Author Archives: Jackie Gratz
Mark your calendars for our annual “End of the Year Celebration”
Dear Shepherds Community,
It was an eventful month of October, and I am happy to report that we have a lot to celebrate. The 25th Anniversary Gala at the Inn at Longshore exceeded expectations in attendance, fundraising, inspiration, entertainment and good company. The time, effort and dedication of everyone who contributed to the planning and execution of the event was evident and is greatly appreciated. The Shepherds staff who worked diligently up to, and during, the event deserve our heartfelt thanks for a job well done. Our current and future Shepherds students will certainly benefit from the generosity of the Shepherds community.
October was also filled with several events and activities that provided new and returning mentors the opportunity to engage with their mentees both in school and out in the community. Attendance at our weekly mentor/mentee lunches has been impressive and the food has been diverse in origin, and flavors! The 9th graders at Kolbe Cathedral participated in a Writer’s Workshop led by our partners at Carnegie Prep. The Yale football team and the soccer teams at Fairfield University and Sacred Heart University were the beneficiaries of Shepherd’s support as several of our mentors and mentees joined forces to cheer on our local teams.
Seniors from both Kolbe Cathedral and Notre Dame West Haven were able to tour both the University of Connecticut and Trinity College and got to meet and hear from Shepherds’ alumni while on campus.
It’s been a productive and fulfilling beginning to the school year, and we look forward to sharing information regarding future events in the coming weeks.
Warm regards,
Tim
CLICK HERE to see highlights from our exciting Keynote Speaker, DeMaurice “De” Smith @demauricesmith at Shepherds 25th Anniversary Gala at The Inn at Longshore Thank you, De!
Dear Shepherds Community,
It is with immense gratitude and enthusiasm that I welcome each and every one of you to a new school year. It has been an incredible first month in this role, and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for making this transition so enjoyable and fulfilling.
I want to begin by acknowledging the extraordinary dedication and hard work of our staff during Cougar Camp. Your commitment to our students’ growth and development is truly inspiring. Cougar Camp sets the tone for a successful school year, and your efforts have not gone unnoticed.
The preparations for our upcoming 25th-anniversary gala are in the final stages, and I’m excited to see the culmination of everyone’s efforts in celebrating this remarkable milestone. Your contributions to this event will undoubtedly make it a night to remember.
I am equally thrilled about our new mentor gatherings, training sessions and Community Kick-Off, which play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our organization. It’s heartwarming to see new mentors stepping up to guide and support our students. Your willingness to share your knowledge and experiences is invaluable.
In the coming weeks and months, I look forward to the opportunity to meet all of our veteran mentors. Your wisdom and dedication have been the backbone of Shepherd Mentors, and I am eager to learn from your experiences and work alongside you to make a difference in the lives of our students.
Once again, thank you for your support and commitment to our mission. I am excited about the journey ahead and the positive impact we will continue to make in the lives of our students.
Wishing you a successful start to the school year!
Warm regards,
Tim