Thank You to Our 2024 RVNAhealth Spring Breakfast Supporters

Pictured: Theresa Santoro, President and CEO of RVNAhealth, with (left to right) New Milford Mayor Pete Bass, Roxbury First Selectman Patrick Roy, Bethel First Selectman Dan Carter, TS, Danbury Mayor Roberto Alves, Ridgefield First Selectman Rudy Marconi, and Newtown First Selectman Jeff Capeci.

The Amber Room Colonnade was filled with energy and enthusiasm when RVNAhealth hosted more than 400 guests bright and early in the morning on Friday, April 26 for our Annual Spring Breakfast. Each year, our Spring Breakfast event raises critical funds to support nursing, rehabilitation and hospice care in the home, as well as our mission-driven community programs like Well-Child Clinics for uninsured children, Chronic Care for vulnerable elderly or disabled individuals, and the Nurse Family Partnership. The event was a record breaker in attendance for RVNAhealth as business partners, health care professionals, civic leaders, donors and friends came together over breakfast to learn about the breadth of RVNAhealth services and their impact across 35+ communities in the area.

Impact Speaker, Anne Mead, Ed. D., Director of Family, School, and Community Partnerships for the Danbury Public Schools, spoke about the profound impact of the RVNAhealth Well Child Clinics in the Danbury Schools, helping vulnerable families and students access the vaccinations and routine health care needed to attend school. This valuable community service is one of many ways in which RVNAhealth upholds its commitment to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed.

RVNAhealth is grateful to our Spring Breakfast Sponsors, Table Hosts, and many guests who supported our important work last Friday morning, buying raffle tickets, tipping their hosts, and bidding on auction items, too!

Join Us for Breakfast!

We hope to see you at our annual Spring Breakfast on Friday, April 26th, 7:30-9:00am at The Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury, CT. The morning will be complete with exciting auction items, great raffle prizes, delicious breakfast, and an inspiring impact speaker.

The Board of Directors, Spring Breakfast Committee, and friends of the organization look forward to celebrating the meaningful work of RVNAhealth and the continuum of care the agency provides throughout 35+ Connecticut communities.

Each year, the Spring Breakfast brings together 400 local business leaders, medical professionals, community groups, and RVNAhealth supporters to welcome spring and raise funds critical to patient care and program support. Funds raised allow RVNAhealth to care for patients and clients regardless of age, diagnosis, or financial circumstances and have a lasting impact on the lives of those served as well as their families. It is truly an inspiring morning and a great way to start the day!

Anne Mead, Ed. D., Director of Family, School and Community Partnerships for the Danbury Public Schools, will share insight into the partnership between RVNAhealth and the Danbury Schools, the profound impact of RVNAhealth’s Well-Child Program in Danbury, and the long-term, often life-changing, benefits the program provides to the families it serves and the community as a whole.

Laura Shulman Cordeira, MPH, Director of Community Health and Wellness at RVNAhealth, sums this up well in noting that “Our two teams have worked together to remove as many barriers as possible for students to meet the medical requirements needed to attend school. It is an innovative solution in a school district where the growth of the student population has outpaced the growth of pediatric practitioners.” Dr. Mead agrees, noting, “The partnership between Danbury Public Schools and RVNAhealth is invaluable to ensure health and access to education for our most vulnerable students and their families.”

This year’s Live Auction is filled with exciting opportunities including an African Safari for 2, a family summer vacation to Cape Cod, NY Yankees and NY Mets tickets, a NYC night out for dinner & a Broadway show, a four courses golf package … and more! Special thanks to our Sponsors, whose generosity provides invaluable support to our mission to provide unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed.

You are invited to become a sponsor or host a table at this year’s event, which will include a delicious breakfast, live auction with travel and entertainment packages, and a raffle that includes dozens of prizes. You may purchase sponsorships or tables online at RVNAhealth.org or contact Jennifer Christensen at 203.438.5555, x1052 or jchristensen@rvnahealth.org.

It Looks Like Winter Outside, But We’re Thinking Spring!

RVNAhealth will host its 23rd Annual Spring Breakfast on Friday, April 26, 2024 from 7:30am-9:00am at The Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury. The Board of Directors, Spring Breakfast Committee, and friends of the organization look forward to celebrating the meaningful work of RVNAhealth and the continuum of care the agency provides throughout 35+ Connecticut communities.

Each year, the Spring Breakfast brings together 400 local business leaders, medical professionals, community groups, and RVNAhealth supporters to welcome spring and raise funds critical to patient care and program support. Funds raised allow RVNAhealth to care for patients and clients regardless of age, diagnosis, or financial circumstances and have a lasting impact on the lives of those served as well as their families. It is truly an inspiring morning and a great way to start the day!

