Fairfield County’s Giving Day, the annual 24-hour
fundraising event, kicked off virtually this year.
The day is aimed at giving back to those who give so much
to the community and has taken on new meaning during the pandemic.
Those wishing to take part were urged to
head to the website and
give to one or multiple nonprofits, with more than 400 to choose from.
One of them is the
Wakeman Boys & Girls Club, which
has been around since 1913. It is primarily known for its
after-school activities, including sports, STEM learning centers and
art.
During the pandemic, it has given out meals on the
weekends and became a COVID-19 testing site.
Wakeman has two clubhouses,
one in Southport and another in Bridgeport. It is hoping to open
another on Bridgeport’s North End.
"We're looking still to raise $4 million to complete
that project," said CEO Sabrina Smeltz. She says 60% of the budget
comes from donations.