COMPASSIONATE RIDGEFIELD
WELCOMES YOU
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Compassionate Ridgefield is a non-partisan, non-profit organization initiated by a group of Ridgefield residents who understand that living in a welcoming, supportive, compassionate community improves lives. Born out of concerns about that the world, and sometimes Ridgefield, can feel very divisive and polarized at times, we deeply that Ridgefield is OUR town and that, TOGETHER, we can do something to "shift" the culture. Our ultimate goal is to create a Ridgefield where every person--no matter their age, ethnicity, gender, abilities, religion, political or sexual orientation--feels welcome and respected. Compassionate responsiveness can change our world, one person and one act at a time.
Our Mission Statement
Compassionate Ridgefield, in
collaboration with the town’s citizens, businesses & organizations, is committed to cultivating the 'principles of compassion' with courage and competency to foster a community that strives to listen, understand and include all others with empathy, respect,
and openheartedness.
Our Vision Statement
We strive to create
ripples of compassion
throughout our community.
THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
DENISE QUALEY
RUDY MARCONI
Ridgefield First Selectman
We all need to pay better attention to the importance of compassion and respect for one's neighbor. We have, in recent years, seen a disturbing decline in civility---on the athletic fields, online, and in the community. Signing the charter will be Ridgefield's public acknowledgement of our commitment to being a more compassionate community.
CAROL MAHLSTEDT
Past Chairperson
As a psychologist, I am profoundly aware of the power of empathy and compassion in strengthening resilience and healthy emotional climates. Working to foster greater compassion in a community that I love and call home is an honor and a privilege and an initiative I very much believe in!
MARGARET BEST RODGERS
Board Member
It’s an honor to serve Ridgefield through Compassionate Ridgefield. Compassion, kindness, attentiveness to the needs of others, and a focus on gratitude & giving inform my choices and act as a North Star in my day-to-day life. As the mother of four children in our wonderful town, I am thrilled that we have so many dedicated people and organizations working in harmony to make our community warmer, safer, and more welcoming to all of our neighbors.
JENNIFER TEJADA
Board Member
ERIN CRAIG
SHELLY FISHER
Secretary
MARTHA MORRIS
Chairperson
Martha Morris is honored to work on such an open-hearted initiative! In my work as a psychotherapist in Ridgefield, I am keenly aware that when we approach others, ourselves and our life-circumstances with compassion - space is created that allows healing. And healing is what progress is made of - Onward!
BOB CASCELLA
Treasurer
I have lived in our wonderful community since 2004. Professionally, I own and manage Grove Street Realty Advisors, a commercial real estate company. I have always believed in giving back to my community, and believe that it is more important than ever to work towards bringing greater peace, compassion and understanding to Ridgefield.