We invite you to be moved by our impact speaker who will share insight into RVNAhealth’s dedication to providing exceptional care that has a lifechanging impact upon patients and their families. This firsthand account of an experience that any of us might find ourselves in is a true testament to the notion that we are all in this together, and we know we can’t do what we do without you!

You are invited to become a sponsor or host a table at this year’s event, which will include a delicious breakfast, live auction with travel and entertainment packages, and a raffle that includes dozens of prizes. You may purchase sponsorships or tables online at RVNAhealth.org or contact Debbie Campbell, Development Manager, at 203.438.5555, x1249 or dcampbell@rvnahealth.org.

Fairfield County Bank ’23 Nursing Scholarships Announced

2023 Fairfield County Bank Nursing Scholarship Winners at RVNAhealth

Pictured left to right: Lauren Messina, Hospice RN; Keri Linardi, RVNAhealth Chief Clinical Officer; Dan Berta, President of Fairfield County Bank; Theresa Santoro, RVNAhealth President & CEO; Jennifer Christensen, RVNAhealth Donor Engagement Officer; Missing: Elaine Leitao, QAPI RN

The gift of education is an investment in an individual, unlocking their potential, providing knowledge, and wielding the power to shape the trajectory of their life. Each year since 2019, a fortunate few RVNAhealth staff members have been recipients of this invaluable gift, made possible by scholarships generously provided by Fairfield County Bank—a steadfast supporter and believer in the mission of RVNAhealth.

The 2023 recipients of the Fairfield County Bank Nursing Scholarships include:

Elaine Leitao, QAPI RN, HCS-D, started with RVNAhealth in 2018 as a field nurse, left the agency for a brief time, and returned in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. She is working on her MSN at Chamberlain University. “The significance of this scholarship in shaping my journey and guiding me to my present position cannot be overstated. The support from Fairfield County Bank and RVNAhealth has empowered me to strive for excellence in both personal and professional aspects. I look forward to my continued future career growth with RVNAhealth!”

Lauren Messina, RVNAhealth Hospice RN with client
Lauren Messina, Hospice RN, with client

Lauren Messina, Hospice RN, recently completed her APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) with the help of the scholarship. Joining RVNAhealth during the pandemic, she echoed similar appreciation. “I feel extremely fortunate to have been a beneficiary of the scholarship granted by Fairfield County Bank. My interest in advancing my education and returning for my APRN occurred during COVID, as I was encouraged and inspired by those around me.  The scholarship allowed me financial assistance while also providing me with a sense of support from the RVNAhealth community. I am looking forward to utilizing this advanced certification to improve the quality of the lives of those individuals we are dedicated to caring for.”

Keri Linardi, Chief Clinical Officer, RN, BSN, PHN, CHPCA is attending Central Connecticut State University to complete her Master of Science in Nursing. As both a recipient of this scholarship and clinical leader at RVNAhealth, Keri added, “These annual awards have impacted so many in the RVNAhealth organization. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Fairfield County Bank for investing in the education of our employees and not only broadening the horizons of our staff but also contributing to the strength of our team as a whole.”

A True Partner, Mentor, and Friend

Fairfield County Bank sponsorship of RVNAhealth Spring Breakfast
Fairfield County Bank table at RVNAhealth Spring Breakfast 2023
Thank you to Fairfield County Bank for donation of their billboard space to RVNAhealth
RVNAhealth billboard on I-95 in Norwalk, thanks to Fairfield County Bank!

Fairfield County Bank has been a steadfast partner of RVNAhealth for nearly three decades. Through lead sponsorships at fundraising events, serving on our Board of Directors, the Nursing Scholarship Program, donating space on their I-95 billboard in Norwalk, and through their dedicated employees who have supported us with invaluable guidance, advice, and unwavering support through numerous volunteer hours — Fairfield County Bank’s influence on RVNAhealth is beyond measure. As summarized by Theresa Santoro, MSN, RN, CHCA, President & CEO of RVNAhealth, “They stand as not just a sponsor, but a true partner, mentor, and friend. We are profoundly appreciative.”

 

Thank You from RVNAhealth’s Director of Philanthropy

RVNAhealth donor giving

In my role as RVNAhealth’s Director of Philanthropy, I work with my team to raise funds and awareness to support our mission of delivering unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed.

It is never lost on me that no matter what I or my team does in pursuit of that mission, it would not exist without you, our donors, sponsors, and volunteers. You make all the difference to us and to the many who would not otherwise have access to healthcare.

This is the best part of my job … my favorite part … saying thank you. Thank you for your support, whether it is given in time, expertise, financial gifts, or helping to raise awareness of our incredibly impactful organization.  Together, we are making our communities stronger and healthier.

