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The Branford Soccer Club is a volunteer non-profit organization created for and committed to promoting youth and adult soccer in the Town of Branford, Connecticut.

The annual Branford Festival spans three days on Father’s Day weekend. Thousands of local residents, families and friends gather on the historic town green to enjoy live music, over a dozen food vendors, local talent, kids activities, crafts and more.The final day of the festival includes the Branford Road Race on Sunday, which includes a 1 Miles Family Fun Run, 2 Mile Health Walk and 5 Miles Road Race.The Branford Festival is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is run by volunteers, including a Committee and Corporate Board.Our Committee brings the event to life by coordinating everything from entertainment to food vendors to souvenirs. The Corporate Board oversees policies and procedures, and make key decisions to ensure the event succeeds year after year.Both our Committee and Corporate Board meet monthly.For more information, visit BranfordFestival.com.

Aging with Grace and Community: The Shoreline Village CT Experience Imagine a vibrant organization of Seniors aging in their own homes where growing older means staying connected, supported, and empowered right where you belong. Shoreline Village CT is a non-profit group where seniors aren't just aging but thriving with the help of engaged volunteers. A Community Built on Compassion Shoreline Village, CT, is more than an organization; it's a lifeline for seniors who want to remain independent in their beloved homes. With over 300 similar Villages nationwide, this grassroots movement redefines aging by putting community and mutual support at the forefront. Comprehensive Support, Personalized Care Shoreline Village offers an array of services that transform daily challenges into opportunities for connection and entergizes members to participate in their wider community: Transportation: Volunteers provide more than rides to medical appointments—they offer companionship, ensuring members feel supported every mile of the journey Home Assistance: From minor repairs to technology help, volunteers are ready to lend a hand Social Engagement: Parties, book clubs, opera talks, walking groups, and chair yoga keep members active and connected More Than a Service—A Family As one member from Guilford beautifully shared: "The Village is an insurance policy for my family, and it gives me a structure for being with interesting, thoughtful people and for opportunities for meaningful volunteer work." Shoreline Village CT isn't just helping seniors age in their own homes—it's helping them live fully, independently, and joyfully. Contact George DuPont, Director of Services, To Inquire about Membership or Volunteer opportunities. M: 203-747-5939 , georgedupontSVCT@gmail.com

The Branford Hornets are a community-based youth football organization offering flag and tackle programs for children in Kindergarten through Grade 8. Our mission is to create a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where young athletes can learn the fundamentals of football while developing teamwork, leadership, discipline, sportsmanship, and confidence. Programs are designed to be age-appropriate and welcoming—starting with flag football for younger or newer players and progressing to tackle as skills develop. We believe in more than just wins and losses: our focus is on helping each child grow on and off the field, building character and pride in themselves and their community.

Branford Compassion Club (BCC) is a non-profit feline rescue organization that serves not only Branford, Connecticut, but surrounding communities. The mission of the club is to provide for the feeding, shelter and care of homeless, abandoned and feral cats; to place rescued cats into loving long-term homes; to educate the public about the importance of spay/neuter population control, responsible pet ownership and kindness to animals; and to establish an ongoing community network to achieve these goals.

First Congregational Church of Branford founded Camp Totokett in 1996.  Since its founding the camp has been held annually at Killam’s Point, the Church’s waterfront property in Branford. Camp Totokett is a free one week summer camp for children from the Greater New Haven area. Camp offers a respite from stress, trauma and responsibilities which these children face daily. Recognizing the impact of trauma and stress on children, Camp has begun to offer camp to a small number of refugee children, relocated to New Haven through Integrated Refugee Immigration Services (IRIS).Camp seeks to promote individual, family and community building by bringing together diverse urban and suburban groups.  Camp serves strongly as a bridge spanning geographic, socioeconomic, racial, and religious lines.  Campers and volunteers alike develop new understanding, compassion, lasting friendships and respect for one another.The camp staff is comprised mainly of community volunteers, including high school and college students, teachers, nurses, physicians and clergy. Volunteers are always welcome and are needed to make camp possible each summer.  High school students who have completed Grade 9 are eligible to serve as Mentors and adults who either like to work with children in a specific age group setting or have other skills in areas of waterfront, fishing, arts and crafts, or music are encouraged to become a part of camp.Contact camp staff at camptotokett@gmail.com for more information. 

