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  • What we do
  • Why Support Us
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  • Ken Engelman

MEDIA COVERAGE and Photos of our Volunteer initiatives Below

Connecticut Film, Television, and Digital Media logo.

Our community service initiatives have received significant media coverage, being featured by major local, regional, and national outlets. These include CBS News, WTNH Channel 8, WFSB Channel 3, FOX 61, NBC 30, News 12, Hartford Courant, New Haven Register, Connecticut Post, The Record-Journal, Republican-American, CTInsider / Hearst Media, The Day, Shore Publishing, The Sound, Guilford Courier, Shoreline Times, The Patch, and various radio programs such as WPLR 99.1 (Chaz & AJ), WELI 930 (Vinnie Penn), WICC 600 AM (Lisa Wexler Show), and WPKN (Richard Hill). Our nonprofit initiatives have also been highlighted on podcasts, including 'Good Things with John and Joyce,' hosted by radio personality John 'Cadillac' Saville and Dr. Joyce, showcasing our ongoing volunteer programs.

Community Volunteer Initiatives: Media Coverage and Photos

    Our Local Nonprofit/student match program Origins

    Group photo of Branford Connecticut nonprofit leaders being matched with local students in Branford High School

    Branford High School Pilot Program - April 2024

    In April 2024, we launched our pilot program that connects local nonprofits with students in need of community service hours to graduate, fostering mutually beneficial outcomes. This initiative showcases our commitment to enhancing volunteer programs and supporting nonprofit initiatives in the community. For more details, read about it in the media coverage here: https://www.zip06.com/news/20240421/branford-nonprofits-meet-bhs-students-at-community-service-fair/

    Group of East Haven nonprofit leaders being matched with local students in East Haven High School.

    East Haven High School November 2024

    In November 2024, we successfully hosted our second community service program, which matched local nonprofits with students in need of volunteer hours to graduate. This initiative highlights our commitment to supporting nonprofit initiatives in the community. You can read more about the media coverage of this successful pilot program here: https://www.zip06.com/news/20241120/community-service-pilot-program-proves-successful-at-ehhs/

    Group of East Haven nonprofit leaders being matched with East Haven students (2nd annual event)

    East Haven High School November 2025

    In November 2025, we were honored to be invited back to host our 3rd 'match' program, aimed at expanding community service initiatives across all schools in Connecticut. This program not only focuses on fostering volunteer programs but also highlights the importance of media coverage in promoting nonprofit initiatives.

    Community Service Fair connects local nonprofits with volunteers. Coming soon to a community near you!

    Our First Community Service Fair Flyer

    Graphic Artist/Designer Matt Miklus created this initial flyer for our community service initiatives, highlighting our nonprofit programs and encouraging media coverage for our volunteer efforts.

    Woofstock on The Branford Green 2013-2016

    “Hero’s Last Ride” - CT Patriot Guard Riders

    “Hero’s Last Ride” - CT Patriot Guard Riders

    Woofstock music event with people enjoying the performance.

    Our community service initiatives have received significant media coverage, being featured by major local, regional, and national outlets. These include CBS News, WTNH Channel 8, WFSB Channel 3, FOX 61, NBC 30, News 12, Hartford Courant, New Haven Register, Connecticut Post, The Record-Journal, Republican-American, CTInsider / Hearst Media, The Day, Shore Publishing, The Sound, Guilford Courier, Shoreline Times, The Patch, and various radio programs such as WPLR 99.1 (Chaz & AJ), WELI 930 (Vinnie Penn), WICC 600 AM (Lisa Wexler Show), and WPKN (Richard Hill). Our nonprofit initiatives have also been highlighted on podcasts, including 'Good Things with John and Joyce,' hosted by radio personality John 'Cadillac' Saville and Dr. Joyce, showcasing our ongoing volunteer programs.

    “Hero’s Last Ride” - CT Patriot Guard Riders

    “Hero’s Last Ride” - CT Patriot Guard Riders

    “Hero’s Last Ride” - CT Patriot Guard Riders

    Ken Engelman; Andy Sollecito; Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo

    “Hero’s Last Ride” Staged By the Patriot Guard Riders in CT. A heartfelt request came from the CT Patriot Guard to provide a Hero's Last Ride for US Marine Jack, who courageously battled Glioblastoma. Member Andy Sollecito, through dedicated community service, provided a motorcycle with a sidecar to help fulfill this final wish. Such nonprofit initiatives and volunteer programs showcase the strength and compassion within our community. RIP Jack. Photo by Bud Wilkinson of www.Ride-CT.com

    Long Island Sound Fishing Request 2020

    “Hero’s Last Ride” - CT Patriot Guard Riders

    Long Island Sound Fishing Request 2020

    Mike Barbour; Kathy Barbour;  Randall Mena; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo #CommunityVolunteersUnited

    Members Mike and Kathy Barbour volunteered through local volunteer programs to help a couple in the community surprise their ailing father/father-in-law with an all-day fishing trip in the Long Island Sound. Their efforts not only brought joy to the family but also highlighted the importance of community service, which deserves recognition through media coverage of such nonprofit initiatives.

