Founded in 1990, Women's Mentoring Network, Inc. assists low-income women and their families with obtaining economic sustainability through education and life skills development. Through a series of workshops and mentoring programs, WMNI assists its clients with job readiness and placement, on-the-job issues, preparation for receiving a GED and/or college degree and developing individual goal plans. The organization also guides and assists young adults as they enter and finish high school and prepare for college, trade school or full-time employment. High school students are guided through the financial aid process, equipped with the necessary skills to become "college ready," and are paired with a mentor if they decide to attend college far from home. During the fall and winter months, WMNI opens a food bank for families that attend workshops throughout the year.
The United Way of Stamford partners with local and national causes to promote the United Way's work. The United Way's partnerships with charities focus on three areas: income, education and health. These initiatives help people achieve financial stability in a changing economy, gain access to health care and promote early childhood education.
Services include campaigns and fundraisers for income, education and health causes. The common goal is to strive to create real changes in the community by identifying major problems and addressing them accordingly. Visit United Way's website to check out upcoming events and see how you can get involved.
The Shelter for the Homeless provides safe, temporary housing for homeless men and strives to place them in permanent living situations and employment. Additionally, the shelter provides services to both men and women in order to help them achieve self-sufficiency. The shelter accepts donations in the form of money and time. Call the number provided for more information.
Founded in 1972, Domus is a non-profit organization that assists the city's most vulnerable children and their families through charter schools, and community and residential programs. Domus' administrative offices are located inside of Trailblazers Academy, the organization's charter middle school.
Through funds by the United Way of Western CT, private individuals, foundations and businesses, Domus operates Stamford Academy for high schoolers in the city as well as the Domus Academy for middle schoolers in New Haven. The organization also runs the Chester Addison Community Center and Lion's Den after-school program, as well as three residential home programs in Stamford.
The Urban League of Southwestern Connecticut seeks to economically empower local communities. It provides multiple services to fulfill this goal, such as mortgage modifications, the Smart Money Center's financial counselling and credit counselling. The Urban League also offers work search assistance for job-seekers over the age of 50.
Laurel House is a self-help organization specializing in helping those with mental illnesses, particularly schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression. Employment, education, health and self-respect are among its goals for its members. Visit the web site to learn more about programs and services.
SoundWaters strives to protect the Long Island Sound by educating youth. The SoundWaters education center, located within the historic Holly House in Cove Park, holds several exhibits demonstrating the importance of protecting the vital ecosystems and resources of the Long Island Sound.
SoundWaters keeps an 80' schooner ship, which is available for rent, at Brewer's Yacht Haven off Exit 7. The ship is also used for several educational programs. In addition to providing these resources, SoundWaters has a summer camp, after school programs, and an ongoing lecture series. Donations are welcom and may be given through their website.