Founded in 1896, the James Blackstone Memorial Library has been promoting and preserving free and open access to resources that support enrichment and lifelong learning for the Branford community.Situated in an iconic and architecturally beautiful building, the programs and services delivered by friendly and welcoming staff make the Blackstone a beloved jewel in our town, and support the enduring legacy of enriching lives, expanding minds, and engaging community. Last year, the library was visited over 120,000 times, hosted over 900 programs and events, and loaned over 210,000 items!The library is a 503c3 nonprofit public library. Each year, the library receives the majority of its operating budget from the Town of Branford, and raises the remaining 11% through a variety of fundraising activities, including special events like Evening with the Spirits and Mini Golf @ Blackstone Library. Volunteers are always needed for these special events.VisionBuilding on the far-sighted founding of the James Blackstone Memorial Library, we continue to expand our legacy of engaging community, expanding minds, and enriching lives with a commitment to addressing community needs and supporting each individual’s journey towards lifelong learning, continued well-being, and personal growth.MissionThe James Blackstone Memorial Library inspires and enriches curious minds, welcomes and connects community to community, and helps our community learn, succeed, and thrive by providing essential access to information, resources, and unique shared experiences.

Join the dedicated team at the Shore Line Trolley Museum, where history comes to life! Located in East Haven and Branford, CT, we are home to the oldest continuously operating suburban trolley line in the U.S. and a National Historic Landmark. Our mission is to preserve and share the rich history of trolleys, railways, and transportation with the public. We’re looking for passionate volunteers to help in various areas, including: Trolley Operations Restoration Projects Track Crew Special Events Tour Guides Museum Store and Ticket Agent Office Work Groundskeeping Building Maintenance and Physical Plant Public Speakers and Outreach Marketing and Media and much more! Whether you love history, enjoy working with the public, or want to learn new skills, there’s a place for you at the Shore Line Trolley Museum. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to learn and a passion for preserving history. Volunteering at the museum is a unique opportunity to give back to the community, meet new people, and make a lasting impact. Join us and be part of history!

Branford Rotary is an active, all-volunteer organization of women and men from all backgrounds who give their time and effort to improve lives in Branford, across the shoreline, and around the world. We have no political or religious affiliations, but instead adhere to a simple, powerful principle: Service Above Self. If you’re the type of person who wants to help others, Rotary is a terrific outlet. We work on projects large and small to help the community, including: Braffle – The Outrageous Restaurant Raffle - where we annually raise $50,000 to help struggling residents through the town’s Basic Needs program. Feed Our Neighbors – where we annually join with other shoreline Rotary Clubs to package 40,000+ meals for families in need. The Branford Festival – For 40 years, Rotary has raised funds for the community with its Festival food and book tents, feeding tens of thousands of people lobster rolls, pancakes, strawberry shortcake and more. The Senior Holiday Dinner – where we provide a holiday meal, and presents, for nearly 200 seniors, many of whom have no one to share the holidays with. The Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K – where 2,000 runners not only work up an appetite, but through their registration, help us feed local families. Rotary also hosts an annual Veteran’s Day lunch, a charity golf tournament, community clean-ups, and more. And our scholarship programs annually award $17,000 to both high school seniors going to college, and older ‘adult’ students looking to go back to school or earn a degree or certificate at a community college. But we’re not all work. Rotary is a great place to network, whether at our regular dinners and breakfasts, or our monthly happy hours. If you want to help the community, Rotary welcomes you!

Welcome to Branford Parks and Recreation DepartmentWe are proud to provide you with our activities / events throughout town.The Recreation Department is committed to providing recreational opportunities through programs and facilities for all of its residents, toddlers through seniors, to experience positive leisure time and promote physical and emotional enrichment. The Branford Recreation Department offers a wide variety of athletic and recreational activities for all ages. Some of the programs offered range from sport tournaments, children’s after school programs, theatre, holiday events, toddler programs, dancing, karate, duplicate bridge, walk the Branford trails, craft classes, bus trips, sports clinics, as well as summer camps, gymnastics, swimming and diving lessons, and much, much more. Additional information is available in brochures and fliers. The best way view these is visit our website at www.branfordrecreation.org and to create a house hold to be added to our email blast list.

For over two decades, Branford Youth Lacrosse has been a pillar of our community, dedicated to nurturing the love of lacrosse in young athletes from Kindergarten through 8th grade. We take immense pride in being able to support the young athletes in our community as they embark on their lacrosse journey!

The Branford Fire Department will provide the highest level of service to our community by valuing our members, promoting positive leadership, and dedicating ourselves to excellence.

We understand that there are moments in our lives that truly challenge us. For over 30 years, the Women & Family Life Center (W&FLC) has been offering women and all families a strong network of support, education, and community during challenging life transitions such as domestic or sexual violence, divorce, housing insecurity, bereavement, obtaining basic needs, career services, individualized appointments with a volunteer financial consultant or lawyer, and much more. W&FLC Guided Assistance Program (GAP) allows you to meet confidentially with a Referral Navigator. Our team is here to provide personalized support and guidance every step of the way, ensuring that your unique needs are met. Our participants at W&FLC are a part of a supportive community dedicated to your success and well-being. Let us walk alongside you on your journey. W&FLC serves the towns of Branford, Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Durham, East Haven, Essex, Guilford, Killingworth, Madison, North Branford, North Haven, Old Saybrook, and Westbrook.W&FLC's services are open to everyone, without any discrimination based on income, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, or disability. We serve the following 14 towns, and all our services are provided at no additional cost to our participants. You are welcome here. W&FLC Mission: To support and empower women and all families during challenging life transitions. W&FLC Vision: Communities where women and all families are free from violence and harassment, are economically and emotionally secure, and have access to equitable opportunities.

