Chamber Foundation Grants Assist Children's Charities

A Press Release from the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut 

The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Foundation raised $105,196 at its 30th annual Holiday Gala at Mohegan Sun this past December.  The funds will be used to assist children’s charities in our region.

Lou Ziegler, the Foundation’s board chair worked tirelessly to continue the success of the Gala.  He acknowledged the community, especially the volunteers, for their continued support of the annual event.

Ziegler noted, “This event would not be possible without the tremendous support from our planning committee, dedication of our volunteers, generosity of our sponsors and commitment from the Chamber staff.  In addition, the talent of Sam Piotrkowski, our energetic auctioneer and Kevin Hogan of WFSB, our superb master of ceremonies, provide a level of entertainment that has come to be expected with this event.  Finally, we must recognize the hospitality and support of our friends at the Mohegan Tribe and Mohegan Sun.”

The event took place on December 13, 2013 in the Uncas Ballroom at Mohegan Sun.  There were 111 items that went to the highest bidders in the silent auction and live auction.  In addition, there were 15 door prizes distributed to lucky attendees.

In the coming weeks, the Foundation committee will be meeting to review grant applications from eligible non-profit groups that serve children, in order to distribute funds raised from this event and others held in the past year.  Grant applications are available for download at www.chamberect.com/foundation. The deadline for submission is February 14, 2014.  The Foundation expects to make distributions to the awarded grantees in March with an announcement at the Chamber office in Waterford.

Last year, the foundation awarded $92,000 in grants to local organizations.  Since 2002, the Chamber Foundation has donated more than $860,000 to numerous local organizations that serve the needs of children, specifically those groups that address the Foundation’s goal of funding projects which enhance and enrich education and economic opportunities in the Chamber’s service area.

About the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Foundation:
Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Foundation,  a business community based 501(c)(3) foundation affiliated with the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut, is dedicated to promoting initiatives that enhance and enrich education and economic opportunities in the Chamber service area.  www.chamberECT.com