One of the best things about not only our Fairfield University campus, but our Fairfield Community, is that our dedication to outreach and charity is evident in so many things that we do. One group on campus that has been working directly with the community to give back is The Caroline House Junior Board. Not technically a club on campus, and not technically outside of it either, it acts as a bridge between Bridgeport’s The Caroline House and our Fairfield University community.
The Caroline House is an educational center that provides language skills and care for women and children in need. The Caroline House offers what they call their “Four Pillar Programs”: Women’s ESL & Life Skills, a Preschool Program, After School Tutoring & Summer Program and Civics/Citizenship Tutoring. Each of these programs allows these women to not only benefit while they are in the classes and workshops but to learn skills that they can carry with them to help ensure a successful future.
The Caroline House does more than just provide for these women but truly invests in them, ensuring that the time spent prepares these women to be successful and secure beyond just their time in the programs. Not only that, but the priority placed on caring for women and their children allows an entire family to flourish as these children are more likely to succeed in education down the line, thanks to the care they receive through The Caroline House.
The Caroline House is doing amazing work for women in our community, so what brought them to Fairfield University? The importance of community and the value of outreach created by The Caroline House Junior Board. Not only does an organizational board on a college campus allow for more resources, time and attention to be paid to this amazing organization, but it also allows students an opportunity to give back, and really become immersed in helping the community they now call home.
The Caroline House Junior Board is already making a difference through multiple fundraisers that not only raise money for the house, but also get the message out there about the great work that is being done here in Bridgeport, Conn. The Junior Board has begun selling hoodies that are designed by Fairfield’s own Jackie Campbell ‘24 and Amelia Bowles ‘24 (who have been leading the board’s effort for two semesters now). They are being sold at the bookstore in town and right here on campus. Each hoodie costs $45 and 100% of their profits are sent to The Caroline House.
They have also planned a Chipotle fundraiser on Nov. 16, reaching further into our community to support this organization (and allowing students to get a great meal for a great cause). Throughout the year, we plan on hosting more fundraisers, and even selling more merch, with all the new updates found on @carolinehousejboard Instagram.
As a relatively new organization on campus, we’ve been working hard to build our platform, get our name out there and get people involved with our fundraisers. The work that the Junior Board is doing to support The Caroline House is truly changing lives, and as Fairfield students, it couldn’t be easier to get involved in the effort. Whether it be joining the club, attending meetings, working fundraisers, volunteering at The Caroline House or simply keeping an eye out to participate in our fundraisers, you will be able to support work on campus that benefits women and children in our community.
The Caroline House recognizes the importance of their work in Bridgeport and wants to involve the Fairfield Community in it as well. I have had a great time being a part of the organization this semester, and truly encourage everyone to support in whatever way they would like. No matter how small, a contribution to The Caroline House through the Junior Board can allow, empower and encourage local women to reach their fullest potential, and give them and their families the resources to do so.
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