Reflecting on 2025: A Year of Connection, Growth, and Community
As we reflect on 2025, we’re filled with gratitude for a year defined by connection, creativity, and meaningful growth at Parents’ Foundation. Each moment, big and small, played a role in strengthening our mission to support individuals and families on their mental health journeys.
We were proud to host several impactful events that brought our community together in powerful ways. We kicked off the year with our first-ever Family Bingo Night, creating a joyful space for laughter, connection, and togetherness. Our 2nd Annual Family Day BBQ continued to build on those bonds, offering a day filled with food, fun, and shared experiences. We closed out the year with the 4th Annual Arts in Action Art Show, a celebration of self-expression and creativity that highlighted the incredible talent within our programs. Each event reflected our commitment to fostering connection, celebrating individuality, and building a strong, supportive community.
Colorful decorations set the stage for our first-ever Family Bingo Night, bringing residents and fam Refreshments ready for guests at Family Bingo Night, creating a welcoming environment for community A cozy lounge setup ready for residents and families to enjoy games, conversation, and community con Evening view of our Arts in Action exhibit, highlighting resident creativity and self-expression. Walking through the gallery, visitors explore a variety of resident artwork on display. Close-up of featured artwork showcasing talent and creativity Parents’ Foundation table at the Arts in Action Art Show, welcoming visitors and celebrating residen A wide selection of resident artwork on display, representing diverse styles and perspectives. Refreshment station for gallery visitors, offering drinks and snacks to enjoy during the exhibit. Italian Ice Cart Parents’ Foundation table at a community event, engaging with families and residents. BBQ and outdoor fun at our Annual Family Day, providing residents with food, games, and connection. Evening community space adorned with lights for socializing and connection. Residents and staff together at our Annual Family Day, celebrating community and connection. Group photo at the Annual Family Day, highlighting the joy and togetherness of our community.
Giving back remained a core part of who we are this year. Parents’ Foundation was honored to sponsor the CT NAMI Walk, the Fantasy of Lights in New Haven, and the Annual Nonprofit Conference (ANC). Whether uplifting the mental health community, supporting our local New Haven neighborhoods, or standing alongside fellow nonprofits, we believe in paying forward the support we’ve been fortunate to receive. We look forward to even more opportunities to engage and give back in 2026.
Staff posing with Yard Goats Mascot at the NAMI Walk Group Picture of Family and Staff at the NAMI CT Walk Group Picture of Staff at NAMI CT Walk. Parents' Foundation table at the ANC Conference Live Drawing about Nonprofits at the ANC conference. ANC Conference sign. Sponsorship sign at Fantasy of Lights Tahnesha and Kyleigh at the opening night of Fantasy of lights standing by one of the displays. 
Video Display of the Bear Toss at Fantasy of Lights
Collaboration and advocacy also took a meaningful step forward as we joined the Community Integration Program Association (CIPA) as a Founding Member. This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to growth, collaboration, and advancing community integration within the behavioral health field. We’re equally grateful to continue our long-standing membership with ARTA (American Residential Treatment Association), whose mission and network align closely with our dedication to quality, person-centered care.
This year also took Parents’ Foundation well beyond our local community. Our team attended over 12 conferences across the United States, providing valuable opportunities to share more about our programs and offerings while connecting with professionals across the behavioral health and nonprofit sectors. These experiences allowed us not only to highlight our work but also to listen, learn, and bring back new ideas to better support our residents and community. Each conference strengthened our approach and helped us continue to enhance what we offer in thoughtful, intentional ways.
Bridge on the way to DC conference. Train station on the way to DC Conference. Table at New Havens Big Connect Conference Group of members from ARTA at the Cape Cod Symposium. Group of members from ARTA at the Cape Cod Symposium. Group of members from ARTA at the Cape Cod Symposium. Group of members from ARTA at the Cape Cod Symposium. Parents' Foundation table at Cape Cod Symposium Group of members from ARTA at the Cape Cod Symposium. Group of members from ARTA at the Cape Cod Symposium. Bags from an event hosted by mental health programs at the Cape Cod Symposium
Community partnerships made a tangible impact this year. We were thrilled to be selected as Elicit Brewing’s Nonprofit of the Month for October, raising over $1,500 to directly benefit our programs. Their generosity and the support of our wider community serve as a powerful reminder of what’s possible through partnership and shared purpose.
Sharing our story beyond our walls was another highlight of 2025. Tahnesha and Kyleigh had the opportunity to appear on CT Buzz to discuss Home for the Holidays and spotlight the work of Parents’ Foundation during the holiday season. We’re grateful for the platform and excited to return for five new CT Buzz segments in 2026, where we’ll continue highlighting our programs, initiatives, and the impact of our community partnerships.
Tahnesha and Kyleigh behind the scenes at WTNH Tahnesha and Kyleigh posing with the host of CT Buzz
Behind the scenes, 2025 brought exciting growth and new beginnings. We completed renovations to our kitchen, staff lounge, and game room, creating more welcoming and functional spaces for our residents. We also launched our blog and newsletter, offering new ways to share stories, insights, and updates with our community. Our programming continued to grow through new partnerships in urgent care, art therapy, occupational therapy, traditional therapy, and transportation services, allowing us to provide more comprehensive and holistic support.
We were also proud to lay the groundwork for our new internship program, building strong relationships with local colleges and creating a structured, meaningful learning experience for students. We look forward to welcoming interns into our building in 2026 and supporting the next generation of mental health and nonprofit professionals.
At the heart of our work this year was the vibrant, day-to-day life within our homes. Throughout 2025, we continued expanding the in-house programs and experiences offered to residents, ensuring opportunities for connection, enrichment, and personal growth. From live concerts and musical performances to men’s and women’s groups that foster honest conversation and peer support, our programming was shaped by residents’ voices. We also offered community outings, creative activities, wellness-focused groups, and social events, all designed to encourage engagement both within and beyond our walls. As needs and interests evolved, so did our programming, reflecting our ongoing commitment to meeting residents where they are and supporting meaningful connections with the broader community.
Homemade soap by our residents Pizza Outing Geazy concert attended by our residents Art therapy group Cat Yoga Shakespear in the Park Food at a night out Homemade pottery bowls Bowling alley Arts Therapy Group Open Mic night at East Rock Trip to Bears Smokehouse Concert on New Haven Green
As we turn the page to 2026, we do so with deep gratitude for our community, appreciation for our partners, and excitement for what’s ahead. Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we continue to grow, connect, and move forward.
