Archive for Education & Youth

Karen & Terry Bergantino Educational Fund

Karen and Terry Bergantino established this designated scholarship fund in 2021 to provide an award for a Guilford High School student or Guilford resident pursuing higher education at a community college/technical or trade school and in need of financial assistance.

Janet Poss Women & Girls Fund

One of Guilford’s most dynamic, influential citizens and politicians, Janet Poss (1922 – 2019), was a remarkable woman known for her strong character, integrity, and deep commitment to her work and community.

Paul Dostie “KARE”, (Kindness Always Rewards Everyone) Fund

This donor advised fund memorializes Paul Dostie by supporting families fighting serious illness as well as youth initiatives.

Chris & Carl Balestracci Jr. Community Fencing Fund

Chris and Carl Balestracci started fencing at the same time in 1976. Chris was a freshman at Guilford High School with no fencing experience, and he came home to ask his dad to be the faculty advisor for the team because they didn’t have a coach. Carl was the Coach/Faculty advisor for the next 12 years until 1988. He also served as President of the CT Fencing Association for several years. During his tenure, the GHS team won several State Team Championships and they had many individual Champions as well.

Guilford ABC College Education Fund

A Better Chance began in 1963 as an innovative experiment designed to expand educational opportunities for talented minority students.

Richard W. Brooks Memorial Fund for Vocational Technology

This scholarship fund was established in 2018 in honor of Richard W. Brooks to provide an award to a graduating student of Guilford High School pursuing higher education or training in the vocational and industrial arts.

Robert Blake Memorial Fund for the Benefit of Guilford ABC

This permanent charitable fund was established in 2018 in memory of Dr. Robert F. Blake, a longtime resident of Guilford who passed away in 2017. The Robert Blake Memorial Fund for the Benefit of Guilford A Better Chance supports The Guilford ABC Scholarship Fund.

Maureen Cyr Caruso Scholarship Fund

Maureen Cyr Caruso, known as Mo to many, grew up in Guilford. After she passed way unexpectedly, her parents created a scholarship fund for Guilford high school students interested in nursing.

Jaffe Scholarship Fund

Longtime Guilford residents Amy and David Jaffe established this permanent scholarship fund in 2018.

Ethan Miller Song Fund

Kristin and Mike Song established the Ethan Miller Song Fund in 2018. This donor advised fund serves as a lasting memorial to Ethan Song, who passed away tragically on January 31, 2018.