Friday, December 1, 2023

11:00am-1:00pm

Connecticut Convention Center

Join us to celebrate resilience and healing, hear inspiring stories and see the impact of your generosity.

A History of Serving Young Women & Girls

Founded in 1809, The Village has a long history of helping young women and girls who need guidance and support to become resilient, confident and independent, and those who have experienced abuse and neglect to heal. Proceeds from the event support early intervention, educational and empowerment programs for young women, girls and their families, as well as therapeutic, residential and educational support in safe, caring environments. The mission of The Village is to build a community of strong, healthy families who protect and nurture children. We are now pleased to extend our exceptional care to adults by offering mental health counseling and substance abuse treatment.

Leah Inspires Us With Her Journey Moving From Fear to Confidence

I Know I Matter

Pauline Has Opened Her Heart and Home To 45 Children Over the Years

Woman of the Year

Each year, a woman is honored at the event for her extraordinary service to girls and young women. The Woman of the Year is a volunteer who advocates for at-risk girls and young women, motivates and inspires young women to realize their potential, creates meaningful opportunities for the community to support programs that serve young women and has had a transformative effect on a young woman’s life.

Past Women of the Year

2022

Jennifer Steadman, Ph.D.

2021

Paula S. Gilberto

Bio

2020

Racquel Santana

Bio

2019

Dr. Estela López

Bio

2018

Carrie Firestone

Bio

2017

Francine Christiansen

Bio

2016

Alison Coolbrith

Bio

2015

Carle Mowell

Bio

2014

JoAnn Price

Bio

2013

Linda Carlson

Bio

2012

Sallie Norris

Bio

2011

Janet Bailey

Bio

2022 Girl Within

After two years of celebrating virtually, The Village’s annual Girl Within event returned in person and with full force on Friday to raise one of the event’s largest-ever totals to support life-changing services for women and girls affected by trauma and other life challenges.

Nearly 400 guests attended to hear inspiring stories from Village clients who have overcome adversities, as well as this year’s honorees.

2022 Girl Within: Photo Highlights

Maria inspired us with her resilience and determination.

Samar inspired us with her perseverance and strength.

2022 Woman of the Year

Jennifer Steadman, Ph.D., is a fierce advocate for women and girls. As Executive Director for Aurora Women and Girls Foundation, she has produced cutting-edge research, fused vital partnerships and championed economic mobility efforts to advance opportunities for women and girls in our region.

2022 Young Woman of the Year

Shaniece Nugent is a leader within her community who annually raises funds for more than 30,000 meals to aid vulnerable populations facing food insecurity. She also co-founded an organization that educates her community on injustices impacting communities of color.

Emcee

Irene O’Connor, WFSB-TV Channel 3

2021 Girl Within Virtual Event

This afternoon was filled with hope and inspiration.

Paula Gilberto, 2021 Woman of the Year, inspired us with her leadership, support and her commitment to helping girls and young women.

Liza inspired us with her resilience.

Davine inspired us with her perseverance.

2020 Girl Within Virtual Event

The 2020 Girl Within Virtual Event was filled with hope and inspiration at The Girl Within Virtual Event! Racquel Santana, 2020 Woman of the Year, inspired us to turn empathy into action by supporting girls and young women at every stage of their lives. Clients Leah, Pauline and Alyissa and Village staff member Tiffany inspired us with their stories of hope and selflessness.

Girl Within: Previous Years

Girl Within Committee

Chairs: Jeanmarie Cooper, Dr. Elsa Núñez

Members: Carlene Bush, Carrie Casciani, Judyth Coughlin, Jane Golino, Cathy Iacovazzi, Diane Lipes, Patricia Marealle, Bonnie Parry, Damaris Rivera

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