The Village and the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving (HFPG) have a combined 300+ years of experience helping families in Greater Hartford.
Jay Williams, HFPG’s president & CEO, describes both non-profits as anchor institutions with a long-term partnership. That does not mean it hasn’t evolved over the years. The HFPG now provides The Village with general operational support, allowing it to best meet the changing and complex needs of its clients.
The creation of The Village’s Upward Mobility program, which serves dozens of people every year, is a perfect example. Clients meet one-on-one with coaches who help them navigate a host of issues, including mental illness and financial duress.
Upward Mobility also helps to empower people with self-advocacy and problem-solving skills to support their ongoing success. The ultimate goal: to help families become self-sufficient, gain financial stability and forge the life they want.
“The Village has helped me to understand how to save and manage my money. Upward Mobility takes you step by step to work on your goals,” said Joan Soto.
Pictured above: Village client Joan Soto with son Jonil.
For Soto and her son, achieving their goals required holistic support to help them grow and thrive. They accessed therapeutic care, were constantly motivated by their coach and gained valuable tools for financial empowerment.
“The Village has provided an excellent opportunity for us, and I recommend it to any family that can benefit from these free programs,” Soto said.
Williams says programs like this are just one way the HFPG addresses its own strategic priorities with helping families secure housing, education and employment. “There are so many instances where the services The Village provides and the population it serves align with our core fundamental values.”
There are so many instances where the services The Village provides and the population it serves align with our core fundamental values.
UPWARD MOBILITY
97
adults participated in The Village’s Upward Mobility program, which focuses on:
Family stability
Well-being
Financial management
Education and training
Employment and career
Pictured in video: Hartford Foundation for Public Giving President & CEO Jay Williams.