    Boxes to Boots 2020/2021

    Pets for Vets 10th Anniversary on WTNH

    Long Island Sound Fishing Request 2020

    Boxes For Boots; Community Volunteers United; Ken Engelman; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo

    Member John 'Cadillac' Saville introduced me to Kristen Gauvin, the President of the nonprofit initiative Boxes to Boots, which focuses on community service by sending care packages to deployed troops overseas. In October 2021, we will organize a massive Connecticut motorcycle riding experience as part of our volunteer programs to help raise money for the shipping costs of these essential care packages, aiming to garner media coverage for our efforts.

    Stony Creek Duck Race 2020/2021

    Pets for Vets 10th Anniversary on WTNH

    Pets for Vets 10th Anniversary on WTNH

    Orchard House; Stony Creek Duck Race; Ken Engelman; Community Volunteers United;

    The 1st and 2nd annual Stony Creek Duck Race fundraiser showcased our commitment to community service by supporting the nonprofit initiatives of the Orchard House Medical Adult Day Center in Branford. We joyfully dropped 1,000 runner ducks into the Branford River and awarded prizes to the winners. Rest assured, we meticulously collected all the ducks after the race, emphasizing our dedication to the environment. A special thanks to Kelley Fryar for the media coverage!

    Pets for Vets 10th Anniversary on WTNH

    Pets for Vets 10th Anniversary on WTNH

    Pets for Vets 10th Anniversary on WTNH

    Ken Engelman; Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; Pets for Vets

    (WTNH) — The Pets for Vets program is a remarkable community service initiative aimed at helping veterans and rescue animals find comfort in companionship. Chief Meteorologist Gil Simmons sits down with Didi Tulloch, the Connecticut Chapter President of ROAR (Ridgefield Operation for Animal Rescue), and volunteer Ken Engelman to celebrate the success of their nonprofit initiatives during their 10th Anniversary in October 2019, highlighting the impact of their volunteer programs.

    Inspirational Volunteer Needed a Car 2020

    Ford Family Annual Holiday Toy Drive 2020

    Inspirational Volunteer Needed a Car 2020

    Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; Ken Engelman; John Saville

    Member Carol, an inspiration to all volunteers in our community service initiatives, needed to replace her vehicle. In a remarkable display of support, many members rallied together to help her buy a used car, enabling her to continue her volunteer programs and inspire us all to contribute more to our community. This heartwarming act even caught the attention of local media coverage, highlighting the spirit of our nonprofit initiatives.

    Naugatuck River Cleanup 2020

    Ford Family Annual Holiday Toy Drive 2020

    Inspirational Volunteer Needed a Car 2020

    Ken Engelman; Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; Naugatuck Valley Cleanup

    Joined Mayor David Cassetti of Ansonia, CT for the Naugatuck River Cleanup 2020, an initiative that highlights the importance of community service. Mayor Dave, a proud member of CVA, actively supports nonprofit initiatives and emphasizes the value of volunteer programs in improving our environment and community.

    Ford Family Annual Holiday Toy Drive 2020

    Ford Family Annual Holiday Toy Drive 2020

    Ford Family Annual Holiday Toy Drive 2020

    Jackie Halton Ford, #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo, #CommunityVolunteersUnited,
Ken Engelman

    Member Jacqueline Halten Ford recently hosted a virtual collection drive as part of her community service efforts, helping donors purchase and drop-ship new, life-like baby dolls. These donations are intended for those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s, with support from Orchard House Medical Adult Day Center in Branford. This initiative is an example of nonprofit initiatives and volunteer programs aimed at making a positive impact in our community.

    'Mangia for Meows' at Rosso Vino 2019

    'Mangia for Meows' at Rosso Vino 2019

    Ford Family Annual Holiday Toy Drive 2020

    Ken Engelman; Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; Rosso Vino; Mangia for Meows

    'Mangia for Meows,' a community service event held at Branford's Rosso Vino restaurant in October 2019, featured (l-r): Melissa Lyons, from Murphy Distributors; Joe Flores and Lisa DeGenaro of Rosso Vino; and Ken Engelman, a volunteer from the Branford Compassion Club who organized this nonprofit initiative, which received significant media coverage for its support of local volunteer programs.

