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Get Involved

Join us—there are so many ways to take part!

Volunteer Opportunities

  • Parent Representatives for Local Schools and Preschools
    Serve as a liaison between CARES and your school community to help share resources and promote events.

  • Home Tour Committee
    Help plan and coordinate one of CARES’ largest community fundraisers, from logistics to decor and outreach.

  • Annual Appeal Committee
    Support CARES’ year-end fundraising efforts by helping with messaging, donor outreach, and campaign planning.

  • Grant Writing
    Assist in researching and writing grant proposals to secure funding for CARES programs and initiatives.

  • Photography
    Capture moments at CARES events and programs to help tell our story through photos used in outreach and promotions.

Host a Special Event for Family and Friends

How about hosting a coffee to help spread the word about CARES?
A spin, yoga, or Pilates session?
A luncheon with a guest speaker?
A book chat with friends, facilitated by our Executive Director?
Any other family fun ideas welcome – contact us!

Legacy

For generations, New Canaan CARES has stood alongside your family, supporting and strengthening our community. By leaving a legacy, you ensure that your cherished values continue to inspire and benefit future generations of New Canaan families.

Legacy Giving Options

  • A bequest in your will or trust

  • Naming New Canaan CARES as a beneficiary of your retirement fund (IRA, 401(k), or 403(b))

  • Designating CARES as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy

  • Making an outright gift of a life insurance policy’s cash value

If you would like to discuss how you can leave your legacy with New Canaan CARES, please contact Colleen Proctor, Executive Director, at 203-966-7862 to schedule a meeting.

“My family knows that CARES is something that I give time to because I feel passionate about it and that it plays an important role in our community. The speakers have been invaluable to me and I continue to be blown away by how lucky I am to be living in a community that continually strives to make the whole community as strong as possible. “

Kari S.

For over 45 years, New Canaan CARES has been a cornerstone of our community, offering vital youth and family programs free of charge. This work is only possible because of our generous supporters—thank you for helping us deliver this essential service.

From s’mores at the Holiday Stroll and glow sticks at the Halloween Parade to sharing resources at the Sidewalk Sale, lending a listening ear at the PTC Welcome Back Coffee, and handing out anti-vaping stickers on to-go cups, CARES is committed to being present, engaged, and responsive to the needs of our community. These small but meaningful touches reflect our dedication to fostering connections and supporting families and youth.

We cannot deliver this valuable programming without your help. By supporting our mission to empower youth, strengthen parenting skills, and build a healthier, more connected New Canaan, we are making a difference together. We believe the best ideas come from those we serve, and your input helps shape impactful programs and initiatives. Thank you for being part of this important work.

Volunteer with CARES and help us build a stronger, healthier New Canaan together today!

We’d love to hear from you—whether you’re interested in joining our board, volunteering at community events, or helping with our annual Home Tour. 

Reach out to learn more about getting involved at New Canaan CARES. 

Volunteer. Donate. Every Dollar Counts.

At New Canaan CARES, we believe everyone has something valuable to offer—whether it’s time, talent, or resources. By volunteering, you help us build stronger connections across our community. And when you choose to give, you help us expand vital programs that support youth and families year-round. However you choose to get involved, your contribution matters. Join us in making a difference—together.

In New Canaan CARES, in partnership with community collaborators, hosted thousands of students and parents at five separate programs. Additionally, over 200 New Canaan students participated in our youth programs, gaining valuable skills in leadership, teamwork, and community engagement.

CARES Community

$50 to $99

  • Helps purchase vaping and drug prevention program materials to support CARES LPC efforts

CARES Neighbor

$100 – $499

  • Sponsors a session of CARES GAME ON! at a New Canaan Elementary School

CARES Friend

$500 – $999

  • Supports a semester of CARES High School Leadership Program

CARES Family

$1000 – $2499

  • Helps fund CARES Parent Support Workshops, empowering parents 

CARES Steward

  • Support the development of resources and tools that strengthen New Canaan families

CARES Benefactor

$5000 and above

  • Helps CARES brings a National Speaker to New Canaan