BCTV, Branford Community Television, is the official P.E.G. access TV provider for the Town of Branford. A community media station, BCTV provides media platforms and assists Branford residents and organizations to educate, entertain, advocate and inform.BCTV is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, providing facilities and training for local producers to produce programming. BCTV produces annual live, local election and debate coverage, televises town meetings, and operates a successful internship program for middle school, high school and college students. As well, BCTV helps community groups in town to help promote their activities. BCTV provides the community with a variety of informational and entertainment programming and offers residents the opportunity and training to produce their own television show in a state-of-the-art studio.

The Branford Lions Club was chartered in 1951 out of the desire of local business and professional men and women to assist those unable to help themselves. Since then we have helped countless individuals and groups requiring our services. Our prime mission is to serve the requirements of Branford as well as the world community, in the hope of making life better for all.Through the years we have contributed to many worthwhile programs such as the Connecticut Lions Eye Research Foundation (CLERF), Lion Clubs International Fund (LCIF), Diabetes Awareness, Low Vision Centers (LVC), Youth Outreach Programs, Connecticut Radio Information System (CRIS), Fidelco Guide Dogs, Used Eyeglass Collection and many more.We are always looking for people to join us in our endeavor to help those less fortunate.  Our club consists of both male and female members from all walks of life.  We would love for you to join us at one of our meetings to see what we're all about. Branford Lions' supports the Branford Community in many ways, Student of the Year, Branford Festival Health Tent, The Leo Club, Branford High School Scholarship, North Branford High School Scholarship, Brian's Hope, Branford Food Council, Branford Community Dining Room, Project Graduation, Secret Santa Project, Branford Adopted Family, Nicaragua Eyeglass Assistance, Leo Scholarship Fund, Leo Club Sponsor, CLERF, LCIF,  Speech and Hearing Aid Bank, Low Vision Center, CRIS Radio, Fedelco, Lions Project Cannine Companions, Diabetes Awareness, Eye Glass Collection and Festival of Lights.  

The Legacy Theatre is a professional theatre company that enhances the Connecticut Shoreline's economy, educational opportunities and quality of life through live theatre and related programs. The Legacy strives to be a premiere Arts house and to ensure ongoing seasons of uplifting, inspiring, and challenging professional theatre and theatre training for all. A typical season at Legacy includes 4 Mainstage productions, a Broadway Concert Series, programming for children and families, a holiday production, classes for all ages and abilities, and more!Our organization is run by a small, dedicated team of staff, and supported by a phenomenal team of volunteers. Volunteers can do everything from helping to direct parking during performances, serving as ushers for Legacy productions, assisting with community events and fundraisers, or more involved projects such as mailings, helping our housing team prepare spaces for artists to stay, and more.

BACA is a non-profit dedicated to enhancing the cultural life in Branford and the greater shoreline community through the arts and cultural programmign. We run a non-profit Gallery representing local artists and artisans on the Town Green, as well as BACA West at 360 State Street in New Haven. In addition to our quarterly openings, we have special exhibits, offer classes and workshops, concerts and readings by local musicians and writers. We run or collaborate in art fairs on the Green and elsewhere.. Special events are held throughout the year. As a mostly volunteer managed organization that is growing, we need volunteers ranging from board and committee candidates with specific expertise, event support; and individuals with retail and/or art sales experience for the Gallery. Internships are available for high school and college students pursuing careers in the arts or arts management. We also need support for our website, data management, and graphic designers. Come join the excitement at BACA!!!

Maybe you’ve hiked along one of our trails, enjoyed a view across a protected salt marsh, or watched an osprey soar above the acres of open space it calls home. Maybe you’ve seen our blue and green striped signs as you drive through town. This is the Branford Land Trust, an integral part of our quality of life here in Branford.The Branford Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, accredited by the Land Trust Alliance, established in 1967 to protect Branford’s open space and natural resources.The mission of the Branford Land Trust is to preserve open space in Branford, and to promote our community’s appreciation of Branford’s diverse natural features.Run by volunteers and supported by member families and businesses, the Land Trust maintains more than 30 miles of hiking trails, and manages and protects over 1,000 acres in more than 130 parcels, and holds conservation easements on another 400 acres in Branford.We run a children's environmental day camp, offer a spring speaker's series, and lead walks and hikes throughout the year. We also offer special workshops like How to Take Great Nature Photography with your Phone and Maple Tree Tapping and Seed Collection for Ecological Restoration. We are accredited by the Land Trust Alliance, which is a rigorous distinction of sound fiscal management and ethical transactions.

