CT Renaissance

01/16/2026

✨ Client Story Spotlight: Shelby ✨

“My experience at Connecticut Renaissance has been a true eye-opener for me — both in understanding my addiction and my mental health. Walking into group for the first time and seeing unfamiliar faces was scary, and I wasn’t ready to talk about my past. But as time went on and I continued attending groups, I slowly began to open up and trust the women around me — especially my counselor.

As I shared my experiences and listened to others, I realized I wasn’t alone anymore. The counselors pushed me beyond my comfort zone in ways that helped me recognize and begin healing at the same time. Although I worked hard to stay sober, my negative thoughts returned and I relapsed because I wasn’t ready to fully face my struggles.

After being court-ordered to return to Connecticut Renaissance, I was welcomed back with honesty and support. They had a serious conversation with me, but they also believed in my potential and my desire to change. My counselor made me feel comfortable opening up by sharing his own story — something I had never experienced before. Even when I wasn’t the easiest client, they continued to believe in me and see my willingness to grow.

The best part of this program is learning how to cope with my feelings and challenges in ways that work for me. My plan was individualized, just like every client’s, and I always felt safe and supported. I’m grateful for the chance I was given and for the steps Connecticut Renaissance helped me take toward becoming the best version of myself.”

Shelby’s story reminds us that healing isn’t linear — and that belief, patience, and personalized support can make all the difference. 💛

01/13/2026

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

Human trafficking is one of the fastest-growing organized crimes worldwide — and it often hides in plain sight. Prevention begins with awareness, education, and the willingness to pay attention.

At Connecticut Renaissance, we are committed to supporting individuals, strengthening communities, and helping prevent exploitation through care, connection, and advocacy.

Together, we can make a difference.
Together, we can stop it.

01/13/2026

Feeling like your thoughts take over when the lights go out? 🛌💭 This article shared by American Psychiatric Association shares real strategies for coping with night-time anxiety and panic — from winding down with intention to grounding yourself when your mind won’t quit. Expert tips that might just help you sleep a little easier. 🌙✨ 

Eight ways to quieten your busy mind and get back to sleep, from setting aside dedicated ‘worry time’ and folding laundry to, yes, switching off your phone

01/10/2026

Understanding problem gambling changes the conversation.
When we move away from blame and toward compassion, real support becomes possible.

Our Bettor Choice Program in Norwalk offers education, guidance, and a path forward — at your pace.

📞 203-866-2541 ext. 3019

01/08/2026

✨ Wrapping Up Our Annual Meeting Highlights ✨

And with this, we close out our final post from the 2025 Annual All-Staff Meeting — ending on the people who help guide our vision and keep our mission moving forward.

We’re grateful for our Executive Team and Board Chair, whose leadership, dedication, and steady guidance support our staff, programs, and communities every step of the way. Their commitment behind the scenes makes meaningful, mission-driven work possible every day.

Thank you for leading with purpose, care, and integrity. 💛

01/08/2026

🎉 A Million-Dollar Thank You 🎉

A truly unforgettable moment from our Annual All-Staff Meeting.

Kathleen Deschenes, CEO, and Tom Mitchell, Director of Development, were celebrated for securing a $1,050,000 grant from the Community Investment Fund to purchase the McAuliffe Center building — a milestone that will impact our mission for generations to come.

This achievement represents six consecutive applications over three years, a testament to persistence, partnership, and belief in what’s possible. Kathleen honored Tom’s dedication and leadership with a well-earned (and very memorable) million-dollar blanket — because gratitude should be as big as the accomplishment. 💛

This is what commitment, collaboration, and vision look like in action.

01/07/2026

👏 Shoutout to Our Recognition Committee 👏

A huge thank you to our Recognition Committee for the time, thoughtfulness, and heart they bring to celebrating our staff. From milestone anniversaries to awards and special moments, this group helps ensure the hard work, dedication, and impact of our team never go unnoticed.

Recognition matters — and because of this committee, appreciation is woven into the culture of Connecticut Renaissance. We’re grateful for your leadership, collaboration, and commitment to lifting others up. 💛

01/05/2026

🏆 Team Award Recognition 🏆

This year’s Team Award was proudly presented to our Information Technology Team — recognizing their collaboration, reliability, and behind-the-scenes excellence that keeps Connecticut Renaissance running strong every day.

👏 Congratulations to:
• Paul Somogyi
• Kyle Marrero
• Andrew Goddard

From problem-solving to innovation, this team consistently shows up with expertise, patience, and a true commitment to supporting staff and programs across the organization. Their work may often happen quietly, but its impact is felt everywhere.

Thank you for being such an essential part of our mission and for exemplifying teamwork at its best. 💛

01/04/2026

🌞 Happy Sunday, CT Renaissance community! Today we’re reflecting on a powerful idea from TED Ideas: instead of waiting for some future milestone to finally be happy — “I’ll be happy when…” — what if we chose joy right now? 🙌

This piece reminds us that happiness isn’t something off in the future to chase — it’s something we can create in the present moment by embracing what we already have and making space for joy in every day. 

👉 Read the full article here: https://ideas.ted.com/why-you-should-stop-saying-ill-be-happy-when/

Let’s make this Sunday a day of presence, gratitude, and intentional joy. 💫

Every time you say that or its cousins “If I just had ____” or “When I get through ____”, what you’re really saying is “I can’t be happy now.” Author and designer Ingrid Fet…

01/03/2026

🏆 Performance Award Recognition 🏆

We were proud to present this year’s Performance Award to Katena Billings at our Annual All-Staff Meeting.

This award recognizes exceptional performance, dedication, and the consistent drive to go above and beyond. Katena’s work reflects excellence, accountability, and a deep commitment to the mission of Connecticut Renaissance — making a meaningful impact every day.

Congratulations, Katena, and thank you for setting the bar high and leading by example. 💛✨

01/02/2026

🏆 Health & Safety Award Recognition 🏆

We were proud to recognize Yahaira Ramirez with the Health & Safety Award at our Annual All-Staff Meeting.

This award honors Yahaira’s commitment to maintaining safe, supportive environments and her consistent attention to the well-being of both colleagues and the individuals we serve. Her dedication reflects the care, responsibility, and professionalism that are essential to our mission.

Congratulations, Yahaira — and thank you for helping keep safety and wellness at the forefront every day. 💛

01/01/2026

Closing one chapter. Opening another.
As the new year approaches, we’re carrying forward hope, healing, and the belief that everyone has the ability to reclaim their life. ✨

Happy New Year’s Eve from Connecticut Renaissance.