    Community Dining Room 35th Anniversary

    'Mangia for Meows' at Rosso Vino 2019

    Community Dining Room 35th Anniversary

    The Community Dining Room (CDR) celebrated its 35th anniversary by launching the 'Shoreline' T-shirt fundraising initiative, aimed at promoting community service. This special T-shirt, designed by artist Matt Miklus of Special Events Screenprinting, is available for those who donate $35 or more, supporting various nonprofit initiatives and volunteer programs. The event also garnered positive media coverage, highlighting the vital role CDR plays in the community.

    'Roses for Seniors.

    'Mangia for Meows' at Rosso Vino 2019

    Community Dining Room 35th Anniversary

    'Roses for Seniors'. Spreading The Love, One Rose At A Time. As part of our community service efforts, hundreds of roses were distributed to seniors across Branford, bringing a touch of Valentine's Day joy thanks to Cynthia's Flower Shop, Savino's, Engelman's, and the Orchard House. This initiative also showcases the importance of nonprofit initiatives and the impact of volunteer programs in fostering connection and support within our community.

    #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo

    Take A Vet Fishing - Lucky Day 2

    Take A Vet Fishing - Lucky Day 2

    John Saville; Beacon Awards, #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo, #CommunityVolunteersUnited

    Our community service initiatives have received significant media coverage, being featured by major local, regional, and national outlets. These include CBS News, WTNH Channel 8, WFSB Channel 3, FOX 61, NBC 30, News 12, Hartford Courant, New Haven Register, Connecticut Post, The Record-Journal, Republican-American, CTInsider / Hearst Media, The Day, Shore Publishing, The Sound, Guilford Courier, Shoreline Times, The Patch, and various radio programs such as WPLR 99.1 (Chaz & AJ), WELI 930 (Vinnie Penn), WICC 600 AM (Lisa Wexler Show), and WPKN (Richard Hill). Our nonprofit initiatives have also been highlighted on podcasts, including 'Good Things with John and Joyce,' hosted by radio personality John 'Cadillac' Saville and Dr. Joyce, showcasing our ongoing volunteer programs.

    Take A Vet Fishing - Lucky Day 2

    Take A Vet Fishing - Lucky Day 2

    Take A Vet Fishing - Lucky Day 2

    Ken Engelman; Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; Frank Savino; The Lucky Day

    “Hero’s Last Ride” Staged By the Patriot Guard Riders in CT. A heartfelt request came from the CT Patriot Guard to provide a Hero's Last Ride for US Marine Jack, who courageously battled Glioblastoma. Member Andy Sollecito, through dedicated community service, provided a motorcycle with a sidecar to help fulfill this final wish. Such nonprofit initiatives and volunteer programs showcase the strength and compassion within our community. RIP Jack. Photo by Bud Wilkinson of www.Ride-CT.com

    Night to Shine

    Take A Vet Fishing - Lucky Day 2

    Melissa Marottoli Hogan FDN

    Ken Engelman; Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo

    Members Mike and Kathy Barbour volunteered through local volunteer programs to help a couple in the community surprise their ailing father/father-in-law with an all-day fishing trip in the Long Island Sound. Their efforts not only brought joy to the family but also highlighted the importance of community service, which deserves recognition through media coverage of such nonprofit initiatives.

    Melissa Marottoli Hogan FDN

    Animal Carnival: Daniel - Beagle

    Melissa Marottoli Hogan FDN

    Lisa Liscio, Melissa Marotti Hogan, #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo, #CommunityVolunteersUnited
Ken Engelman

    Member John 'Cadillac' Saville introduced me to Kristen Gauvin, the President of the nonprofit initiative Boxes to Boots, which focuses on community service by sending care packages to deployed troops overseas. In October 2021, we will organize a massive Connecticut motorcycle riding experience as part of our volunteer programs to help raise money for the shipping costs of these essential care packages, aiming to garner media coverage for our efforts.

    Animal Carnival: Daniel - Beagle

    Animal Carnival: Daniel - Beagle

    Animal Carnival: Daniel - Beagle

    Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter; Animal Carnival; Community Volunteers United; Ken Engelman

    The 1st and 2nd annual Stony Creek Duck Race fundraiser showcased our commitment to community service by supporting the nonprofit initiatives of the Orchard House Medical Adult Day Center in Branford. We joyfully dropped 1,000 runner ducks into the Branford River and awarded prizes to the winners. Rest assured, we meticulously collected all the ducks after the race, emphasizing our dedication to the environment. A special thanks to Kelley Fryar for the media coverage!

