The category awards were presented during lunch on Tuesday, December 2, 2025.
Topical Category: Creative Programs in Sustainability
Town of Stratford
Stratford Animal Control "Sustainability in Action: A Community-Powered Approach to Animal Welfare"
Stratford Animal Control is redefining what sustainable animal welfare looks like at the municipal level. Rather than focusing solely on recycling or resource conservation, Stratford has reimagined how a shelter can operate without placing additional burden on taxpayers. Through strategic partnerships, targeted fundraising, and an exceptionally engaged volunteer network, the shelter has built a self-sustaining model that provides high-quality care, robust enrichment, and long-term solutions for animals: all while maintaining the same operating budget since 2011.
Accepting the award on behalf of the Town of Stratford was then-Mayor Laura Hoydick and Rachel Solveira, Municipal Animal Control Officer Supervisor.
General Entry Award: Population Category 1 (20,000 and under)
Town of Montville
"You Good, Bro?" Suicide Prevention Campaign
Montville Youth Services is being recognized for its innovative and youth-forward suicide prevention initiative, "You Good, Bro?" Launched in 2024, the campaign builds on Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) suicide prevention training offered by the Southeastern Regional Action Council (SERAC), which also helps fund Montville's prevention efforts. With a message that resonates deeply with young people, the campaign encourages honest conversations, peer support, and early intervention. By launching "You Good, Bro?", the town has significantly improved the quality of a critical public service by raising awareness about mental health, self-care, and the wide range of municipal support to those in crisis or in need of help. This initiative has strengthened the community's ability to recognize warning signs, connect residents to resources, and reduce stigma around seeking support.
Accepting the award on behalf of the Town of Montville was Barbara Lockhart, Director of Youth Services.
General Entry Award: Population Category 2 (20,001 to 40,000)
City of New London
New London Community Recreation Center (NLCRC)
The New London Community Recreation Center, opened on June 25, 2025, stands as a transformative investment in the City’s physical, mental, and social health. Under the leadership of Economic Development and Planning Director Felix J. Reyes, the NLCRC has quickly become a cornerstone of community life. The facility has expanded and improved services, strengthened resident engagement, achieved notable cost savings, and created a more connected, healthy future for New London families.
Accepting the award on behalf of the City of New London were Felix Reyes, Director of Development & Planning, and Josh Posey, Director of Recreation.
General Entry Award: Population Category 3 (40,001 and over)
City of Bristol
Community Wellness Officers Program
The City of Bristol is being honored for its for- ward-thinking Community Wellness Offers Program, launched in January 2024. Offers Travisano and Finkle, working within the Police Department’s Community Relations Division, provide compassionate outreach in mental health crises, support individuals facing home- lessness, assist those struggling with substance use, and help de-escalate situations before they become emer- gencies. By using supplemental revenue from adult-use recreational cannabis, the City has funded this vital initiative without increasing taxpayer costs.
Accepting the award on behalf of the City of Bristol was Mayor Ellen Zoppo-Sassu.
Program Contact
Korbi Kelly-Banks
Member Services & Marketing Manager
Phone: 203-498-3049
Email: memberservices@ccm-ct.org