This past year, with your help …

  • 62,461 healthcare visits were made to patients in their homes.
  • 454 hospice patients received compassionate end-of-life care, including 1,400 hospice volunteer hours.
  • 362 children with limited access to basic, preventive healthcare received school-required physicals and immunizations at no cost.
  • 7,835 visits to our outpatient Rehabilitation & Wellness Center helped patients recover strength and mobility.
  • 64 new moms and 52 babies were served by our Nurse Family Partnership program.
  • 350,630 hours of non-medical assistance with daily living needs helped people remain safe and independent at home.

While “thank you” is just two little words, they reflect a huge dose of gratitude for the powerful impact your support has had on the lives of so many.

Best wishes from RVNAhealth to you and yours for a wonderful new year filled with health and happiness.

With sincere appreciation,

Mary Jean Heller
Director of Philanthropy

We Can’t Do What We Do Without YOU!

RVNAhealth donor giving

For 109 years, RVNAhealth has been a community-based non-profit organization that provides care for people of all ages, from birth through end of life. Today, we serve more than 5,000 people annually across 35+ Connecticut towns, with home healthcare, rehabilitation therapies, palliative and hospice care. Our donor-funded community programs for Chronic Care patients, underinsured children, and first-time, low-income mothers serve those who might not have access to care without our support. Please make a gift to RVNAhealth today and know that every gift – no matter the size – is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work.

Click here to learn more about our commitment to your community and how you can donate to support those who might not otherwise have access to care

Giving Tuesday 2023 to Support RVNAhealth’s Pet Therapy Program

Pet Therapy

At RVNAhealth, we know what a difference YOU can make by supporting us on Giving Tuesday and bettering the lives of those in your community.

Sophia is RVNAhealth’s cherished pet therapy dog who spends her days with our patients and their families. Since birth, she has been in training with ECAD – Educated Canines Assisting with Disabilities. Her RVNAhealth handler is formally trained and recertified annually, as well.

Sophia truly comes to life when doing her job.  With every visit, she brings comfort to our hospice patients and compassion to bereaved family members. She spreads joy to the homebound. She can also be found befriending and snuggling with children getting vaccines at our Well Child clinics. Her love and support is embraced by everyone she meets, most especially the more than 100 RVNAhealth patients she visits each year!

“Giving Tuesday reimagines a world built upon shared humanity and generosity.”

In Support of Our Pet Therapy Program

This Giving Tuesday, we are asking for your support of our priceless Pet Therapy program and to help offset $5,000 in annual expenses that keep Sophia well-nourished, well-groomed, healthy and current with veterinarian visits. Your gift to Sophia and our ComfortWELL Hospice program will help us continue to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed.

In this season of gratitude and giving, please consider making a contribution to RVNAhealth on Giving Tuesday, November 28, 2023, and give the gift of health, comfort and peace to the patients and families we serve.

Contributions can be made here.

Thank you for your support!

Have You Seen Us? Thank You to Fairfield County Bank for the Billboard Space!

Thank you to Fairfield County Bank for donation of their billboard space to RVNAhealth

Thank you to Fairfield County Bank for generously donating time on their billboard space again. Next time you are traveling on I95 South past Norwalk, be sure to look up!  The Bank has been a loyal supporter of RVNAhealth for more than 25 years. Use of this billboard is another example of the many ways in which the Bank partners with RVNAhealth to support and help expand our services in the region.

RVNAhealth’s success has been gratefully supported over the years by the steadfast assistance by Fairfield County Bank, its dedicated staff, and board members. From financial services, insurance, and investments to invaluable counsel, guidance, and tireless volunteer efforts, Fairfield County Bank’s influence on RVNAhealth has been beyond measure. They are genuine allies and collaborators of our organization, and we deeply appreciate their unwavering dedication to our support of the well-being of the communities we serve.

Thank you Fairfield County Bank!

A Celebration of Health, Wellness, and Friendship at the 2023 Autumn Dinner

On September 30th, RVNAhealth held its annual Autumn Dinner at Silver Spring Country Club. Great fun was had by all, enjoying cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, scotch tasting, dinner, our amazing “Date Night for a Year” raffle, an exciting live auction, and heartwarming generosity in support of our vital programs and services. We are proud to offer home health and hospice care, Well-Child Clinics for children and families in need, and our Chronic Care program to help vulnerable uninsured and underinsured neighbors.

Jeanette Rizzo, this year’s impact speaker, shared a personal story about how RVNAhealth was “without a doubt, the best decision” she made when choosing health and home care for her mother. Her story highlights the very special bond that was created between her family and her mother’s RVNAhealth caregiver – a relationship which reflects the experience RVNAhealth strives to create for every patient and family member in their care.

