Freshman Community Group

FCG is a youth enrichment program for 9th grade Darien students. Students will participate in mental health-related activities facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker and engage in meaningful discussions about the transition to high school, including stress management, friendship and substance use. Students also learn about local human service needs and volunteer at local nonprofit organizations.

Students meet 1-2 times a month for 45 minutes.

Meetings will be held at the Office Suites of Darien, 30 Old Kings Highway, Darien, CT 06820 - 1st Floor Training Room

Students are responsible for their own transportation.

Freshman Community Group $200 registration fee funds the operation of the youth program:

Personnel
Space rental
Refreshments / snacks
Supplies
Any remaining funds are contributed to The Community Fund of Darien's grant giving pool to be invested in helping our community.

Questions? Please email info@communityfunddarien.org

2024-2025 Youth Program Recap

From fall through spring, 30 Darien 9th graders participated in the Freshman Community Group (FCG). Through meetings and volunteer opportunties, the students engaged in discussions about the transition to high school, including stress management, friendship, and substance use. Students also got to learn about local human service needs and gave back to the community through volunteer work!

"FCG helped me gain a voice."

"FCG opened my eyes to see that more people were struggling in Fairfield County making me become more empathetic."

Fairgate Farm - Stamford

In September, students kicked off the year with a visit to Fairgate Farm. They helped support the community garden by harvesting peppers and tomatoes, weeding overgrown areas, pruning plants, and watering raised beds.

Filling In the Blanks - Norwalk

In October, FCG students worked together to pack 900 weekend meal bags for children facing food insecurity. The session at Filling in the Blanks helped students see how even one hour of work can support hundreds of local families.

"I liked the volunteering. It was nice to know I made an impact."

Darien Nature Center

In November, students volunteered at the Darien Nature Center where they helped maintain the outdoor trails by raking leaves and clearing pathways.

At Home In Darien

Throughout the fall, students also contributed to At Home in Darien by helping older adults with seasonal yard clean-up.This intergenerational service supported local seniors and taught students the value of simple acts of kindness!

Person to Person

In January, FCG students volunteered at Person to Person’s community closet. They sorted donation bins, organized shelves, and hung clothing.

STAR's Sports Buddies - New Canaan

In one of the spring sessions, FCG students volunteered alongside STAR’s Sports Buddies program at New Canaan High School. They engaged in inclusive physical activities like basketball, running laps, and parachute games. The morning was filled with energy, teamwork, and laughter!