On May 19th, nearly 600 supporters came together at the Greenwich Hyatt Regency for Building One Community’s 10th Annual Benefit Breakfast event. The goal of the event was to raise funds to support immigrant integration in Fairfield County and to raise awareness of the importance of integrating immigrants and their families. The passionate and heartfelt speeches delivered throughout the morning stirred up emotions and inspired attendees, resulting in overwhelming support for B1C‘s mission.
The event was attended by notable government officials, including Mayor Caroline Simmons, US Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congressman Jim Himes, Attorney General William Tong, Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas, Representatives Anabel Figueroa, David Michel, Rachel Khanna, Tracy Marra, and Darien Selectman Marcy Minnick.
This gathering was an opportunity to reflect on immigrants’ challenges when coming to a new country and the positive role organizations like B1C play locally. The keynote speaker, Dr. Paula Garay, a public health professional and the director of the emme coalition at OPTIMUS Health Care, shared her emotional personal story of overcoming tremendous challenges as an immigrant. She urged the audience to support reliable, trustworthy organizations like B1C that deliver essential resources, support, and guidance with compassion and care.
Garay said, “I want to talk about trust and how it relates to the immigrant experience. And why it is so essential that we support the organizations that, in essence, deliver trust. And so much more. These are organizations that people can count on. Organizations that demonstrate there is good in the world by providing vital resources, support, and guidance with compassion and care. They show that there is hope. That there are people you can count on. People you can trust.”
Longtime B1C participant Reginald Boursiquot shared his challenges as a former artist who fled Haiti amid political turmoil and struggled to support his family. Through Building One Community, he found a new start by improving his English, honing his vocational skills, building his resume, and receiving invaluable immigration legal support.
Additionally, two Greenwich High youth volunteers, Mateo and Nico Gigliani, shared their experiences of working with participants. Through B1C, they discovered the value of community service and the power of education in creating thriving communities.
Anka Badurina, PhD, Executive Director of B1C, expressed the organization’s vision for the future and how B1C aims to reach a more diverse immigrant community.
“B1C is a lifeline to thousands of immigrants and refugees every year, providing vital support that advances their integration into the community. Many struggle and need a resource they can trust. All of us at Building One Community strive to respond to and support a wide range of complex needs. And, with your assistance, we stand ready to support…… and remain that beacon of hope,” said Badurina. It’s not too late to make a difference by donating to B1C’s fundraising campaign. Visit www.B1C.org to learn more about the organization and how you can contribute and get involved.
Join B1C and be a support a positive and powerful force in the community.
About Building One Community
Building One Community (also known as B1C) is a nonprofit organization established in 2011 that provides a comprehensive resource center for immigrants in the greater Stamford area. The mission of Building One Community is to advance the successful integration of immigrants and their families. Since its inception, the organization has served over 15,250 immigrants from 117 different countries. B1C provides free services that educate, employ, empower, and engage immigrants and the broader community. Programs offered include English Language Learning (ELL) programs, family and individual support services, immigration legal services, and workforce development programs. Community volunteers, donors, and partnerships are an essential component of the growth of Building One Community. More information may be found at www.B1C.org.
