Since 2009, the Pathways for Older Adults program at the Connecticut Community Foundation has provided targeted support to improve the quality of life for older adults in Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills. The program seeks to promote aging in place, reduce isolation, and ensure that older adults have access to essential resources, wellness opportunities, and social engagement.
Grants typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 and are awarded once annually. Eligible projects may focus on meeting basic needs such as food access and home modifications, providing health and wellness services including chronic disease management and mobility support, or enhancing social connection through creative expression and intergenerational activities. Proposals that include elements such as fall prevention improvements, navigation of public assistance programs, and support for caregivers are also encouraged.
The grant program emphasizes evidence-based, community-focused approaches, including town-wide conversations on aging and Lifelong Libraries grants that extend learning, wellness, and social opportunities to older adults. Priority is given to collaborative, cost-effective programming that increases service accessibility and impact across the Foundation’s 21-town region. A dedicated allocation of $2,000 is available for each town to hold public conversations on aging and identify local needs.
The 2026 application cycle opens February 2 and closes March 17. Proposals must be submitted through the Foundation’s general grant application process. Organizations seeking funding are encouraged to align projects with one or more of the core focus areas: basic needs, wellness, social connection, and caregiver support. Waterbury-specific programming is supported separately through the BRASS initiative.
Interested applicants are invited to contact Francesca Evangelista, Program Officer, at fevangelista@conncf.org or 203-753-1315 for guidance or to discuss ideas prior to submission.
Collaborative and cost-effective proposals are prioritized. Projects supporting intergenerational connections and evidence-based wellness are encouraged.
