CJR

08/28/2026

At CJR, we believe in the power of growth and transformation. Ken Tyburski, our Recruitment Specialist, likes to think that each caterpillar egg holds the potential to become a butterfly that can help sustain the Monarch population.

Thanks to Ken and CJR Farm Manager Eric Elwell, our Litchfield staff and some of our Residential students recently had the opportunity to witness this incredible transformation from beginning to end. Just as a butterfly’s journey from cocoon to flight symbolizes renewal, so too does our work in helping youth and families blossom into their fullest, most vibrant selves.

08/27/2026

Last chance to give back while you shop!

There’s still time to support CJR through the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program at the Winsted location!

For every Community Bag purchased during August, $1 comes back to CJR, helping us continue our work supporting children, youth and families across Connecticut.

Thank you for helping us make a difference in our community!

08/26/2026

As students head back to school, it's a reminder that every young person deserves the opportunity to discover their potential.

For Derrex, school once felt like a place where he couldn't succeed. But during his time at CJR, he found confidence, purpose, and a love of learning he never expected.

"CJR gives people the opportunity to change and hope for the future."

Read Derrex's inspiring story in our 2025 Impact Report:https://cjrimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/cjr_annual_25.pdf

Photo credit: Litchfield Hills Photography

08/24/2026

We are so grateful for the incredible friendship and support of Union Savings Bank over the years. Thank you for this beautiful tribute to Hedy and for being such a valued partner in our work to make a difference for young people and families. ❤️

For many years, Union Savings Bank has had the privilege of partnering with Hedy Barton and witnessing firsthand her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of young people and families served by CJR . Whether coordinating sponsorships, volunteer opportunities, special events, or community initiatives, Hedy's passion, compassion, and commitment have made a lasting impact.

Pictured with Hedy is Rick Judd, USB Executive Vice President and CJR Board Member, whose longstanding support of CJR reflects the strong partnership between our organizations.

As CJR honors a 35-year career rooted in compassion, cultivated through steadfast commitment, and defined by a legacy of service, we are proud to celebrate Hedy's extraordinary contributions. Her influence will continue to grow and benefit generations of young people for years to come.

08/20/2026

Thanks to the generosity and leadership of our event chairs, sponsors, and supporters, the 30th Annual CJR Invitational Golf Benefit raised an amazing $113,000 in net proceeds to support children, youth, and families across Connecticut!

Since its founding in 1996, the CJR Invitational has raised more than $2.1 million to help young people build brighter futures.

A special thank you to our Emerald Sponsors, Brown & Brown and O&G Industries Inc., for their generous support of this milestone event.

08/19/2026

Join us for at the 2026 Cars for Kids Automobile Show!

08/13/2026

Shop local. Give local. Support CJR.

Next time you’re shopping at Stop & Shop in Winsted, look for the Community Bag and make your purchase count!

08/11/2026

For Jordyn, butterflies are symbols of positive change.

After her mother's ALS diagnosis, Jordyn struggled with anxiety and found it difficult to express her emotions. Through more than a decade of support at CJR—including art therapy, trust, and encouragement—she discovered healthy ways to cope, found her confidence, and began pursuing her dream of becoming an elementary school teacher.

Today, Jordyn is thriving, and proving that even life's hardest transitions can lead to something beautiful.

Read Jordyn's inspiring story in our 2025 Impact Report:https://cjrimpact.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/cjr_annual_25.pdf

Photo credit: Litchfield Hills Photography

08/07/2026

We are excited to share that CJR President & CEO Cassie Reyes was profiled today on CT Public/WNPR's Poderosa segment. You can listen to Cassie's story here: https://www.ctpublic.org/news/2026-08-07/poderosa-ceo-cassandra-reyes-leads-with-family-at-heart

08/06/2026

🎙️ Tune in tomorrow morning!

We're excited to share that CJR President & CEO, Cassandra Reyes, will be featured on WNPR's Poderosas: Portraits of Purpose, a storytelling series from Connecticut Public that highlights inspiring women making a difference in their communities.

Listen during Morning Edition tomorrow between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. to hear Cassandra's story, her leadership journey, and CJR's mission to create brighter futures for families and communities across Connecticut.

Thank you to reporter Daniela Doncel for visiting our Waterbury campus to record in our amazing new podcast studio! Creative Hope Studios

Catch the livestream here: https://www.ctpublic.org/listen/radio/livestream