The Center for Empowerment & Education Hosts 17th Annual Hearts of Hope Breakfast and Celebrates 50 Years
For five decades, The Center for Empowerment & Education (CEE) has stood as a beacon of safety, healing, and hope for survivors of domestic and sexual violence across Norther Fairfield and Southern Litchfield County. On June 4, that legacy was honored and uplifted at CEE’s 17th Annual Hearts of Hope Breakfast, held at the Candlewood Inn in Brookfield.
As part of its yearlong 50th Anniversary celebration, CEE welcomed more than 200 community members, leaders, and supporters to reflect on its impact and rally around a vision for a future free from violence. Founded in a Danbury kitchen in 1975, CEE has grown into a trusted regional leader in prevention, education, and advocacy—reaching over 20,000 students, professionals, and community members in 2024 alone.
The Candlewood Inn once again demonstrated its generous spirit by donating the event space, full-service breakfast, and staff support—making the morning possible at no cost to the organization. CEE extends its heartfelt gratitude for their enduring partnership and warm hospitality.
This year’s Service Above Self award was presented to the Ridgefield Thrift Shop (RTS), honoring their long-standing commitment to giving back. Since 2007, RTS has been a steadfast supporter of CEE’s mission. In 2025 alone, RTS awarded grants to 74 local nonprofits and provided 13 Ridgefield students with scholarships valued at $7,500 each.
“We are proud to recognize the Ridgefield Thrift Shop as this year’s Service Above Self honoree,” said Samantha Flynn, Chief Development Officer at CEE. “Their legacy of compassion and unwavering support for our community—especially their long-standing partnership with CEE—exemplifies the very spirit of this award. From empowering local nonprofits to investing in the future of Ridgefield students, RTS continues to be a driving force for good.”
“This event reminds us that healing is possible, and hope is powerful,” said Ashley Dunn, CEO of CEE. “At a time when demand for our services continues to rise, our work is only possible because of partners like the Ridgefield Thrift Shop and the Candlewood Inn. Their belief in our mission—and in every survivor’s right to safety and dignity—fuels our journey forward. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we recommit to a future where all people live free from fear and violence.”
If you’d like to get more involved with CEE and help us continue the work of changing stories from survivor to thriver, contact us at thecenter@thecenterct.org.