ConnCORP will host its Inaugural Community Appreciation Awards on March 8, 2026, from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM at The Lab at ConnCORP (245 Morse Street, Hamden, CT), bringing together residents, leaders, and partners to honor individuals and organizations whose work continues to uplift our community.

This evening is about recognizing those who lead with service and commitment. What we are building only happens because of the people who show up every day for this community.

The event will celebrate honorees whose impact spans neighborhoods, generations, and sectors, reflecting the power of collective effort and shared responsibility. When we invest in community together, the impact goes far beyond a single night.

Click here to get your tickets or become a sponsor.

ConnCORP and ConnCAT hosted a Dixwell Community Conversation on Wednesday at Stetson Library, where leaders unveiled the name First Haven in Dixwell and shared updates on the neighborhood’s redevelopment.

“This is not my show. It’s not our show. This is a collective effort,” said Erik Clemons, Founder of ConnCORP and ConnCAT. “What we are doing, we are doing together. Nowhere else in this country is anyone doing what we are doing.”

Thank you to the residents and community members who filled the room, asked thoughtful questions, and continue to stay engaged. When we invest in community together, the impact goes far beyond a single meeting.

Read more in the New Haven Independent

ConnCORP and the New Haven Police Department hosted our second annual Christmas Toy Giveaway on  December 17 at the Winchester Avenue police substation, bringing holiday cheer to local families.

“Seeing community members, officers, and volunteers come together reminds us of what’s possible when organizations collaborate with intention and care. This event reflects our shared commitment to uplifting local families and strengthening neighborhood connections, especially during times that can be financially and emotionally challenging” says Daniel Hunt, ConnCORP Community Liaison.

Thank you to the New Haven Police Department, our volunteers, and everyone who helped make this day special. When we invest in our community together, the impact goes far beyond a single afternoon.

Celebrating Entrepreneurship in Action!  Candice Dormon, CEO of Ekow Body and graduate of ConnCORP’s Entrepreneurship Academy, has expanded her business with the opening of the Ekow Body Skincare and Wellness Studio, a 1,000-square-foot space at 315 Peck St. in Erector Square.

What began as a line of natural shea-butter-based body care products has expanded into a community space offering soul line-dancing classes, strength training, and wellness events. Built around the principle that self-care is a necessity rather than a luxury, Ekow Body reflects Candice’s vision of combining health, movement, and community.

At Monday’s ribbon-cutting, Mayor Justin Elicker highlighted Ekow’s opening as part of the broader rise of Black women-owned businesses in New Haven. Kulturally Lit founder IfeMichelle Gardin also emphasized the community impact, noting that “dreams and opportunity are alive and well in New Haven.”

Read more in the New Haven Independent

Community in action!  Our annual back-to-school giveaway was incredible - hundreds of children received free backpacks filled with supplies, plus food and haircuts to help them start the school year strong.

Seeing families come together and children like Raheem light up with excitement over their new supplies reminds us why we do this work. When our community shows up for each other, beautiful things happen.

Thank you to every volunteer, donor, and local business partner who made this possible. Planning starts in March because we believe every child deserves to walk into their classroom ready to learn and succeed.

Still want to help? We're always looking for supporters to join our mission of uplifting local families. Reach out to [email protected]