To collect, archive, maintain, and exhibit to the public manuscripts, pictures, objects, artifacts, memorabilia items that reflect the history culture and community of Stony Creek, Connecticut and the Thimble islands. Although we are only open from May to October - We are always looking for docents, and advisory board members, as well as volunteers that are interested in helping with events year round.

Connecticut Hospice is America's first Hospice. It was founded by Florence Wald, and a group of nurses, doctors, and clergy, in 1974 and it was the first of its kind in the United States. A few years prior, Wald, then an Associate Professor and Dean of the Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing Program at Yale University, was inspired by a palliative care lecture given by Dr. Cicely Saunders, the founder of St. Christopher’s Hospice, the first hospice in the world.Throughout our history, we have remained true to our original mission, and continue to uphold our founding principles. Our hospice concept encompasses both home and inpatient care for persons diagnosed with a terminal illness with a limited prognosis, normally six months or less. We uphold the central Hospice commitment to enable the patient to live as fully and completely as possible during the time of the illness. We support the entire family as the unit of care rather than just the patient. Our home care programs make it possible for families to keep the patient at home if such care is appropriate, and marshal community resources to help deepen support and keep care costs as low as possible.Volunteers have always part of our history! We are looking for volunteers who are comfortable sitting with patients in their home, transportation, environmental musicians to play in our lobby, certified pet therapy.

Founded in 2004, The Diaper Bank of Connecticut (DBCT)'s flagship diaper distribution program centralizes the fundraising and distribution of free diapers to low-income families in Connecticut through existing service providers, including hospitals, local food pantries, soup kitchens, childcare centers, social service agencies, and shelters. Recognizing that an inadequate supply of diapers puts families with young children at an increased risk for physical and mental health issues. DBCT has to date distributed more than 42 million free diapers through its extensive Diaper Distribution Network(DDN) of 165+ agencies throughout the state. The Diaper Bank of Connecticut works: 1) To ensure that families living in poverty have an adequate supply of diapers, period supplies, and incontinence products; 2) To raise community awareness that “basic human needs” include diapers, period supplies, and incontinence products and that these needs are not being met for families living in poverty; 3) To advocate for policy reform so that diapers, period supplies, and incontinence products are included in the definition of, and provision for, the “basic human needs” of families. Having access to diapers improves babies’ overall health, reducing instances of diaper rash, urinary tract infections and other medical problems. It also has been shown to improve mothers’ mental health and family dynamics- by relieving a recurring, continual stressor. By providing diapers to families, we help them on a path toward economic stability. Parents cannot use childcare without an adequate supply of diapers, so many who can’t afford diapers end up missing work or school. This will make them less reliant on public assistance programs in the future, all while improving babies’ health and home lives.

The Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter has been helping homeless animals along the Connecticut shoreline and vicinity since April 2003.Hundreds of displaced animals come through our doors each year and it takes a lot of time, rehabilitation and veterinary care to place them into new homes.With such great support from the Town of Branford, our dedicated staff, and our terrific volunteer base, we provide some of the best animal control & shelter services available in the state.

Our YMCA is a membership organization open to all people. The YMCA welcomes individuals of all ages, races, ethnicities, religions, abilities and financial circumstances. Programs and branches embrace diversity, reflecting the needs and composition of our community.Located on the shoreline, the Soundview Family YMCA opened its doors in 2010 to expand the reach of the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA. Exercise, aquatics, summer camp, family programming…we’ve got it all!

BHcare is a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic. We offer a comprehensive and integrated system of care, with wrap-around services for adults, children and families struggling with mental health, substance use, domestic violence, and other health-risk behaviors.BHcare is designated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic. BHcare is licensed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health, the Connecticut Department of Children and Families, and is accredited by The Joint Commission.BHcare was formed in 2012 in a merger that united the resources of Birmingham Group Health Services in Ansonia, and Harbor Health Services in Branford.The BHcare family of programs includes: BHcare Valley and Shoreline Clinics, The Umbrella Center for Domestic Violence Services, Parent Child Resource Center, Hope Family Justice Center, and Alliance for Prevention and Wellness.

The Friends of the Blackstone Library is a non-profit organization of dedicated volunteers. Our mission is to raise money to enhance library services, promote the use of the library as a rich public resource, and provide financial support for special events and programs for all patrons – children, young adults and adults.

