On May 20, we held our annual Foster Parent Recognition Dinner at Savin Rock Conference Center located in West Haven. The evening began with informal greetings between staff and foster parents over chilled wine and savory treats as we overlooked the Long Island Sound. A scrumptious catered dinner of prime rib, pecan-encrusted salmon and lemon chicken, with all the trimmings was enjoyed. DJ David Gillian (Casey Bridgeport alumni) delighted us with musical tunes of old school R & B and sensuous salsa that brought out the youth in all. Foster parents were honored for their years of service by special recognition and generous applause.

Community vendors from Bridgeport, Stratford, Orange and New Haven partnered with Casey by donating beach and relaxation themed gifts to support our foster parents commitment. These items included gift certificates for dinner, movies and books, along with beach chairs and accessories. These items, along with decorative fish bowl centerpieces created by Resource Coordinator Maria Knight, were raffled off. The evening was brought to a close with the donated grand prize of a one-week timeshare anywhere in the US, which was won by Lisa Wiley. The donors of this generous prize are the parents of a staff member who have been foster parents for many years. Maria Knight inspired each of our foster parents by presenting them with a journal to record ways in which to continue rejuvenating their spirits, energy and motivation.