Upcoming events:
Saturday, October 13, 2012 - "A Celebration of People"
The 2 committees of the Cultural Council have joined forces to spearhead a special event on Saturday, October 13, 2012, 4-7 pm in Linden Park. Naugatuck Cultural Council presents "A Celebration of People". This event will bring together people from Naugatuck through interactive cultural activities and entertainment, food and sharing of the harvest (produce from local farms paired with multiethnic recipes). It promises to be an exiting opportunity for building new relationships among the people of our community.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Naugatuck Cultural Council seeks to recognize and celebrate the numerous heritages that comprise the American Experience in the Borough of Naugatuck. The Council seeks to promote equal opportunity and better government, education, economic development and quality of life for all Naugatuck residents.
Goals and Objectives
Promote universal values shared by varied cultures of respect, hard work, faith, family, community and ingenuity while emphasizing the appreciation of cultural diversity in Naugatuck.
Welcome emerging populations and act as a resource for new families moving to Naugatuck.
Facilitate dialogue between residents regarding current issues involving diversity while sponsoring activities that enhance cultural appreciation.
Increase participation in Naugatuck civic life by ensuring all residents have equal access to government, economic and educational opportunities.
Enhance and promote existing celebrations and festivals that promote established ethnic pride and heritage in the Borough.
Identify stakeholders and encourage their participation with the Council.
Support educators to close the achievement gap and improve standardized test scores across all subgroups.
Support existing efforts to ensure that all children are ready to learn by kindergarten and meet core reading competencies by grade three (3).
Use the Gunntown Passive Park and Nature Preserve as a cultural/environmental center.
The Naugatuck Cultural Council is an open committee which allows anyone interested to participate. If you or someone you know are interested, please contact us by email at bob@bobmezzo.com or Naugatuck Cultural Council Chair-Sandra Heller at SPHDMH@aol.com or Co-Chair-Vanessa Vowe at lvgw-programs@waterburyct.org.
Monthly meetings are on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 6 pm. Currently the council has 2 committees which meet during the month as needed. Descriptions of committees are as follows:
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES & AWARENESS COMMITTEE
Purpose: To build a community in Naugatuck that embraces human diversity by offering and promoting a process of acculturation that informs, inspires, and connects diverse people.
Promote ~ Encourage ~ Share
Contact: Les Williams [les@ct-housing.org) Tel: 860-707-4374
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES COMMITTEE
Mission: Plant the seeds of change for a healthy use of natural resources for the purpose of nurturing Naugatuck’s environment. Encourage the collaboration of committed individuals who will empower and educate people of all ages to respect the earth in our growing diverse community.
Contact: Robin: Gerber [RGerber@nvcc.commnet.edu] Tel: 203-751-1366