Theresa Santoro, the President & CEO, delivered an inspiring address, underscoring RVNAhealth’s mission and both its commitment to and profound role it plays in the community’s well-being.

RVNAhealth serves a diverse range of people across 35+ Connecticut communities, from uninsured children to those in need of sports medicine, to elderly individuals with varying medical requirements, and those requiring end-of-life care. Mrs. Santoro highlighted the organization’s broad-reaching impact and its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all.

The evening’s program included a scotch tasting sponsored by Compass Box Whiskey, live musical entertainment by singer/songwriter Nick DePuy, and autumnal centerpieces generously donated by Mary Jones at Rodier Flowers. The charismatic Tom Pesce guided guests through an engaging live auction and paddle raise to raise funds in support of RVNAhealth’s mission.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and the dedicated RVNAhealth staff, we extend our deepest gratitude to Jeanette Rizzo for her valuable contributions as the evening’s guest speaker, our sponsors and advertisers for their unwavering support, and every member of the Autumn Dinner committee for their tireless efforts, enthusiasm, and dedication in planning and organizing this unforgettable event.

Celebrate and Support RVNAhealth at Autumn Dinner 2023

RVNAhealth Autumn Dinner 2023

RVNAhealth will host its annual Autumn Dinner on Saturday evening, September 30 at Silver Spring Country Club in Ridgefield, CT. The Board of Directors, Autumn Dinner Committee, and friends of the organization look forward to celebrating the meaningful work of RVNAhealth and the continuum of care the agency provides throughout 35+ Connecticut communities.

Guests will enjoy evening cocktails and live music by Nick DePuy on the patio, bourbon tasting sponsored by Ancona’s Wines & Liquors, and dinner. A live auction hosted by entertainer, Tom Pesce, will include spectacular prizes, including tickets to a NY Giants game in a fully catered suite, a Loon Mountain ski vacation package, dinner for 8 catered by renowned local chefs Sarah and Bernard Bouissou and more!

Our ever-popular “Date Night for a Year” raffle is back! The always exciting date nights include a spa experience for two at Adam Broderick Salon & Spa, ACT of Connecticut and Danbury Hat Tricks tickets, and gift certificates to fabulous area shops, inns, and restaurants from Ridgefield to Litchfield, to name just a few!

The evening is hosted in support of RVNAhealth’s home health and hospice care, and the agency’s mission-driven public health services and wellness programs. This year’s impact speaker will be Jeanette Rizzo, who will share a personal story about how RVNAhealth was “without a doubt, the best decision” she made when choosing health and home care for her mother. Her story includes the very special bond that was created between her family and the RVNAhealth caregiver who was honored to attend Jeanette’s daughter’s wedding even though her mother passed prior to the event. This relationship reflects the experience RVNAhealth strives to create for every patient and family member in their care.

We would like to provide a tremendous thank you our sponsors, including:

  • Presenting Sponsor: Bill Lichtenberger
  • Diamond Sponsors: The Bossidy Foundation, Fairfield County Bank, Joseph and Shelley O’Connor, Eileen and Jay Walker
  • Platinum Sponsors: Chipman Mazzucco Emerson LLC, Robert H. Martinsen, Mutual of America
  • Gold Sponsors: BMW of Ridgefield, Cramer & Anderson, LLP, The Donnelly Family, Liz and Steven Goldstone, Starr and Harvey Herscovitch, Christopher and Mary Joyce, Meadow Ridge, Reynolds & Rowella, LLP, Savings Bank of Danbury, SimiTree Healthcare Consulting, Wilton Meadows and The Greens at Cannondale
  • Silver Sponsors: Adam Broderick Salon & Spa, John and Lori Berisford, Jill Bornstein/Upnext Leadership Coaching, Gaetano Castellano, Kevin and Elaine Cox, Anita and Nick Donofrio, Elizabeth Murray Ellis, Hamlet Hub, Adam and Glori Norwitt, Dan and Annette O’Brien, On the Mend Medical Supplies & Equipment, Donna and Joe Pastore/Pastore LLC, John and Joanne Patrick, Thomas and Michele Quindlen, Ridgebury Riders, Rodier Flowers, Union Savings Bank, Peter and Lisa Vanderminden, Barbara and William Wyman, Young’s of Ridgefield.

If you are interested in supporting the RVNAhealth Autumn Dinner, you may purchase sponsorships, program book advertising, or tickets at RVNAhealth.org.  If you would like more information, please contact Debbie Campbell at 203.438.5555, x1249 or dcampbell@rvnahealth.org.