VCF 2021 Annual Reception Recap

Highlights from 2020, a year of resilience, announced as part of our Digital Annual Reception on June 30, 2021

VCF 2021 Digital Annual Reception

Thanks to all who joined us on Zoom for our Annual Reception. 2020 was a year of resilience. Despite the challenges and adversity that so many faced last year, there still remains hope and inspiration during such unprecedented times. Highlights and extra information from our event is below.

Special Video – Resiliency in the Valley

Back in March, we asked Valley residents for photos of hope during the pandemic. We were amazed at the number of photos that were sent in. As a result we created this special video montage. Please take a look and help us share the resiliency of the Valley community!

Eleven New Funds Established in 2020 – Watch their Videos

Learn about the legacies that are being created to the benefit the Valley, each with a unique video. Whether in memory or in honor of someone special, the following funds will impact the region forever.


Derby Historical Society Organization Fund

Ellen DuBoff Memorial Scholarship Fund

Neville Osmond Forsythe Senior Memorial Fund

Carol Ann Hyder Memorial Fund

Wasil Katz Scholarship Fund

Julia Krizan Scholarship Fund for the Arts

Dr. Carol Merlone Scholarship Fund

Ortoli Family Fund

Dr. Beth A. Smith Fund

Sturgis A. and Madeleine Martin Sobin Family Fund

Emil J. Varga Catholic School Fund

A New Initiative for the Region

Earlier this year, our partner in philanthropy, The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, announced Stepping Forward — a commitment to the 20-town region to address the impact of COVID and to advance racial equity. As part of this regional effort, Stepping Forward in the Valley is taking shape and aims to address four focus areas in our 5-town community.

View the 2020 Annual Report

Additional highlights from last year, financial information, details on community investments and grantmkaing, as well as feature stories on our new funds can be found in our 2020 Annual Report.

Missed the Event?

Click on the button below to watch a recording of the Annual Reception.

As always, if you have any questions or would like more information on the topics presented, please contact us at (203) 751-9162 or by email.