,
Beth