Naugatuck, CT — Aspire Living & Learning is thrilled to announce it has received a $15,000 grant from the Connecticut Community Foundation to pilot a new after-school childcare program at the Aspire Living & Learning (ALL) Academy in Naugatuck. This new initiative, launching in 2025, will offer free after-school care to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), providing them with a supportive, engaging space to continue learning and growing after the school day ends. 

Children with IDD often benefit from programs that provide extra support and guidance to help them thrive. Many after-school programs are not equipped to meet these children’s unique needs, which can make it harder for them to participate in activities or feel included. Aspire’s program is designed to provide thoughtful, individualized support that empowers students to build on their strengths and grow academically, socially, and emotionally. 

“We are incredibly grateful to the Connecticut Community Foundation for this opportunity,” said Elizabeth Sellinger, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA, chief of clinical and children’s services at Aspire. “This funding allows Aspire to create a program that will truly benefit students and their families, providing a safe and supportive space where children can continue to grow and thrive.” 

This pilot program will support up to twenty students, offering a dedicated space where children with IDD can continue their learning and engage in meaningful, fun activities that are tailored to their needs. Aspire’s approach ensures that each child receives the personalized support they need to succeed and feel confident, while enjoying after-school enrichment alongside their peers. 

“We’re excited to see the impact this program will have on students and families in our community,” said Lisa Rigi, Ed.D, ALL Academy principal. “This program is just the beginning, and we are hopeful that it will be expanded to additional ALL Academy locations in the future.”