    Branford Compassion Club

    Animal Carnival: Daniel - Beagle

    Animal Carnival: Daniel - Beagle

    Branford Compassion Club; Community Volunteers United; Donna Doherty; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo

    (WTNH) — The Pets for Vets program is a remarkable community service initiative aimed at helping veterans and rescue animals find comfort in companionship. Chief Meteorologist Gil Simmons sits down with Didi Tulloch, the Connecticut Chapter President of ROAR (Ridgefield Operation for Animal Rescue), and volunteer Ken Engelman to celebrate the success of their nonprofit initiatives during their 10th Anniversary in October 2019, highlighting the impact of their volunteer programs.

    Bark-A-Luau

    Macey's Mittens for Kittens

    Macey's Mittens for Kittens

    Bark-A-Luau; Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; Ken Engelman

    Member Carol, an inspiration to all volunteers in our community service initiatives, needed to replace her vehicle. In a remarkable display of support, many members rallied together to help her buy a used car, enabling her to continue her volunteer programs and inspire us all to contribute more to our community. This heartwarming act even caught the attention of local media coverage, highlighting the spirit of our nonprofit initiatives.

    Macey's Mittens for Kittens

    Macey's Mittens for Kittens

    Macey's Mittens for Kittens

    Macey Flores, Mittens for Kittens, #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo, #CommunityVolunteersUnited,
Ken Engelman

    Joined Mayor David Cassetti of Ansonia, CT for the Naugatuck River Cleanup 2020, an initiative that highlights the importance of community service. Mayor Dave, a proud member of CVA, actively supports nonprofit initiatives and emphasizes the value of volunteer programs in improving our environment and community.

    CDR Meal Deliveries

    Macey's Mittens for Kittens

    Branford Early Learning Ctr.

    Community Dining Room; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo, #CommunityVolunteersUnited,
Ken Engelman

    Member Jacqueline Halten Ford recently hosted a virtual collection drive as part of her community service efforts, helping donors purchase and drop-ship new, life-like baby dolls. These donations are intended for those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s, with support from Orchard House Medical Adult Day Center in Branford. This initiative is an example of nonprofit initiatives and volunteer programs aimed at making a positive impact in our community.

    Branford Early Learning Ctr.

    Branford Early Learning Ctr.

    Branford Early Learning Ctr.

    Ken Engelman; Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; Diane Pappacoda

    'Mangia for Meows,' a community service event held at Branford's Rosso Vino restaurant in October 2019, featured (l-r): Melissa Lyons, from Murphy Distributors; Joe Flores and Lisa DeGenaro of Rosso Vino; and Ken Engelman, a volunteer from the Branford Compassion Club who organized this nonprofit initiative, which received significant media coverage for its support of local volunteer programs.

    Sunflower Solar Project

    Branford Early Learning Ctr.

    Designing Official V logo

    The Community Dining Room (CDR) celebrated its 35th anniversary by launching the 'Shoreline' T-shirt fundraising initiative, aimed at promoting community service. This special T-shirt, designed by artist Matt Miklus of Special Events Screenprinting, is available for those who donate $35 or more, supporting various nonprofit initiatives and volunteer programs. The event also garnered positive media coverage, highlighting the vital role CDR plays in the community.

    Designing Official V logo

    Branford Early Learning Ctr.

    Designing Official V logo

    'Roses for Seniors'. Spreading The Love, One Rose At A Time. As part of our community service efforts, hundreds of roses were distributed to seniors across Branford, bringing a touch of Valentine's Day joy thanks to Cynthia's Flower Shop, Savino's, Engelman's, and the Orchard House. This initiative also showcases the importance of nonprofit initiatives and the impact of volunteer programs in fostering connection and support within our community.

    The Original Volunteer Crew

    Original CVA logo by Eduardo Barrios - it was a perfect logo!

    Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter Logo Contest with Branford HS

    Judy, Tabby, Dan, Bella, #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo, #CommunityVolunteersUnited,
Ken Engelman

    Our community service initiatives have received significant media coverage, being featured by major local, regional, and national outlets. These include CBS News, WTNH Channel 8, WFSB Channel 3, FOX 61, NBC 30, News 12, Hartford Courant, New Haven Register, Connecticut Post, The Record-Journal, Republican-American, CTInsider / Hearst Media, The Day, Shore Publishing, The Sound, Guilford Courier, Shoreline Times, The Patch, and various radio programs such as WPLR 99.1 (Chaz & AJ), WELI 930 (Vinnie Penn), WICC 600 AM (Lisa Wexler Show), and WPKN (Richard Hill). Our nonprofit initiatives have also been highlighted on podcasts, including 'Good Things with John and Joyce,' hosted by radio personality John 'Cadillac' Saville and Dr. Joyce, showcasing our ongoing volunteer programs.

    Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter Logo Contest with Branford HS

    Original CVA logo by Eduardo Barrios - it was a perfect logo!

    Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter Logo Contest with Branford HS

    Ken Engelman; Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; DCAS

    “Hero’s Last Ride” Staged By the Patriot Guard Riders in CT. A heartfelt request came from the CT Patriot Guard to provide a Hero's Last Ride for US Marine Jack, who courageously battled Glioblastoma. Member Andy Sollecito, through dedicated community service, provided a motorcycle with a sidecar to help fulfill this final wish. Such nonprofit initiatives and volunteer programs showcase the strength and compassion within our community. RIP Jack. Photo by Bud Wilkinson of www.Ride-CT.com

    Original CVA logo by Eduardo Barrios - it was a perfect logo!

    Original CVA logo by Eduardo Barrios - it was a perfect logo!

    Original CVA logo by Eduardo Barrios - it was a perfect logo!

    Community Volunteers of America logo on screen.

    Members Mike and Kathy Barbour volunteered through local volunteer programs to help a couple in the community surprise their ailing father/father-in-law with an all-day fishing trip in the Long Island Sound. Their efforts not only brought joy to the family but also highlighted the importance of community service, which deserves recognition through media coverage of such nonprofit initiatives.

    DOMA on Main Toy Drive for DCF

    CVU Member Profile Lacey Flores

    DOMA on Main Toy Drive for DCF

    Doma on Main; DCF; Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; Ken Engelman

    Our community service initiatives have received significant media coverage, being featured by major local, regional, and national outlets. These include CBS News, WTNH Channel 8, WFSB Channel 3, FOX 61, NBC 30, News 12, Hartford Courant, New Haven Register, Connecticut Post, The Record-Journal, Republican-American, CTInsider / Hearst Media, The Day, Shore Publishing, The Sound, Guilford Courier, Shoreline Times, The Patch, and various radio programs such as WPLR 99.1 (Chaz & AJ), WELI 930 (Vinnie Penn), WICC 600 AM (Lisa Wexler Show), and WPKN (Richard Hill). Our nonprofit initiatives have also been highlighted on podcasts, including 'Good Things with John and Joyce,' hosted by radio personality John 'Cadillac' Saville and Dr. Joyce, showcasing our ongoing volunteer programs.

    Welcoming a Refugee Family

    CVU Member Profile Lacey Flores

    DOMA on Main Toy Drive for DCF

    Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; Short Beach; Ken Engelman

    “Hero’s Last Ride” Staged By the Patriot Guard Riders in CT. A heartfelt request came from the CT Patriot Guard to provide a Hero's Last Ride for US Marine Jack, who courageously battled Glioblastoma. Member Andy Sollecito, through dedicated community service, provided a motorcycle with a sidecar to help fulfill this final wish. Such nonprofit initiatives and volunteer programs showcase the strength and compassion within our community. RIP Jack. Photo by Bud Wilkinson of www.Ride-CT.com

    CVU Member Profile Lacey Flores

    CVU Member Profile Lacey Flores

    Community Volunteers United; #VolunteerItsWhatWeDo; Rosso Vino

    Members Mike and Kathy Barbour volunteered through local volunteer programs to help a couple in the community surprise their ailing father/father-in-law with an all-day fishing trip in the Long Island Sound. Their efforts not only brought joy to the family but also highlighted the importance of community service, which deserves recognition through media coverage of such nonprofit initiatives.

    Children's Hospital Toy Drive

    Children's Hospital Toy Drive

    Holiday Toy Drive for Yale New Haven Children's Hospital donations.

    1st Woofstock Poster 2013

    Children's Hospital Toy Drive

    1st Woofstock Poster 2013

    Poster for Woofstock animal charity music festival in Branford, 2013.

    Bark-A-Luau Poster 2015

    Children's Hospital Toy Drive

    1st Woofstock Poster 2013

    Event poster for Bark-A-Luau at Owenego Beach Club, Branford.

    Animal Carnivale 2024

    Event poster for Animal Carnivale fundraiser.

    Local Food Drive for CDR

    Call to action for donating groceries to local food pantries to help reduce food insecurity.

    Howlers & Meowers Fundraiser

    Howlers & Meowers Fundraiser

    Halloween costume party flyer with a spooky theme and event details.

    Copyright © 2026 Community Volunteers United [CVU] - All Rights Reserved.  We are a 501c3 nonprofit.  CVU is not a political or religious organization. 

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