At the heart of all that Donna Ferguson does – and trust us, she does a lot – she strives to make sure each and every child and family who walks through our doors is met with outstanding services, support and compassion.

As the Associate Vice President of Community Programs, Donna oversees all of The Village’s community and school-based programs providing leadership and strategic direction, identifying opportunities for growth and ensuring quality programming.

“I believe in the mission of The Village and will do whatever it takes to make a positive impact on the children, adults and families we serve,” Donna says. “It’s my job to ensure that we’re providing quality services to everyone who comes through our doors, and I take that responsibility very seriously.”

Donna joined The Village staff in 2016 as the Director of Grants and Program Development, where she sought out new opportunities for the agency, prepared competitive grant funding proposals, and assisted with program design, development and implementation at The Village.

Previously, Donna served as the Director of Community Based Services for NAFI Connecticut for ten years. In this role she provided leadership and oversight of clinical programs providing a range of services including in-home family therapy, foster care, case management, center-based groups, and  outpatient services. Donna has several years of experience working within the Juvenile Justice system and implementing evidence-based services for this specialized population.

Donna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned her Masters of Social Work from Springfield College and her undergraduate degree from Eastern Connecticut State University.

What quote best captures your personal philosophy?
“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” -Helen Keller

What is something unexpected that most people don’t know about you?
I actually started my career at The Village before going on to get my Masters of Social Work degree – I was a Youth Counselor at Alison Gill Lodge back when it was the Shelter for Women!

What do you most want clients of The Village to know about you?
I want you to be treated just as I would want my own family and loved ones to be treated – with the utmost respect and genuine care, and without judgement.