Dear Friend,
Our Inspiring Hope 150th Anniversary Gala on September 18 at The Society Room of Hartford was a night to remember. From the red-carpet welcome to the performances by Steve Moran and Latanya Farrell and her band, and the premiere of our 150th film, our celebration was not just a milestone, but a movement: 150 years of restoring lives and strengthening communities.
Now, we turn that momentum into action.
Earlier this year, $1.5 million in state funding for Reentry Welcome Centers in Hartford, Waterbury, Bridgeport, New Britain, New Haven, and New London was removed from the appropriations draft budget for Fiscal Year 2026. Without it, fewer people returning home will get the help they need to rebuild their lives. These centers connect individuals to housing, jobs, and basic resources, and every dollar invested reduces recidivism and homelessness.
We are urging supporters like you to contact your legislators and Governor Lamont to restore this critical funding. Visit cpa-ct.org/take-action to make your voice heard today.
Our next goal is to raise $150,000 to build a new vocational training center at our REGIONS-Hartford youth program. Modeled after our successful Hamden site, the center will feature hands-on simulators and training spaces where young people can gain skills in culinary arts, transportation, construction, and more, preparing them to reenter the community with real opportunities for employment and success. Learn more about our Opening New Doors for Tomorrow’s Youth.
I am deeply proud of our staff, participants, and partners for their tireless work this year, from advocacy to innovation, and of the supporters who stand with us through every challenge. Together, we are continuing CPA’s 150-year mission: empowering individuals to change their lives for the better and make Connecticut safer and stronger for all.
With gratitude,
Beth Hines
Executive Director