Greetings, Stamford community members! 

As summer continues to shine its warm embrace upon us, Stamford Cradle to Career is excited to bring you the latest updates and initiatives aimed at nurturing the growth and development of our children and youth. Here's what's happening this month: 

Stamford Summer Literacy Initiative (SSLI)  

We're thrilled to continue our partnership with Stamford Public Schools, ROSSCO, and the Boys and Girls Club for the Stamford Summer Literacy Initiative (SSLI). This collaborative effort is designed to ensure that children have access to enriching literary experiences during the summer months. By joining hands, we're fostering a love for reading that will last a lifetime. 

Bridge to College Program (B2C)  

Celebrating a major milestone, our Bridge to College Program (B2C) has successfully supported over 80 Stamford Public Schools graduates with college placement. This program has been a guiding light for students as they transition from high school to higher education, helping them navigate the complexities of the application process and providing the necessary support to ensure their success. 

National Black Business Month  

August holds a special significance as National Black Business Month, where we acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of Black entrepreneurs, business owners, and innovators who enrich our community and economy. Let's take a moment to recognize their achievements and continue to support Black-owned businesses not just this month, but throughout the year. 

Backpack Giveaways and Community Events  

As the school year approaches, our community calendar is filled with exciting events to help our students gear up for success. Look out for information on backpack giveaways, ensuring that every child is equipped with the tools they need to excel in their studies.

Commemorating the Historic March on Washington  

On August 28, we commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Historic March on Washington. This momentous event in our nation's history reminds us of the sacrifices made and the progress achieved in the fight for civil rights. Let us remember and honor the legacy of those who marched, and let's continue our efforts to ensure civil rights for all members of our community. 

As we step into August, let's do so with the spirit of unity and determination. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our children, our community, and the world around us. Stay engaged, stay inspired, and stay connected with Stamford Cradle to Career. 

Warm regards, 

Edith Presley  

President, Stamford Cradle to Career

Please scroll down for important and timely information.

Let's get ready for the New School Year!

Waterford Upstart is an at-home early learning program that gives you the tools, coaching, and resources to put your child on a path to academic success. This FREE program is geared toward helping children the year before Kindergarten (for those entering Kindergarten in Fall 2024)!

Families who register receive:

• Proven, adaptive, pre-k, science-based and data-driven early learning program with incredible data and results

• A new computer (to keep) and Internet access if needed

• The Program runs for the year in preparation for kindergarten in Fall ’24. The year-long program starts in September, with laptops/tablets begin shipped end of August

• Personalized family coaching (in English, Spanish and other languages (135+) are supported through via phone using a third-party translation service)

Register by August 31st! Families can register today by calling 888-982-9898

or visit: WATERFORD.ORG

Language interpretation is available in many languages.

Certification 101:

Become a Teacher in CT



Learn how to become a teacher and get your questions answered from an experienced local educator and career coach.

Get access to all of our free services for future teachers including scholarships,1 on 1 career coaching, how-to guides and more.



Wed., August 9 at 5:00pm

Wed., September 13 at 5:00pm

Wed., October 18 at 5:00pm

Wed., November 15 at 5:00pm

Wed., December 13 at 5:00pm

Register now for the virtual

event via Zoom:

Connecticut.teach.org!

How to Increase Youth Engagement and Partnerships within Collective Impact Initiatives.

August 17 at 2pm

Collective Impact Forum

Virtual Office Hour

Joining us to answer your questions are Frank Mirabal (Opportunity Youth Forum), Joel Miranda (Global Opportunity Youth Network), and Cindy Santos (Collective Impact Forum and Aspen Forum for

Community Solutions)

Can't make the time? This session will be recorded and registering means you'll receive a copy of the recording approximately two days after the live event. 

Click here to register for free

Youth Mental Health First

Aid Training - in Spanish 

This training is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations.

Training will take place on

August 9, 16, 23 and 30

From 6 pm to 8 pm at Americares Wellness Center.

Food will be served.

You can register today by

e-mailing Fernanda Morena Soto