The rise of Barack Obama to the highest office in the land is the ultimate symbol that anybody can do anything in this country, regardless of race or economic status, if given the opportunity. It is an inspirational event which reaffirms our mission at ABC of New Canaan. We devote ourselves to giving minority students and underprivileged kids “a better chance” to succeed by providing them with the same educational opportunities often taken for granted by those more fortunate. We then encourage them to make the best of that opportunity as they head out into the world.
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^{Friends and members of the A Better Chance of New Canaan community gathered at the home of Host Family Coordinator Marianne and Dick Grandin on December 14, to celebrate the holidays with our students. Pictured here are (l-r) Tyler Green '12, Darryl Cummings '10, Jelani Alladin '10, Kevin Suggs '12, Eduardo Padilla '09, Elijah Westbrook '11, Joveto deCarvahlo '11, and Shameil Gonzales '10.}

A Better Chance of New Canaan, Inc. celebrated 35 years in New Canaan at its annual fall fundraiser on September 20th. The sold out event, organized by ABC Board Member Polly Perkins Johnson, joined a record number of ABC alumni, educators, founders and former host families with ABC supporters in the community. The highlight of the evening was hearing from the ABC students and alumni as they thanked attendees and the ABC community for their support.

The Live Auction was hosted by Chip Perkins, our local auctioneer and past President of A Better Chance. In addition, a raffle featured an original jewelry collection designed by New Canaan High School graduate Jessica De Rubio and inspired by A Better Chance. 

A Better Chance of New Canaan began its 35th year in New Canaan this fall by welcoming two new freshmen along with six returning students for the 2008-2009 school year.  The eight boys live at the ABC House on Locust Avenue with Resident Directors Senan and Kresta Hayes and their family, attend New Canaan High School and visit their host families in town. In its 35 years in  town, the four-year residential program has been supported by local contributions  and more than 50 host families have helped graduate 62 talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds who then went on to successful college, post graduate and professional careers.