Welcome to June and warm sunny days leading us to summer - a perfect time to reflect on the light we share. As we celebrate Father’s Day, we honor the steady, loving presence of fathers, father figures, and caregivers in our lives. Like the sun shining on the newly planted crops and warming the earth, their love and strength help us grow, dream, and become who we’re meant to be. Their light lifts us and it inspires us to lift others.
At The Kennedy Collective, we stand proudly behind our core value - Ensure Inclusion by Championing People and Celebrating Their Individuality. We believe every person is powerful. When we recognize and celebrate that power we build a community fueled by confidence, courage, and connection. Our people are at the heart of what makes us shine.
This Father’s Day, we celebrate those who shine with care, guide with purpose, and help others thrive. Because of them, and because of you, we live into our power filled truth - when we unite together as a Collective, our abilities have no bounds.
With gratitude and joy,
Collective Voices
Spotlight:
Michael Hedrick
A Champion's Journey
Michael “Mike” Hedrick’s journey began in 1997 with a hesitant introduction to golf, a sport that would soon become his passion and therapy. Since joining Special Olympics in 1994, Mike has earned 19 state titles and two prestigious medals at the North American Golf Championship. He also played in a PGA pro-am and is aiming for the 2027 Special Olympics World Games. Beyond golf, he’s a dedicated Kennedy Collective volunteer and motivational speaker. Mike's story is one of resilience,
purpose, and joy, reminding us that with persistence and heart, every shot—on the course and in life—can lead to something extraordinary.
Find inspiration in Mike’s full story along with others from our Collective Voices series.
Mickey's art reflects his positive energy and appreciation for life. Mickey loves nature and the outdoors which he joyfully demonstrates in the expressive brushstrokes, color, and movement he employs. A true renaissance man, Mickey is a passionate and gifted artist who, for decades, has graced The Kennedy Collective arts programs.
Congratulations Mickey on this beautiful introduction to the joy that summer brings. Your are an inspiration to us all!
To purchase The Kennedy Collective original art & art-inspired merchandise, visit:
Our new center-based ABA services provide tailored Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy to children, teens, and young adults (ages 3 to 21) with autism. The insurance-funded center is located at 2440 Reservoir Ave.,Trumbull, CT.
For more information and to register, visit: Collective ABA or contact:
...brings to life stories, and passions that define our Kennedy Collective employee’s drive, and commitment to the profound and inspirational work they perform with love every day. Each month, we are spotlighting an employee's unique “Why” to honor our collective mission, invite new talent, and amplify the voices that inspire us. Our May Spotlight goes to... James Distiso
Coming Up at TKC...
Autism Learning Network June Drop-in Social
Pizza Dance Party
Click below to sign up!
Special Olympics Connecticut Summer Games
June 6 - 8, Special Olympics of Connecticut is hosting the 2025 Summer Games. Witness athletes of all abilities compete with heart and determination in cycling, soccer, swimming, tennis, and track & field. All events are free and open to the public. Come out to cheer them on and be inspired!
On May 20, individuals, family members and staff from TKC traveled to Hartford to make our voices heard at the Connecticut Rally for Nonprofit Funding & Advocacy at the Capitol.
Our Goal: fight to ensure our community continues to receive the care, support, and opportunities they deserve. By urging our local legislators to support increased funding, we're standing up for inclusion, dignity, and equity.
We need your help!
Please click on the link below to contact your local legislators and support this vital cause. It takes just a few moments but can make a huge difference in the lives of half a million CT residents.
On May 1, TKC gathered to celebrate Marguerite Kinsella’s 38 amazing years of service to The Kennedy Collective!
Since beginning her career in 1987 as a Follow-Up Counselor in the DMHAS Work Services division, Marguerite has been a dedicated advocate, mentor, and source of unwavering support.
In 2009, she transitioned to an Employment Specialist role where
she continued to uplift and empower individuals on their path to meaningful employment.
Marguerite’s compassion and commitment have left a lasting impact on countless lives. As she embarks on a well-deserved retirement, we honor her incredible contributions and the legacy of possibility she leaves behind.
On May 14, we proudly celebrated the Graduation of our Project SEARCH Interns —a group of determined young adults who completed a transformative 9-month internship program.
Hosted by The Kennedy Collective and the Woodruff Family YMCA in Milford, Project SEARCH equips participants with hands-on experience, workplace skills, and confidence to pursue competitive employment.
This graduation marks the beginning of new opportunities. Congratulations to our graduates - Alex, Ciera & Alexa - you inspire us all with your hard work, growth, and perseverance!
A heartfelt thank you to Jonathan and Jeneice for your outstanding leadership managing the program—your guidance has been instrumental in each intern’s success!
On May 15, The Kennedy Collective welcomed families to our Spring Family Town Hall at 39 Lindeman Drive in Trumbull. President & CEO Rick Sebastian, along with members of the leadership team, provided important updates on TKC’s programs, services, and strategic initiatives.
We were honored to host State Representative Sarah Keitt (134th District – Trumbull and Fairfield), who joined the conversation to share insights on Connecticut’s ongoing budget negotiations and address questions from attendees.
The evening concluded with an open Q&A session, giving families the opportunity to engage directly with TKC leadership and voice their thoughts and concerns.
As part of our ongoing commitment to transparency and collaboration, The Kennedy Collective will continue to host quarterly Family Town Hall gatherings to keep our community informed and connected.
Honor a Mother Who Inspires You!
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The Kennedy Collective, 2440 Reservoir Avenue, Trumbull, CT 06611, USA, (203) 365-8522
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