Pathways for Older Adults

The East Hill Woods Fund at the Connecticut Community Foundation provides grants to nonprofits and municipalities that offer services and opportunities for older adults living within the Foundation’s service area. Established in November 2009 with a $9.2 million contribution from the sale of East Hill Woods, the fund supports initiatives that help people in the region age successfully by ensuring they remain healthy, informed, and engaged. Additionally, a portion of the fund is allocated to training and educating future managers of senior living communities. The grants awarded through this fund generally fall into several key categories: promoting healthy aging, connecting older adults with information and resources, supporting successful and safe aging in the community, fostering education and creative expression, and engaging seniors in addressing community needs. A significant component of the grant program is Waterbury BRASS (Bringing Resources to Action to Serve Seniors), a citywide initiative aimed at supporting seniors through services and programs. Additionally, intergenerational projects are encouraged to bridge connections between older and younger generations. Funding may be used to develop and implement core programs that provide access to benefits, services, and opportunities for older adults. This includes assistance with chores and home maintenance, health and fitness programs, and the development of age-friendly communities that promote civic engagement and participation across all age groups. One specific initiative includes funding for Town Conversations on Aging, which are public discussions focused on identifying community needs and priorities for aging populations. Towns within the Foundation’s service area can receive $2,000 to support these conversations. Lifelong Libraries grants are also available to connect individuals aged 65 and older with library programs that promote health, wellness, education, arts, creative expression, technology, financial security, and intergenerational engagement. The Foundation prioritizes collaborative programs that enhance services in a cost-effective manner, such as shared fitness programs across multiple towns or the development of coordinated transportation systems for seniors. Grant applications are accepted twice annually. Organizations seeking funding must complete either a general grant application for proposals exceeding $3,000 or a Pathways mini-grant application for projects requesting $3,000 or less. Applicants are encouraged to review the funding guidelines before submission to ensure their projects align with the fund’s objectives. For further information, interested applicants can contact Francesca Evangelista, Program Officer, at fevangelista@conncf.org or call 203-753-1315, ext. 106.