The Shoreline Eldercare Alliance is an advocacy group for elders and a compass to help people navigate both the stormy waters of aging and the healthcare services maze.SEA offers many services, including Home Sale and Improvement, Financial Planning, Medicare Consultation, Long-term and Hospice Care, Geriatric Care Management, Elder Law, Probate, Wills and Estate Planning, Hospice Care, Pre-Planning Funeral Services, Meal Preparation Services, Physical Therapy, Exercise Coaching and Home Care Services.

Our mission is to stimulate the knowledge and love of gardening, horticulture, and design; to encourage and promote civic development; and to aid and support conservation efforts. We are a self-supporting non-profit 501(c)3. Often our fundraising and public education events are held on Branford Green, which is where we need volunteer help. Our annual Plant Sale in May gets bigger every year, and logistically requires setting up tables, pop-up tents, organizing hundreds of plants, helping customers take plants to their cars, etc. And, what goes up, must come down.

Homemaker Thrift Shop 4 Brushy Plain Rd Branford CT Non Profit consignment shop benefits Branford programs. We need volunteers assigned to one 3HR shift one day a week. Please stop in Mon-Sat 10-4.

The mission of Save the Sound is to protect and improve the land, air, and water of the whole Long Island Sound region. We use legal and scientific expertise and bring people together to achieve results that benefit our environment for current and future generations.Our vision is of a Connecticut and New York where the vitality of nature will be protected for people and wildlife, now and for many decades to come. A region in which citizens from all walks of life can unite in transforming struggling habitats, polluted waters, endangered wildlife, and a threatened planet into resilient, healthy, vibrant, and inspiring places that sustain communities.Ready to get your hands dirty? As a volunteer, there are many ways you can restore Long Island Sound’s shores and water quality and protect the land, air, and waters of your region. These include rain garden installations, event support, water quality monitoring, river and coastal cleanups, etc.

Shoreline Arts Alliance strives to create supportive communities in which artists thrive through recognition, mentorships, networking, education, and professional development; we transform lives through the arts.Since 1980, Shoreline Arts Alliance has evolved from an arts presenting organization to one that focuses on professional arts development, creating supportive communities in which artists thrive through recognition, mentorships, networking, and education. These communities encourage, empower and develop talented artists while transforming their lives.Our Arts Consultancy and Membership services strengthen arts institutions, arts leaders and individual artists across creative disciplines. We offer tiered levels of customized guidance that provides expertise, education, and practical solutions.Our Leadership Development Program teaches core leadership skills and offers practical business experience in the arts. This workforce development initiative creates self-confident, mentally strong individuals, who are participating in worthwhile artistic activities while contributing to their communities.Our statewide and regional programs include IMAGES Annual Photography Competition, Tassy Walden Awards for New Voices in Children’s Literature, Future Choices High School Visual Art Competition and Exhibition, and Scholarships in the Arts. These programs focus on professional development in the arts through recognition and artistic opportunities. We establish sustainable communities of like-minded individuals that provide educational, supportive, and enriching environments.

The Branford Food Pantry is a 100% volunteer organization with the goal of providing supplemental groceries to Branford families in need.Currently we serve approximately 250 families every month. We are open on Tuesday (morning and evening) and Friday morning.  During opening hours volunteers assist clients with their food choices, intake donations, stock shelves, help clients with the groceries, prepare and deliver groceries to homebound clients. Outside of hours, our volunteers pick up donations from a variety of sources, sort donations, stock shelves and prepare for opening.We are always looking for volunteers willing to make a commitment to regular hours.

The mission of the Agency on Aging of South-Central Connecticut (AOASCC) is to champion and serve older adults and individuals with disabilities, helping them remain independent and engaged in their communities. We achieve this through inclusion and collaboration, honoring differences, and building partnerships. AOASCC is an independent, non-profit organization funded by federal resources. There are four other Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) in Connecticut, each with its own Board of Directors, Advisory Council, Human Resources, and Fiscal departments. AOASCC consists of three distinct departments: 1. Aging and Disability Resource Department: This department provides accurate and impartial information about insurance, respite care, benefit qualification, health and wellness education, and elder abuse. 2. Care Management Department: This department serves individuals participating in the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders, which is sponsored by the Department of Social Services. 3. Volunteer Department: This department offers individuals aged 55 and older the opportunity to get involved by volunteering their time to assist others. They also accept referrals for individuals in need of support through programs such as Friendly Visiting, Medical Chaperone, Grocery Support, Phone-a-Friend, and Financial Guidance.

Orchard House is a medical adult day center located along the shoreline that was established in 1981. We offer medical oversight, social programs, community integration, transportation and meals. The overall purpose of Orchard House is to decrease isolation, loneliness and to increase socialization. We provide much needed respite and resources. Approximately 85% of our seniors have a diagnosis of Alzheimers/Dementia and other maladies. Our goals are simple: we want to enhance the quality of life for those we serve by promoting independence, help maintain and/or enhance their ability to participate in programs, social with friends, and have them remain in their homes as long as possible.

