Over the past several months we’ve been spotlighting parents in our local community taking action to make a difference in other people’s lives. We’ll continue to feature these stories, because in today’s often tumultuous world, nothing makes us happier and more inspired than to be able to showcase examples of people doing good for others.
This month, we are thrilled to feature Patty Labozzo, a resident of Ridgefield. Between being a devoted wife and mom to her 8 year old daughter, Ruby, Patty is an active volunteer at Family & Children's Aid (FCA), which is a child-focused 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization based in Danbury offering high quality, innovative mental health care for children and their families.
What started as a service project over four year ago with Ruby’s Girl Scout Troop, for which Patty is one of their leaders, has now turned into a family affair with both mother and daughter dedicating many volunteer hours at FCA.
“I came to know this amazing organization when my co-leader, our troop and I began organizing Thanksgiving Baskets for 20 families several years ago,” recalls Patty.
FCA operates under the belief that children are society's most valuable assets. For over 200 years, FCA has been providing children with safe homes and therapeutic support allowing children to lead healthier lives. FCA offers a variety of programs centered on providing high-quality behavioral health services for children and families.
“I am just so blown away by this team. Everyone is so dedicated and so child-focused. They are the kindest people I have ever met with such a devout interest int their clients. It doesn’t stop!” says Patty.
Along with other Ridgefield-area Girl Scouts troops, Patty continues to organize the holiday meal baskets and treats for local families, but is also involved in many other FCA activities, including Golden Ticket Nights.
“When kids go through continuous counseling services, they are given a golden ticket, play money of sorts. One time a month, they can go into the play area and “purchase” games, toys, books, clothes, etc.,” explains Patty. “You open one door in one room and then another, and then another...it’s amazing! Every room has a purpose - rebuilding a sense of joyful play, trust and connection.”
Golden Ticket Nights are also something her daughter has come to enjoy as well, acting as a greeter and shopping partner, helping children pick out their hard-earned goodies.
“It is so rewarding to see my daughter feel empowered by making a difference,” says Patty.
Additionally, Patty is a part of the FCA Parent Mentoring Program, partnering up with another mom to share perspective, experiences and act as a positive sounding board. “We talk about life, and going about it. What I love about this program is that my partner keeps thanking me, when I should be thanking her. The amount of gratitude I have has increased...I now look at life differently,” says Patty.
Patty relayed that that the FCA makes it so accessible for people to help. For example, when Ridgefield Library has a book sale, they set aside a day for non-profits, when leftover books can be donated. Patty was able to organize a donation of nearly 25 large boxes of books for FCA.
Click here to learn more about FCA and how you can support its mission.
“Something magical happens there. Everyone leaves happy. These kids are going through hard work and facing issues, many to overcome their past history,” says Patty.
“I just want people to know it’s there. In so many capacities you can impact people. Small acts make a big impact and we can all do something. It doesn’t take much, but the impact is huge and life-changing.”
