DERBY – The Valley Community Foundation (VCF) proudly hosted its 21st Annual Reception Wednesday evening at the Courtyard Marriott in Shelton, welcoming more than 150 community members, fundholders, nonprofit leaders, and dignitaries.
All were there to honor local philanthropy and learn about VCF’s nine new Valley funds and scholarships.
“The evening was about celebrating our shared commitment to the Valley,” said Sharon Closius, VCF’s President and CEO. “Each of the new funds we unveiled Wednesday represents a powerful story of giving, love for community, and belief in a stronger future.”
Among those that attended were Connecticut Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas; Seymour First Selectwoman Annemarie Drugonis; and dozens of Valley nonprofit leaders and advocates — all showing their support for VCF and the Valley community.
“What stands out most, as always, is the unmistakable spirit of Valley camaraderie,” Closius said about the reception. “It’s in every handshake, every story shared, and every commitment made to continue building a better, stronger Valley — together.”
VCF’s nine new 2024 funds and scholarships are:
Donor Advised Funds:
• Thomas and Diane Baklik Family Fund:
Established by Thomas and Diane Baklik of Seymour, this fund supports The Recreation Camp in Derby, and the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley.
• Ralph, Thelma, and Paul Davis Fund:
Established by John and Laura Zaprzalka of Seymour, this fund honors three generations of quiet generosity in the Davis and Zaprzalka families by funding local needs.
• Paul R. Lutson Charitable Fund:
Established the late Paul R. Lutson of Stratford, a US military veteran, this fund supports fellow veterans and related nonprofits, ensuring his legacy of service endures.
Scholarships:
• Rosalie and Richard Averill Scholarship Fund: Established by Rosalie and Paul Averill of Seymour, this scholarship provides financial aid to students at Griffin Hospital School of Allied Health Careers — particularly Valley residents — to train as healthcare professionals.
• John A. Bondos Scholarship Fund: Established by John A. Bondos at Shelton High School in 1984, this fund was moved to VCF in 2014 and became fully funded in 2024. This scholarship supports Shelton High graduates pursuing higher education.
• Paul and Sherry Konwerski Future Plumbers Scholarship Fund: Established by Paul and Sherry Konwerski of Bethany, this fund helps Platt Technical High School graduates cover the cost of tools and equipment needed to launch careers in the plumbing trade.
Donor Designated Funds:
• Anonymous Fund: This donor designated fund was established in 2024 by a generous individual who prefers to remain anonymous. The fund will provide annual grants to TEAM, Inc.; St. Jospeh’s Church of Shelton; The Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley; and VCF.Organization Funds:
• Christ Episcopal Church Ansonia Fund: Established by the church’s senior stewards, this Investment‑Only Organization Fund consolidates decades of bequests to support the church’s work (such as the Samela Food Pantry) under VCF’s stewardship for professional management and growth.
Preference Funds:
• Valley Foundation Fund: Originally created in 1980 by Valley leaders and through The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, TCF. In 2024, it was transferred from TCF to VCF. This preference fund honors the Valley’s philanthropic roots and provides flexible support for community engagement, leadership initiatives, and emerging needs across the five towns.
“These funds reflect the heart and values of the Valley,” Closius said. “They are a testament to the belief that we can build something that lasts — For Good. For Ever. For the Valley.”