Our Mission To promote language skills and literacy for children, beginning at birth, and to support parents as their babies’ first teachers. Our Vision Every family will understand the critical importance of early childhood literacy and will take an active role in their child’s reading development. All children in Connecticut will have books of their own. Core Values We are committed to making books a part of every child’s life from birth. We are committed to supporting families playing a central role in their child’s early language and literacy. We are committed to collaborative work with parents, partner organizations, and other community groups. We are committed to financial sustainability.

The mission of Feed Branford Kids is to see that ALL our children have enough to eat EVERY day whether it is a school day, a weekend or a holiday. We offer a weekend backpack program that has no income eligibility requirements and includes children beyond the free and reduced breakfast and lunch programs. An estimated 1 in 3 children meet the criteria. We also are meeting the needs of a diverse community – 40 languages other than English are spoken in the Branford school system. The backpack program honors our children’s need for privacy by partnering with school administrators to ensure our commitment to their privacy. The program currently delivers 2 breakfast meals, 2 main meals, 2 cartons of milk, 2 cartons of juice and snacks for an entire weekend during the academic year. Our weekend backpack program relies 100% on private funding. Our board of directors is comprised of all volunteers. During our tenure the program has raised awareness that hunger lives in everyone’s backyard.

Canoe Brook Center is the Senior Center in Branford, CT serving Branford residents 60+.  The mission of the Canoe Brook Center is to provide opportunities for socialization with peers, for educational and cultural enrichment, for personal growth and for successful aging and to promote health and physical fitness.  The Center will also be an advocate for Branford senior citizens and all Town residents regardless of age in cases where service is not provided by other local agencies. There is something for everyone.  You must be independent and oriented to join the Center. There is a need for volunteers at Canoe Brook. Benefits of volunteering: To have the opportunity to be with other people, be part of a team, make new friends and acquaintances, learn new skills, experience personal growth and to have fun while enriching other peoples' lives. Our TRIAD program is going strong. We help to provide programs for the seniors to keep them from being victimized in their homes and in the community. An offshoot to this program is the S.A.L.T. Council. SALT stands for Seniors and Law Enforcement Together. The council meets about three times a year planning TRIAD meetings.

For 105 years, the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants has built a legacy of leadership, compassionate service and effective advocacy for immigrants, refugees and survivors of human trafficking and torture. We have consistently remained true to our mission to serve and empower newcomers to thrive in Connecticut. At the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants, we strengthen lives and our communities, demonstrate resilience in meeting the evolving needs of generations of immigrants into Connecticut, and have an enduring presence in the community.

Our story began 40 years ago, when members of St. Stephens AME Zion Church organized the first MLK Day Breakfast in Branford. From its humble beginnings in a small church, the MLK Day Breakfast has blossomed into a hugely popular annual event, with a roster of renowned speakers, held at Branford High School. It also led to the formation of the nonprofit MLK Heritage Foundation, whose mission is to honor the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by enlightening and uplifting our community. ​ Today, the MLK Heritage Foundation continues to expand our reach, inspired by the legacy of Dr. King. Among our projects is 'Meals for the Mind,' a groundbreaking series of bi-monthly evenings where 10 people from different backgrounds - whether cultural, racial, ideological, or generational – share a meal, talk, and simply get to know each other. We also hold annual Black History Month events at the Blackstone Library and Branford High School, and we annually award scholarships to high school seniors whose works in the community embody the spirit of Dr. King. ​ At the MLK Heritage Foundation, our mission is a testament to our commitment to a more equitable and unified society. If you’d like to join us on our journey, we urge you to contact us and learn what we’ve been up to. Together, we can create a better future.

Raise the Roof is the Shoreline community build organization within Habitat for Humanity of Greater New Haven. Raise the Roof believes that everyone deserves a decent, affordable and safe place to live. To honor this belief, we work to bring the Shoreline community together to partner with families and help them build and own Habitat homes. Our “building” consists not only of the physical work; we raise awareness of the need for such housing, raise funds to sponsor the work, and seek out volunteers to serve alongside families and help them build. Raise the Roof works within the 501(c )(3) of Habitat for Humanity of Greater New Haven.

Who We Are The United Way of Greater New Haven is a non-profit organization that was founded more than 100 years ago to support the needs of our community. Today, we serve a 12-town region, covering New Haven, Orange, Woodbridge, Bethany, Hamden, West Haven, East Haven, North Haven, Branford, Guilford, North Branford, and Madison. Our Mission We bring people and organizations together to create solutions to Greater New Haven's most pressing challenges in the areas of Education, Health, and Financial Stability, grounded in racial and social justice.  Our Vision Greater New Haven is a place where all children are nurtured, all families are thriving, and all community members have opportunities to reach their full potential. 

