This summer, Chelsea Groton and the Norwich Sea Unicorns partnered to spotlight six local nonprofits during six Sea Unicorns home games. Nonprofits were invited to complete a form and then were randomly selected from the completed entries and invited to set up an informational table, throw out a ceremonial first pitch, and receive tickets for constituents to enjoy the game. Each evening ended with fireworks, making the experience even more memorable.
The Norwich Sea Unicorns are proud of their strong ties to Norwich, Eastern Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Through this partnership, the following local nonprofits had the opportunity to raise awareness, connect with the community, and be part of a fun, family-friendly night at Dodd Stadium, which has served as an active community gathering place for the past 28 years.
St. Vincent de Paul Place, located in Norwich, strives to meet people where they are by providing access to a variety of facilities, resources, and building relationships. Last year, they served over 120,000 hot breakfasts and lunches, over 36,000 sandwiches and miscellaneous meals, and distributed over 1.3 million pounds of food to 3,000 households.
In addition to their pantry and dining room, they also have programs for care and advocacy services, as well as assistance resources for hygiene products, household items, clothing, and pet care items.
The Riverfront Children’s Center
Riverfront Children’s Center offers individualized, high-quality early care and education for children from 12 weeks old through kindergarten. Through affordable education and care, the center supports the unique needs of children and their families.
Riverfront emphasizes play-based learning and social-emotional development. Its classrooms are active spaces where children build connections through community visits, such as trips to the Bill Memorial Library, and hands-on outdoor learning with gardens, water tables, and nature-based exploration.
The Jonnycake Center of Westerly provides community resources such as food, clothing, household goods, and emergency financial assistance to clients who require help with basic needs. They help individuals through crisis situations, out of dependence, and toward self-sufficiency. Community support enables the Jonnycake Center to expand programs, add services, and assist those with the greatest need.
S.T.E.P.S. helps adolescent girls in Groton succeed through training, intervention, and mentoring. S.T.E.P.S., which stands for Striving Toward Empowered Personal Success, is dedicated to empowering girls and uplifting communities by providing girls ages 10-18 with the tools needed to build lives of integrity and self-sufficiency through positive choices.
Through self-efficacy, self-esteem, and leadership workshops, as well as events and programs offered throughout the year, S.T.E.P.S. mentors and supports girls in reaching their full potential.
The Lyman Allyn Art Museum has a rich history, an extensive collection, and beautiful historic grounds. The museum houses a diverse collection of approximately 20,000 objects spanning ancient to contemporary art.
The Lyman Allyn is deeply committed to providing art education and cultural enrichment for local youth through partnerships with schools and camp programs. Its mission is to make art enjoyable, inspirational, and accessible to people in New London, New England, and beyond.
United Cerebral Palsy of Eastern CT
United Cerebral Palsy of Eastern Connecticut (UCP) was founded in 1949 by a dedicated group of local parents determined to create opportunities for their children with cerebral palsy. Their advocacy brought greater awareness, support, and hope for individuals with disabilities and their families.
Over the decades, the organization has continued to evolve to meet the changing needs of the community. They develop methods, procedures, and assistive technology to maximize the full inclusion of people with all levels of disabilities into society.
Together, these organizations reflect the compassion and commitment that help our region thrive. Chelsea Groton was grateful for the opportunity to celebrate their work alongside the Sea Unicorns, and to encourage attendees to learn about, connect with, and get involved in supporting these incredible organizations in our community.
