We’ve had an amazing summer here at Hall Neighborhood House! From college visits and Broadway shows to rock climbing, basketball, and beachside Bingo, our community has been learning, growing, and connecting in so many different ways.
We’re excited to share just a few highlights, including the achievements of our HNH LEADS students, a special celebration of STEM education in Bridgeport, and a sneak peek at creative programs launching this fall.
Thank you for being part of everything we do! Your support makes these moments—and the lasting impact they spark—possible.
HNH LEADS High School Students Soar This Summer
Our HNH LEADS students have been expanding their horizons through unforgettable experiences this summer.
In July, students got a glimpse of college life during a visit to Columbia University in New York City. They toured the campus, connected with current students, and experienced the atmosphere of a top-tier university. To cap off the trip, they enjoyed a Broadway performance of Hell’s Kitchen, Alicia Keys’ hit musical.
Back home, they pushed their limits during a rock climbing adventure that built confidence and teamwork, then took a behind-the-scenes tour of Straton Industries, a precision manufacturing company in Stratford, CT. Hosted by company leaders, students explored real-world applications of engineering and technology, and some even expressed new interest in STEM careers.
Experiences like these are at the heart of the LEADS program, which equips high schoolers with the tools, exposure, and mentorship they need to thrive in school and life!
A Toast to STEM Success in Bridgeport
On July 22, we gathered with partners, supporters, and friends to celebrate the incredible milestone of bringing Alan Wallack STEM Learning Centers to 28 Bridgeport public schools, impacting more than 14,000 students with hands-on science and technology learning.
Together, we reflected on how far we’ve come, shared our hopes for what’s next, and raised a glass to our community, whose continued support is making these opportunities possible for Bridgeport’s students.
Special thanks to Interim Superintendent, Dr. Royce Avery, for attending the event and supporting the rollout of the Alan Wallack STEM Learning Center in Bridgeport Public Schools!
Bingo at Seaside Park
Our senior neighbors recently took their Bingo cards to Seaside Park for a fun-filled field trip! It was a great opportunity for them to connect and enjoy some fresh air and a change of scenery.
You can learn more about our senior services and how we care for neighbors of all ages at hallneighborhoodhouse.org/senior-services.
A Slam Dunk Summer
Thanks to the incredible generosity of the HMR Cup—a group dedicated to supporting underprivileged children—48 middle schoolers (24 girls and 24 boys) spent an unforgettable 4 weeks this summer sharpening their basketball skills, building confidence, and experiencing life on a college campus.
Many of these kids rarely get the chance to leave Bridgeport, so this was an amazing opportunity for them to learn from Division I basketball players at Fairfield University and Sacred Heart University, practice in state-of-the-art gyms, and dream big for their futures!
Thank you to Noreaga Davis and Drew Barlaam for ensuring all the campers got to camp and back to Hall Neighborhood House safely.
Back to School, Back to Creativity!
This fall, we’re launching an Art Club at Hall Neighborhood House! As we help students gear up for a new school year, we’re also creating space for imagination, confidence, and connection to thrive.
Twice a week, students will gather to explore painting, drawing, sculpture, and more, led by our amazing art teacher, who has been building relationships and investing in our students for the past three years. They’ll explore famous artists and styles from Modern to Renaissance, create unique masterpieces using fun materials like watercolor, clay, and pastels, express their creativity, and share their work in exciting group projects and art showcases!
Early Learning Center Earns Top Marks in State & National Inspections
At Hall Neighborhood House, our Early Learning Center strives to meet (and exceed) the highest standards in early childhood education. Over the past few months, our program underwent rigorous inspections from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the Office of Early Childhood (OEC), and the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).
We’re proud to share that not only did we meet all compliance requirements, but we also earned special recognition for the quality of our program:
- NAEYC: Over 90% compliance in most components, with a perfect 100% score in family engagement.
- OEC: Commended for our strong classroom engagement between our staff and children.
- CACFP: Named one of the top large childcare programs in the state. Our Early Learners receive breakfast, lunch, and snacks, and our after-school program students receive a snack and dinner.
These exceptional results are a direct reflection of the dedication, skill, and heart of our Early Learning team, led by Early Learning Director Hector Burgos. Hector’s leadership and tireless commitment to children and families help set the standard for what early education can be.
We are grateful to our entire team for making Hall a place where every child can learn, grow, and thrive!