Happy Kwanzaa!

Dear Neighbor,

As we enter this season of gratitude we reflect on the Kwanzaa values of Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Nia (Purpose), and Imani (Faith). These principles drive us to build a strong, supportive community for our youth and to provide them with the tools they need to thrive. 

Today we ask for your donation to support the Watoto program. Your contribution helps us build young people’s character, investing in their future while strengthening our community.

This year we celebrate our 35th season of Watoto. We are proud to have empowered over 1,300 children to develop positive social skills, healthy forms of expression, and the confidence to succeed. Our talented youth are being noticed and invited to perform at public events, from Carnival at the New Britain Museum of American Art to the CT Rhythm & Blues Festival. Through learning about their heritage and celebrating diversity, they have embraced their identities and developed a sense of belonging to their city and community.

The growth of each child is a testament to the power of collective work. It is the mentors who share their wisdom, parents who believe in our vision, artists who inspire, and supporters like you who make it all possible. We must teach our children that they each have a unique role to play in shaping the future—and we must act on that power by investing in them today.

This Kwanzaa season, let us take steps together toward a better world grounded in Ujima, Nia, and Imani. Your gift helps us build a community where every child feels valued and empowered to be their best selves. Thank you for being part of our village and for believing in this work.

Dayna R. Snell, LCSW Executive Director