Sharing the joy and power of reading New Haven Reads increases the literacy skills of children by providing individually tailored one-on-one after school tutoring, educational family support, and a community book bank, all at no cost to participants.

ALEX is a non-profit organization whose mission is to create a safe, compassionate community while empowering LGBTQ+ youth, families, and allies through educational, emotional, and financial support. We hold annual events to raise funds in support of these goals. Through local partnerships, ALEX aims to build a society where everyone is treated equally and can live authentically. We are always looking for volunteers to assist with our annual events, such as the Guilford Pride Event in May and the Queer Prom in December. At the moment, we are also seeking someone to fill a long-term role as our social media coordinator.

We are an all-volunteer, Guilford-based performing arts organization that presents events on the Shoreline. We use volunteers as board and advisory board members; and as committee members who plan, produce, market, raise funds for and staff a biennial festival and other events. We seek people for all of those roles now as we prepare to roll out a series of new events this spring and plan the 2025 GreenStage Guilford Live Arts Festival in August. Currently seeking volunteers to: Coordinate a charity auction Staff events in spring and summer 2025 Coordinate volunteers Research and write grants Email us if you're interested!

The Branford Microfund provides interest-free loans to Branford residents who encounter unexpected financial obstacles but cannot afford or obtain a commercial loan. Our philosophy is to “pay it forward” – when a loan recipient repays a loan, the money becomes available to help another person in need. If you’d like to volunteer your time, please let us know. We are committed to helping our neighbors and we welcome your expertise and assistance to make that happen! How it works: Potential applicants must be 18 years of age and demonstrate the ability to repay their loan. Our loan limit is $3,000, and all loans must be repaid within 30 months via a signed promissory note. Repayment of loans allows the Fund to recycle its donations and help other community members. The loan application is quick and easy, and can be done online or in person. Our loan committee invests significant time and effort in assisting qualified applicants move forward.

Founded in 1985, the Community Dining Room (CDR) is a private, not-for-profit organization providing food, support, and companionship to our shoreline neighbors. We serve the south-central Connecticut shoreline. ​ The Community Dining Room is committed to providing meals to the community and supporting basic human needs. Our vision is to see a well-nourished community. We strive to promote public awareness of the impact of hunger and isolation in our society. We are dedicated to helping our guests with their practical needs through referrals and fellowship. ​ All new volunteers are required to participate in a Volunteer Orientation, please contact Volunteer Coordinator to sign up and get started!

Needed! Skilled Volunteer Repairers! A Repair Café is an event that brings together volunteers who offer their skill to make simple repairs of everyday items. Repairers bring their own tools, and the owner of each item signs a liability waiver. It's a great way to lend a hand to neighbors and reduce what goes in our landfills. What kind of repairs? Electrical—small appliances, lamps; Electronics; Mechanical devices - clocks, toys, bicycles; Jewelry—tangles, clips, soldering; Sewing—hems, tears, buttons, etc.; Tool sharpening; Wooden items—boxes, chairs, etc. New repair categories can be created to match your skill. How Often? Two three-hour events a year – Spring and Fall. Saturday afternoons, 2:00 -5:00 pm. Co-sponsors Sustainable Guilford & Repair Café—Branford. What’s the Café? Free hospitality for those who might have to wait their turn. Coffee and conversation with neighbors – it’s a nice way to wait! Participation is growing! Your skill is needed! Please contact us today! Thank you.

The Branford Conservation and Environment Commission serves to protect our town’s natural resources. The Commission provides an advisory role for the care and management of Branford Town open space properties. Additionally, the Commission provides recommendations to the Board of Selectmen and the Representative Town Meeting regarding environmental and conservation matters and the impact that various kinds of development have on our town’s environment.

Shoreline Theatre Company began in the spring of 2018 as a mere conversation. Our goal was to fill a gap in the community by creating more opportunities in the performing arts for people of all ages. Our inaugural production, Hairspray, featured a cast of 60 performers from 10 different towns, ranging in age from 13 to 70. That same summer, we launched our first theatre camp for students in grades 2 through 8, which culminated in performances of Aladdin Jr. Due to the camp’s overwhelming success, we introduced a Winter Camp, debuting with Elf Jr. By the following summer, our camper numbers had doubled, allowing us to stage Alice in Wonderland Jr. with two entirely separate casts. And as they say—“the rest is history.” Like many, we were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced us to pause and adjust. But in January 2023, we proudly celebrated our 5th anniversary with You Can’t Stop the Beat—a musical retrospective of our first 14 productions, told through song and story. We are incredibly grateful for the support of our community and look forward to continuing our mission. Our goal is to produce a wide variety of shows that welcome performers of all experience levels and deliver immersive experiences to audiences. Whether you join us onstage, behind the scenes, or in the audience, we hope that Shoreline Theatre Company continues to inspire and uplift. Thank YOU for supporting the arts!

