Investing in Fairfield County’s Future—Together

Feb 26, 2025

Dear Friend,

“I have a dream.”

This iconic line from Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1963 speech has become a beacon for all who believe in equality in America.

Yet another passage from that speech has been on my mind lately as I navigate the changes unfolding around us:

“We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism… It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment.”

We are in urgent times. Our nation is rapidly transforming how it addresses everything from supporting vulnerable communities to pursuing peace and democracy abroad. The full impact of these changes is still unclear, but many nonprofits are already feeling the effects of federal funding cuts and seismic policy shifts: closed services, layoffs, and reduced support for those in need.

Given the speed of change, it’s tempting to wait and see. But as Dr. King warned, we cannot afford to delay. The consequences are already here.

While we may not control federal policies, we do have power right here in our community. We can come together to build a Fairfield County where everyone has fair access to the American dream—a place where no one is left behind, and where everyone’s rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are protected.

This will require us to act, to support those losing vital resources, and to protect those living in fear. Together, we can care for the place we call home.

As Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, we’re committed to bringing people together to strengthen our community. We are nonpartisan, community-focused, and people-centered.

Dr. King’s words remind us of two truths: Our individual freedoms are tied to the freedoms of others, and the “bank of justice” is only as full as our collective investment in it.

Today, we face the fierce urgency of now. We invite you to join us in co-investing in that bank—starting by defining a shared vision for our community.

What is your dream for Fairfield County?

Together, we can answer that question and take action to make it a reality. My dream is for a region rooted in fairness and justice, where every resident can thrive. It is my dream that we continue to expand access and opportunity across every sector of our community. But as Dr. King said, “we cannot walk alone… and as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead.”

Will you walk with us?

We cannot turn back.

In Community,