Campus Community Service Challenge

As part of its first-ever Campus Community Service Challenge, Newman’s Own Foundation gave over $100,000 to various charities during the America East Conference Basketball Tournament at the University of Hartford, March 4-7. Best Buddies Connecticut, in partnership with University of Hartford’s Best Buddies chapter, received $15,000. Additionally, several local charities attended the tournament through a Newman’s Own Foundation grant, including Achievement First, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford, Discovery Center, Girl Scouts of Connecticut, Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, and Nutmeg Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Pictured, from left to right, are Bob Forrester, president, Newman’s Own Foundation; Walter Harrison, president, University of Hartford; Matt Blocker, director, center for community service, University of Hartford; Nicky Besitko, state director, Best Buddies Connecticut; Sarah Morocco, program supervisor, Best Buddies Connecticut; Megan Marino, Best Buddies, University of Hartford; and, Patrick Nero, commissioner, America East Conference.