Saint Joseph Parenting Center (SJPC) with locations in Danbury and Stamford invites the community to attend a benefit luncheon and fashion show on Thursday, June 8th, at Cafe' on the Green in Danbury. Ridgefield Running Company founder Megan Searfoss will be the event's keynote speaker at this inaugural event.
Founded in 2009 by Ridgefield resident, Measi O'Rourke, a former nurse and mother of five, SJPC seeks to strengthen families at risk of child abuse and neglect by providing free parenting education and resource support. Headquartered in Stamford Center, the growing need for services throughout Fairfield County prompted O’Rourke to open a sister location in Danbury last year.
The luncheon, chaired by O’Rourke’s two daughters Meghan Newman and Colleen Wolfson, will include a fashion show curated by Searfoss and featuring Ridgefield Running Company attire. In addition, guests can try their luck on an array of raffle baskets, generously donated by local merchants. And an SJPC parent will provide a compelling testimony about SJPC's programs and services. “Our goal is to raise awareness as well as funds to help support our Danbury center. And for everyone who attends to have a lovely afternoon,” says co-chair, Meghan Newman.
Connecticut Department of Children and Families reports that in 2021, 1,190 children in Fairfield County were reported as abused or neglected. “This abuse can have a lasting negative impact on the child and can lead to generational abuse, as a child growing up in an abusive household may not understand that this behavior is not normal,” says, Rhonda Neal, SJPC Executive Director. Since opening its doors to parents in 2010, SJPC has grown from a $49K operation to a $1.6 million service organization, serving over 450 parents annually. Neal explains, “We expect to serve even more parents in 2023, now that our Danbury center is fully operational.”
Join fellow community members on June 8 and support SJPC important work of strengthening families and building healthy communities.
Purchase your tickets HERE.
Learn more about this important nonprofit here.