We are citizens from all walks of life with an interest in protecting the environment and serving the public.  Volunteer to be a Friend of Outer Island. Our Mission is to: - Preserve the natural resources of Outer Island - Provide environmental education and wildlife dependent recreation - Assist with maintenance and improvement of island facilities We support the National Refuge System. The National Wildlife Refuge System is in crisis. Threats to refuges are growing, while staffing and funding for key conservation programs are diminishing. Friends of Outer Island volunteer their time to assist in the upkeep of the refuge and provide visitor services. We are a member of the Stewart B. McKinney NWR Coalition, an umbrella organization that advocates for the entire refuge. Volunteers participate as often as they like, weekdays and weekends for four hour shifts, during the open season on Outer Island between May and October. Volunteers can choose to casually welcome, guide, and/or educate the visiting public; do light maintenance of the island areas; seasonal plantings; and participate in the wildlife educational programs hosted for public schools. See the "Roles" tab for more information. Ferry transport to and from Outer Island is provided. For more information, you can contact USFWS visitor services manager Shaun Roche at shaun_roche@fws.gov

RJ’s Goals was created in honor of our son and brother, RJ Giammattei, who passed away suddenly in September 2023. RJ's true passion was soccer. He first started playing at age 4 for Branford Soccer Club, then went on to play for several premier teams throughout CT, CT ODP and BHS Varsity Boys soccer. He continued to play after high school in several men's leagues around the state and was always participating in any pick-up soccer games he could find.  Our mission is to foster and encourage kids’ love of soccer. By distributing soccer balls, we aim to inspire physical activity, teamwork and a lifelong love for the game. We distribute 75-100 new, size 3 soccer balls to Branford Soccer Club Lil Kicks participants twice per year in the fall and spring seasons. In the holiday season, we donate new soccer balls to Yale NH Children’s Hospital Child Life Program. We recently purchased 60+ performance practice shirts for the Branford High School Boys’ soccer team fall season and donated 30 new soccer balls to Clinton Avenue School in New Haven. As we grow, we would like to identify additional communities and organizations that would benefit from youth soccer balls. We are looking for volunteers to take pictures of our distribution events and of the Lil Kicks teams and participants playing with our soccer balls that are appropriate for social media. We would also like volunteers with social media experience to edit and post to Instagram as well as create a website for us.

We are NOT an old-fashioned historical society! We have fun and we educate! Typical volunteer opportunities every year: ·        Hosting groups of giggling third-graders who learn about life in 1724 (the year our Harrison House was built) ·        Decorating Harrison House for members to enjoy fragrant mulled cider, delicious desserts and snacks, and live music at our annual Holiday party ·        Celebrating historical milestones (such as the Marquis de Lafayette's visit to Branford in 1724), ·        Helping with organizing members-only tours at cool places like Branford's Center Cemetery (established 1645!) ·        Preparing and serving our traditional Strawberry Shortcake (a Townwide favorite!) at every Branford Festival And there are plenty of other opportunities, whether in front of the public or working quietly by yourself - from being a guide at Harrison House to helping to scan & archive old documents. Contact us and let us know what YOU'D enjoy, and we'll work with you to find the right fit.

The Shoreline Greenway Trail is a project to build a trail and connect communities in a 25-mile corridor from New Haven to Madison, for pedestrian, bicycle and other non-motorized accessibility between and within those towns. Additionally, we enable community members to utilize these trails through programs that inform, educate, and activate participation with this wonderful resource. Shoreline Greenway Trail (SGT), as a nonprofit organization, is a primary advocate for the effort. SGT works with local citizens and businesses, governments and other advocates to promote trails and pedestrian infrastructure. We advocate for walkers, runners and joggers, cyclists, wheelchair users and all who move without motorized vehicles In our programs and advocacy, we strive to ensure safe, convenient access to scenic shoreline spots and other key destinations in New Haven, East Haven, Branford, Guilford, Madison and Clinton.

The mission of Branford Basketball League (BYBL) is to provide quality, instructional basketball opportunities for all levels to the youth of Branford. Our goal is to offer programs that enhance players’ basketball knowledge and skills, while promoting personal growth, teamwork, and fun. From beginners with little to no experience, to intermediate and competitive players, BYBL offers boys and girls in grades K-8 a variety of programs, including introductory clinics (K&1), recreational leagues (2-8), and competitive travel teams (4–8). As a volunteer-run, non-profit organization, we are committed to creating a positive, supportive environment where every child has the chance to learn, play, and love the game of basketball, which may include growth to Branford High School opportunities.